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Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports. SEL2
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 52 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 805 AM EDT Sun Mar 16 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of North-Central and North Florida Southeast Georgia Coastal Waters
* Effective this Sunday morning and afternoon from 805 AM until 300 PM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A couple tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A broken band of primarily cellular storms will continue east into the Watch area this morning and afternoon. Relatively moist low levels and strongly sheared wind profiles will support organized storms, including supercells and small linear segments. A couple of tornadoes are possible, as well as damaging gusts with the stronger storms.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 55 statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles northeast of Waycross GA to 50 miles southwest of Ocala FL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 50…WW 51…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector 25035.
…Smith
SEL2
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 52 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 805 AM EDT Sun Mar 16 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of North-Central and North Florida Southeast Georgia Coastal Waters
* Effective this Sunday morning and afternoon from 805 AM until 300 PM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A couple tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A broken band of primarily cellular storms will continue east into the Watch area this morning and afternoon. Relatively moist low levels and strongly sheared wind profiles will support organized storms, including supercells and small linear segments. A couple of tornadoes are possible, as well as damaging gusts with the stronger storms.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 55 statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles northeast of Waycross GA to 50 miles southwest of Ocala FL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 50…WW 51…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector 25035.
…Smith
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas. SAW2 WW 52 TORNADO FL GA CW 161205Z – 161900Z AXIS..55 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE.. 40NE AYS/WAYCROSS GA/ – 50SW OCF/OCALA FL/ ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /31ENE AMG – 45N PIE/ HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS. MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25035.
LAT…LON 31668098 28658190 28658371 31668285
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS FOR WOU2.
Watch 52 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (20%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (10%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
Mod (60%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Cyclone Alfred will cost the March 25 budget at least A$1.2 billion, hit growth and put pressure on inflation, Treasurer Jim Chalmers says.
In a Tuesday speech previewing the budget, Chalmers will also say that on preliminary estimates, the cyclone’s immediate hit to GDP is expected to be up to $1.2 billion, which could wipe a quarter of a percentage point off quarterly growth.
“It could also lead to upward pressure on inflation. From building costs to damaged crops raising prices for staples like fruit and vegetables,” Chalmers says in the speech, an extract of which has been released ahead of delivery.
The treasurer says the temporary shutting of businesses due to the cyclone lost about 12 million work hours.
By last Thursday, 44,000 insurance claims had been lodged. Early modelling indicated losses covered by the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool were about $1.7 billion.
The estimated costs to the budget, which are over the forward estimates period, are preliminary.
The government has already co-sponsored with the states $30 million in support for immediate recovery costs, Chalmers says. Millions of dollars are being provided in hardship payments.
“The budget will reflect some of those immediate costs and we’ll make sensible provisions for more to come,” he says.
“I expect that these costs and these new provisions will be in the order of at least $1.2 billion […] and that means a big new pressure on the budget.”
This is in addition to the already budgeted for disaster relief.
“At MYEFO, we’d already booked $11.6 billion for disaster support nationally over the forward estimates.
“With all of this extra funding we expect that to rise to at least $13.5 billion when accounting for our provisioning, social security costs and other disaster related support.”
Chalmers will again argue in the speech his recent theme – that the economy has turned a corner. This is despite the global uncertainty that includes the Trump tariff policies, the full extent of which is yet to be spelled out.
Australia is bracing for the possibility our beef export trade could be caught in a new tariff round to be unveiled early next month.
Despite last week’s rebuff to its efforts to get an exemption from the aluminium and steel 25% tariffs, the government has vowed to fight on for a carve out from that, as well as trying to head off any further imposts on exports to the US.
In seeking the exemption, Australia was unsuccessful in trying to leverage its abundance of critical minerals, which are much sought after by the US.
Trade Minister Don Farrell told Sky on Sunday:
What we need to do is find out what it is that the Americans want in terms of this relationship between Australia and the United States and then make President Trump an offer he can’t refuse.
In Tuesday’s speech, Chalmers is expected to say the budget will contain fewer surprises than might be the case with other budgets.
This is because this budget – which would have been avoided if the cyclone had not ruled out an April 12 election – comes after the flurry of announcements already made this year and before further announcements in the campaign for the May election.
Those announcements already made include:
$8.5 billion to boost Medicare
$644 million for new Urgent Care Clinics
a multi-billion dollar package to save Whyalla Steelworks
$7.2 billion for the Bruce Highway and other infrastructure
funds for enhanced childcare and to provide some
student debt relief
new and amended listings for contraception, endometriosis and IVF on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Deloitte Access Economics in its budget monitor predicts the budget will have a deficit of $26.1 billion for 2024-25.
Deloitte’s Stephen Smith said that although a $26.1 billion deficit was slightly smaller than forecast in the December budget update, the longer-term structural deterioration should be “a reality check for politicians wanting to announce election sweeteners in the weeks ahead”.
Deloitte projects a deficit of nearly $50 billion in 2025-26.
Open to a ‘small’ Ukraine peacekeeping role
Over the weekend, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took part in the “coalition of the willing” virtual meeting convened by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in support of Ukraine.
The meeting also included Ukraine, France, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Greece, Italy, Poland, Bulgaria, the Scandinavian countries, Canada and New Zealand. The United States did not participate. President Donald Trump is trying to force an agreement between Ukraine and Russia to end the conflict.
Albanese reiterated after the meeting: “Australia is open to considering any requests to contribute to a future peacekeeping effort in support of the just and lasting peace we all want to Ukraine”.
He added the obvious point: “Of course, peacekeeping missions by definition require a precondition of peace”.
Albanese said that any Australian contribution to a Ukraine peacekeeping force would be “small”.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has opposed sending Australians to a peacekeeping force.
Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports. SEL1
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 51 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 610 AM EDT Sun Mar 16 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Southeast Georgia Southern North Carolina Central and Eastern South Carolina Coastal Waters
* Effective this Sunday morning and afternoon from 610 AM until 200 PM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A couple tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible Isolated large hail events to 0.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A broken band of thunderstorms will continue east into the Watch area this morning within a weakly unstable airmass with very strong flow aloft. A greater risk for wind damage along with a threat for a couple of tornadoes, will seemingly focus with organized bowing segments and perhaps a few embedded circulations within the band of thunderstorms.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 80 statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles north northeast of Fayetteville NC to 45 miles southwest of Savannah GA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 50…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector 25040.
…Smith
SEL1
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 51 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 610 AM EDT Sun Mar 16 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Southeast Georgia Southern North Carolina Central and Eastern South Carolina Coastal Waters
* Effective this Sunday morning and afternoon from 610 AM until 200 PM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A couple tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible Isolated large hail events to 0.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A broken band of thunderstorms will continue east into the Watch area this morning within a weakly unstable airmass with very strong flow aloft. A greater risk for wind damage along with a threat for a couple of tornadoes, will seemingly focus with organized bowing segments and perhaps a few embedded circulations within the band of thunderstorms.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 80 statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles north northeast of Fayetteville NC to 45 miles southwest of Savannah GA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 50…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector 25040.
…Smith
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas. SAW1 WW 51 TORNADO GA NC SC CW 161010Z – 161800Z AXIS..80 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE.. 35NNE FAY/FAYETTEVILLE NC/ – 45SW SAV/SAVANNAH GA/ ..AVIATION COORDS.. 70NM E/W /27SSE RDU – 40ENE AMG/ HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..0.5 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS. MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25040.
LAT…LON 35437722 31668037 31668310 35438006
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS FOR WOU1.
Watch 51 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (20%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (50%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (10%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (70%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports. SEL0
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 50 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 215 AM EDT Sun Mar 16 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Eastern Florida Panhandle Southern into Central and Eastern Georgia West-Central South Carolina Coastal Waters
* Effective this Sunday morning from 215 AM until 1000 AM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75 mph likely Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A band of severe thunderstorms with embedded supercells and line segments will move east across much of the Watch area tonight into the early morning. The more intense storms will be potentially capable of tornadoes, possibly including a strong tornado or two, and damaging gusts.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles east and west of a line from 60 miles northwest of Augusta GA to 40 miles south southwest of Tallahassee FL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 49…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector 22055.
