NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Roy Cooper Proclaims November as American Indian Heritage Month

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Roy Cooper Proclaims November as American Indian Heritage Month

    Governor Roy Cooper Proclaims November as American Indian Heritage Month
    mseets

    Governor Roy Cooper declared November as American Indian Heritage Month, celebrating the history, heritage and contributions of North Carolina’s eight state recognized tribes including the Coharie, Eastern Band of Cherokee, Haliwa-Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation, Sappony and Waccamaw-Siouan. This month also honors our state’s four urban Indian organizations consisting of the Cumberland County Association for Indian People, Triangle Native American Society, and the Guilford, Metrolina Native American Associations.

    “This month, we take time to honor the culture and history of our American Indian tribes who have been here for generations,” said Governor Cooper. “We are grateful for their many contributions to our state and we look forward to continuing support for our indigenous communities.”

    This year’s theme, “NC United Tribes – 50 Years of Tribal Unity,” represents the inherit strength of North Carolina’s recognized tribes and Indian organizations and honors the more than 130,000 American Indians who call our state home. North Carolina has the second largest American Indian population east of the Mississippi River and the seventh largest American Indian population in the Unites States. In 2021, NC Department of Administration Secretary Pam Brewington Cashwell made history as the first American Indian woman to head a state cabinet agency in North Carolina.

    “It is an honor each year to not only celebrate the traditions and culture of American Indians but also to share our history and heritage with fellow North Carolinians,” said DOA Secretary Cashwell. “This month heightens our visibility in society to let communities know that we are still here as a people and as tribes united.”

    For more than 50 years, the NC Department of Administration’s Commission of Indian Affairs has served as a resource hub, providing information on housing, educational opportunities, scholarships, health care, and workforce development to American Indian communities. Established by the NC General Assembly in 1971, the Commission remains committed to providing local, state, and federal resources to support and advocate for North Carolina’s American Indian population.

    In celebration of American Indian Heritage Month, the NC Commission of Indian Affairs is again partnering with the NC Museum of History, NC American Indian Heritage Commission, as well as North Carolina American Indian tribes and urban American Indian organizations to coordinate a weekend of special events. The 29th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration kicks off with a virtual Education Day on November 22 at 9 a.m. featuring storytelling and pottery among other activities. The November 23 celebration will be held in-person at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and will include various demonstrations and performances highlighting the artistry, customs, and culture of North Carolina’s American Indian tribes. Both events are free and open to the public.

    To learn more about the upcoming American Indian Heritage Month Celebration visit the North Carolina Museum of History website.

    View a message from DOA Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell here.

    Read the proclamation here.

    About the NCDOA and the NC Commission of Indian Affairs

    The NC Department of Administration acts as the business manager for North Carolina state government. Under the leadership of Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell, the department oversees government operations and advocacy programs. The department’s advocacy programs help to promote and assist diverse segments of the state’s population that have been traditionally underserved. The NC Commission of Indian Affairs advocates for the rights of American Indian residents in North Carolina. It provides programs and services to American Indian communities across the state, including education and resources to aid in social and economic development. The Commission also works to promote unity among American Indian and non-Indian communities.

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    Nov 1, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tahlequah Resident Sentenced to 25 Years for Murder

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Timothy Randall England, age 36, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 300 months in prison for the 2023 murder of a Stilwell resident.

    The charge arose from investigations by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    On April 30, 2024, England pleaded guilty to one count of Murder in Indian Country—Second Degree.   According to investigators, on February 7, 2023, England traveled to a Stilwell residence, waited outside for the resident to arrive, then fired upon the victim eight times with a 7.62×39 rifle before fleeing the scene.  Three of the shots struck the victim, who died at the scene.  England was later apprehended by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service in Tahlequah and arrested without incident.  The crime occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief Judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee.  England will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States at sentencing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gore Resident Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Child Abuse and Neglect

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Mason Anthony Wilson, age 28, of Gore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for one count of Child Abuse in Indian Country and 120 months in prison for one count of Child Neglect in Indian Country.  The terms are set to be served concurrently.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    On June 5, 2024, a federal jury found Wilson guilty at trial on both counts.  According to investigators, in April 2022, Wilson caused injuries to a 2-month-old baby in his care, including multiple fractured bones, and failed to provide medical care for the child.  The crimes occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable Kea W. Riggs, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Wilson will remain it the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah McAmis and Jessica Bove represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coal County Resident Sentenced for Manslaughter

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald Wayne Yarbrough Jr., age 54, of Lehigh, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 115 months in prison for voluntary manslaughter.

    The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    On August 31, 2023, Yarbrough pleaded guilty to an Information of one count of Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian Country.  According to investigators, on November 24, 2022, Yarbrough instigated a fight outside the family home.  During the fight, Yarbrough stabbed the victim in the neck.  The victim was later declared dead at an area hospital.  The crime occurred in Coal County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable Kea W. Riggs, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Yarbrough will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S.  Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: THIS IS MY SQUAD! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/ X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #MySquad

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I5n7URlIJY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Introduces Legislation to Expedite Deportation of Non-Citizen Voters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON— Today, Representative Dale W. Strong (R-AL) introduced the Deport Illegal Voters Act to expedite the removal of aliens convicted of voting illegally.  

    Specifically, the legislation adds unlawful voting to the defined list of aggravated felonies under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and provides for the expedited deportation of convicted individuals. 

    “Anyone who is not an American citizen and casts a ballot in this election should be first in line to be deported. We must secure our elections and ensure participation in our elections is reserved for American citizens and American citizens only,” said Congressman Dale W. Strong.  

    Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we have seen record numbers of border crossings and illegal immigration into the United States. Additionally, there have been numerous cases of voter registration forms issued to non-citizens and numerous cases of non-citizen voting across the country, including Alabama. In September, the Department of Justice charged a Guatemalan national residing in Alabama with fraudulently using a U.S. identity to vote in multiple elections including the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. This week, charges were filed against a Chinese national who cast a vote in the 2024 Presidential election in Michigan.  

    Interference in our elections undermines the rights of American citizens and sets a dangerous precedent that could further erode the trust and credibility of our electoral system. The integrity of our election system must be safeguarded to ensure only eligible and lawful voters are permitted to participate. 

    “People should stop and think twice before interfering in our elections. The Deport Illegal Voters Act sets a consequence fitting for those committing a federal offense,” said Strong.  

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hageman Applauds Lawsuit to Stop Mandatory EID

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    Washington, DC – Today Congresswoman Harriet Hageman applauded the complaint filed by the New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA) against the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to stop the implementation of a rule mandating EID eartags for cattle and bison being transported across state lines. The lawsuit argues that USDA does not have the authority to mandate EID eartags or to enforce such a rule, and that USDA failed to properly account for the rule’s impact on small producers, despite being required to do so by federal law.  

    Representative Hageman stated, “USDA simply does not have the authority to mandate the use of EID eartags. This is an unreasonably expensive unfunded mandate that will lead to the elimination of small producers, vertical integration of our livestock and meat supply, put herds and ranches at risk through invasive Freedom of Information Act requests, and imposes an unbearable cost burden on all but the largest corporate producers. I applaud NCLA and the food freedom movement for challenging this unlawful regulation.”

    Background: 

    Rep. Hageman is leading the Congressional effort to support America’s ranchers and block this rule, and has: 

    • Filed an amendment to the FY24 and FY25 USDA spending bills to block federal funds from supporting the rule’s implementation.
    • Argued before the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs prior to the implementation of the final rule. 
    • Written three op-eds describing the threats and consequences of such a mandate and countless radio and television interviews with networks across the country.
    • Most recently, Rep. Hageman introduced a joint resolution pursuant to the Congressional Review Act which would rescind this awful mandatory EID rule. The resolution has been jointly sponsored in the Senate by Cynthia Lummis. 

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    Contact: Chris Berardi, Sr. Advisor/Communications Director

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner and Rep. Bennie Thompson Urge Federal Agencies to Take Action to Prevent Election Violence

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Ranking Member for the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement, is partnering with Ranking Member for the Homeland Security Committee Bennie Thompson (MS-02) to lead 13 Members of Congress in raising concerns to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) about the potential for violence surrounding the 2024 election.

    “With the 2024 election coming up in a matter of days, we must take steps to ensure that the U.S. government is prepared to thwart violent attacks on the democratic process like that which occurred on January 6, 2021,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Ranking Member for the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement. “Ranking Member Thompson and I are outlining a series of actions we believe the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice should take to ensure a safe and secure election and peaceful transfer of power.”

    The Members of Congress outline important objectives that include, but are not limited to:

    • Ensuring that Federal agencies are aligned and attentive to the needs of election officials, and provide any requested assistance to state and local election officials.
    • Protecting state and local election offices from cyber attacks and providing them with services to defend election infrastructure.
    • Bolstering DHS’s efforts to raise awareness of the physical security services available to state and local officials through federal resources to protect election officials and infrastructure. 
    • Combating foreign influence campaigns by Russia and other malign actors, and combating election misinformation on social media platforms that seek to undermine the legitimacy of the election and trust in the American government.

    Donald Trump and his allies have been laying the groundwork to question the legitimacy of the 2024 election results, and have been spreading dangerous conspiracy theories about the vote counting process at the state and local levels. Trump has repeated lies of widespread voter fraud and suggested that the only way he can lose to Vice President Harris is if Democrats cheat. This is particularly concerning in light of a recent poll by the Associated Press that found two-thirds of Republicans polled trust Donald Trump and his campaign for accurate information about election results, but only 51 percent of Republicans polled would trust the government’s certification of election results.

    Trump has also declined to pledge to respect the outcome of the 2024 election and refused to publicly say that he would back a peaceful transfer of power. In 2020, Trump refused to acknowledge his election loss, spread lies about extensive voter fraud and incited a violent mob to attack the Capitol in an effort to overturn the results of a fair and secure election.

    Foreign malign influence operations also pose a threat to the 2024 election. The Justice Department recently disrupted a covert Russian government-sponsored foreign malign influence operation, which in part used AI-generated content and social media influencers, to spread disinformation about the 2024 election, sow discord and influence voters.

    Furthermore, threats against election officials have intensified. Nearly one in three election workers have reported being harassed, abused or threatened because of their job as a result of Trump’s rhetoric. This has caused high levels of turnover among election workers over concerns for their safety and the safety of their families, leading to increased strain on those responsible for facilitating our elections. 

    This letter builds upon Rep. Magaziner’s efforts to ensure a fair and secure election in 2024. This week, he joined his colleagues in urging the DOJ Election Threats Task Force to take stronger action in coordination with local law enforcement to protect election workers on and around Election Day.

    Rep. Magaziner also hosted a “Protecting our Democracy” roundtable with Rep. Thompson to bring attention to concerted efforts to question the legitimacy of the 2024 election results.

    Full text of the letter is below. A PDF copy of the letter is available HERE.

    Dear Secretary Mayorkas and Attorney General Garland:

    We understand that both the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) have undertaken significant efforts to support the safe, secure administration of elections this November. We write to document those activities and to learn about any additional actions you will undertake between now and January 20, 2025, to ensure a peaceful transfer of power.

    Four years ago, State and local election officials across the country administered the most secure elections in history under exceptionally challenging circumstances. Nevertheless, confusion about voting and tabulation procedures, a politically polarized public, and a nationwide pandemic created a breeding ground for misinformation and conspiracy theories to flourish. As a result, a violent mob bent on preventing the peaceful transfer of power attempted to interrupt the certification of election results on January 6, 2021. Although the insurrection was ultimately unsuccessful, its legacy endures, notably though the targeting and harassment of election officials, baseless allegations that voter fraud will result in an illegitimate election result, and suggestions by public officials that they may not accept the election outcome.

    We applaud the efforts your agencies have already undertaken to support the safe, secure administration of elections, and encourage ongoing engagement with appropriate partners at the State and local levels in the weeks and months ahead.

    Coordination with State and Local Partners

    Election officials on the ground are the individuals who best understand the challenges of administering elections in today’s environment. It is important that Federal programs designed to secure elections are aligned to the needs of State and local election officials.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, what processes are in place to receive feedback from election stakeholders to ensure your Departments are meeting the needs of election officials? How have your Departments incorporated stakeholder feedback into election security policies and programs? Please provide specific examples.
    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, have resource constraints in any way limited the ability of your Departments to provide assistance requested by State and local election officials? If so, how?

    Last year, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) announced it would establish dedicated election security advisors in each of the agency’s ten regions.

    • Secretary Mayorkas, how do election security advisors complement the work of existing cybersecurity and protective security advisors? Please provide details about the priorities of election security advisors and describe the specific activities they have undertaken to help state and local election officials prepare for the 2024 election.

    Election Cybersecurity

    CISA offers a range of no-cost cybersecurity services to election offices across the country, including cyber hygiene scans and risk and vulnerability assessments.

    • Secretary Mayorkas, please describe the services that DHS offers directly to State and local election officials and the efforts DHS has undertaken to promote these services. To what degree have State and local election offices adopted the services DHS offers? 
    • Secretary Mayorkas, DHS, through CISA, supports the Center for Internet Security, which houses Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EI-ISAC). The EI-ISAC provides State and local election officials with a range of additional services to defend election infrastructure from cyber attacks. Please describe the election security- related activities DHS funding supports at the EI-ISAC.
    • Secretary Mayorkas, how is the Department working with State and local election officials to ensure resilience in the event of a cyber incident on or near election day?

    As the Sector Risk Management Agency for the Election Infrastructure Subsector, DHS, through CISA, is responsible for engaging with a range of stakeholders involved in the administration of elections, including election technology and equipment vendors.

    • Secretary Mayorkas, please describe how the Department has worked with election technology and equipment vendors to improve security.

    Physical Security

    Recent swatting incidents and white powder mailings targeting election officials, along with disturbingly frequent social media threats, have highlighted the physical security threats facing election officials. Ensuring State and local officials are aware of the services available to them and have access to the resources necessary to improve their security will be critical to protecting election officials and infrastructure before, during, and after the election.

    • Secretary Mayorkas, please describe the physical security services DHS offers directly to State and local election officials and how DHS is increasing awareness of Federal resources available to protect the physical security of election infrastructure and officials. To what degree have State and local election officials utilized the physical security services DHS offers?
    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, how are DOJ and DHS ensuring that they have relevant expertise on staff to support physical security services and outreach?
    • A security threat in one jurisdiction may suggest a heightened risk of similar situations in other jurisdictions. Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, how are you ensuring that timely and actionable threat information based on recent incidents is shared with election officials nationally as threats emerge?
    • In the absence of Federal funding dedicated to improving the physical security of elections, State and local jurisdictions may struggle to implement security recommendations. Secretary Mayorkas, how is DHS supporting State and local election officials’ efforts to implement recommendations provided by CISA’s security assessments? How does CISA assist election officials in prioritizing cost-effective solutions to issues identified by the assessments?

    The January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol demonstrated that election security risks do not end on Election Day. We are particularly concerned that similar violence could take place during the counting and certification of election results this cycle.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, with a heightened risk of violence in the post-election period, what plans are in place to support election officials in the aftermath of the November election? What specific resources will be deployed following the election to support State and local election officials should threats develop?

    Mis- and Disinformation

    Public reporting indicates that foreign adversaries continue efforts to influence U.S. elections, and election misinformation has the potential to undermine the public’s confidence in election results and could fuel election-related violence. It is our understanding that the Federal government has modified its approach to combatting misinformation compared to the previous presidential election.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, what are your current policies regarding engagements with social media companies on the threats posed by election- related misinformation? Please describe current activities related to combatting foreign influence and election misinformation.

    A recent poll by Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and USAFact found that two-thirds of Republicans polled trust Donald Trump and his campaign for accurate information about election results, but only 51 percent of Republicans polled would trust the government’s certification of election results. Donald Trump has already begun to suggest the election will be rigged against him.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, how will your Departments work to build confidence in the election outcome in the event a candidate, without evidence, attempts to call into question the legitimacy of the election outcome?

    Recent indictments by DOJ allege that Russian intelligence used American media influencers to unwittingly promote Russia’s foreign influence campaigns.

    • Attorney General Garland, does DOJ have policies in place to alert Americans who may be unwittingly amplifying illegal foreign influence campaigns?

    Many Republican officials have publicly claimed that non-citizens are voting in large numbers and could impact the outcome of the November election. The Texas Attorney General recently announced he was investigating whether organizations were purposefully registering non-citizens to vote, despite there being no indication that it is happening.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, is there any evidence that non-citizens vote in large numbers in the United States? Is there any evidence that organizations are deliberately registering non-citizens to vote?

    Mis- and disinformation can lead to voter suppression. The Secretary of State of Alabama, for example, recently deactivated the registration of more than 3,000 people, including some naturalized citizens who must now update their records before they can vote. Some of them have expressed reluctance to register to vote again.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, how are your Departments countering mis- and disinformation that may disproportionately affect naturalized citizens or target communities of color?

    Rapid advances in AI technological development have the potential to shift how foreign and domestic actors seek to shape public opinion and Federal efforts to secure elections must reflect the latest technological landscape.

    • Attorney General Garland and Secretary Mayorkas, what is your current assessment of the impact of AI-generated content in foreign influence campaigns and how are your Departments increasing awareness regarding the threat of AI-generated content in disinformation efforts?

    By and large, the most reliable sources of accurate election information are the official communications and websites of State and local election officials responsible for administering elections. The Federal government’s greater media visibility can play an important role in directing Americans to reliable sources of information and amplifying the voices of state and local officials.

    • Secretary Mayorkas, how is DHS amplifying efforts by State and local election officials to promote accurate election information and to respond to false rumors about the integrity, security, or accuracy of election systems and results? What are CISA’s plans to increase such communications closer to Election Day and following the election?