…Smith
SEL0
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 50 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 215 AM EDT Sun Mar 16 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Eastern Florida Panhandle Southern into Central and Eastern Georgia West-Central South Carolina Coastal Waters
* Effective this Sunday morning from 215 AM until 1000 AM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75 mph likely Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A band of severe thunderstorms with embedded supercells and line segments will move east across much of the Watch area tonight into the early morning. The more intense storms will be potentially capable of tornadoes, possibly including a strong tornado or two, and damaging gusts.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles east and west of a line from 60 miles northwest of Augusta GA to 40 miles south southwest of Tallahassee FL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 49…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector 22055.
…Smith
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas. SAW0 WW 50 TORNADO FL GA SC CW 160615Z – 161400Z AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE.. 60NW AGS/AUGUSTA GA/ – 40SSW TLH/TALLAHASSEE FL/ ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM E/W /32WNW IRQ – 43SSW TLH/ HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS. MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 22055.
LAT…LON 33978158 29868352 29868569 33978384
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS FOR WOU0.
Watch 50 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Mod (40%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
High (70%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Mod (60%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (20%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (90%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Hundreds of staffers at Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia, Radio Free Europe and other outlets received a weekend email that they will be barred from their offices and should surrender press passes and equipment, local media reported Saturday.
The cuts followed an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, which listed U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), as part of “unnecessary” federal bureaucracy.
USAGM, VOA’s parent agency, employs about 3,500 staff and has an 886 million-U.S. dollar budget for 2024, according to its latest report to Congress.
The agency has severed all contracts for the privately incorporated international broadcasters it funds, including Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia, local media reported.
VOA director Michael Abramowitz said on social media that nearly his entire staff of 1,300 journalists, producers and assistants had been put on administrative leave.
The White House said the cuts would ensure “taxpayers are no longer on the hook for radical propaganda.”
Reports indicated that the decision is expected to face challenges, as Congress, not the president, has the constitutional power of the purse.
“Tonight, a DC trial judge supported Tren de Aragua terrorists over the safety of Americans. TdA is represented by the ACLU. This order disregards well-established authority regarding President Trump’s power, and it puts the public and law enforcement at risk. The Department of Justice is undeterred in its efforts to work with the White House, the Department of Homeland Security, and all of our partners to stop this invasion and Make America Safe Again.”
Debate on Guam’s future as a US territory has intensified with its legislature due to vote on a non-binding resolution to become a US state amid mounting Pacific geostrategic tensions and expansionist declarations by the Trump administration.
Located closer to Beijing than Hawai’i, Guam serves as a key US strategic asset, known as the “tip of the spear,” with 10,000 military personnel, an air base for F-35 fighters and B-2 bombers and home port for Virginia-class nuclear submarines.
Local Senator William A. Parkinson introduced the resolution to the legislature last Wednesday and called for Guam to be fully integrated into the American union, possibly as the 51st state.
“We are standing in a moment of history where two great empires are standing face-to-face with each other, about to go to war,” Parkinson said at a press conference on Thursday.
“We have to be real about what’s going on in this part of the world. We are a tiny island but we are too strategically important to be left alone. Stay with America or do we let ourselves be absorbed by China?”
His resolution states the decision “must be built upon the informed consent of the people of Guam through a referendum”.
Trump’s expansionist policies Parkinson’s resolution comes as US President Donald Trump advocates territorially expansionist policies, particularly towards the strategically located Danish-ruled autonomous territory of Greenland and America’s northern neighbour, Canada.
“This one moment in time, this one moment in history, the stars are aligning so that the geopolitics of the United States favour statehood for Guam,” Parkinson said. “This is an opportunity we cannot pass up.”
Guam Legislature Senator William A. Parkinson holds a press conference after introducing his resolution. BenarNews screenshot APR
As a territory, Guam residents are American citizens but they cannot vote for the US president and their lone delegate to the Congress has no voting power on the floor.
The US acquired Guam, along with Puerto Rico, in 1898 after winning the Spanish-American War, and both remain unincorporated territories to this day.
Independence advocates and representatives from the Guam Commission on Decolonisation regularly testify at the UN’s Decolonisation Committee, where the island has been listed as a Non-Self-Governing Territory since 1946.
Commission on Decolonisation executive director Melvin Won Pat-Borja said he was not opposed to statehood but is concerned if any decision on Guam’s status was left to the US.
“Decolonisation is the right of the colonised,” he said while attending Parkinson’s press conference, the Pacific Daily News reported.
‘Hands of our coloniser’ “It’s counterintuitive to say that, ‘we’re seeking a path forward, a path out of this inequity,’ and then turn around and put it right back in the hands of our coloniser.
“No matter what status any of us prefer, ultimately that is not for any one of us to decide, but it is up to a collective decision that we have to come to, and the only way to do it is via referendum,” he said, reports Kuam News.
With the geostrategic competition between the US and China in the Pacific, Guam has become increasingly significant in supporting American naval and air operations, especially in the event of a conflict over Taiwan or in the South China Sea.
The two US bases have seen Guam’s economy become heavily reliant on military investments and tourism.
The Defence Department holds about 25 percent of Guam’s land and is preparing to spend billions to upgrade the island’s military infrastructure as another 5000 American marines relocate there from Japan’s Okinawa islands.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero delivers her “State of the Island” address in Guam on Tuesday . . . “Guam cannot be the linchpin of American security in the Asian-Pacific if nearly 14,000 of our residents are without shelter . . .” Image: Office of the Governor of Guam/Benar News
Military presence leveraged The island has in recent years leveraged the increased military presence to demand federal assistance and the territory’s treasury relies on at least US$0.5 billion in annual funding.
“Let us be clear about this: Guam cannot be the linchpin of American security in the Asian-Pacific if nearly 14,000 of our residents are without shelter, because housing aid to Guam is cut, or if 36,000 of our people lose access to Medicaid and Medicare coverage keeping them healthy, alive and out of poverty,” Guerrero said.
Parkinson’s proposed legislative resolution calls for an end to 125-plus years of US colonial uncertainty.
“The people of Guam, as the rightful stewards of their homeland, must assert their inalienable right to self-determination,” states the resolution, including that there be a “full examination of statehood or enhanced autonomous status for Guam.”
“Granting Guam equal political status would signal unequivocally that Guam is an integral part of the United States, deterring adversaries who might otherwise perceive Guam as a mere expendable outpost.”
If adopted by the Guam legislature, the non-binding resolution would be transmitted to the White House.
A local statute enacted in 2000 for a political status plebiscite on statehood, independence or free association has become bogged down in US courts.
‘Reject colonial status quo’ Neil Weare, a former Guam resident and co-director of Right to Democracy, said the self-determination process must be centred on what the people of Guam want, “not just what’s best for US national security”.
“Right to Democracy does not take a position on political status, other than to reject the undemocratic and colonial status quo,” Weare said on behalf of the nonprofit organisation that advocates for rights and self-determination in US territories.
“People can have different views on what is the best solution to this problem, but we should all be in agreement that the continued undemocratic rule of millions of people in US territories is wrong and needs to end.”