    Thank you for your attention to this letter. We look forward to your response and to continuing to work with you to ensure a safe, secure election next month.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: The Future of Peacekeeping, New Models, and Related Capabilities: Independent Study commissioned by the United Nations Department of Peace Operations

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    In an independent study commissioned by the United Nations Department of Peace Operations (DPO), new models for UN peacekeeping are outlined to address evolving global threats. Commissioned at the request of Germany and other co-chairs of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial process, this study aims to shape discussions for the upcoming Berlin UN Peacekeeping Ministerial on May 13-14, 2025. The event will center on the theme: “The Future of Peacekeeping.”

    The study finds that UN peacekeeping remains an effective multilateral tool for preventing and limiting armed conflict, sustaining peace, as well as responding to a broader range of threats to international peace and security. It also reviews security threats and challenges that future peacekeeping missions must address. Among the most important are armed conflict, the weaponization of new and emerging technologies, transnational organized crime, the climate crisis, and public health emergencies, which are combining in complex ways that ignore international political borders.

    Looking to the future, fresh thinking is needed about what roles peacekeeping can and should play. The study’s vision for UN peacekeeping is a politically focused, people-centered, modular tool that can unite the Security Council around effective multilateral responses to a broad range of threats and challenges. To support this vision, the study offers 30 plausible models to inform future UN missions. The models describe a mix of longstanding peacekeeping tasks; how those traditional tasks might be performed in different ways in changed contexts and with new technologies; and propose novel activities for future UN peacekeeping.

    This study also highlights the need for investments in key capabilities to strengthen current and future peacekeeping missions, irrespective of the precise combination of models and mandates. There are also strong links between peacekeeping and the UN’s broader prevention and peacebuilding agendas, as well as the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, which can be reinforced further.

    Peacekeeping Ministerial Co-chairs

    The Co-chairs of the Peacekeeping Ministerial process are Bangladesh, Canada, Ethiopia, Ghana, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Uruguay, United Kingdom, United States and the United Nations Secretariat.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Expresses Concern at Suggestion Jeffrey Epstein had Compromising Photographs of Trump

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee, today expressed concern that the pedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein reportedly had compromising photographs of Donald Trump with topless young women and showed them to book author Michael Wolff. News of the photographs was reported Thursday evening in The Daily Beast, along with Trump campaign denunciations of the story.

    At the July 24, 2024, Federal Bureau of Investigation Oversight Hearing in the House Judiciary Committee, Congressman Cohen asked FBI Director Christopher Wray about the FBI’s search of Jeffrey Epstein’s home and what was found.  After the hearing, Congressman followed up with Director Wray on this issue and submitted written questions for him about the Epstein case and evidence seized in searches of Epstein’s homes.  Among those questions:

    “Did the FBI retrieve any evidence that prompted the agency to open a new criminal investigation with a target other than Epstein for alleged sexual abuse?

    “Did the FBI recover any evidence that the FBI suspects Mr. Epstein held to blackmail others?

    “Will you open up the FBI’s records about your interactions with, and investigations of, Jeffrey Epstein?”

    The FBI has not yet responded to those questions.   

    See Congressman Cohen’s questions to Wray at the July hearing here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: From Mars Rovers to Factory Assembly Lines

    Source: NASA

    NASA-funded AI technology enabling autonomous rovers and drones now keeps an eye on conveyor belts

    Artificial intelligence software initially designed to learn and analyze Martian terrain is now at the heart of a system to monitor assembly lines on Earth. 
    The vision inspection software from Neurala Inc., an artificial intelligence company in Boston, Massachusetts, works with existing cameras, computers, and even cellphones to monitor the quality of products running along a conveyor belt, for instance.  
    “Our software can learn very quickly on a processor with a very small footprint, a skill we learned working with NASA,” said Neurala cofounder and CEO Massimiliano Versace. “By doing so, we enable vision inspection with whatever components are already available, deploying in minutes. In our exploration of the market, we realized that the manufacturing space had a precise need for this technology.”
    Versace and Neurala (Spinoff 2018) began working with NASA more than a decade ago on a project funded through the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program. NASA was interested in “adaptive bio-inspired navigation for planetary exploration,” and Versace and his team had been working on neural network AI software modeled on the human brain. 
    Focusing on a rover concept that could independently learn to traverse Martian terrain, Neurala went on to win STTR Phase II funding for the project. Additional money from a NASA Center Innovation Fund enabled the Neurala team to adapt its technology to drone navigation and collision avoidance. 
    In both the rover and the drone applications, the Neurala software could run on a small device on the vehicle itself, eliminating the delay of sending signals to a decision maker in another location. Since then, the company developed the software to help monitor assembly lines.
    Onsite computing is an advantage in manufacturing, as well, where an assembly line may have a hundred items passing every minute, making visual inspections for quality control difficult.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Parson Congratulates Missouri Higher Education Institutions on Advancing in NSF Engines Competition

    Source: US State of Missouri

    NOVEMBER 1, 2024

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson congratulated four Missouri higher education institutions upon advancing, as part of teams, in the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) program. The advancing institutions include the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T), University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL), and Washington University in St. Louis (WashU).

    “We are excited that out of 71 teams advancing in this national competition, Missouri is home to four of them,” Governor Parson said. “Missouri’s technology sector is budding and growing, and these teams will help us continue the exceptional work we have done to develop our workforce, strengthen our infrastructure, and emerge as a technological leader. We congratulate our higher education institutions, as well as their application partners, on the incredible work that has gotten them to this point, and we trust that Missouri innovation will win the day, potentially securing these NSF Engine designations for our state.”

    “We are proud that researchers at UMKC, S&T, and UMSL are among just 71 teams across the country invited to submit full proposals for the NSF Engines program,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “Key to their success is Governor Parson and his incredible commitment to innovation, workforce development, and infrastructure growth. We are grateful for his strong support and for this opportunity to impact our state and region.”

    “WashU and our partner BioSTL are proud of our long-standing relationship with the NSF and pleased to be among the Missouri institutions invited to submit a full proposal for the engines competition,” WashU Chancellor Andrew Martin said. “We’re grateful to the NSF for its consideration, as well as to Governor Parson and our partners in Jefferson City whose support allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible to benefit all Missourians. We’re excited for the opportunity to contribute to our regional workforce ecosystem with this potential federal funding.”

    “We are proud that these four institutions are proposing innovative approaches to meet emerging technological needs of key industries,” Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development, said. “Their creative efforts support our employers and present expanded opportunities for Missourians to access family-sustaining jobs.”

    The four Missouri proposals are listed below:

    • Missouri S&T – Engine for Midwest Mobility Innovation and Technology
    • UMKC – Critical Materials Crossroads Energy Materials Ecosystem
    • UMSL – Reshoring KSM and API Manufacturing Through Innovation
    • WashU – Neuroscience Engine to Unlock Regional Opportunity

    Under the current NSF Engines funding opportunity, organizations were required to submit a letter of intent to demonstrate their interest in applying. NSF published data from the letters in July 2024. Teams were then required to submit preliminary proposals by August 6, describing how their proposed NSF Engines aim to build partnerships that will advance use-inspired and translational research in key technology areas and address pressing challenges while creating new pathways for the workforce in their regions. The 71 NSF Engines teams that have advanced will submit full proposals by February 2025.

    The NSF Engines program aims to foster cross-sector connections, particularly engaging organizations that may not typically work together or submit to NSF funding opportunities. Nonprofits, foundations, state and local governments, tribal nations, community organizations and investors have all expressed interest in connecting with emerging NSF Engines. By publishing the 71 invited teams, NSF aims to create opportunities across the U.S. for additional individuals and organizations to connect with prospective submitters (within one’s region of service and beyond) to share expertise, exchange resources, provide capital and more.

    About NSF Engines

    Launched by the NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, the NSF Engines program envisions flourishing regional innovation ecosystems all across the country, providing a unique opportunity to accelerate technology development and spur economic growth in regions that have not fully participated in the technology boom of the past few decades. Each NSF Engine comprises robust partnerships rooted in scientific and technological innovation to positively impact the economy within a geographic region, address societal, national, and geostrategic challenges, and ultimately advance U.S. competitiveness and security.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $435 Million for Water Infrastructure Improvements

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $435 million is being awarded to 102 critical water infrastructure projects across New York State through the Water Infrastructure Improvement and Intermunicipal Grant programs. The grants awarded by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) deliver on Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2024 State of the State to help small, rural and disadvantaged communities with their water infrastructure needs. With critical financial support for local governments across New York, Governor Hochul is laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient future, ensuring every New Yorker has access to safe and clean water, while creating jobs and boosting the economy.

    “New York is committed to funding water infrastructure upgrades because every person has a right to clean water,”  Governor Hochul said.  “With this funding for communities across the State, we are providing critical resources to local economies, creating jobs and safeguarding the health and well-being of all New Yorkers.”

    The  complete list of WIIA and IMG awardees, including an interactive map and projects by region, is available on EFC’s website. 

    These grants will support water infrastructure projects totaling more than $1 billion that safeguard drinking water from the risk of toxic chemicals, upgrade and replace water and wastewater infrastructure in a manner that will increase community resilience, regionalize water systems, support local economies, and are critical to protecting public health and the environment. The ratepayers are projected to save an estimated $1 billion in costs the communities would have incurred if they had financed the projects on their own.