He said the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence next year can open a new venue for a conversation about key concepts — such as the “consent of the governed” — involving Guam and other US territories.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
Summary
Company Announcement Date: March 15, 2025 FDA Publish Date: March 15, 2025 Product Type: Animal & Veterinary Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description Possible Bird Flu Health Risk
Company Name: Savage Pet Brand Name:
Brand Name(s) Savage Pet
Product Description:
Product Description Cat Food Chicken
Company Announcement Savage Pet of El Cajon, CA is recalling 66 Large Chicken Boxes 84 oz. and 74 Small Chicken Boxes 21 oz. with the lot code/best by date of 11152026 because it has the potential to contain H5N1, also known as bird flu . Savage Cat Food Large Chicken Boxes and Small Chicken Boxes were distributed to retailers in California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington. People who fed cats the recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, and neurological signs like tremors, stiff body movements, seizure, lack of coordination, or blindness. People with cats exhibiting these signs after feeding this product should immediately contact their veterinarian. While no human infections have been identified among people handling raw pet food products, humans can become infected if live virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth. People should wash their hands while handling raw products and sanitize contact surfaces. People who handled the recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, sneezing, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, trouble breathing, seizures, rash, diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting. People exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare provider and local health department. In February, Savage Pet was made aware of one cat in Colorado who contracted H5N1, got sick and recovered. Colorado State University Laboratory tested sealed packets of Savage Cat Food using PCR testing for H5N1. The PCR test results were “non-negative”. The product with “non-negative” PCR results was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa for virus isolation testing. The product in question was removed from the market while awaiting final test results. On 02/17/25 every retailer who may have received the lot code in question was contacted and informed to return it for proper destruction. On 03/06/25 the NVSL virus isolation testing results confirmed the virus to be negative. On 3/13/2025 Savage Pet was made aware of an additional case in New York of a kitten that was feeding lot 11152026 who contracted avian flu. Further testing is ongoing. To ensure maximum safety we are modifying our market withdrawal to a recall. The product with lot code/best by date of 11152026 was distributed in November 2024. The boxes are cardboard and contain individual plastic packets inside. The lot code/best by date is stamped on the bottom and on each packet. Do not feed the recalled product to pets or animals. Do not sell or donate the recalled products. Consumers who have purchased this lot code are urged to immediately return it to their retailer for proper destruction and a full refund. For more information contact us at info@savagecatfood.com or by calling 619.270.0295.
class=”has-text-align-left”>Today, we celebrate the birthday of our seventh Commander-in-Chief, Andrew Jackson, “the People’s President.”
Throughout his life, Andrew Jackson was a steadfast patriot. Raised on the battlefield of the Revolutionary War, he was just 13 years old when he left home with his two older brothers to fight for Independence. At 14, he was the only surviving member of his immediate family. During the War of 1812, he went on to lead a ragtag militia to a resounding victory over the British in the epic Battle of New Orleans. As a fierce defender of democracy and a warrior for the people, he ran for President in 1828, shocking the establishment class when he won the popular vote in a landslide.
To return power to the people, President Jackson cut ten percent of the Federal workforce and fearlessly combatted forces of corruption in our Nation’s Capital. He imposed tariffs on foreign nations to safeguard American workers and pay off our national debt. Through it all, he defied relentless slanders and smears—including the infamous “corrupt bargain” of the 1824 election—in defense of our Country.
My Administration is proudly upholding the vision of President Jackson’s historic movement by reining in unwieldy government spending, advancing a strong manufacturing base, and restoring a Government that answers to the American People. Every day, we are dismantling bloated bureaucracy, cutting wasteful programs, slashing excess regulations, bringing back fair trade, restoring our manufacturing base, and ensuring that not a single American tax dollar goes to waste.
President Jackson is an American icon, a military hero, and a gallant guardian of democracy. As we commemorate his 258th birthday, we commit to furthering his legacy, expanding his vision, honoring his memory, and restoring the full might of American democracy for many years to come. Today, I am once again proud to hang his portrait in the Oval Office of the People’s House.
As our Nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence next year, President Jackson’s birthday is a particularly meaningful opportunity to remember the heroes who embody the best of the American Spirit—and whose legacy continues to inspire us and lead our Nation to a future of greatness.
U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) released the following statement after deadly tornadoes touched down across Missouri last night. The Senator and his team are standing by to assist those impacted and are in contact with state and local officials.
Following the devastating storms and tornadoes last night across Missouri, my team is in contact with state and local officials to help in every way we can. We are standing by to request any disaster relief possible. Erin’s and my hearts go out to the families who lost loved ones…
Source: The White House
President Donald J. Trump’s executive order on Friday will ensure that taxpayers are no longer on the hook for radical propaganda.
Dan Robinson, a 34-year veteran of Voice of America and its former White House correspondent, wrote last year: “I have monitored the agency’s bureaucracy along with many of its reporters and concluded that it has essentially become a hubris-filled rogue operation often reflecting a leftist bias aligned with partisan national media. It has sought to avoid accountability for violations of journalistic standards and mismanagement.”
Voice of America’s management told staff not to call Hamas and its members terrorists, “except when quoting statements.”
Daily Caller: “Multiple Voice Of America Reporters Have Posted Anti-Trump Content On Social Media”
“Multiple Voice of America (VOA) reporters have repeatedly posted anti-Trump comments on their professional Twitter accounts, despite a social media policy requiring employee impartiality on social media platforms.”
Rep. Scott Perry wrote in a 2022 letter that Voice of America has “grown exceedingly partisan over the past several years.”
A 2016 report from Office of Personnel Management cited by Rep. Perry revealed that Voice of America Persian employees said that outlet tolerated “coercion for partisan political purposes.”
The Washington Free Beacon: “VOA Misallocates Funds and Suppresses Negative Stories About Iran. This Lawmaker Wants To Investigate.”
Voice of America: “What Is ‘White Privilege’ and Whom Does It Help?”
“Today, the phrase is used passionately and widely in the context of racial profiling — police treatment of people as criminal suspects based on their race.”
A 2022 lawsuit claimed Voice of America has “been infiltrated by anti-American, pro-Islamic state interests, and that the message of VOA had been compromised in a manner that was biased toward the Islamic state factions in Iran.”
In October 2020, Voice of America wrote that the “allegations that Russia played a role in perpetuating the scandal to benefit Trump could undermine the emails’ credibility” downplaying the validity of the Hunter Biden laptop story.
In July 2020, Voice of America faced criticism for “sharing a story and video appearing too favorable to presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden.”
In September 2019, the Daily Caller reported that Voice of America employed a Russian anti-U.S. propagandist.
In May 2019, Voice of America fired reporters for their roles in canceling a broadcast midstream after pressure from the Chinese government.
In March 2019, Voice of America ran a segment about transgender migrants seeking asylum in the United States.
Source: The White House
It has been over a year since a U.S.-flagged commercial ship safely sailed through the Suez Canal, the Red Sea, or the Gulf of Aden. No terrorist force will stop American commercial and naval vessels from freely sailing the Waterways of the World.
Our economic and national security have been under attack by the Houthis for too long. Today, President Trump’s action and leadership are moving to end this.
Shipping Disruption
Houthi attacks against shipping since 2023 have caused a sustained negative effect on global trade and the economic security of the United States. A 2024 Defense Intelligence Agency report detailed how container shipping through the Red Sea has precipitously declined due to Houthi attacks.
Before their attacks, 25,000 merchant ships passed through the Red Sea annually. The current number has dropped to around 10,000 ships annually.
Imports of consumer goods and cars to the United States, as well as agricultural exports from our own Gulf of America, have been rerouted due to the Houthi attacks.
In November 2023, the Houthis seized the ship M/V Galaxy Leader and began to attack commercial ships with anti-ship missiles and unmanned vehicles.
Houthi attacks caused approximately 75% of U.S.- and UK-affiliated vessels to reroute around Africa instead of transiting the Red Sea. Traveling around Africa takes an average of ten days longer than sailing through the Red Sea. Additional fuel costs are roughly one million dollars more for each voyage around Africa.
Higher shipping rates caused by Houthi attacks probably increased global consumer goods inflation between 0.6 and 0.7 percent in 2024.
Impacts to Allies and Partners
The Red Sea serves a primary conduit for trade between Europe and Asia. Around 95% of ships traveling between Europe and Asia normally would go through the Red Sea.
Out of the top ten importers (by value) of trade through the Red Sea, five are EU nations.
Houthi attacks caused approximately 60% of EU-affiliated vessels to reroute around Africa instead of transiting the Red Sea
The Houthis have attacked U.S. warships 174 times and commercial vessels 145 times since 2023.2023
October 19, 2023: The USS Carney, a U.S. Navy destroyer, intercepted multiple missiles launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. These missiles posed a threat to U.S. forces.
November 19, 2023: The Houthis attacked and seized the M/V Galaxy Leader and held the multinational crew hostage for over a year.
December 3, 2023: Houthi forces launched missiles and drones targeting three commercial ships in the Red Sea. The USS Carney responded to distress calls and intercepted three drones during this assault.
December 16, 2023: The USS Carney engaged and destroyed 14 drones launched by the Houthis in the southern Red Sea, preventing potential attacks on U.S. military and commercial maritime vessels.