    Environmental Facilities Corporation President & CEO Maureen A. Coleman said,  ”EFC’s grants are a hallmark of New York State’s robust, nation-leading investment in the environment, which will help municipalities affordably invest in water infrastructure improvement projects. These grants will help get shovels in the ground for 102 water quality projects across New York State. EFC is committed to awarding grant funding to the communities that need it most, as demonstrated by the dedicated work of our Community Assistance Teams and the award of enhanced grants totaling $126.7 million amount to small, rural and disadvantaged communities.”

    This round of WIIA/IMG boasts improvements announced as part of Governor Hochul’s 2024 State of the State to maximize benefits for rural and disadvantaged communities.

    Enhanced Awards for 32 Projects in Small, Rural Communities
    Even with extensive financial support from the State, some municipalities are left passing a large financial burden to their ratepayers. To alleviate this burden on small, rural and disadvantaged communities, Governor Hochul directed EFC to increase grants for small, rural communities from 25 percent to 50 percent of net eligible project costs. Examples of enhanced awards include:

    • Town of Peru (North Country) is awarded $11 million for upgrades to the Town of Peru Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP), with a focus on effluent disinfection.
    • Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe is awarded $9.8 million for upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant.
    • Village of Richfield Springs (Mohawk Valley)  is awarded $9.1 million for improvements to the wastewater treatment plant and sewer rehabilitation.
    • Town of Ellicott (Western NY)  is awarded $3.2 million for the expansion of sewer service in the area around Fluvanna Avenue.

    EFC’s Community Assistance Teams Helped Municipalities Secure Grants
    Small, rural and disadvantaged communities are particularly impacted by deteriorating water infrastructure and emerging contaminants and often do not possess the resources and capacity necessary to advance a project for infrastructure improvement. Governor Hochul expanded EFC’s  Community Assistance Teams program that launched in 2023 to provide essential support for updating New York’s critical water infrastructure. Thirteen municipalities that worked with EFC through this critical initiative received grants, four of which are receiving enhanced awards:

    • Town of Mina (Western NY) is awarded $13 million for the construction of a new sanitary sewer collection system around Findley Lake and a new wastewater treatment plant to treat sewage from the new system.
    • Town of Potsdam (North Country) is awarded $1.4 million for the construction of a new sewer district.
    • Village of Parish (Central NY) is awarded $1 million for wastewater treatment plant improvements.
    • Town of Wilna (North Country) is awarded $154,527 for wastewater treatment facility upgrades.

    Awards Totaling $66 million To Protect Drinking Water From Emerging Contaminants
    Continuing New York’s national leadership on addressing the threat of PFAS, Governor Hochul increased awards for emerging contaminant projects from 60 percent to 70 percent of net eligible project costs. This change will help ensure cost is not a barrier for communities working to make life-saving investments that eliminate risks to their drinking water supplies. Examples of emerging contaminants projects include:

    • Village of Hempstead (Long Island)  is awarded $37 million for water treatment improvements to remove 1,4 Dioxane and PFAS.
    • Town of North Salem (Mid-Hudson)  is awarded $592,074 for the Pabst Water System PFOS Mitigation project.
    • Dutchess County Water & Wastewater Authority (Mid-Hudson)  is awarded $15 million for water system interconnection to remedy PFAS-Contaminated source water.
    • Suffolk County Water Authority (Long Island)  is awarded a total of $4.9 million for four projects using advanced oxidation to remove 1,4-dioxane from groundwater.

    EFC administers the WIIA and IMG programs in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH). The State has awarded more than $2.9 billion in water infrastructure grants through EFC since 2015.

    Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State continues to prioritize investments in clean water for communities statewide. Today’s award of $435 million will support more than 100 water projects across the State to protect public health and the environment. The investments, bolstered by EFC’s assistance to rural, smaller and disadvantaged communities, are advancing effective water infrastructure improvements that will benefit New Yorkers.”

    State Commissioner of Health Dr. James McDonald said, “Governor Hochul is ensuring that New Yorkers throughout the State have access to clean drinking water, the foundation to good health. The financial support in this latest announcement will help municipalities make critical upgrades to their water systems, something they might not be able to afford on their own, and thus help to achieve greater health equity in our great state. New York State will continue to work with communities to ensure their water is safe to drink today and into the future.”   

    Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Clean water infrastructure is vital to public health and New York State is making a historic economic commitment for communities to address drinking water infrastructure needs. We thank Governor Hochul for her assistance of $435 million that will open doors for small, rural and disadvantaged communities to have an infusion of funds to get shovels in the ground to help create environmentally sound cities and towns for present and future generations.”

    Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “This $435 million in State grants represents a transformative investment in strengthening our water infrastructure, particularly in small, rural and disadvantaged communities. I am proud to have worked with Governor Hochul, Members of the Senate Majority and our partners in the Assembly, to secure this essential funding, which includes the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, and $500 million for clean water infrastructure allocated in the 2024-2025 Budget. By making this investment in our small, rural and disadvantaged communities, we are not only empowering them to upgrade their infrastructure, but also improving public health, saving ratepayers money, building climate resilience and strengthening our economy.”

    State Senator Pete Harckham said, “This major investment from the State ensures public health standards while supporting local businesses. Maintaining safe, accessible drinking water sources and supply systems is integral to future growth and prosperity, and I thank Governor Hochul, my colleagues in the State Legislature and the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation for making the financial commitment to see this through.”

    Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick said, “Water infrastructure improvements are a crucial component of protecting the health of New Yorkers and the environment. With the continued threats posed by PFAS and other chemical contamination, the use of lead service lines and increasingly destructive storms and flooding, we must remain focused on funding projects such as these around the State. I thank Governor Hochul and EFC for prioritizing water infrastructure improvement and look forward to working together to secure more funding next year to continue this critical work.”

    New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “Water is our most precious resource and investing in clean water infrastructure is absolutely critical for the health of all New Yorkers. We congratulate all of the water infrastructure awardees and commend Governor Hochul for her ongoing commitment to clean water and public health.”

    The Nature Conservancy’s New York Policy and Strategy Director Jessica Ottney Mahar said, “The Nature Conservancy commends Governor Hochul for dedicating significant resources to protect clean drinking water and update critical infrastructure. State funding enables New York communities to protect public health, improve quality of life and strengthen local economies. The need for clean water is universal; every person, every animal, every community depends on it, which is why public investments like this are essential.”

    Citizens Campaign for the Environment Executive Director Adrienne Esposito said, “Filtering out toxic PFAS and 1,4 Dioxane chemicals is one of the few things that everyone can enthusiastically support this year. These grants mean our drinking water will be safer, cleaner and more reliable, and that is why the public strongly supports clean water funding. Thank you to Governor Hochul for dispersing clean water funding in a timely and strategic way that protects public health and our environment.”

    Environmental Advocates NY Senior Director of Clean Water Rob Hayes said, “We applaud Governor Hochul for delivering a transformative round of water infrastructure funding. These grants are a win-win for our economy and environment, protecting clean water and creating thousands of good-paying union jobs. We are especially thankful for increased funding to help communities remove toxic PFAS from drinking water, protecting public health. With this funding, the Governor is demonstrating her commitment to helping communities across the State be stronger, healthier and more affordable.”

    New York’s Commitment to Water Quality
    New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure, including more than $2.2 billion in financial assistance from EFC for local water infrastructure projects in State Fiscal Year 2024 alone. With $500 million allocated for clean water infrastructure in the FY25 Enacted Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $5.5 billion in water infrastructure between 2017 and this year. Governor Hochul’s State of the State initiatives are ensuring ongoing coordination with local governments and helping communities to leverage these investments. The Governor increased WIIA grants for wastewater projects from 25 to 50 percent of net eligible project costs for smaller, disadvantaged communities. The Governor also expanded EFC’s Community Assistance Teams to help small, rural and disadvantaged communities leverage this funding and address their clean water infrastructure needs. Any community needing assistance with water infrastructure projects is encouraged to  contact EFC.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $23.5 Million to Reduce Crime in Syracuse Area

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today highlighted $23.5 million in state public safety investments in the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County for law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations, including $2.5 million in new funding to establish diversion programs to strengthen services and connect justice-involved young people with education and employment opportunities. At the same time, Governor Hochul detailed the state’s record-level, $3.2 million investment through the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination initiative, $3.2 million in technology and equipment funding for county law enforcement agencies, and $2 million in second-year funding through Project RISE to support community-based organizations addressing the impact of gun violence and providing youth opportunities.

    “Public safety is my number one priority, and we are doubling down our efforts to keep residents of Syracuse and Onondaga County safe by giving more support to law enforcement, bolstering gun violence prevention initiatives and expanding youth diversion programs,” Governor Hochul said. “By utilizing a multi-pronged approach centered around local needs, we are working to rein in criminal activity and create safer neighborhoods and communities.”

    After meeting with local elected and community leaders, Governor Hochul detailed the state’s investment in the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County, administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). They then identified solutions to address a spike in property crime involving teenagers that is driving an overall increase in crime in Syracuse through the first nine months of the year as compared to the same time in 2023.

    The City of Syracuse will receive $1.5 million in new funding to establish a new program dedicated to providing justice-system involved youth with structured classes to develop skills, support to navigate the education and justice systems, and internships and other resources with the goal of avoiding further criminal justice system involvement.

    In addition, Governor Hochul will dedicate an additional $1 million to enhance youth justice alternatives and diversion programs and services within the Onondaga County Probation Department. This investment will be paired with dedicated technical assistance from DCJS to help build the capacity of local government and community-based organizations to intervene in the lives of these young people, change their thinking and behavior, and promote positive development.

    Public safety is my number one priority, and we are doubling down our efforts to keep residents of Syracuse and Onondaga County safe by giving more support to law enforcement, bolstering gun violence prevention initiatives and expanding youth diversion programs.”

    Governor Kathy Hochul

    New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “We have made tremendous progress in driving down gun violence and violent crime in New York State, but communities across the state each have their own unique challenges. Governor Hochul has made it a priority to ensure that DCJS has a record amount of resources available to help our local law enforcement and community partners develop comprehensive strategies and programs to address community-specific spikes in crime rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. We create stronger, safer neighborhoods by listening to, learning from, and investing in our local partners.”

    These two new investments are integral to Governor Hochul’s comprehensive plan to improve public safety, address spikes in crime and further drive down gun violence by recognizing the importance of a multifaceted approach to the problem. By engaging, supporting and funding local law enforcement agencies and community partners; leveraging technology and data; and implementing evidence-based strategies, the state can help localities address their unique crime problems while healing and strengthening neighborhoods and families.

    New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The New York State Police is committed to assisting our law enforcement partners in fighting against the widespread criminality in Syracuse and Onondaga County. I appreciate Governor Hochul’s leadership on this public safety mission, and for providing the necessary resources to reduce crime and gun violence to build safer communities.”

    Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “Syracuse can’t do this work alone; our community must collaborate to address issues of juveniles involved in the Justice system. We’re focused on the balance of holding people accountable, but recognizing that young people need greater support. Diversionary and intervention programs are critical to providing support, giving our youth access to the resources they need, and providing them the skills to be successful in life. Once again, when we’ve asked Governor Hochul to provide assistance for our community, she’s delivered, and I thank her for her attention to the needs of Syracuse.”

    These initiatives in the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County include:

    Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower): $2 million to 11 community-based organizations in Syracuse that provide mental health services, crisis intervention, mentoring, and vocational training and employment, financial literacy, and conflict resolution, among other services to youth and families at risk or impacted by violence. This is the second year that Syracuse has received funding through the initiative, which engages with community stakeholders to identify and support smaller, grassroots organizations doing life-changing work that haven’t had the administrative capacity to receive state funding. Project RISE will fund three lead organizations – the Center for Community Alternatives and Hillside Children’s Center ($500,000 each) and On Point for College ($1 million) – that will share that funding with eight smaller organizations: Rise Above Poverty, Image Initiative, Fearless Queens, Project SAVE, Diversify NY, Half Hood Half Holistic, Good Life Youth Foundation and Klink Kids.

    Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Initiative and the Central New York Crime Analysis Center: $3.2 million to the Onondaga County GIVE partners, the Syracuse Police Department and county district attorney’s office, probation department, and sheriff’s office, and $1.1 million to support the Crime Analysis Center, one of 11 in network funded and supported by the state in partnership with local law enforcement agencies.

    The Syracuse Police Department is one of 28 departments in 21 counties receiving nearly $36 million through GIVE, which requires agencies to use evidence-based strategies to reduce shootings and other violent crime. Last year alone, staff at the Central New York Crime Analysis Center provided investigative support in real-time and handled 12,443 service requests, providing data, information and investigative leads that allowed law enforcement to solve homicides, car and retail theft rings, and remove illegal guns from county streets. All told, the state invests $18 million to support the Crime Analysis Center Network.

    These investments are producing results: Shooting incidents involving injury in Syracuse declined 29 percent when comparing the first nine months of 2024 to the same time last year, and 44 percent when compared to the five-year average (2019-2024). Violent crime in Syracuse decreased 5 percent from January – August 2024, as compared to the same eight months last year; this is the most recent data available.

    SNUG Street Outreach Program: Nearly $2.3 million to Syracuse Community Connections, and Upstate Medical Center to fund outreach workers, hospital responders, social workers and case managers who are credible messengers and work to reduce shootings and save lives. SNUG uses a public health approach to address gun violence by identifying the source, interrupting transmission, and treating individuals, families and communities affected by the violence. Syracuse is one of 14 communities across the state to participate in the program. The state’s investment in SNUG totals $20.3 million this year.

    Law Enforcement Technology and Equipment (LETECH): Nearly $3.2 million to14 police agencies in Onondaga County for new technology and equipment to prevent and solve crimes and improve public safety. This funding supports a variety of equipment and technology, such as license plate readers, mobile and fixed camera systems, computer-aided dispatch systems, software, unmanned aerial vehicles, gunshot detection devices and smart equipment for patrol vehicles and police officers.

    Statewide Targeted Reductions in Intimate Violence (STRIVE) initiative: Nearly $1.9 million to Onondaga County. New York City and Onondaga and 19 other counties outside of the five boroughs are sharing a record-level, $35 million to strengthen the public safety response to intimate partner abuse and domestic violence and better support survivors. Modeled after GIVE, STRIVE requires law enforcement and community partners in each county to use evidence-based strategies and ensure that community members and programs that serve victims and survivors are actively involved in strategy selection and implementation. One or more of the following strategies must be used: domestic violence high-risk team model, lethality assessment program, or intimate partner violence intervention.

    The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the State’s criminal justice system, including, but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; and managing criminal justice grant funding. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram and X.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Secures $47 Million Federal Grant for Mercer County to Replace 100-Year-Old Lincoln Avenue Bridge in Trenton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    NEWARK N.J. –  Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $47 million in federal funding to replace the nearly century-old Lincoln Avenue Bridge in Trenton, New Jersey. This funding was awarded to Mercer County through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Bridge Investment Program (BIP). Senator Booker strongly advocated for Mercer County’s grant application, providing letters of support for three consecutive years, including in January of this year.
    This grant is part of a new round of funding through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will build, repair, and modernize regionally significant bridges in 19 states. The FWHA announced nearly $635 million total for 22 small and medium-sized bridge projects with the funding for the Lincoln Avenue Bridge being the fourth largest award in this announcement.
    The County’s Lincoln Avenue Bridge Replacement Project will include the construction of a new bridge over Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor Rail Line, an inactive rail yard, and Assunpink Creek, which is a tributary of the Delaware River. The bridge, which was built in 1931 and has served Trenton’s communities for decades, is now close to structural failure and in need of urgent replacement.
    “The Lincoln Avenue Bridge has served Trenton’s residents for generations but has now reached the end of its lifespan,” said Senator Booker. “I am proud to have helped secure this unprecedented $47 million investment to replace this century-old bridge, and ensure everyone in Mercer County has access to safe and reliable infrastructure for years to come.”
    “I am so excited to announce this significant investment from the Biden-Harris Administration to improve the Lincoln Avenue Bridge,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “This funding will improve the safety, reliability, and durability of the Lincoln Ave bridge, which thousands of Trentonians cross daily, whether to get to work, pick up their kids, run to the grocery store, attend school, or meet up with friends. I’m incredibly grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration, Secretary Buttigieg, Mercer County, and the City of Trenton for their partnership.”
    “I want to thank Senator Booker and Congresswoman Watson Coleman for partnering with us to procure the largest infrastructure grant in Mercer County history. For nearly a century The Lincoln Avenue Bridge has tied together neighborhoods in our Capital City, and by replacing the aging structure we ensure that this corridor remains safe and accessible to Trenton residents for generations to come. We’re excited to kick off another major public works project for Mercer County, and we look forward to using local labor to build under a Project Labor Agreement,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson.
    “The DOT’s Bridge Investment Program funding is essential for advancing the Lincoln Avenue Bridge project,” said Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. This funding will not only enhance accessibility and safety for our community, but will also ensure that our infrastructure is equipped to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. We are grateful for this investment in our Capital City.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Calls on EPA to Ban Use of Paraquat to Protect Farmworkers and Rural Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and his Senate colleagues sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging the agency to ban the use of paraquat, a highly toxic pesticide linked to severe health risks, including Parkinson’s disease and various forms of cancer.
    “Paraquat is a highly toxic pesticide whose continued use cannot be justified given its harms to farmworkers and rural communities. We write to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ban the use of paraquat in the United States,” the Senators wrote. 
    “Paraquat has been linked to Parkinson’s disease, thyroid cancer, and other health harms such as kidney, liver, and respiratory damage, and reproductive harm, including neurodevelopmental impact on developing fetuses. In rural areas, exposure to paraquat and other pesticides during pregnancy can increase the risk of leukemia,” the Senators continued.  
    There has been a global movement away from paraquat, with over 70 countries—including China, Brazil, and members of the European Union—banning its use. Additionally, data from the EPA indicates that the majority of U.S. farmers do not rely on paraquat for their crops.
    Given the documented health hazards associated with paraquat, the case for its ban is clear. The EPA must prioritize the safety and well-being of farmworkers and rural communities, who should not be subjected to preventable health harms.
    “We urge you to protect the health of farmworkers and rural residents by banning paraquat,” the Senators concluded. 
    The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Peter Welch (D-VT).
    To read the full text of the letter, click here.
    Earlier this month, 47 Members of Congress sent a letter to the EPA, also urging a ban on paraquat.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Leader McConnell Comments on Gov. Beshear’s Call to Abolish Electoral College