December 26, 2023: The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and USS Gravely responded to a distress call from the commercial vessel Maersk Hangzhou, which was under attack by Houthi forces. U.S. Navy helicopters engaged, resulting in the sinking of three Houthi boats.
December 30, 2023: Houthi forces fired anti-ship ballistic missiles targeting the USS Gravely. The destroyer successfully intercepted the incoming missiles, preventing any damage.
2024
January 10, 2024: The Houthis launched a large-scale missile and drone attack against U.S. and UK naval forces in the Red Sea. The coordinated defense successfully neutralized all incoming threats.
January 15, 2024: The Houthis rebels targeted the U.S.-owned M/V Gibraltar Eagle with a missile, resulting in damage to the vessel.
January 17, 2024: The Houthi rebels targeted the U.S.-owned cargo ship Genco Picardy in the Gulf of Aden using drones, resulting in damage to the vessel.
January 26, 2024: The oil tanker Marlin Luanda, linked to British interests, was attacked by Houthi missiles in the Gulf of Aden, causing a fire onboard.
August 21, 2024: The Houthi rebels attack the Greek-flagged oil tanker M/V Sounion, threatening a massive oil-spill and followed by a months-long salvage effort.
September 27, 2024: The USS Spruance, USS Stockdale, and USS Indianapolis were targeted by a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Houthi forces in the Red Sea. All threats were intercepted without any damage to the U.S. warships.
November 11, 2024: Houthi forces launched a coordinated attack involving drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles against the USS Spruance and USS Stockdale in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The U.S. destroyers successfully intercepted all incoming threats.
December 1, 2024: While escorting U.S.-flagged merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden, the USS Stockdale and USS O’Kane intercepted multiple missiles and drones launched by Houthi forces, ensuring the safety of the convoy.
December 9–10, 2024: The USS Stockdale and USS O’Kane again faced Houthi-launched drones and missiles while escorting merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. All threats were neutralized without any damage.
Headline: March 16, 2025 Bentonville Battlefield Reenactment Events Cancelled Due To Weather
March 16, 2025 Bentonville Battlefield Reenactment Events Cancelled Due To Weather mwwalker
Due to expected inclement weather, Sunday, March 16 events for Bentonville Battlefield’s 160th Reenactment are cancelled.
Guests who already purchased tickets for the Sunday, March 16 reenactment event may request a refund or choose to donate the price of tickets to the Friends of Bentonville Battlefield, a non-profit organization that supports the state-owned battlefield. This donation will fund preservation and interpretive programs at Bentonville Battlefield.
Those who purchased tickets online in advance should email the Friends of Bentonville Battlefield at friendsofbentonvillebattlefield@gmail.com within 30 days to request a refund.
Guests who purchased tickets on-site and would like a refund should mail their purple wristbands to the Friends of Bentonville Battlefield at 5466 Harper House Rd., Four Oaks, NC 27524 within 30 days. Wristbands may also be returned in person to the Bentonville Battlefield visitors center. A refund will be issued via paper check, which will be sent to the sender’s return address. If you have questions regarding ticket refunds, please call 910-594-0789. Tickets must be returned to receive a refund.
Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site is located at 5466 Harper House Road, Four Oaks, NC 27524, three miles north of Newton Grove on S.R. 1008, about one hour from Raleigh and about 45 minutes from Fayetteville.
Headline: Crisis Counseling Assistance is Available to LA County Wildfire Survivors
Crisis Counseling Assistance is Available to LA County Wildfire Survivors
LOS ANGELES – If you are feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stress, or hopelessness, you are not alone
Help is available for disaster survivors experiencing emotional distress following the wildfires
The Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program is a federally funded program administered by FEMA which has been activated for disaster survivors in Los Angeles County
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is working with FEMA through an interagency agreement to provide crisis counseling with support services assistance for those impacted by the fires
If you or a loved one is experiencing mental health distress related to the wildfires, do not hesitate to reach out for mental health support and resources 24/7
Visit Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health or call the mental health helpline at 800-854-7771
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission and access to its services, programs or activities
For questions regarding accessibility, please contact the ADA Coordinator at (213) 943-8120 or (213) 947-6837
For additional mental health impacts support and resources during this time, visit:Mental Health and Stress After An Emergency (LACDMH / DPH) LA County Emergency Response and Recovery Page Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990 CalHOPE The Warm Line at 833-317-4673 Crisis Text Line by texting “LA” to 741741 If you are thinking about harming yourself or others, call 911
For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema
gov/disaster/4856
Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page orEspanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready
gov, on Instagram @Ready
gov or on the Ready Facebook page
California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process
Visit CA
gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs,important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance
Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) participated in the confirmation hearing today for President Donald Trump’s Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator nominee, Dr. Mehmet Oz, in the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance.
Dr. Mehmet Oz is a world-class heart surgeon and would be the first doctor at the helm of CMS in more than a decade. He knows the health care system inside and out, as he’s lived it throughout his career, starting with a joint M.D.-MBA education. Having invented life-saving devices, hosted a successful TV show, and touched the lives of millions of patients across the nation, Dr. Oz brings a much-needed perspective to Make America Healthy Again.
[embedded content]
Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full line of questioning.
Highlights from Dr. Oz’s confirmation hearing include:
On Dr. Oz’s background:
Senator Marshall: “Why did you go into medicine? And what are some of the highlights or the most rewarding parts of your career?”
Dr. Oz: “I don’t think there’s a joy greater than looking a patient in the eyes and recognizing that you’re there for each other, that nothing will get in the way of you providing the best care possible. It’s not that there won’t ever be problems, but you’ll be there emotionally supporting them.
“And if you’ve been gifted with teachers, as I was, that could educate me about how to take care of patients, you get to watch them get better and feel a joy inside your heart that can’t be matched in another field…
“I think it’s why I went into medicine, because I saw my father go into the hospital and do things like putting needles in people, which looks painful, but the patients would smile and thank him for it, paradoxically.
“And that’s why I think it’s also appropriate for physicians, as you have.. and other physicians on this committee, Dr. Cassidy, to enter government, because we’re trained to tell people things that they need to hear but aren’t pleasant, but that’s how you get the system to work better.”
On Dr. Oz’s prescription to Make America Healthy Again:
Senator Marshall: “My grandma always said, if you have your health, you have everything. And America doesn’t have her health right now. 60% of us have a chronic disease. Several people pointed out this country is spending multiples more than other countries do to take care of our sick.
“There’s not enough sick care out there to save Medicare and Medicaid.
“You and I came here to save Medicare and Medicaid, but part of that is making America healthy again, so that we don’t have to do as many heart bypasses and give as much insulin and diabetic drugs.
“What is your prescription for America? How do you work with Medicare and Medicaid patients to help America become healthy again?”
Dr. Oz: “The deeper promise that we should all be making to America is we’re going to make it easy for America to do the right thing when it comes to their health. Some of these decisions are not difficult. Some of them need to be simplified, and some of them need to be reminded frequently.
“Senator Wyden and I had spoken about this a little bit, the idea of giving incentives to patients is an idea that I think is a worthy one, especially for Medicaid beneficiaries. If people don’t feel like it matters what they do, if they don’t think they have agency over their future… then they’re not going to take proactive steps to reduce their diabetes or another action that would dramatically reduce their life expectancy and their cost to the health care system.
“There’s a lot of opportunity for us to do this, and we should be innovative and explore ideas. And I think there’s an ecosystem we can build together to engender that kind of enthusiasm from people on the outside of medicine who want to make it better. We have got to challenge the incumbents and the system to have new ideas bubble to the top so we can pick the winners based on competition.”
Senator Marshall: “We’re not going to save Medicare and Medicaid unless we Make America Healthy Again.”
On maternal care, how to save Medicare and Medicaid:
Senator Marshall: “I’m going to talk just a second about maternal care. I came to this body, the other side of the Capitol, and people were talking about maternal mortality then. We were seeing a big spike in it. And I asked people, “Why? What? How come?” And we didn’t have an answer.
“… And not surprising to me, the number one killer of pregnant women that delivered that year after is actually suicide and fentanyl poisoning, overdose. We don’t need to study it more. We need action, early access to prenatal care to be the other action point as well…
“Half of our patients, half the patients I delivered, were Medicaid patients. They need access to care, and we also need to stop the flow of fentanyl.
“My last question though, speak briefly to how price tags and health care savings accounts turn patients into consumers again, and how that might actually help save Medicare and Medicaid?”
Dr. Oz: “There’s a lot we can do with health savings accounts. We could even investigate new ways of using them. Maybe they should be part of your estate and passed on to your children, because so many families don’t really have anything to pass on.
“It would incentivize behaviors even at the end of life. But I think there’s an opportunity for us to give consumerism, give the power of the purse back to the American people, especially if they’re beneficiaries on Medicare, and let them make the wisest decisions they can.
“They got to that age by making some good decisions, and so we might as well let them keep going.”
Headline: If FEMA Initially Finds You Ineligible for Assistance, You Still Have Options
If FEMA Initially Finds You Ineligible for Assistance, You Still Have Options
LOS ANGELES – If you received a letter from FEMA that says you’re ineligible for assistance, you still have options
A quick fix, like providing more information, may change FEMA’s initial determination
Duplication of benefits is a common reason for a FEMA ineligibility determination
If you already accepted an insurance settlement or other benefit for the damage or loss, by law, FEMA cannot cover it
You may also be found ineligible if your home was damaged but is still safe, and sanitary
FEMA grants are primarily meant to make a home habitable, rather than returning it to pre-wildfire condition
Sometimes, however, an ineligibility determination can stem from misinformation, inadequate information, or changes in your circumstances and may be reversed
Be sure to read your FEMA determination letter carefully
It specifies why you are ineligible and recommends actions that may change the initial determination
When Might an Ineligibility Determination be Reversed?If you told FEMA you are insured, but later your insurance company denies your claim, or your settlement is insufficient to meet your needs, you should update FEMA with that information
Describe the damage or losses and provide reliable documentation from your insurer that shows your claims have been denied or excluded
Damage to your home may not have become apparent until later
If you reported no home damage when you applied with FEMA but later discover the home is no longer habitable, let FEMA know
In some cases, your application is simply missing proof of occupancy or identity
If FEMA is unable to verify occupancy of your primary residence, you may provide utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bills, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card showing the damaged dwelling’s address
Also, FEMA needs to verify your identity with a valid Social Security number
To verify identity, provide FEMA with a copy of your Social Security card, accompanied by federal or state-issued identification
All FEMA Applicants Have a Right to AppealYou can appeal a decision or award amount by sending documents to FEMA that demonstrate your eligibility and need for additional assistance
FEMA determination letters explain the reason you are ineligible and the types of documents that may help you appeal
Documentation or estimates supporting your claim are all that are required to appeal a FEMA decision
You can also fill out the Appeal Request Form included with your FEMA decision letter
Appeals must be submitted within 60 days of the date on the FEMA decision letter
To file an appeal:For an American Sign Language video on how to Appeal, visit FEMA R9: Determination Letters and Appeals (ASL PSA)Upload documents to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance
gov
Mail to: FEMA, P
O
Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
Fax to 1-800-827-8112 with Attention: FEMA – Individuals & Households Program
Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)
To find your nearest DRC, visit fema
gov/drc
If you have questions or need to speak about your ineligibility status, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema
gov/disaster/4856
Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA on online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready
gov, on Instagram @Ready
gov or on the Ready Facebook page
California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process
Visit CA
gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance
Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Representatives Robert Aderholt (R-AL) and Danny Davis (D-IL) led a bipartisan group of members of Congress in calling on President Trump and the Administration to work on behalf of families devastated by the People’s Republic of China’s decision to halt its intercountry adoption program.
“We write to you on behalf of hundreds of children and American families who have been devastated by the People’s Republic of China’s decision to halt its intercountry adoption Program,” wrote the Senators. “We request that you act in the best interest of these children and engage the Chinese government to finalize these pending adoption cases.”
“The sudden termination of China’s adoption program in August 2024 only exacerbated our concern for these children’s well-being,” the Senators continued. “Many of these children have special health care needs, and some will soon age out of care systems without the support of a permanent family. … We urge you to elevate this engagement and press the Chinese government to finalize pending adoption cases so these children may finally be united with their adoptive families in the United States.”
The letter was also signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Curtis (R-UT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Hoeven (R-ND), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), James Lankford (R-OK), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Rand Paul (R-KY), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Todd Young (R-IN), and Representatives Brian Babin (R-TX), Don Bacon (R-NE), Andy Biggs (R-AZ) Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Tim Burchett (R-TN), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Mike Carey (R-OH), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Charles Fleischmann (R-TN), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Sam Graves (R-MO), Mark Green (R-TN), H. Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Erin Houchin (R-IN), Julie Johnson (D-TX), Thomas Kean (R-NJ), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Julia Letlow (R-LA), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Richard McCormick (R-GA), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Carol Miller (R-WV), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Zachary Nunn (R-IA), Andrew Ogles (R-TN), Bob Onder (R-MO), Gary Palmer (R-AL), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), August Pfluger (R-TX), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), John Rutherford (R-FL), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Keith Self (R-TX), Jefferson Shreve (IN), Adam Smith (D-WA), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Haley Stevens (D-WI), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), William Timmons (R-SC), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), and Daniel Webster (R-FL).
The full text of the letter is available here and below.
Dear President Trump:
We write to you on behalf of hundreds of children and American families who have been devastated by the People’s Republic of China’s decision to halt its intercountry adoption program. We request that you act in the best interest of these children and engage the Chinese government to finalize these pending adoption cases.
As members of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption and other Members of Congress who share these concerns, the safety of adopted children and hundreds of would-be adoptees is our top priority. The sudden termination of China’s adoption program in August 2024 only exacerbated our concern for these children’s well-being. Many of these children have special health care needs, and some will soon age out of care systems without the support of a permanent family. It is particularly critical that these children have access to the care and support that they need — which hundreds of American families approved for adoption are willing to provide.
We understand that the State Department is working on behalf of these families and seeking clarity on the Chinese government’s decision. We urge you to elevate this engagement and press the Chinese government to finalize pending adoption cases so these children may finally be united with their adoptive families in the United States.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We are prepared to work closely with you to ensure these children are welcomed into safe and stable homes.
Headline: One Week Left to Apply for Federal Assistance
One Week Left to Apply for Federal Assistance
LOS ANGELES – Only a week remains for homeowners, renters and businesses impacted by the January wildfires in Los Angeles County to apply for federal disaster assistance
Monday, March 10, is the deadline to apply for both FEMA disaster assistance and a U
S
Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loan
Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance:Online at DisasterAssistance
gov (fastest option)
On the FEMA App (available at the Apple App Store or Google Play)
On the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
If you use a relay service, give FEMA your number for that service
Helpline operators speak many languages: press 2 for Spanish or press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language
Lines are open from 4 a
m
to 10 p
m
P
T
seven days a week
Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)
To locate a DRC near you, visit the DRC Locator
Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs
They are equipped with assistive technology and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources
For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance
Apply for an SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loan:Online at sba
gov/disaster
By calling SBA’s Customer Service Center hotline at 800-659-2955
People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability may dial 711 to access relay services
By emailing DisasterCustomerService@sba
gov
At a Business Recovery Center, where you can submit a completed application or SBA representatives can help you apply
To find a BRC near you, go to Appointment
sba
gov
Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending
sba
gov or other locally announced locations
For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema
gov/disaster/4856
Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page orEspanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready
gov, on Instagram @Ready
gov or on the Ready Facebook page
California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process
Visit CA
gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance
Headline: Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open to Provide Wildfire Disaster Assistance
Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open to Provide Wildfire Disaster Assistance
LOS ANGELES –Los Angeles County wildfire survivors who need assistance can stop by a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for disaster assistance, speak with a FEMA representative, speak to representatives from other state and federal agencies, and receive updates on their FEMA application
Both DRCs remain open until further notice
DRCs are located at:UCLA Research Park West 10850 West Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90064 Open Mon
– Sat
: 9 a
m
to 7 p
m
Altadena Disaster Recovery Center540 West Woodbury Rd
Altadena, CA 91001 Open Mon
– Sat
: 9 a
m
to 7 p
m
Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs
They are equipped with assistive technology and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources
Visiting a DRC is just one way to receive assistance
You can also apply or update your application online at DisasterAssistance
gov or by using the FEMA app
You may also call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362
Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready
gov, on Instagram @Ready
gov or on the Ready Facebook page
California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process
Visit CA
gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance
Headline: Update Your FEMA Application as You Return to Your Property
Update Your FEMA Application as You Return to Your Property
LOS ANGELES – As survivors return to their property, it is important survivors continue to update their FEMA application as they learn about the status of their property
If you initially indicated to FEMA that your home was inaccessible or that the damage was unknown, you will need to update your application when you learn about the status of your property
Once you are able to confirm the status of your damage, update your application immediately via the FEMA hotline or at a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)
Missing or outdated information could delay your assistance
Updating the status of your property, can only be changed by speaking with a FEMA specialist either by phone at 800-621-3362 or by visiting a DRC
See locations below:Altadena540 West Woodbury Rd
Altadena, CA 91001Open Mon
–Sat
: 9 a
m
to 7 p
m
UCLA Research Park10850 West Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90064Open Mon
–Sat
: 9 a
m
to 7 p
m
Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs
They are equipped with assistive technology and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources
Other examples of information that can only be updated in-person or by phone include: Changes to your application
Update your current mailing address
Update your current phone number
Correcting or verifying home and property damage, such as previously inaccessible or unknown damage changing to accessible or known damage type
A FEMA online account makes it easy to update other information such as your contact information and preferences and uploading documents
You can create an account at DisasterAssistance
gov
You can also download the FEMA Mobile App to your phone and keep track of information there
If you don’t have internet access or prefer visiting FEMA in person, our DRCs are available to assist with your needs
When contacting FEMA be sure to refer to the nine-digit application number you were issued when you applied
This number is included in all correspondence FEMA sends to you — it is very important to use this number
After you apply with FEMA, your request for assistance is reviewed to determine if an inspection is needed to confirm disaster-related damage to your home and personal property
FEMA home inspections are conducted in-person or virtually, and the inspector will contact you to make an appointment
If the inspection is in-person, the FEMA inspector will show you an official photo identification and will know your registration number; inspectors will never ask you for it (if asked, don’t provide it) There is no fee for the inspection
Read your determination letter closely to understand your next steps in the process and what additional documentation may be needed
The determination letter will also provide instructions on how you can appeal FEMA’s decision
For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema
gov/disaster/4856
Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA on online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready
gov, on Instagram @Ready
gov or on the Ready Facebook page
California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process
Visit CA
gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance
Headline: DHS Launches International Ad Campaign Warning Illegal Aliens to Self-Deport and Stay Out
lass=”text-align-center”>“Under President Trump, America’s borders are closed to lawbreakers
” – Secretary Noem WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security is launching its international, multimillion-dollar ad campaign warning illegal aliens to not to come to America and break its laws or they will be hunted down and deported
This series of ads will run on radio, broadcast, and digital, in multiple countries and regions in various dialects
Ads will be hyper-targeted, including through social media, text message and digital to reach international audiences
“Thank you, President Donald J
Trump, for securing our border and putting America first
President Trump has a clear message: if you are here illegally, we will find you and deport you
You will never return
But if you leave now, you may have an opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American Dream,” said Secretary Kristi Noem
“If you are a criminal alien considering entering America illegally: Don’t even think about it
If you come here and break our laws, we will hunt you down
FEMA urges West Virginians to protect their identity and stay informed
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — After a natural disaster, it is important to protect your identity against fraud and identity theft. In some cases, criminals may try to get information by pretending to be disaster workers. Scam artists may try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses, and Social Security numbers they have stolen from people affected by a disaster. Keep these things in mind to protect your identity and stay informed: Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. Don’t trust anyone who offers financial or contracting help and then asks for money.FEMA will only call or e-mail you if you have contacted FEMA first or registered for assistance. Do not disclose information to any unsolicited telephone calls and e-mails from individuals claiming to be FEMA or federal employees. If you receive suspicious e-mails or phone calls, you can call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to verify if a FEMA call or e-mail is legitimate.Always ask to see I.D. FEMA personnel will always have an official identification badge. A FEMA shirt or jacket is not proof of identity.Do not offer any personal information, including your Social Security number and bank information, unless you are speaking with a verified FEMA representative.Be on alert if someone asks for your 9-digit FEMA registration ID, which you will receive when you apply for disaster assistance through FEMA.Stay tuned to trusted local media for updates from local officials on disaster fraud and scams.After you apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspection may be necessary. FEMA inspectors will make an appointment before coming to your house. They may verify your identity using the last four digits of the 9-digit registration number but will not ask for all nine numbers. FEMA inspectors will also not ask you for your Social Security number.FEMA does not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs. A FEMA inspector’s job is to verify damage.
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To report scams, fraud, and identity-theft contact: Toll-free Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721The Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud: justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster- complaint-formWhen in doubt, report any suspicious behavior to your local authorities. Residents of Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming counties are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses caused by the Feb. 15 – 18, 2025, flooding. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 28.There are four ways to apply:Apply by phone at 800-621-3362Apply online at DisasterAssistance.govApply with the FEMA AppDownload the free FEMA mobile app, available at Google Play or the Apple App StoreApply in person at one of our FEMA West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers:Mercer County Disaster Recovery CenterMcDowell County Disaster Recovery CenterLifeline Princeton Church of God250 Oakvale Road Princeton, WV 24740 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.Closed Sundays Closed March 15, March 22, April 19Bradshaw Town Hall10002 Marshall HwyBradshaw, WV 24817 Hours of operation:Monday to Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.Closed SundaysMingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus1601 Armory DriveWilliamson, WV 25661 Hours of operation:Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on SundaysWyoming Court House24 Main AvePineville, WV 24874 Hours of operation:Monday through Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on SundaysIf you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA can’t pay for losses your insurance will cover. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.### FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam. For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page. lianza.yap Sat, 03/15/2025 – 14:15
Under the nighttime California sky, NASA’s EZIE (Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer) mission launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at 11:43 p.m. PDT on March 14. Taking off from Vandenberg Space Force Base near Santa Barbara, the EZIE mission’s trio of small satellites will fly in a pearls-on-a-string configuration approximately 260 to 370 miles above Earth’s surface to map the auroral electrojets, powerful electric currents that flow through our upper atmosphere in the polar regions where auroras glow in the sky. At approximately 2 a.m. PDT on March 15, the EZIE satellites were successfully deployed. Within the next 10 days, the spacecraft will send signals to verify they are in good health and ready to embark on their 18-month mission. “NASA has leaned into small missions that can provide compelling science while accepting more risk. EZIE represents excellent science being executed by an excellent team, and it is delivering exactly what NASA is looking for,” said Jared Leisner, program executive for EZIE at NASA Headquarters in Washington. The electrojets — and their visible counterparts, theauroras — are generated duringsolar storms when tremendous amounts of energy get transferred into Earth’s upper atmosphere from the solar wind. Each of the EZIE spacecraft will map the electrojets, advancing our understanding of the physics of how Earth interacts with its surrounding space. This understanding will apply not only to our own planet but also to any magnetized planet in our solar system and beyond. The mission will also help scientists create models for predicting space weather to mitigate its disruptive impacts on our society. “It is truly incredible to see our spacecraft flying and making critical measurements, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the EZIE mission,” said Nelli Mosavi-Hoyer, project manager for EZIE at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland. “I am very proud of the dedication and hard work of our team. This achievement is a testament to the team’s perseverance and expertise, and I look forward to the valuable insights EZIE will bring to our understanding of Earth’s electrojets and space weather.” Instead of using propulsion to control their polar orbit, the spacecraft will actively use drag experienced while flying through the upper atmosphere to individually tune their spacing. Each successive spacecraft will fly over the same region 2 to 10 minutes after the former. “Missions have studied these currents before, but typically either at the very large or very small scales,” said Larry Kepko, EZIE mission scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “EZIE will help us understand how these currents form and evolve, at scales we’ve never probed.” The mission team is also working to distribute magnetometer kits called EZIE-Mag, which are available to teachers, students, and science enthusiasts who want to take their own measurements of the Earth-space electrical current system. EZIE-Mag data will be combined with EZIE measurements made from space to assemble a clear picture of this vast electrical current circuit. The EZIE mission is funded by the Heliophysics Division within NASA’s Science Mission Directorate and is managed by the Explorers Program Office at NASA Goddard. The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory leads the mission for NASA. Blue Canyon Technologies in Boulder, Colorado, built the CubeSats, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California built the Microwave Electrojet Magnetogram, which will map the electrojets, for each of the three satellites. For the latest mission updates, follow NASA’s EZIE blog. By Brett MolinaJohns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Headline: Kentucky Disaster Recovery Centers Temporarily Closing Due to Severe Weather
Kentucky Disaster Recovery Centers Temporarily Closing Due to Severe Weather
Frankfort, KY
– Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky will close temporarily on Saturday, March 15 2025, due to severe weather
The centers will resume operations on Sunday at 1 p
m
ET, except the center in Clay County, which will resume operations on Monday at 7 a
m
ET
To find all disaster recovery center locations, including those in other states, go to fema
gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362
FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the February storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible
The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is April 25
Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Simpson counties can apply for federal assistance
It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance
The fastest way to apply is online at disasterassistance
gov or via the FEMA App
You may also call 800-621-3362
If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service
For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube
com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw
For the latest information about Kentucky’s recovery, visit fema
Headline: Severe Storms Can Happen at Any Time; Being Prepared is Vital
Severe Storms Can Happen at Any Time; Being Prepared is Vital
Frankfort, KY
– The recent severe storms and flooding that occurred across Kentucky last month is a reminder that extreme weather events can happen at any time
Preparing for this is vital to keeping your family safe
The National Weather Service is predicting strong to severe storms in Kentucky this weekend
Kentucky sees a disproportionately high number of severe weather events each year compared to other parts of the United States so it’s important to understand the difference between a watch vs warning
If the National Weather Service issues a watch, it means be prepared
Rain, hail and damaging wind threats are expected
Warnings, usually issued for an hour or less, mean take action
Click Watch Warning Advisory Explained to learn more
But that’s no reason to let weather predictions leave you feeling stressed
It’s also a good reason to be prepared year-round
Make sure you can receive alerts and warnings quickly through several different technologies no matter where you are–at home, at school, at work, or in the community
Know your area’s severe weather risk and practice your emergency plan with your family and pets
In other words, know whether to shelter in place or go to your identified safe place, which could mean leaving town or deciding to stay with friends or family
Before extreme weather happens, it’s a good idea to invest in a NOAA Weather Radio
A public service offered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, weather information is broadcast directly and continuously from your nearest National Weather Service office
Click Emergency Alerts | Ready
gov to learn more
Some communities use the Emergency Alert System, a national public warning system, to deliver warnings of imminent threats to specific areas
A severe weather threat such as a tornado warning can be sent by state and local public safety officials
If your community has outdoor warning sirens, become familiar with their warning tone(s)
If you don’t have a safe room you can access in an emergency, the next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room or basement on the lowest level of your home or a sturdy building
Simply put, preparing for severe weather means knowing what to do
For the latest information about Kentucky’s recovery, visit fema
Four crew members of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission launched at 7:03 p.m. EDT Friday from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for a science expedition aboard the International Space Station. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket propelled the Dragon spacecraft into orbit carrying NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov. The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 15. Shortly after docking, the crew will join Expedition 72/73 for a long-duration stay aboard the orbiting laboratory. “Congratulations to our NASA and SpaceX teams on the 10th crew rotation mission under our commercial crew partnership. This milestone demonstrates NASA’s continued commitment to advancing American leadership in space and driving growth in our national space economy,” said NASA acting Administrator Janet Petro. “Through these missions, we are laying the foundation for future exploration, from low Earth orbit to the Moon and Mars. Our international crew will contribute to innovative science research and technology development, delivering benefits to all humanity.” During Dragon’s flight, SpaceX will monitor a series of automatic spacecraft maneuvers from its mission control center in Hawthorne, California. NASA will monitor space station operations throughout the flight from the Mission Control Center at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. NASA’s live coverage resumes at 9:45 p.m., March 15, on NASA+ with rendezvous, docking, and hatching opening. After docking, the crew will change out of their spacesuits and prepare cargo for offload before opening the hatch between Dragon and the space station’s Harmony module around 1:05 a.m., Sunday, March 16. Once the new crew is aboard the orbital outpost, NASA will broadcast welcome remarks from Crew-10 and farewell remarks from the agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 crew, beginning at about 1:40 a.m. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media. The number of crew aboard the space station will increase to 11 for a short time as Crew-10 joins NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Don Pettit, as well as Roscosmos cosmonauts Aleksandr Gorbunov, Alexey Ovchinin, and Ivan Vagner. Following a brief handover period, Hague, Williams, Wilmore, and Gorbunov will return to Earth no earlier than Wednesday, March 19.Ahead of Crew-9’s departure from station, mission teams will review weather conditions at the splashdown sites off the coast of Florida. During their mission, Crew-10 is scheduled to conduct material flammability tests to contribute to future spacecraft and facility designs. The crew will engage with students worldwide via the ISS Ham Radio program and use the program’s existing hardware to test a backup lunar navigation solution. The astronauts also will serve as test subjects, with one crew member conducting an integrated study to better understand physiological and psychological changes to the human body to provide valuable insights for future deep space missions. With this mission, NASA continues to maximize the use of the orbiting laboratory, where people have lived and worked continuously for more than 24 years, testing technologies, performing science, and developing the skills needed to operate future commercial destinations in low Earth orbit and explore farther from our home planet. Research conducted at the space station benefits people on Earth and paves the way for future long-duration missions to the Moon under NASA’s Artemis campaign and beyond. More about Crew-10McClain is the commander of Crew-10 and is making her second trip to the orbital outpost since her selection as an astronaut in 2013. She will serve as a flight engineer during Expeditions 72/73 aboard the space station. Follow McClain on X. Ayers is the pilot of Crew-10 and is flying her first mission. Selected as an astronaut in 2021, Ayers will serve as a flight engineer during Expeditions 72/73. Follow Ayers on X and Instagram. Onishi is a mission specialist for Crew-10 and is making his second flight to the space station. He will serve as a flight engineer during Expeditions 72/73. Follow Onishi on X. Peskov is a mission specialist for Crew-10 and is making his first flight to the space station. Peskov will serve as a flight engineer during Expeditions 72/73. Learn more about NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission and the agency’s Commercial Crew Program at: https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew -end- Josh Finch / Jimi RussellHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov / james.j.russell@nasa.gov Steven Siceloff / Stephanie PlucinskyKennedy Space Center, Florida321-867-2468steven.p.siceloff@nasa.gov / stephanie.n.plucinsky@nasa.gov Kenna Pell / Sandra JonesJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111kenna.m.pell@nasa.gov / sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov
In October 2024, NASA’s Office of the Chief Health and Medical Officer (OCHMO) initiated a working group to review the status and progress of research and clinical activities intended to mitigate the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during spaceflight. The working group took place over two days at NASA’s Johnson Space Center; a second meeting on the topic was held in December 2024 at the European Space Agency (ESA) facility in Cologne, Germany.
The working group was assembled from internal NASA subject matter experts (SMEs), the NASA OCHMO Standards Team, NASA and ESA stakeholders, and external SMEs, including physicians and medical professionals from leading universities and medical centers in the United States and Canada.
Spaceflight Venous Thrombosis (SVT) Spaceflight Venous Thrombosis (SVT) refers to a phenomenon experienced during spaceflight in which a thrombus (blood clot) forms in the internal jugular vein (and/or associated vasculature) that may be symptomatic (thrombus accompanied by, but not limited to, visible internal jugular vein swelling, facial edema beyond “nominal” spaceflight adaptation, eyelid edema, and/or headache) or asymptomatic. Obstructive thrombi have been identified in a very small number of crewmembers, as shown in the figure below. Note that the figure below is for illustrative purposes only; locations are approximate, and size is not to scale.
With treatment, crewmembers were able to complete their mission, and anticoagulants were discontinued several days prior to landing to minimize the risk of bleeding in the event of a traumatic injury. Some thromboses completely resolved post landing, and some required additional treatment. Pathophysiology of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) The proposed pathogenesis of VTE is referred to as Virchow’s triad and suggests that VTE occurs as the result of:
Alterations in blood flow (i.e., stasis), Vascular endothelial injury/changes, and/or, Alterations in the constituents of the blood leading to hypercoagulability (i.e., hereditary predisposition or acquired hypercoagulability).
Note: pathophysiology are the changes that occur during a disease process; hypercoagulability is the increased tendency to develop blood to clots.
Blood stasis, or venous stasis, refers to a condition in which the blood flow in the veins slows down which leads to pooling in the veins. This slowing of the blood may be due to vein valves becoming damaged or weak, immobility, and/or the absence of muscular contractions. Associated symptoms include swelling, skin changes, varicose veins, and slow-healing sores or ulcers. In terrestrial medicine, venous thrombosis is typically caused by damaged or weakened vein valves, which can be due to many factors, including aging, blood clots, varicose veins, obesity, pregnancy, sedentary lifestyle, estrogen use, and hereditary predisposition.
Altered Venous Blood Flow and Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome In addition to the terrestrial risk factors of VTE, there are physiological changes associated with spaceflight that are hypothesized to potentially play a role in the development of VTE in weightlessness. Specifically, researchers have explored the effects of the microgravity environment and subsequent observed headward fluid shifts that occur, and the potential impact on blood flow. Crewmembers onboard the International Space Station (ISS) experience weightlessness due to the microgravity environment and thus experience a sustained redistribution of bodily fluids from the legs toward the head. The prolonged headward fluid shifts during weightlessness results in facial puffiness, decreased leg volume, increased cardiac stroke volume, and decreased plasma volume. Crewmembers have also experienced altered blood flow during spaceflight, including retrograde venous blood flow (RVBF) (the backflow of venous blood towards the brain) or stasis (a stoppage or slowdown in the flow of blood). While the causes of the observed stasis and retrograde blood flow in spaceflight participants is not well understood, the potential clinical significance of the role it may have in the development of thrombus formation warrants further investigation.
Other physiological concerns affected by fluid shifts are being studied to consider if any relation to VTE exists. Chronic weightlessness can cause bodily fluids such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid to move toward the head, which can lead to optic nerve swelling, folds in the retina, flattening of the back of the eye, and swelling in the brain. This collection of eye and brain changes is called “spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome,” or SANS. Some astronauts only experience mild changes in space, while others have clinically significant outcomes. The long-term health outcome from these changes is unknown but actively being investigated. The risk of developing SANS is higher during longer-duration missions and remains a top research priority for scientists ahead of a Mars mission.
Based on expert opinion and the assessment of the risk factors for thrombosis, an algorithm was developed to provide guidance for in-mission assessment and treatment of thrombus formation in weightlessness. The algorithm is based on early in-flight ultrasound testing to determine the flow characteristic of the left internal jugular vein and associated vasculature.
Working Group Recommendations The working group recommended several areas for further investigation to assess feasibility and potential to mitigate the risk of thrombosis in spaceflight:
Improved detection capabilities to identify when a thrombus has formed in-flight, Pathophysiology/factors leading to thrombi formation during spaceflight, Countermeasures and treatment
For more information on the working group meeting and a complete list of references, please see the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) During Spaceflight Summary Report.
Written by Ashley Stroupe, Mission Operations Engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory Earth planning date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 The days are getting shorter and colder for Curiosity as we head into winter. So our rover is sleeping in a bit before waking up to a busy plan. Today I served as the Engineering Uplink Lead, managing the engineering side of the plan to support all the science activities. We are seeing a lot of rocks with different, interesting textures, so Curiosity’s day begins with a lot of targeted imaging of this interesting area. The two rocks right in front of us (see image above) are different from anything that we have looked at before on the mission, so we are eager to know what they are. We are taking Mastcam images of “Manzana Creek” and “Palo Comado,” two of these interestingly textured rocks, and also of an area named “Vincent Gap,” where the rover disturbed some bedrock and exposed some regolith by driving over it in the prior plan. ChemCam is making a LIBS observation of a target called “Sturtevant Falls,” which is a nodule on the left-hand block in our workspace (on which we are later doing some contact science). ChemCam is also taking a long-distance RMI image in the direction of the potential boxworks formation (large veins), which is an area we will be exploring close-up in the future. There are also a Navcam dust devil movie and suprahorzion movie. Check out this article from November for more information on the boxwork formations. After a nap, Curiosity wakes up to get in her arm exercise. I do not envy the Arm Rover Planner today (OK, maybe a little bit) in dealing with this very challenging workspace. The rock of interest (the left-hand rock in the above image) has jagged, vertical surfaces and a lot of crazy rough texture. Examining this rock is even more challenging because our primary targets are on the left side of the rock, rather than the side that is facing the rover. We are looking at two different targets, “Stunt Ranch,” which is a nodule on the rock, and “Pacifico Mountain,” which is the left-side face of the rock, with MAHLI and also doing a long APXS integration on Stunt Ranch. After the arm work, Curiosity is tucking herself in for the night by stowing the arm. The next morning, after again getting to sleep in a bit, Curiosity will make some more targeted observations, starting with another dust-devil survey. ChemCam will make a LIBS observation of “Switzer Falls,” which is a target on the right-hand rock in the workspace (and in the image), an RMI of “Colby Canyon,” a soft sediment deformation, and “Gould,” which is another target on the boxworks formation. Lastly, Mastcam takes a look at “Potrero John,” yet another interestingly textured rock. Curiosity will then be ready to drive away. Today’s drive is on slightly better terrain that we have been seeing recently, with fewer large and pointy rocks. Though, the mobility rover planners still have to be careful about picking the safest path through. We’re heading about 25 meters (about 82 feet) to another rock target named “Humber Park,” where we hope to do additional contact science. After the drive, we have our standard set of post-drive imaging, a Mastcam solar tau, and then an early-morning Navcam cloud observation.
An engineer applies scientific principles to design, build, and test machines, systems, or structures to meet specific needs. They follow the steps of the engineering design process to ensure their designs work as planned while meeting a variety of requirements, including size, weight, safety, and cost. NASA hires several types of engineers to help tackle a range of missions. Whether it’s creating quieter supersonic aircraft, building powerful space telescopes to study the cosmos, or developing spacecraft to take humanity to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, NASA pushes the boundaries of engineering, giving us greater knowledge of our universe and a better quality of life here on Earth.
Aerospace engineer: Applies engineering principles to design hardware and software specific to flight systems for use in Earth’s atmosphere or in space.
Chemical engineer: Uses chemistry to conduct research or develop new materials.
Civil engineer: Designs human-made structures, such as launch pads, test stands, or a future lunar base.
Electrical engineer: Specializes in the design and testing of electronics such as computers, motors, and navigation systems.
Mechanical engineer: Designs and tests mechanical equipment and systems, such as rocket engines, aircraft frames, and astronaut tools.
High school is the perfect time to build a solid foundation of science and math skills through challenging academic courses as well as extracurricular activities, such as science clubs, robotics teams, or STEM camps in your area. You can also start researching what type of engineering is right for you, what colleges offer those engineering programs, and what you need to do to apply to those colleges. Engineering roles typically require at least a bachelor’s degree.
Looking for some engineering experiences you can try right away? NASA STEM offers hands-on activities for a variety of ages and skill levels. Engineering includes iteration – repeating something and making changes in an effort to learn more and improve the process or the design. When you try these activities, make a small change each time you repeat the process, and see whether your design improves. NASA’s student challenges and competitions give teams the opportunity to gain authentic experience by taking on some of the technological challenges of spaceflight and aviation. NASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit NASA’s Internships website to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.
“A lot of people think that just because they are more artistic or more creative, that they’re not cut out for STEM fields. But in all honesty, engineers and scientists have to be creative and have to be somewhat artistic to be able to come up with new ideas and see how they can solve the problems in the world around them.” – Sam Zauber, wind tunnel test engineer
Heather Oravec Aerospace and Geotechnical Research Engineer
“Joining clubs and participating in activities that pique your interests is a great way to develop soft skills – like leadership, communication, and the ability to work with others – which will prepare you for future career opportunities.” – Estela Buchmann, navigation, guidance, and control systems engineer