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    LOUISVILLE, KY – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s comments today in support of abolishing the Electoral College:
    “I wish I could say I’m surprised by Governor Beshear’s latest calls to abolish the Electoral College – but I’m not. Democrats’ disregard – and borderline disdain – for the constitutional guardrails that safeguard our political system has lurked below the surface of their rhetoric for a long, long time.
    “No institution is too dear if it stands between a Democrat and their progressive ‘reforms’ to ‘preserve democracy’ – the standard euphemism for partisan power grabs on the Left. Those genuinely concerned about the future of our country should call for strengthening our constitutional guardrails, not obliterating them.
    “At its core, the Electoral College protects Americans from the whims of the majority, something I’m familiar with in the Senate. It’s what makes our democracy, and our sprawling nationwide elections, feasible. And it’s what compels presidents to govern nationally rather than pandering to the interests of New York and California. Without it, no presidential candidate would ever travel to a small state in Middle America, like Kentucky.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Calls Out Biden-Harris Administration’s Blatant Discrimination Against Starlink Internet Access 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    November 1, 2024

    Washington, D.C—Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) in calling out the Biden-Harris administration for spreading misinformation about broadband connectivity in the U.S. in a letter to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). In their letter, the senators highlight how this administration is intentionally excluding from data on connectivity millions of households that rely on wireless and satellite technologies, particularly in our nation’s most rural and hard-to-reach areas, including many in Wyoming.

    “Many households across Wyoming rely on wireless and satellite technologies for connectivity in the most rural parts of our state, yet this administration’s decision to play politics continues to push our goal of bridging the digital divide further out of reach,” said Lummis. “By unnecessarily picking winners and losers, this administration has sabotaged bipartisan programs best equipped to provide connectivity to underserved areas and perpetuates misinformation about broadband in rural communities.”

    The Biden-Harris administration’s prioritization of politics over sound broadband policy has sabotaged the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which was intended to help more Americans connect to high-speed internet.

    Read the full letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Senators Call for Review of ICC Prosecutor’s Decision to Apply for Arrest Warrants for Israeli Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Timing of Misconduct Allegations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – Today U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) sent a letter to the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the governing body of the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling for an investigation into misconduct allegations against Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan that seem to implicate his decision to apply for arrest warrants for Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant.

    First, in a potential violation of international law, Prosecutor Khan failed to properly engage with the State of Israel during his investigation and abruptly canceled a meeting between the Prosecutor’s office and Israeli representatives and then announced the application for arrest warrants. Second, several media reports, including an October 25, 2024 Associated Press story, found the warrant applications were announced around the same time that Prosecutor Khan was accused of sexual harassment and workplace misconduct. This raises the possibility that the Prosecutor was influenced by extraneous factors. If the allegations against Prosecutor Khan are true, the Senators have asked the ASP to hold a vote to remove him from his position.

    The Senators wrote, “First, Prosecutor Khan did not comply with the law when he applied for arrest warrants against Israeli government officials… we received notification that members of Prosecutor Khan’s team were scheduled to meet with legal representatives for the State of Israel on May 20 in Israel. To our astonishment, however, members of the Prosecutor’s office never boarded the plane to Israel and the meeting was abruptly canceled just a few hours before it was to take place… Prosecutor Khan’s abrupt cancelation and his announcement of an application for arrest warrants on that same day have always been perplexing, and stand in stark contrast to the assurances we received from his office that there would be meaningful consultations with Israel, as required by the letter and spirit of the Rome Statute.”

    They continued, “Second, in addition to these legal concerns regarding Prosecutor Khan’s application for warrants against Israeli officials, there is a cloud hanging over the Prosecutor and his office. It has come to light recently through numerous media reports—particularly an Associated Press (AP) story dated October 25, 2024—that allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct against Prosecutor Khan emerged earlier this year, around the time he decided not to send his team to meet with Israeli legal representatives and announced a warrant application instead… If the allegations are substantiated, we urge the Assembly to take all necessary steps available under its authority—up to and including holding a vote for his removal—and to consider the implications on the investigations led by Prosecutor Khan. Transparency is of utmost importance regarding the allegations against Prosecutor Khan. We urge the body to take this seriously.”

    They concluded, “Any action by the Court regarding arrest warrants for Israeli officials without the benefit of a completed investigation into the serious allegations hanging over Prosecutor Khan would cast doubt on the Court’s actions, and jeopardize the credibility of the ICC more broadly. We urge you to consider seriously the concerns we have raised.”

    To read the full letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seizure of contraband and unauthorized items at Stony Mountain Insitution – medium security unit

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On October 24, 2024, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, contraband and unauthorized items were seized in the maximum-security unit at Stony Mountain Insitution.

    November 1, 2024 – Stony Mountain, Manitoba – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 24, 2024, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, contraband and unauthorized items were seized in the maximum-security unit at Stony Mountain Insitution.

    The items seized included methamphetamine, cell phones, a smart watch, wireless headphones, cell phone charger, charging cables, a USB adapter, a USB stick, SD cards, a lighter and numerous unidentified pills. The total estimated institutional value of these seizures is $84,582.

    The police have been notified and the institution is investigating.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors.

    CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.

    CSC has also set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions.

    The toll-free number, 1‑866‑780‑3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous. 

    Roxane Braun
    Media Relations and Outreach Advisor – Prairies
    Regional Headquarters
    306-514-2203

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Secures $1.8 Million for the City of LA to Improve Permanent Supportive Housing in Downtown LA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) presented a $1,840,000 check to Mayor Karen Bass and the City of Los Angeles for improvements to The Prentice permanent supportive housing site in Downtown Los Angeles. The project is one of 15 community projects that Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove secured a total of $12.4 million for through Fiscal Year 2024 government funding legislation, of which $6.4 million will go toward addressing housing insecurity in Los Angeles. You can watch the full press conference here.

    This project will renovate The Prentice’s 40+ units of permanent supportive housing to create a safer and healthier environment for residents, many of whom have previously experienced homelessness. The funding secured by Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove will support capital improvements to the site, including: replacing light and plumbing fixtures, the existing roof, and all doors; ensuring all entryways meet accessibility requirements; repainting interior walls; renovating the storefront; upgrading the security system; and remodeling the community kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

    “Building more affordable and public housing alone is not enough to solve the housing crisis—we must also improve our existing housing stock to ensure safe and comfortable living conditions for all residents,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “This project is a continuation of our work to strengthen our current supportive housing supply and provide real, lasting housing security for our most vulnerable community members. Bringing federal housing resources, including this funding, back to the 37th District has been one of my greatest honors in Congress—I will continue working with the City to secure additional federal resources and ensure that all Angelenos have a safe place to call home.”

    “Thank you, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove for leading this effort and locking arms with us to deliver for some of our most vulnerable Angelenos,” said Mayor Karen Bass. “The only way we can be successful in solving homelessness is by working with all levels of government and implementing a comprehensive approach that keeps people housed in a safe and healthy environment. Together, we will continue to break the status quo and confront this crisis in a way that shows sustained results.”

    ABOUT THE PRENTICE:
    The Prentice, built in 1914, is a three-story, 46-unit building with 44 Single Room Occupancy permanent supportive housing units and two staff units. Each dwelling is equipped with a wall-hung sink and mini fridge and comes fully furnished with a bed frame, mattress, table, chairs, nightstand, and a dresser. The building has shared bathrooms and showers, a community kitchen, community lounge, dining room, laundry facilities, and a small center courtyard.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Announce $10.1 Million Federal Investment for Tualatin Mountain Forest Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    November 01, 2024
    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is awarding $10,180,000 to boost the Tualatin Mountain Forest Project through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Legacy Program.
    This new federal funding from the historic Inflation Reduction Act—the largest investment ever to tackle climate chaos—builds off the $3.63 million award Merkley and Wyden announced for the project earlier this year. The Tualatin Mountain Forest Phase 3 project promotes sustainable forest management, climate resiliency, conservation efforts, watershed health, and recreation activities for this economically and ecologically significant forestland in Multnomah County. 
    “Oregon’s forests must be conserved to ensure our lands remain healthy, well-managed, and accessible to Oregonians, visitors, and future generations,”?said Merkley, who serves as chair of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the U.S. Forest Service?and secured these funds in the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bill.?“I’ve long championed the Forest Legacy Program to boost vital conservation activities like the Tualatin Mountain Forest Project. This over $10 million in federal funding is essential to conserving the Tualatin Mountain Forest for generations to come, and I will keep fighting to ensure the federal government does its part to create and conserve healthy, resilient forests across our state and nation.
    “Oregonians treasure our opportunities across the state to enjoy the outdoors, and preserving forests in a balanced fashion plays a pivotal role in that dynamic,” said Wyden. “I’m glad the Tualatin Mountain Forest Project has earned these additional federal investments that I worked to secure. And I’ll keep battling for similar federal resources throughout our state.”
    The latest award to the Tualatin Mountain Forest Project is a part of more than a $265 million investment by the Forest Service to conserve nearly 335,000 acres of ecologically and economically significant forestlands across the nation. This latest round of funding is going toward 21 projects in 17 states to conserve working forests that support rural economies. In 2024 alone, the Forest Service has invested nearly $420 million to conserve more than 500,000 acres through the Forest Legacy Program.
    Information about the Tualatin Mountain Forest Phase 3 award can be found below: 
    Located 17 miles outside Portland, the Tualatin Mountain Forest (TMF) Phase 3 will be managed as a research forest and will benefit nearby disadvantaged communities and Portland Metro Area’s recreation economy by creating new public access to over 20 miles of existing trails. TMF will serve as a national model of an actively managed research forest balancing financial productivity, carbon sequestration, healthy watershed, public access, recreation, and diverse plant and wildlife communities, including Oregon’s diminishing oak woodlands.
    “Through this U.S. Forest Legacy Program grant, we’re one step closer to ensuring that this remarkable landscape remains a resilient and accessible natural resource for all—protecting critical wildlife habitat, water quality, and expanding equitable recreation opportunities,” said Kristin Kovalik, Oregon Program Director for Trust for Public Land. “TPL is grateful for Senators Merkley and Wyden’s continued support in conserving working forests that are essential to the livelihoods of timber-dependent communities and critical for environmental sustainability.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Sheriffs unit to enhance public safety

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    Since 2023, Alberta’s government has invested more than $27 million to help fight crime throughout the province. Building on these efforts, the government is now expanding the Alberta Sheriffs’ Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit with the creation of a new team of investigators in Red Deer. The creation of the Red Deer SCAN team is the latest in a series of measures aimed at enhancing public safety and increasing the Alberta Sheriffs’ ability to support police throughout the province.

    The move puts more resources on the ground with a team of qualified experts who will investigate properties where illegal activity has been reported and shut them down through court orders when needed. The Red Deer SCAN team – made up of four Alberta Sheriffs – joins existing SCAN teams in Calgary, Edmonton, and Lethbridge, which have proven immensely effective in working alongside local police to shutter problem properties throughout the province.

    “Alberta’s government will always maintain a zero-tolerance stance toward crime of any kind, and the expansion of the Alberta Sheriffs’ SCAN unit reflects that. With the creation of a new SCAN team in Red Deer, we’re expanding the unit’s coverage even further and putting more boots on the ground where they’re needed. Let this be a message to all criminals: you are not welcome here. Communities in the Red Deer area have a right not to be plagued by drug and other criminal activity that create dangerous environments, and Alberta’s government will do whatever it takes to keep people safe.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    The Sheriffs’ SCAN unit operates under the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act, which uses legal sanctions and court orders to hold owners accountable for illegal activity happening on their property, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking and child exploitation. SCAN augments and supports local police to both investigate and close properties where evidence of criminal activity has been confirmed.

    “Ensuring safety for law-abiding Albertans is of utmost importance for Alberta’s government and requires a comprehensive approach to effectively combat and prevent criminal activity. This involves enhancing law-enforcement resources, fostering community engagement, implementing crime prevention programs, and promoting collaboration between Alberta Sheriffs and local police. This SCAN team is a game-changer in central Alberta and puts criminals on notice that they are not welcome here.”

    Jason Stephan, MLA for Red Deer-South

    “The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act holds property owners accountable for activities on their property that threaten public safety. Alberta’s SCAN teams support policing efforts by addressing illegal activities on these properties. This additional team will enhance RCMP community safety programs.” 

    Assistant Commissioner Trevor Daroux, criminal operations officer, Alberta RCMP

    When a community member reports a problem property to SCAN, the unit begins an investigation. Once the investigation confirms the activity, investigators contact the property owner to try and resolve the issue informally. If informal efforts are unsuccessful, SCAN can apply to the courts for a community safety order to impose restrictions and conditions on the property and its owner, which could include closing the property for up to 90 days. Any criminal activity uncovered when dealing with these properties is turned over to the police to investigate.

    “Over the years, SCAN’s impact on community safety has been profound. More often than not, we see individuals in these problem properties carrying out drug operations and other criminal activities beside homes, schools, playgrounds and other places where Albertans’ safety should never be in question. Crime has no place in any Alberta neighbourhood, and we look forward to working with our policing partners in the Red Deer area to help keep central Alberta communities safe.”

    Mike Letourneau, superintendent, Alberta Sheriffs

    SCAN continues to see tremendous success, having closed problem properties in Lethbridge, Calgary, Spruce Grove and Medicine Hat in the last six months alone. Since May 2024, Alberta’s government has publicly announced the closure of seven problem properties by SCAN, including three in Calgary, two in Lethbridge, and one each in Spruce Grove and Medicine Hat.

    “Creating a safer environment for our citizens improves the overall quality of our community in Red Deer. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Alberta’s government, SCAN and all our law enforcement partners who work tirelessly every day to keep our communities safe. This is great news for the City of Red Deer, and together, we can make our community safer. I encourage residents to report any suspicious activity to the SCAN unit.”

    Ken Johnston, mayor, City of Red Deer

    The Red Deer SCAN team’s operational boundaries encompass the city of Red Deer and its surrounding communities and rural areas, providing coverage to the central area spanning Ponoka to the north and Olds to the south.

    Related news

    • New sheriff team established in southern Alberta (Nov. 15, 2023)
    • Fighting rural crime (March 24, 2023)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Newsom Administration Reach Agreement with City of La Habra Heights on Compliance with State’s Housing Element Law

    Source: US State of California

    La Habra Heights to update housing plan by July 2025 for development of 244 additional housing units

    SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Gustavo Velasquez today announced a settlement that will bring the City of La Habra Heights into compliance with the state’s Housing Element Law. With dedicated technical support from the state, the city will adopt a housing plan no later than July 7, 2025, to allow for the development of 244 housing units, at least 164 of which must be affordable to low- and very low-income households. The agreement, which is in the form of a proposed stipulated judgment and must be approved by the court, is related to California’s sixth “housing element update cycle” for the 2021-2029 time period.   

    Under the state’s Housing Element Law, every city and county in California must periodically update its housing plan to meet its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), or share of the regional and statewide housing needs. Located in Los Angeles County and home to a total population of 5,682 residents, La Habra Heights was required to update its housing plan by October 15, 2021, to accommodate its 172-unit RHNA target. However, because the city did not identify adequate sites for lower- and moderate-income units during the fifth cycle for the 2013-2021 time period, an additional 72 units were added for a total of 244 units. After receiving a notice of violation from HCD, the city and state conferred in good faith to chart a course for the city to attain compliance.   

    “The City of La Habra Heights has done the right thing. Instead of continuing to skirt California’s housing laws, it will finally be complying with its legal obligation to plan for 244 housing units,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “My office will not let up: no matter the size of the city or county, we will not rest until every local government in California plans for the future and does its part to tackle our housing crisis.” 

    “No more excuses — every community has a responsibility to create housing and to help reduce homelessness,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “I am pleased that La Habra Heights has come to the table and agreed to meet their housing goals for a community that desperately needs more affordable homes.” 

    “This latest agreement is a key example of why it is so important that every city, big and small, is held accountable for doing its fair share to address the statewide housing need,” said HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez. “When La Habra Heights adopts a compliant housing element, it will — for the first time ever — make land available for multifamily and affordable housing, creating a path to opportunity for more families in this high-resource community.”

    Among other things, a compliant housing element must include an assessment of housing needs, an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to meeting those needs, and a program to implement the policies, goals, and objectives of the housing element. Once the housing element is adopted, it is implemented through zoning ordinances and other actions that put its objectives into effect and facilitate the construction of new homes for Californians at all income levels.  

    The housing element is a crucial tool for building housing for moderate-, low-, and very low-income Californians and redressing historical redlining and disinvestment. State income limits for what constitutes moderate-, low-, and very low-income Californians vary by county and can be found here. In Los Angeles County, the median income for a one-person household is $68,750. A one-person household that earns less than $77,700 is defined as low-income, and a one-person household that earns less than $48,550 is defined as very-low income.  

    Under the settlement:

    • La Habra Heights will take several required actions to adopt a compliant housing element by July 7, 2025. The housing element process is typically lengthy — for example, local governments must meet certain public participation requirements, and HCD must review every local government’s housing element to determine whether it complies with state law and provides written findings back to each local government — but La Habra Heights has agreed to an expedited timeline and ensuring the public’s participation.
    • La Habra Heights acknowledges that, until it has adopted a substantially compliant housing element, it may not deny certain low-, very low-, and moderate-income housing development projects based on the city’s current, outdated general plan and zoning code. This is known as the Builder’s Remedy. 
    • La Habra Heights could be subject to monetary penalties if it remains noncompliant 12 months after the effective date of the stipulated judgment.

    A copy of the petition and proposed judgment, which details the settlement terms and remains subject to court approval, can be found here and here, respectively.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: PCAST: Discussion and Consideration for Approval of PCAST Letter & Reports to the President

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    On November 1, 2024, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) will meet to discuss and consider for approval a letter to the President on The Value and Importance of Federal Research and Development as well as for the approval of reports to the President on A Review of the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program and Improving Groundwater Security in the U.S.

    For more information, please visit whitehouse.gov/PCAST/meetings.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncQL9SyuTHs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Notice to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to  Iran

    Source: The White House

         On November 14, 1979, by Executive Order 12170, the President declared a national emergency with respect to Iran pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) and took related steps to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States constituted by the situation in Iran.

         Our relations with Iran have not yet normalized, and the process of implementing the agreements with Iran, dated January 19, 1981, is ongoing.  For this reason, the national emergency declared on November 14, 1979, and the measures adopted on that date to deal with that emergency, must continue in effect beyond November 14, 2024.  Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency with respect to Iran declared in Executive Order 12170.

         The emergency declared by Executive Order 12170 is distinct from the emergency declared in Executive Order 12957 on March 15, 1995.  This renewal, therefore, is distinct from the emergency renewal of March 12, 2024.

         This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.

                                   JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        November 1, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Letter to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to  Iran

    Source: The White House

    Dear Mr. Speaker:   (Dear Madam President:)

    Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date.  In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency with respect to Iran that was declared in Executive Order 12170 of November 14, 1979, is to continue in effect beyond November 14, 2024.

    Our relations with Iran have not yet normalized, and the process of implementing the agreements with Iran, dated January 19, 1981, is ongoing.  Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared in Executive Order 12170 with respect to Iran.

                                   Sincerely,

                                   JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada concludes the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, yesterday concluded the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula, which she co-hosted in Montréal with Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha and Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

    November 1, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, yesterday concluded the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula, which she co-hosted in Montréal with Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha and Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

    At the conference, the ministers announced the Montréal Pledge —concrete steps to help return prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians and deported children, including support as these people reintegrate into their daily lives. 

    Minister Joly hosted foreign ministers and high-level representatives from more than 70 countries and international organizations to advance Ukraine’s 10-Point peace formula, identify diplomatic approaches to address the human dimension of the war and strengthen the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. The minister chaired a session on identifying strategies to increase the exchange of information on the locations, health statuses and legal statuses of prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians and deported children.

    The harrowing survivor testimonies — from a detained Ukrainian military medic, the wife of an imprisoned journalist and a former prisoner of war — shared during the conference served as powerful reminders of the human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine.

    As co-chair of Working Group 4 and leader of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, Minister Joly thanked Qatar, South Africa and the Holy Sea for their offer to serve as intermediaries to support and negotiate the return of children. She also thanked the United Arab Emirates for the role they are continuing to play on mediating the exchanges of prisoners of war. Finally, she expressed her appreciation to Norway, Lithuania and Qatar, who have offered to provide a supportive environment for returning Ukrainians returning home.

    During the conference, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed the diverse group of states that came together to find diplomatic solutions and concrete actions to protect Ukrainian people.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: American-Made Program Shines Light on Innovation at RE+

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL Has a Major Presence at One of the Renewable Energy Industry’s Key Conferences

     

    Photo from Corcino Productions

    For 20 years, the RE+ conference has served as a gathering place for clean energy professionals who come together to engage and connect on ways to propel the industry forward. For the last five of those years, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) American-Made program has partnered with RE+ to become a key player at the conference, helping American-Made innovators bring their technologies closer to commercialization and showcasing easy-access opportunities for clean energy development funding.

    The American-Made program, administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) Joint Institute for Strategic Energy Analysis, incentivizes clean energy innovation through prize competitions, training, teaming, and mentoring. The program boasts a suite of more than 90 prizes seeking to advance technological development and capacity building across the country, many of which were represented at this year’s RE+ in Anaheim, California.

    A Live Grand Finale

    American-Made’s partnership with RE+ began in 2019 as a venue for Go! Demo Day, the culmination of the American-Made Solar Prize. The Solar Prize is a multimillion-dollar prize competition funded by DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Office that energizes U.S. solar innovation through a series of contests that accelerate the entrepreneurial process from years to months. Now, the Solar Prize event has become a mainstay at RE+, which hosted more than 40,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors this year.

    During this year’s Solar Prize Round 7 Go! Demo Day, competition finalists presented their pitches for innovative technologies that can advance solar adoption to conference attendees and a panel of industry experts. Fram Energy was selected as a grand prize winner for their solar adoption software solution, while Gritt Robotics won for their artificial intelligence solar installation robotics innovation. Two additional teams were awarded the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Prize for their innovations that address solar power accessibility and education.

    “The Solar Prize was the prize that launched the American-Made program, and over seven rounds, it has generated revolutionary concepts that are kickstarting the solar industry,” American-Made Program Manager Debbie Brodt-Giles said. “Having the finale at RE+ each year really magnifies the reach of the prize and these competitors’ innovations. It’s the ideal place to share how American-Made is empowering everyday citizens to contribute to the clean energy transition.”

    All 10 Solar Prize Round 7 finalists were allotted a booth at RE+ to showcase their technologies to conference attendees. Here, the EmpowerSun Solutions team—winner of the Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Prize—share their concept with Becca Jones-Albertus, director of DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Office; Alejandro Moreno and Jeff Marootian, from DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; and David Crane, DOE’s Undersecretary for Infrastructure. Photo from Corcino Productions

    Expanding Presence and Purpose

    American-Made’s involvement at RE+ has grown beyond celebrating the Solar Prize to include other competition, network, and informational events to support past, current, and future prize competitors.

    Perovskite Startup Prize winner Verde Technologies made use of their time at RE+ to share their lightweight, high-performance, and low-cost solar panels. Photo from Corcino Productions

    “What’s helpful about being at a conference like RE+ is that it allows us to step out of the core technology that we’re developing and realize how it fits into the broader renewable energy transition and solar market,” said Skylar Bagdon, CEO of Verde Technologies, a past winner of the American-Made Perovskite Startup Prize. “Being here and seeing what the market really cares about helps us get out of the lab and get our technology out into the market where it will have an impact.”

    The Fall 2024 EPIC Pitch Competition featured six cleantech startups vying for cash prizes for their innovative clean energy-related pitches, with three startups and one incubator winning more than $100,000 total in cash prizes from DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions, which funds the EPIC Pitch Competition.

    DOE also announced several new prizes during the conference, including the Large Animal and Solar System Operations (LASSO) Prize, the Promoting Registration of Inverters and Modules with Ecolabel (PRIME) Prize, and the Community Power Accelerator Prize Round 3.

    Labwide Impact at a Nationwide Event

    In addition to those associated with the management of the American-Made program, NREL had robust representation at this year’s conference, with researchers from nine centers specializing in clean energy systems, technologies, deployment, and analysis. Researchers hosted tech talks at the conference, sharing NREL expertise in the areas of solar grid integration, equitable transition strategies, market analysis, and more.

    NREL’s participation at the largest clean energy industry conference in North America allows the laboratory to share cutting-edge research and identify trends in the renewable energy industry, helping inform research needs and opportunities for partnerships.

    “NREL’s leadership in the solar space continues to be well represented at RE+ with dozens of staff representing prizes and new innovative research that is integral to the industry’s success and rapid growth,” Solar Laboratory Program Manager Mary Werner said. “NREL staff coordinate prizes, present their research results, attend educational sessions, explore the extensive exhibit halls, host project booths, and help guide the development of educational sessions at RE+ to increase our impact on the market and identify new partners for future research projects.”

    Learn more about the American-Made program, and subscribe to the American-Made Newsletter for updates on all future prize opportunities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. and First Lady Justice invite West Virginians to submit photos for 2024 Military and First Responder recognition trees

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    CHARLESTON, WV — Gov. Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice invite all West Virginians to honor members of the United States Military and First Responders by submitting photos to be showcased on two recognition trees that will be displayed during this year’s holiday season.

    This year’s recognition trees will be located in the west rotunda of the main Capitol building, along with a third tree decorated by Gold Star mothers and families to honor their loved ones whose lives were sacrificed while serving our country.

    “Cathy and I really treasure this holiday tradition,” Gov. Justice said. “Our United States Military and first responders are true heroes, and it means a lot to honor them in the West Virginia State Capitol. The photos on the recognition trees remind us all of the sacrifices made by these amazing folks. Each picture sent in by West Virginians tells a story of courage and commitment, and I can’t wait to see this year’s tribute.”

    “I have always loved this tradition,” First Lady Cathy Justice said. “Our military and first responders are such an important piece of our everyday lives, and bring a sense of community to our West Virginia families. I thank you all for all that you do, and I can’t wait to see this year’s additions to our trees.”

    All photos, along with the submission form and tag, must be received no later than Monday, November 25, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –