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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Leads Push to Examine Ageism’s Impacts on Quality and Equity of Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, on Ageism Awareness Day, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led a group of senators in sending a letter to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) requesting that the agency examine the impact of ageism on quality and equity of care, patient safety, and health outcomes. Ageism in health care is associated with a decreased likelihood that older adults will receive care that meets medical guidelines, an increased likelihood that they are not properly reimbursed for care, and exclusion from clinical trials and other research that is available to the public generally.
    “While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions,” wrote the senators.
    “Ageism within health care leads to poorer health outcomes, avoidable morbidity, and costly preventable adverse events. Ageism costs the health care system $63 billion annually. In health care, ageism is expressed in our policies, the practices of health care providers, and negative assumptions held by older adults themselves,” they continued.
    The senators specifically asked the AHRQ for answers to the following questions:
    What is the full scope of ageism within health care?
    What is the impact of ageism and intersectionality on both the micro and macro levels of health care related to health equity and outcomes?
    What is the evidence for interventions to address ageism and promote age inclusivity in health care?
    Kaine has long worked to address the needs of older Americans. This past July, he helped secure key provisions in the HELP committee-passed bill to reauthorize the Older Americans Act, which supports a wide range of programs and services to help older Americans remain in their homes and connected to their communities.
    In addition to Kaine, the letter was signed by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Angus King (I-ME) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).
    Full text of the senators’ letter is available here and below.
    Dear Dr. Valdez:
    We write to express our concern about the complexity and pervasive nature of ageism in health care and request that the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) examine the impact of ageism on quality and equity of care, patient safety, and health outcomes.
    While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions. Ageism undermines older adults and their contributions to our communities. Research shows that 81 percent of adults aged 50-80 report experiencing internal ageism, 65 percent are exposed to ageist messages, and 45 percent face ageism in interpersonal interactions. These staggering statistics demonstrate how ingrained ageism is in our society.
    Ageism refers to stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination directed towards people on the basis of their age. While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions. Ageism undermines older adults and their contributions to our communities. Research shows that 81 percent of adults aged 50-80 report experiencing internal ageism, 65 percent are exposed to ageist messages, and 45 percent face ageism in interpersonal interactions. These staggering statistics demonstrate how ingrained ageism is in our society.
    Ageism within health care leads to poorer health outcomes, avoidable morbidity, and costly preventable adverse events. Ageism costs the health care system $63 billion annually. In health care, ageism is expressed in our policies, the practices of health care providers, and negative assumptions held by older adults themselves. At the macro level, ageism is complex and reflected in health care access issues which result in older adults being less likely to receive care consistent with medical guidelines, payment policies that do not adequately reimburse for complex care needed for older adults, and exclusion or underrepresentation of older adults in clinical trials and other research.
    At the micro level, practices such as the use of ageist language and elder speak, exclusion of older patients from plan of care conversations, and variations in treatment practices due to a patient’s age all affect patients’ quality of care. Self-directed ageism can also lead to adverse outcomes for a patient if their beliefs on aging lead them to believe that the symptoms they are experiencing should be considered a “normal” part of aging. For example, while some cognitive decline is expected as we age, memory loss, confusion, changes in behavior, and inability to complete activities of daily living are all signs of changes in cognitive ability that need to be evaluated by a medical professional. Moreover, people who internalize ageist societal messages tend to have poorer physical, cognitive, and mental health. The reverse is also true—individuals who internalize positive aging messages are likely to exhibit benefits in physical, cognitive, and mental health—highlighting the need to promote age inclusivity.
    We respectfully request that AHRQ examine this issue and provide a synthesis of existing evidence on ageism in health care to inform efforts to reduce ageism within the health care system. Specifically, we request your assistance to answer the following questions:
    What is the full scope of ageism within health care?
    What is the impact of ageism and intersectionality on both the micro and macro levels of health care related to health equity and outcomes?
    What is the evidence for interventions to address ageism and promote age inclusivity in health care?
    With AHRQ’s mission to improve the quality, safety, and equity of health care, we believe your organization is well suited to support Congress’ effort to address ageism in health care. Results of the requested review will help inform practice, quality improvement efforts, education of health professionals, and policy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa, Calvert Lead Southern California Law Enforcement Roundtable

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    MURRIETA – This week, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) joined Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) and Riverside County Assistant District Attorney John Aki for a Southern California Law Enforcement Roundtable. The event took place in Murrieta, CA.

    “Fundamentally, citizens have the right not to be a victim of crime,” said Congressman Issa. We convened this conversation of law enforcement leaders because public safety is at the forefront of our community’s concerns, and Riverside County is to be congratulated for holding the line against crime and pushing back to make our neighborhoods as safe as they can be.”

    The discussion specifically focused on the dimension of the region’s law enforcement priorities and the continuing challenges that police, sheriffs, and all public safety face to protect residents and keep the peace. Congressman Issa fielded questions related to his legislative efforts to target retail crime, Sexually Violent Predators, and the deadly fentanyl epidemic. He also addressed the open borders policies of the Biden-Harris Administration and the official Judiciary Committee Field Hearing he chaired last month in Santee, CA.

    “I’m especially grateful to my friend and colleague Rep. Calvert as well as Assistant DA Aki for their continuing commitment to combat crime and strengthen support for all of our law enforcement priorities and personnel.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Fifth Circuit Case, Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto Warn About Threats to DACA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    LAS VEGAS, NV – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) held a press conference along with Dream Big Nevada and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients in Las Vegas to warn against the current threats DACA faces in federal court. On Thursday, October 10, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit will hear a case that will determine the future of DACA and could further chip away at the program. Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto called on Nevadans to stay informed on the status of this court case and renewed their commitment to do everything they can to pass a permanent legislative solution that will protect Dreamers and keep families together.
    “For more than a decade, DACA has provided peace of mind for Nevada Dreamers – allowing them to access education, health care, and jobs,” said Senator Rosen. “At a time when far-right extremists are pushing courts to strike down this critical program, I’m renewing my commitment to do everything I can to protect DACA and keep families together. We need to be vigilant about the outcome of this case, and I urge all DACA recipients in our state to stay informed and reach out to our offices for assistance and information. I’ll keep working with Senator Cortez Masto to stand up for Nevada Dreamers and push for a permanent solution with a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients.”
    “I want Dreamers and their families to know they’re not alone, and Senator Rosen and I are doing everything we can to keep families together,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “DACA recipients whose status expires in the next few months can renew while we wait for decisions to be handed down. But our communities should know that court decisions like this pose real threats to vital programs, and we have to stand up and push back. I’ll never give up the fight to ensure Dreamers can live and succeed in the only home they’ve ever known.”
    “DACA changed the course of my life. I spent years in the shadows, with DACA I was able to pursue goals that had felt distant,” said Astrid Silva, founder of Dream Big Nevada. “Now as I wait for yet another court date to tell me if I will be able to breathe or continue to live in fear, I keep reminding myself that I can’t give up. Too many families depend on DACA for us to quit now, even as frustrating as it is. I’m grateful to live in a state where my Senators not only support me but give a voice when ours starts to shake.”
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto have been outspoken in their strong support for DACA recipients and their families. In a committee hearing earlier this year, Senator Rosen raised concerns over the significant application delays impacting DACA recipients. Last Congress, Senator Rosen gave a floor speech urging her Senate colleagues to take immediate action to permanently protect Dreamers while simultaneously continuing to work to pass comprehensive immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship. Cortez Masto pushed the Biden-Harris administration to take executive action to protect hardworking mixed-status families in Nevada and across the country. She’s introduced legislation to fix our outdated immigration laws, led calls to address delays in DACA renewal applications, and fought to make it easier for mixed status families to stay together.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Senate Unanimously Passes Peters-Backed Bipartisan Resolution to Commemorate National Community Policing Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 10.09.2024
    National Community Policing Week is Recognized October 6th through 12th

    WASHINGTON, DC – A bipartisan resolution cosponsored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) to commemorate National Community Policing Week has unanimously passed in the U.S. Senate. The bipartisan resolution recognizes the service and sacrifice of the law enforcement community and underscores the importance of community policing. Additionally, the resolution encourages civilians, law enforcement agencies and public servants to work together to find solutions to improve public safety and strengthen community relationships. Full text of the bipartisan resolution is available here.
    “Building trust between residents and local law enforcement is key to the safety of our communities,” said Senator Peters. “I am proud to have helped lead this bipartisan resolution to commemorate National Community Policing Week and recognize the important work being done to strengthen our neighborhoods and keep people safe.”
    Peters has consistently worked to enhance public safety by supporting the brave men and women who sacrifice their own lives protecting our communities. Last year, the Senate passed Peters’ Strong Communities Act, which aims to strengthen relationships between law enforcement officers and their communities by providing recruits with federal grants to attend school or academy if they agree to serve in a law enforcement agency in their respective communities. In 2023, the Senate also passed bipartisan legislation introduced by Peters to reauthorize the Project Safe Neighborhoods program – a nationwide law enforcement program that uses evidence-based and data-driven approaches to reduce violent crime.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey Urge Administration to Ensure Seniors Can Benefit from New Prescription Drug Cost Cap

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey Urge Administration to Ensure Seniors Can Benefit from New Prescription Drug Cost Cap

    The senators urged the Biden Administration to provide more information to seniors about out-of-pocket prescription drug cost cap that goes into effect January 2025
    The $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drugs for Medicare recipients to save seniors $1.5 billion in copays and other expenses
    Senator Reverend Warnock championed the Inflation Reduction Act law lowering out-of-pocket drug costs, giving Medicare the power to negotiate and lower prescription drugs
    Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey also recently reintroduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act to lower out-of-pocket drug costs for families – MORE HERE
    Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey: “The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand these new options and benefits”
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Bob Casey (D-PA) are urging the Biden Administration to better inform seniors of the steps they may need to take to benefit from the impending cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.
    In an October 3 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, the Senators noted that in January 2025, as a result of the landmark Inflation Reduction Act law, a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries will go into effect and reduce drug costs for nearly 19 million Americans. The Senators urged HHS to increase outreach efforts to ensure that seniors understand how to guarantee their prescription drugs count towards the out-of-pocket cap so they don’t end up paying more than expected.
    “The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand these new options and benefits. A lack of information and communication could leave older adults paying more and missing out on benefits to which they are entitled,” wrote the Senators.
    Senators Reverend Warnock and Casey have long led efforts in the Senate to lower prescription drug costs. In 2022, they fought to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which put in place the $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. The law also capped the cost of insulin at $35 a month for Medicare recipients and gave Medicare the power to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time. Negotiations began last year on the first set of ten drugs: Eliquis, Jardiance, Xarelto, Januvia, Farxiga, Entresto, Enbrel, Imbruvica, Stelara, and NovoLog/Fiasp. In August, the Biden Administration announced the new, lower negotiated prices for each of these first ten drugs. Early next year, the Administration will announce the next set of 15 drugs that will be subject to price negotiations. Senators Warnock and Casey also recently introduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act which would cap annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private insurance.
    “The IRA directly lowers prescription drug costs for millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can provide older adults with the resources to understand these benefits. This is especially important with Open Enrollment beginning on October 15, a key opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure their health plans meet their needs. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly to pass and implement the IRA, and we look forward to continuing those efforts as provisions of the law take effect, making prescription drugs costs more affordable,” concluded the senators.
    The full letter can be found HERE and the text is below:
    Dear Secretary Becerra:
    Thank you for your ongoing commitment to lowering the cost of health care across the Nation. In just a few months, as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a $2,000 cap on out-of pocket prescription drug costs will go into effect. The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand their new options and benefits. A lack of information and communication could leave older adults paying more and missing out on benefits to which they are entitled.  As this and other prescription drug pricing provisions from the IRA take effect, we urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to increase outreach efforts to older adults to ensure they are aware of how to benefit from the law
    When Congress passed the IRA, we fought to ensure the legislation included significant steps to improve prescription drug affordability by allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices, capping out of pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries, lowering insulin costs, and decreasing prescription drug costs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) began to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies to lower the price of prescription drugs and in August, CMS announced the negotiated maximum fair prices for the first 10 drugs under the IRA’s negotiation program. Medicare enrollees taking these 10 drugs paid a total of $3.4 billion in out-of-pocket costs in 2022. Had the IRA been in effect in 2023, Medicare would have saved $6 billion, and beneficiaries would have saved $1.5 billion in copays and other expenses. Additional drugs will be negotiated each year under this program, largely expanding the affordability of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries.
    Starting in 2023, cost-sharing was eliminated for vaccines covered by Medicare Part D. According to HHS, 10.3 million Medicare Part D enrollees received a recommended vaccine free of charge, which saved beneficiaries more than $400 million in out-of-pocket costs. This includes 3.9 million older adults who received a shingles vaccine, which is an increase of about 42 percent from 2021.
    In January 2024, the IRA also capped out of pocket costs for insulin at $35 per month for Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Part B and Part D. Had the IRA been in effect in 2020, 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries would have benefited, saving about $734 million in Part D and $27 million in Part B, or about $500 in average annual savings per beneficiary. Thanks to pressure from the IRA, three of the largest U.S. insulin manufacturers have capped out-of-pocket insulin costs for even more patients.
    In January 2025, Medicare Part D enrollees will benefit from a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. This redesign will reduce beneficiary out-of-pocket spending by about $7.4 billion each year among more than 18.7 million enrollees in 2025. This will save nearly $400 per person in out of pocket costs each year. 
    CMS has provided some information about the upcoming implementation of the out-of-pocket cap, with detailed guidance regarding the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan to Part D plan sponsors and a fact sheet for consumers and Medicare beneficiaries. But CMS must do more to inform older adults about the details of the $2,000 out of pocket cap to ensure they are able to realize its maximum benefits. For example, Medicare beneficiaries need information about how to guarantee their prescription drugs count towards the out-of-pocket cap and how to choose the best Part D plan for their individual needs. Without this critical information, beneficiaries may end up paying more than expected.
    The IRA directly lowers prescription drug costs for millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can provide older adults with the resources to understand these benefits. This is especially important with Open Enrollment beginning on October 15, a key opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure their health plans meet their needs. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly to pass and implement the IRA, and we look forward to continuing those efforts as provisions of the law take effect, making prescription drugs costs more affordable.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Leads Resolution to Recognize National Chemistry Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 10.09.2024

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Chemistry Caucus, introduced a resolution recognizing October 20-26 as National Chemistry Week to celebrate chemistry’s important role in addressing critical challenges around the world. The resolution was introduced alongside fellow Congressional Chemistry Caucus Co-Chairs U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). Full text of the resolution is available here.
    “Each year, National Chemistry Week gives us an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary achievements in chemistry innovation that improve our everyday lives and support good-paying jobs in Michigan,” said Senator Peters. “I’m honored to join my colleagues in leading this bipartisan resolution to recognize chemistry professionals and encourage students to pursue a career in STEM fields.”
    National Chemistry Week is a community-based program of the American Chemical Society that unites students, professional communities, businesses, schools, and individuals in communicating the importance of chemistry to our quality of life. The event aims to motivate young people, especially women and members of underrepresented groups, to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and pursue science-related careers. This year’s National Chemistry Week theme is “Picture Perfect Chemistry.”  
    Peters helped create the Senate Chemistry Caucus in 2017 to provide a bipartisan forum to discuss issues dealing with the science of chemistry and America’s chemical business sector, which play a critical role in our economy and the creation of innovative products vital to everyday life.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Finalists for Tenth Annual 43north Startup Competition

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the eight finalists for the 10th annual 43North startup competition taking place tomorrow, Oct. 10, marking ten years of entrepreneurial success in Buffalo achieved by investing in the innovative businesses and jobs of the future. This year’s finalists from across the country span a diverse range of industries, including edtech, fintech, AI, foodtech, healthtech and more. A team of 24 venture capitalists heard pitches from the 16 semi-finalists and selected the eight teams that will be moving on to tomorrow’s big event, where they will pitch their extraordinary ideas in front of a live audience at Shea’s Performing Arts Center – competing for one of five $1 million investments and the chance to scale their businesses in one of the nation’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems.

    “Buffalo has an impressive history of innovation, and 43North is continuing this tradition by drawing some of the most exciting startups from around the world to the region,” Governor Hochul said. “The impact of 43North is undeniable. Over the past ten years we have seen Buffalo become recognized as a national startup hub and we look forward to seeing how this year’s cutting-edge businesses and top talent will fuel Western New York’s growing entrepreneurial economy.”

    In addition to funding, the 43North accelerator provides mentorship, office space, access to a wide network of investors, and resources that help startups scale effectively. Over the past decade, 43North has invested in 69 companies, 52 percent of which have remained in Buffalo. The portfolio features 50 percent of companies led by founders of color and 26 percent led by female founders.

    43North President Colleen E. Heidinger said, “We’re excited to welcome over 3,000 attendees for our tenth 43North Finals competition, where a new group of startups will compete to join our portfolio and the opportunity to become part of Buffalo’s growing innovation community. With support from New York State and Empire State Development, 43North continues to foster innovation and growth across the Buffalo entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

    More than 3,000 audience members at this year’s 43North Finals event will cheer on the new crop of competitors vying for a place in 43North’s portfolio. The 43North business accelerator is funded by New York State and receives support from Empire State Development to operate competitions. Following a successful return in 2023, the $25,000 People’s Choice Award, sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, will once again be decided by a live audience vote during the finals event tomorrow.

    The 2024 43North Finalists are:

    8B Education Investments – Ithaca, NY

    8B Education Investments is a fintech platform enabling campuses to meet their revenue and enrollment goals by tackling the $50 billion gap in education financing facing African students going to study in the US.

    Cactivate – Boston, MA

    Cactivate is a plug-and-play, marketing copilot for small and medium-sized businesses. Its vertically-integrated one-stop-shop uses large language models and retrieval-augmented generation to prescribe and assist with marketing strategies.

    CoverRight – Brooklyn, NY

    CoverRight is on a mission to improve the lives of older adults by guiding them through health, finance and lifestyle options that benefit them.

    FLUIX – Tampa, FL

    FLUIX is an Autonomous AI software platform that saves critical buildings, such as data centers, up to 40 percent in energy costs by intelligently connecting and holistically controlling facility systems.

    FoodNerd – Buffalo, NY

    FoodNerd is a food technology platform redefining the processing of shelf-stable foods. Its patent-pending technology produces nutraceutical-grade food with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients preserved intact.

    HeronAI – Cambridge, MA

    HeronAI has created the only Growth Opportunity Tool designed for accounting firms to streamline month-end advisory reporting. HeronAI helps reduce reporting time from weeks to under 5 minutes.

    Rarebird – San Francisco, CA

    Rarebird makes Px (paraxanthine) coffee, a patented coffee with the world’s first caffeine replacement.

    Spiky.ai – Brookline, MA

    Spiky empowers revenue teams with real-time AI-driven customer insights for enhanced selling effectiveness.

    You can watch the 43North Finals live online at 43North.org starting at 6:00 p.m tomorrow, Oct. 10.

    About 43North

    43North is an accelerator program that hosts an annual startup competition, investing $5 million per year to attract and cultivate high-growth companies in Buffalo, NY. 43North portfolio companies also receive free incubator space in Buffalo for one year, guidance from mentors in related fields, and access to other business incentive programs such as START-UP NY. 43North operates through the support of Governor Kathy Hochul, Empire State Development, the M&T Foundation and several other sponsors. For more information about 43North, visit http://www.43north.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Releases Statement on Injured Thornton Police Officers

    Source: US State of Colorado

    THORNTON – Today, Governor Polis released a statement following an incident regarding two law enforcement officers injured in the line of duty in Thornton. 

    “In Colorado, our law enforcement officers go above and beyond to put criminals behind bars and keep our communities safe. I am relieved to hear the two officers injured during the shooting this morning in Thornton are stable and wish them a speedy and healthy recovery. Gun violence has no place in Colorado, and we will continue to protect Coloradans, law enforcement officers and the communities they serve,” said Governor Polis. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Parson Orders Missouri National Guard, Department of Public Safety Resources to Florida to Aid Hurricane Milton Response Efforts

    Source: US State of Missouri

    OCTOBER 9, 2024

    Jefferson City — “Missouri always stands ready to assist our fellow states in need, and as Governor Ron DeSantis and the people of Florida brace for one of the strongest and potentially most destructive hurricanes in recent memory, Missouri will be there to help them respond and recover,” Governor Parson said. “We will continue to assess how best Missouri can assist Florida in response to this hurricane and other states recently impacted by Hurricane Helene. In the meantime, Teresa and I are praying for Americans who have been displaced by Helene and the safety of the people of Florida as Milton approaches landfall.”

    Preparations are being made for Missouri personnel to arrive in Florida once the immediate threats of Hurricane Milton have passed. They will assist in Florida for five to 20 days, depending on response and recovery needs. Potential extensions and additional deployments may be assessed in coordination with Florida’s emergency response agencies.

    The cost of the combined deployment is estimated at $1.6 million and will be covered primarily by the Governor’s Office’s discretionary emergency response fund. The State could potentially be reimbursed by the federal government.

    MONG assistance to Florida consists of transportation and logistics support. Vehicles from MONG’s transportation Company are capable of traveling off road and over adverse terrain to deliver needed food, water, and other supplies and capabilities to the point of need. These assets were identified to fill critical capability gaps and meet anticipated needs on ground. Ongoing coordination with state and federal partners will define the full mission.

    MSHP is rostering a team of 15 troopers and six civilians with the technical expertise, equipment, and supplies to support operations for a sustained period of time. MSHP is determined to assist Florida authorities and residents during this emergency without compromising the level of service it provides every day in Missouri. MO DMAT-1 team members will support any medical or logistical needs of the MSHP.

    To date, the State of Missouri has not received any direct EMAC requests for states affected by Hurricane Helene but is prepared to consider any requests should they be received.

    Individuals interested in helping are encouraged to direct donations to trusted disaster relief organizations such as the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. Financial contributions are the fastest and most flexible method of donating as it allows these organizations to quickly address urgent or emerging needs. If you wish to donate supplies, first check to see what items have been identified as high need and where.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $18 MILLION FEDERAL PRELIMINARY CHIPS AGREEMENT FOR EDWARDS VACUUM’s PLANS FOR 600+ JOB SEMICONDUCTOR DRY PUMP FACTORY IN GENESEE COUNTY

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Schumer, Key Author Of The CHIPS & Science Law, Fought Tirelessly To Convince Edwards Vacuum To Invest In Western NY, Personally Calling Company’s President To Bring Edwards to NY & Celebrating Groundbreaking Earlier This Year
    Now, Funding Directly From Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law Will Support Edwards Vacuum’s Plans To Build A First-Of-Its-Kind $300+M American Semiconductor Dry Pump Factory In Genesee County, Creating 600+ Good-Paying Jobs – Award Is 3rd CHIPS PMT For A NY Project Following Micron & GlobalFoundries
    Schumer: My CHIPS & Science Law Is Helping Edwards Vacuum & Western NY Become Centerpiece Of America’s Semiconductor Supply Chain
    After announcing that Edwards Vacuum plans to build manufacturing facility in Western New York two years ago, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Edwards Vacuum has reached a $18 million preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) funding agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce under the CHIPS & Science Law he championed. This proposed federal funding will support Edwards Vacuum’s plans to build its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility for the semiconductor industry, the first of its kind in the country, as there is currently no domestic production of semiconductor-grade dry vacuum pumps.
    “This investment will ensure an essential part of the semiconductor supply chain – that will be surging in demand – is made right here in Genesee County. I am proud to announce my CHIPS & Science Law is investing $18 million in Edwards Vacuum’s expansion in Western New York, creating the first dry pump vacuum manufacturing facility of its kind in America,” said Senator Schumer. “From Micron to GlobalFoundries, all the major semiconductor companies in New York and across America need vacuum technology for their chip fabs, that only Edwards will make in the USA. A historic $300+ million manufacturing facility like this, with over 600 good-paying jobs, was only a dream a few years ago. But I urged Edwards Vacuum to expand in Western NY because I knew this region had the potential to become the beating heart of America’s semiconductor supply chain.”
    Schumer added, “This continued investment by the Biden administration is proof positive the value of our region as a ‘Tech Hub’ and America’s emerging semiconductor superhighway. Today, Edwards Vacuum’s plans to expand in Western NY move forward. And that dream becomes one step closer to becoming a reality thanks to my CHIPS & Science Law.”
    Today’s proposed federal funding will support a planned $300+ million investment and 600+ good-paying jobs when the facility reaches full production capacity. Schumer explained all chip fabs need vacuum technology like what Edwards makes to power the sophisticated equipment and state-of-the-art machine tools needed to make microchips.  Those tools need and use vacuum pumps, like those that will now be made in Western New York, to manipulate the chip wafers to manufacture the finished microchips. By bringing manufacturing to New York, new chip fabs such as Micron and GlobalFoundries in New York, and Intel in Ohio can have access to critical dry pumps that will now be made in the U.S., offering chip producers shorter wait times, improved responsiveness, and reduced CO2 emissions from an American-made product. 
    This is the third agreement for a New York company from the CHIPS Incentives Program funded by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. Earlier this year, Schumer announced that Micron, which plans to invest $100 billion over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’ s history – reached a $6.1 billion CHIPS PMT funding agreement. In addition, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region also reached an agreement for $1.5 billion in direct grant funding under his CHIPS  & Science Law to support a $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in Malta, NY.  
    Schumer added, “The CHIPS & Science Law keeps delivering for New York. We are seeing more targeted federal investment in this region to bring back manufacturing than ever before, and awards like this show that the I-90 corridor truly is becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway.”
    “New York State is a national leader in reshoring advanced manufacturing and research and this could not have been accomplished without the combination of the federal CHIPS and Science Act and New York State’s Excelsior Jobs Program,” Governor Hochul said. “As a result, Edwards Vacuum is bringing 600 good jobs to Upstate New York, bolstering our semiconductor ecosystem, and setting the stage for regional success. This is proof that when we work together the sky’s the limit, and none of it would be possible without the partnership of the Biden-Harris Administration, Commerce Secretary Raimondo and New York’s congressional delegation.”
    Schumer has been a relentless champion for expanding the semiconductor supply chain in Western NY. Schumer personally called Geert Follens, President of the Vacuum Technique Business Area for Edwards parent company Atlas Copco Group, to urge the global semiconductor supply chain company to expand in Upstate New York. Later that year Schumer announced with Governor Hochul that Edwards Vacuum had heeded their calls and planned to build their new manufacturing facility in Genesee County.  Earlier this year, Schumer celebrated Edwards Vacuum’s groundbreaking ceremony in Genesee County for Phase 1 of their construction which is expected to be completed in 2028.  
    Schumer last year also helped the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region win the prestigious Tech Hub designation through his CHIPS & Science Law and earlier this year secured a historic $40 million investment to implement the Tech Hub’s work with companies like Edwards. The proposal called the “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub” has built on the historic investments Schumer delivered that have spurred a boom in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation across Upstate NY. Edwards Vacuum is working with Genesee Community College and Tech Hub partners like Monroe Community College, Erie Community College, and the Northland Workforce Training Center to help them hire and train hundreds of new workers.
    Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region. In the Mohawk Valley, Wolfspeed has opened a 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility, one of the largest, with plans to further expand their operations. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants.
    The PMT outlines key terms for Edwards Vacuum’s CHIPS agreement. To finalize the federal CHIPS agreement, the Commerce Department will now begin a comprehensive due diligence process on the proposed project and other information contained in the application. After satisfactory completion of the due diligence phase, the Commerce Department will finalize the PMT.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on the passing of former Senator Tim Johnson

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement in response to the announcement that former U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-S.D.), a former member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, passed away yesterday:
    “Annie and I send our prayers and heartfelt condolences to Tim’s family – to Barb, his wife; to his three children, Brooks, Brendan, and Kelsey; and to his many grandchildren. Tim served the people of South Dakota for nearly 30 years with integrity and humility. His bipartisanship and hard work on behalf of his state and our nation made a lasting difference.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

    Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

    WASHINGTON – FEMA, under the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, continues to lead a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. As of October 9, federal disaster assistance for survivors has surpassed $344 million and has reached 375,000 households.

    More than 8,000 federal workers from all parts of the country are supporting the response efforts in six states and three Tribal Nations for both Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As the agency prepares for Hurricane Milton’s impacts to Florida, these assets remain in partnership with state, tribal and local partners to support of Hurricane Milton recovery efforts to ensure every available resource is mobilized.

    Hurricane Helene Response

    The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. To date, FEMA has shipped over 17 million meals, nearly 14 million liters of water and 210 generators. 

    FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground meeting with survivors in neighborhoods across the affected states to help them apply for assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. 

    Disaster survivors in designated areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in these areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. 

    Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters—whether they received FEMA funds or not—are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.   

    Those with access to power and cellular service can apply for FEMA assistance in one of three ways:  

    FEMA reminds survivors who applied for assistance that a letter from FEMA saying they’re ineligible for assistance may not be a final decision. If you believe your application was not approved in error, or if you have additional information that could strengthen your claim, you may appeal the decision. To learn more, visit http://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-answers-appeals-process-qa.

    Voluntary Organizations

    Voluntary agencies are supporting all affected states by providing critical feeding operations and support for survivors with hot and prepared meals and shelf-stable meals. Organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. 

    Survivors can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through Oct. 11 and can connect survivors with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.  

    Additional support and assistance provided to each state includes: 

    Support for Florida  

    Recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene continue in Florida even as the federal government is supporting the state in preparing for Hurricane Milton’s landfall on the Gulf Coast. FEMA has approved approximately $142 million for nearly 49,000 households impacted by Hurricane Helene. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

    There are more than 90 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and 10 Disaster Recovery Centers are open where they may speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

    Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  

    Residents can find additional resources and information at Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org. 

    Support for Georgia 

    FEMA has approved over $59 million for nearly 76,000 households. 

    There are more than 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and one Disaster Recovery Center is open where they may speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

    Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency. 

    Support for North Carolina

    Financial Support: FEMA has approved approximately $60 million in housing and other types of assistance for nearly 52,000 households.

    Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,000 FEMA staff are on the ground, with more arriving daily. Nearly 400 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date. There are over 1,200 Department of Defense personnel supporting the response. Experienced FEMA leaders from around the country are in the field to bolster response efforts. 

    Sheltering: Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 17 shelters housing just more than 700 occupants. Over 2,600 people who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Transitional Sheltering Assistance is available for North Carolinians displaced by Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance. 

    Power and Cellular Restoration: As of today, power was restored to more than more than 90% of originally reported power outages have been restored as a result of approximately 8,000 crew on the ground. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 90% of cellular sites operating. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing 40 Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other. 

    Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell and Watauga counties. 

    The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting the massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to survivors. To date, the American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. 

    Resources: 

    • Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.  
    • Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.  
    • There are more than 300 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    Support for South Carolina 

    In South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $77 million for nearly 97,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. 

    There are nearly 50 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 866-246-0133. 

    Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 855-472-3432 for more information. 

    Residents can find additional information at South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website.

    Support for Tennessee 

    FEMA has approved more than $5.1 million for disaster assistance for over 900 households. 

    Residents can call 800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.  

    There are more than 20 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website. 

    Support for Virginia  

    To date, FEMA has approved over $1.3 million for over 700 households. 

    There are about 30 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. Will Open Oct. 10

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. Will Open Oct. 10

    Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. Will Open Oct. 10

    BRISTOL, Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Grayson County at 578 East Main Street in Independence, Va., tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 10, at 8 a.m.

    The center is located at:

    Grayson County  

    Guynn Shopping Center

    578 East Main Street 

    Suite B

    Independence, VA 24348

    Hours of operation:

    Monday – Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Closed Sundays

    Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. Additional centers will be opening in the coming weeks throughout southwest Virginia.

    Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

    The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

    If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

    FEMA staff assisting survivors on Oct. 7, 2024, at the Disaster Recovery Center in Damascus, Va. (FEMA photo by Nicholas Monteleone)

    FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response.

    For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

    ###

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

    To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

    erika.osullivan

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Pressley Celebrates Signing of Massachusetts Liquor License Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Pressley Championed, Helped Enact Landmark Reforms as a Boston City Councilor in 2014

    Video (YouTube)

    BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) celebrated the enactment of state legislation to authorize additional liquor licenses in Boston and delivered remarks at a ceremonial bill signing at the Massachusetts State House. As a Boston City Councilor, Pressley championed and helped enact the last major liquor license reform in 2014.

    “Restaurants are the economic, social, and cultural anchors of our streets and every Bostonian deserves the chance to realize the fundamental idea that this city and all its blessings belong to each of us. Today’s signing of legislation to reform Massachusetts’ archaic liquor license laws—and build upon the reforms we enacted in 2014—gives our restauranteurs and our communities a chance to enjoy an equitable opportunity to build community and wealth—from Hyde Park to East Boston from Dorchester to Jamaica Plain and all across the city.

    “When I authored the home rule petition to lift the cap as a Boston City Councilor a decade ago, I was hopeful it would set a new floor for future reform, and I am so proud to see that playing out today. Thank you to Senator Liz Miranda, Rep. Chris Worrell, Councilor Brian Worrell, Governor Maura Healey and every restauranteur and advocate who invested the sweat equity that made today possible. Today, we raise a figurative drink to this achievement and look forward to tomorrow to actualize the potential of this legislation.”

    During her time on the Boston City Council, Pressley championed legislation to overhaul the liquor license process in Boston by eliminating the cap on liquor licenses and returning control over licensing to the city. In 2014, in partnership with then-Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, her City Council colleagues, and the Massachusetts Legislature, Pressley’s reforms returned the Boston Licensing Board to the City of Boston and created 75 new liquor licenses to be distributed across the city.

    In 2017, Pressley and Walsh announced a new proposal to grant the City of Boston additional liquor licenses as part of an ongoing effort to attract new businesses and restaurants, encourage expansion of current establishments, and support Boston’s growing economy.

    A transcript of Rep. Pressley’s remarks is below, and the full video is available here.

    TRANSCRIPT: Pressley Celebrates Signing of Massachusetts Liquor License Reform Bill

    October 9, 2024

    Boston, Massachusetts

    Governor, I have to say that, you know, because there are so many people here today, it’s easy to have oversights, and if there are any more, know that it’s an error of the head and not the heart.

    But I would say that it is incredibly heartening that there are so many people here. This was not always the case on this issue. Many people saw this is a third-rail issue. There were a lot of people that were happy with an unjust status quo.

    10 years ago, when I was an At-Large Boston City Councilor and Chair of the Committee on Healthy Women, Families and Communities, making the case that walkable amenities, that restaurants, had something to do with healthy communities. That it was about public health and public safety, social and economic mobility. These critical anchors.

    And so to stand here today, President Spilka, I have to say, it feels good to be in the Massachusetts Seventh. It feels good to be home.

    It feels good to be in Boston as we celebrate the signing of game-changing legislation to reform our archaic liquor license laws to give our restaurateurs and our communities a chance to enjoy in equity and opportunity to build community and to build wealth.

    It never gets old. I feel just as hopeful as I did 10 years ago, when we were here with Governor Deval Patrick, when we signed the economic development bill that included our first bite at reforming this antiquated, unjust liquor licensing system.

    Governor Patrick signed that after we had worked for four-and-a-half years with two mayors: Mayor Menino—this was the last action on his desk—Mayor Menino and Mayor Walsh. So if we could just acknowledge both of those mayors and Governor Patrick.

    I was proud to lead that effort as an At-Large Boston City Councilor. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to celebrate with Governor Healey as we take the next step towards economic justice for all of Boston’s neighborhoods.

    Are you tired of making history yet? You keep doing it. Okay.

    The legislators in this room: Councilor Brian Worrell, Representative Chris Worrell, State Senator Liz Miranda. When I say that they have poured their blood, sweat, and legislative capital into making today a reality, it was not easy.

    But this is a glorious day. It is so rare, as a lawmaker, when you plant a seed that you can see it bear its fruit in your lifetime. So this is an incredible, incredible day.

    When I first raised this issue a decade ago, we knew that reforming a century-old system designed to strip Boston of the flexibility to raise or lower the cap on liquor licenses was a long, difficult and politically risky process.

    But we showed what was possible when we bring together a diverse coalition of existing and aspiring restauranteurs, economic justice advocates, and community members who recognize the need to disrupt an unjust status quo and address the disparity in neighborhood sit-down restaurants.

    I am proud of the cultural and economic impact that our liquor license reform has had since passing in 2014. The impact has been undeniable in the restaurants that have been able to open, remain open, and become staples of their respective neighborhoods.

    And for the entrepreneurs and workers who have found opportunities that were previously closed to them—and take it from me, there is simply no better feeling than traveling this incredible city from Hyde Park to East Boston, Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, Roxbury—seeing the fruits of that labor and new neighborhood restaurants.

    Restaurants are the economic, social and cultural anchors of our streets. They incentivize foot traffic. They feed our bodies and our souls. They create space for us to celebrate and to grieve the milestones of life. And the folks up here know that every single Bostonian deserves the chance to do that in the community they call home.

    10 years ago, I was hopeful that our liquor license reform would set a new floor for future reform as we saw today. It is a joy to celebrate this new legislation, which gives us the chance to realize that fundamental idea that this city, in all its blessings, belong to all of us.

    And now we know that even a historic day like today is not a magic wand. We’re all committed to putting in the work to make sure this game-changing legislation has the transformative and equitable impact we all know it can.

    So while we continue to do the work to break down barriers to entry, like disparate access to capital, the shortage of built out commercial space for restaurants in our communities, the importance of today cannot be underestimated or understated.

    So let’s raise a figurative drink to today’s achievement, roll up our sleeves tomorrow, to actualize the potential of this game-changing legislation.

    And with that, I’m proud to introduce my sister-in-service, who speaks the same love language that I do—policy—lead of this historic piece of legislation, State Senator Liz Miranda.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Leads Delegation Letter Demanding EPA Regulate BioLab Chemicals

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    U.S. Senators Ossoff, Warnock, and Reps. Scott, McBath, Williams Join Johnson in Urging EPA To Enhance Federal Oversight of Facilities That Manufacture and/or Store Hazardous Chemical TCCA.

    CONYERS, GA – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with U.S. Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock and U.S. House Reps. David Scott (GA-13), Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Nikema Williams (GA-05), sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan today urging him to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA), which is at the heart of the incident at the BioLab plant in Conyers – an environmental and health crisis that has been ongoing since Sept. 29.  

    “We are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances,” the lawmakers wrote. “When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.”

    Specifically, the lawmakers urge the EPA to “include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP),” which would prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical.

    “The gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems.”

    Lawmakers are also requesting the agency respond to nine key questions surrounding the reactive chemical in question. 

    Read the letter HERE or below. 

    The Honorable Michael Regan 
    Administrator 
    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 
    1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW 
    Washington, DC 20460

    Dear Administrator Regan,

    We are writing to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA). 

    On September 29, 2024, just after Hurricane Helene slammed the area, a catastrophic chemical fire took place at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, that stores TCCA. The fire released a large, billowing plume of hazardous, toxic gasses into the air, which caused the closure of parts of Interstate 20 for nearly 17 hours, with local businesses and government offices forced to close while 17,000 residents living near the plant were forced to evacuate.   

    As of today, toxic substances continue to rise into the air from the smoldering ruins of the plant, with corporate and government officials being unable to offer a specific timetable as to when the danger will end.   People not just in the immediate vicinity of the plant but also millions across southeastern metropolitan Atlanta are under constant exposure to hazardous air quality. This incident has raised serious concerns about the community’s vulnerability to toxic chemical exposure. The danger is heightened by approaching rain which will douse the collapsed building under which millions of pounds of TCCA remain exposed to moisture.

    BioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, manufactures and stores millions of pounds of chemical mixtures primarily composed of TCCA at the Conyers, Georgia facility. When TCCA comes into contact with small amounts of water, a hazardous chemical reaction is triggered that generates heat and causes decomposition of the chemical and can in turn produces toxic chlorine gas and can also produce explosive nitrogen trichloride. The Conyers BioLab facility has experienced three separate chemical incidents in the past seven years, four in the past 20. Each event resulted in dangerous chemical reactions and fires, releasing toxic gases like chlorine into the air. 

    There have been conflicting reports on what caused the most recent fire at the Conyers facility. One report cited water used to douse a fire on the roof of the plant seeping in, while another report blames the fire on a malfunctioning sprinkler system. Rainwater from Hurricane Helene seeping into the BioLab facility during and after Hurricane Helene has not been ruled out as a cause as well. 

    We are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances. When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.

    A similar incident occurred on August 27, 2020, at the Lake Charles BioLab facility in Westlake, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. The facility sustained severe damage after TCCA manufactured and stored therein was moistened by small amounts of water and decomposed, producing toxic chlorine gas and nitrogen trichloride. These gases ignited, causing a fire and noxious clouds of toxic gases. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board (CSB) investigated the incident and issued safety recommendations to minimize the consequences of future accidental chemical releases like the Lake Charles incident. 

    The 2023 (CSB) report on BioLab Lake Charles found a regulatory gap regarding the oversight of chemicals like TCCA, particularly in their classification and management under existing federal regulations. Given TCCA’s involvement in multiple safety incidents due to its highly reactive properties, we urge the EPA to include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP). 

    This action will prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical. We hope the Conyers debacle will prompt the inclusion of TCCA to the Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

    We call on the EPA to collaborate with states to implement training programs specifically designed for emergency responders and facility staff. These programs should address the unique challenges posed by reactive chemicals that adversely react to water used to extinguish fires, focusing on appropriate firefighting techniques, chemical behavior, and risk assessment. The EPA, in partnership with state fire marshals and chemical safety experts, can establish comprehensive guidelines for fire suppression techniques tailored to reactive chemicals, including recommendations for effective alternative extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical extinguishers or foam.

    Considering these concerns, we respectfully request clarification by November 20, 2024, on the following matters regarding regulatory oversight and preventative measures at chemical facilities like BioLab:

    1.    Has the EPA, in conjunction with the State of Georgia, initiated any investigations or inspections regarding BioLab Conyers’     
    2.    What immediate actions are the EPA and State agencies taking in response to this latest fire, given the history of public safety      concerns at the Conyers facility?
    3.    The 2023 Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) found that TCCA and TCCA-based formulations are not            covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard. Has there been any progress in addressing     this regulatory gap?
    4.     Following the BioLab Conyers incident is the EPA considering adding TCCA to the list of regulated substances under the Risk     Management Program (RMP)?
    5.    How is the EPA collaborating with state agencies to ensure that chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers are prepared for extreme     weather events that could worsen fire hazards or hazardous material spills?
    6.    In response to BioLab Conyers’ repeated safety failures, what specific measures will the EPA implement with state agencies to improve fire preparedness protocols, particularly for training facility staff and local emergency responders on handling fires involving non-water extinguishable substances?
    7.    Does the EPA anticipate monitoring potential groundwater, soil, and water contamination from the chemical fire at the Conyers BioLab facility?
    8.    We understand that the EPA is working to monitor air quality following the chemical fire. What steps has the EPA taken to inform     affected communities of their findings and recommendations to safeguard the health and safety of these communities and their environment? 
    a.    How have the locations and spatial extent of the EPA’s air quality monitoring area changed as the location and direction of the smoke plume has shifted? 
    9.    What specific additional authority and resources does the EPA need to effectively prevent future incidents at chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers?

    The gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems. We look forward to your prompt response and urge robust, decisive measures to address the serious environmental and safety concerns posed by incidents like this.

    ###
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of World Mental Health Day, Senator Hassan, Students, and School Leaders Discuss Youth Mental Health Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    MANCHESTER – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan visited Southside Middle School in Manchester, where she met with students and received an update from officials from the Manchester, Concord, and Laconia School Districts on their federally funded programs that provide mental health resources and training in schools. They include a focus on evidence-based suicide prevention due to Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act, which was passed into law in 2022.

    During the visit, Senator Hassan met with Southside Middle School students who showed her posters that they have put up ahead of World Mental Health Day (on October 10) to reduce the stigma around youth mental health. She then sat down with officials from Manchester, Concord, and Laconia school districts and discussed the impact that Project AWARE, a federally funded youth mental health program, has had on students. Project AWARE includes evidence-based suicide awareness and prevention training as part of Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act.

    “Young people across New Hampshire have been speaking up about the need for more mental health resources in our schools,” said Senator Hassan. “Programs like Project AWARE – which has been strengthened by the STANDUP Act’s focus on utilizing the most effective methods to reduce suicides – are making an impact in our schools. I appreciated hearing from school officials about their Project AWARE programs and how we can continue to work together to improve students’ mental health.”

    “In order for our students to succeed academically, we need to go beyond the classroom to focus on the whole student. Our work to build district-wide systems of support for mental health and safety would not be possible without the Project Aware grant. We are grateful for Senator Hassan’s support in securing this funding, and thankful for her efforts on behalf of our students,” said Manchester Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel.

    “The Concord School District is grateful to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for the opportunity to continue to build relationships with our community behavioral health partners, expand mental health literacy through training and awareness campaigns, and integrate social-emotional competencies into our curriculum, all in support of our students and their families. Through Project AWARE, we will keep improving our interconnected systems with local and state child-serving entities to enhance care coordination with an eye toward sustainability. We are excited to spend the next 5 years building protective factors in our diverse learners, providing equitable access to school-based behavioral health supports so each student can bring their best self to their education every day,” said Concord Superintendent Kathleen Murphy.

    “Project AWARE has given us the resources to talk with our young people about what to do when they’re having mental health issues. We’re working to have a proactive approach where it’s natural and appropriate to get help to feel better and get back in the game of learning and life,” said Laconia Superintendent Bob Champlin.

    Senator Hassan is working to strengthen mental health care treatment for young Granite Staters. In addition to Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Senator Hassan supported and helped pass into law, includes important funding for New Hampshire schools to support youth mental health, including a $760,000 annual grant used by the University of New Hampshire to partner with the Manchester School District to place mental health professionals in schools.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Garcia and Asm. Schiavo Lead Bipartisan Letter to Governor Newsom to Declare State of Emergency for Chiquita Canyon Landfill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Garcia (CA-25)

    SANTA CLARITA, CA– Today, Representative Mike Garcia (CA-27) and Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo (D-AD-40) led a bipartisan letter of state representatives petitioning Governor Newsom for a State of Emergency declaration at Chiquita Canyon. The letter, signed by 15 state legislators, outlines the urgent need for this declaration to protect the health and safety of residents living near the landfill.
    “The environmental disaster at Chiquita Canyon has only worsened for residents in Val Verde, Castaic, and the Santa Clarita Valley,” said Rep Garcia. “Innocent residents continue to face severe health problems and financial hardships because of this ongoing issue. It’s more urgent than ever: We need a State of Emergency. I’m grateful to have Assemblywoman Schiavo as a partner committed to taking this fight directly to the Governor. This joint letter proves that this issue transcends political boundaries – it’s about protecting the community and urging the state and county to do more for residents,” concluded Rep. Garcia.  “Residents of Val Verde, Castaic, and students of nearby schools have been subjected to prolonged exposure to harmful emissions, leading to a range of health issues including headaches, nausea, asthma, heart palpitations, and a newly identified cancer cluster,” said Asm. Schiavo. “Last week, to get a full understanding of the impacts, I stayed overnight with a family in the area. On their street of 14 houses, seven neighbors have been fighting cancer – one has passed away. While I am grateful for the robust state, federal, and county response to the disaster on the landfill site, neighbors just a few yards away do not have the protections or relief they need to keep themselves or their children safe. We must do more and we need to act now before more people get sick, or worse, die. A state of emergency must be declared and we need to focus relief efforts to get the community out of harm’s way and the healthcare and support they need,” concluded Asm. Schiavo.

    Rep. Garcia has been actively leading the response to the Chiquita Canyon crisis since it was brought to his attention last year. He has welcomed the EPA’s involvement, led a bipartisan letter urging the Governor for a State of Emergency, called for the immediate suspension of landfill operations except for local waste collection, demanded a thorough investigation to hold responsible parties accountable, secured federal funding for emissions monitoring and emergency response, and introduced the Chiquita Canyon Tax Relief Act. Throughout this time, he has maintained regular communication with affected residents to ensure they receive the necessary relief.

    A full copy of the letter text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Banco Itaú Chile Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results, Conference Call and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTIAGO, Chile, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  BANCO ITAÚ CHILE (SSE: ITAUCL) announced today that it will release its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, after the market closes in Santiago, on October 30, 2024.

    On Monday, November 4, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. Santiago time (9:00 A.M. ET), the Company’s management team will host a conference call to discuss the financial results. The call will be hosted by Claudia Labbé Montevecchi, Head of IR and Chief Sustainability Officer, and Matías Valenzuela Barrenechea, Head of FP&A, Capital and IR.

    Conference Call Details:

    Online registration: https://registrations.events/direct/Q4I613620

    All participants must pre-register using this link to join the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will be provided with details to connect to the call and a registrant ID.

    Webcast:
    The webcast will be available through the following link:

    https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/539765194

    Participants in the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast. Following the event, the event will be available in the same link.

    Telephone and Virtual Q&A session:
    The Q&A session will be available for participants connected through the conference call and through the webcast, where attendees will be allowed to type in their questions – we will read and answer selected questions verbally.

    Investor Relations – Itaú Chile

    IR@itau.cl / ir.itau.cl

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on Republican Disinformation Regarding Hurricane and Disaster Warnings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today regarding the disinformation spread by Republicans about the hurricane warnings and resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

    “With one of the most powerful hurricanes in history bearing down on America’s gulf coast, the last thing the hundreds of thousands of evacuees need is disinformation. Sadly, Donald Trump, the provocateur-in-Chief, Senator Vance as his deputy, and the members of the extreme MAGA far-right, have seized on this natural disaster to spread conspiracy theories and political hoaxes. 

    “Trump forces continue to vilify FEMA and raise doubts about the agency’s warning to Americans caught in the path of the deadly storm to evacuate before it is too late. Spreading these lies is not only morally disgusting; it is dangerous. 

    “Every second counts in an evacuation. Someone who cares more about maximizing the number of likes and views on a provocative tweet over minimizing the number of American lives lost to these storms has no place holding public office. Our response to these storms has been – and must remain – bipartisan and truthful. 

    “It is crucial that our House comes together to secure disaster aid to help those affected by these storms and the many other disasters America has experienced in recent months. I urge Americans to evacuate, and I urge their leaders to either reiterate that warning or refrain from their partisan lies.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Thu Oct 10 01:02:01 UTC 2024

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Thu Oct 10 01:03:02 UTC 2024 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Thu Oct 10 01:02:01 UTC 2024

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Thu Oct 10 01:04:06 UTC 2024 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Oct 10, 2024 0100 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    Oct 10, 2024 0100 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Thu Oct 10 00:52:54 UTC 2024 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 100052

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0752 PM CDT Wed Oct 09 2024

    Valid 100100Z – 101200Z

    …THERE IS A MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PORTIONS
    OF CENTRAL AND EASTERN FLORIDA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Potential for a tornado or two will continue tonight across central
    and eastern portions of the Florida Peninsula in association with
    Hurricane Milton.

    …Central and eastern Florida…
    Hurricane Milton has very recently made landfall near Sarasota, and
    will very gradually weaken with time as the storm moves fully
    inland. A notable dry slot has wrapped into southern portions of
    the storm, with much of the southern half of the peninsula now
    rain-free. The strongest convective band, including strong/rotating
    cells — which was earlier responsible for producing multiple inland
    tornadoes — is now well off the eastern/Atlantic Coast.

    While low-level shear across much of central and eastern Florida
    remains quite conducive for updraft rotation/tornado potential, the
    sustained lack of any appreciable convective banding east and south
    of the center will continue to limit tornado potential. Greatest
    risk appears to remain immediately ahead of the track of Milton’s
    eye — i.e. roughly the central third of the Peninsula including
    Orlando and Melbourne. Overall however, risk appears to have
    decreased sufficiently to warrant downgrade to level 1/MRGL risk for
    the remainder of the period.

    ..Goss.. 10/10/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    .html”>Latest Day 2 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: The Keg Royalties Income Fund announces October 2024 cash distribution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Keg Royalties Income Fund (the “Fund”) (TSX: KEG.UN) today announced that its October 2024 distribution of $0.0946 per unit has been declared and is payable to unitholders of record as at October 21, 2024. The October 2024 distribution will be paid on October 31, 2024.

    The Fund is a limited purpose, open-ended trust established under the laws of the Province of Ontario that, through The Keg Rights Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of the Fund, owns certain trademarks and other related intellectual property used by Keg Restaurants Ltd. (“KRL”). In exchange for use of those trademarks, KRL pays the Fund a royalty of 4% of gross sales of Keg restaurants included in the royalty pool.

    With approximately 10,000 employees, over 100 restaurants and annual system sales exceeding $700 million, Vancouver-based KRL is the leading operator and franchisor of steakhouse restaurants in Canada and has a substantial presence in select regional markets in the United States. KRL continues to operate The Keg restaurant system and expand that system through the addition of both corporate and franchised Keg steakhouses. KRL has been named the number one restaurant company to work for in Canada in the latest edition of Forbes “Canada’s Best Employers 2024” survey, securing thirteenth place in the overall ranking across all industries in the country.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon will team with IRS to offer free income tax e-filing option

    Source: US State of Oregon

    alem, OR—Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own tax returns in 2025 will have the option to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns using the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon, the IRS and the Oregon Department of Revenue announced today.

    “The Direct File Program is a game-changer for taxpayers,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This free filing option is an equitable opportunity to save Oregonians time and money, regardless of their income.”

    The IRS and US Treasury Department announced an expansion of the types of returns that can be filed using IRS Direct File beyond what was available in the pilot program during the 2024 tax filing season.

    During the pilot last year, IRS Direct File covered limited tax situations, including wage income reported on a W-2 form, Social Security income, unemployment compensation and certain credits and deductions. For the 2025 filing season, IRS Direct File will support Forms 1099 for interest income greater than $1,500, retirement income and the Form 1099 for Alaska residents reporting the Alaska Permanent Fund dividend. (See the attached graphic for more on who will be able to use IRS Direct File in 2025.)

    In the 2024 tax season, more than 140,000 taxpayers in 12 states filed their federal tax returns using the limited pilot program while nearly 7,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns using the free, state-only Direct File Oregon option.

    The IRS estimates that 30 million US taxpayers will be able to use IRS Direct File in 2025, including 640,000 Oregon taxpayers who will be able to e-file both their federal and state returns for free.

    The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in May that it would make IRS Direct File a permanent option for taxpayers and invited all 50 states to participate to create a seamless free filing system for both federal and state taxes. Oregon was the first of 12 new states to accept the invitation from the IRS in June.

    “Connecting Direct File Oregon with the IRS Direct File option beginning next year will give Oregon taxpayers a seamless way to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns—and do both for free,” Oregon Department of Revenue Director Betsy Imholt said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Shatters $500 Million Mark in Texas Disaster Relief Loans

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, announced today that SBA has approved more than $500 million in federal disaster loans for Texas businesses and residents impacted by recent disaster declarations. According to Sánchez, SBA has approved $140,398,750 for businesses and $364,812,900 for residents to help rebuild and recover from these disasters.

    “SBA’s disaster assistance employees are committed to helping businesses and residents rebuild as quickly as possible,” said Sánchez. “Don’t miss out on any assistance you may be entitled to by not registering for help. You don’t need to wait for your insurance to settle or obtain a contractor’s estimate,” he added.

    SBA continues to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants in all the federal-state Disaster Recovery Centers and SBA Business Recovery Centers located throughout Texas. Please see a complete listing of locations and hours at SBA.gov/disaster.

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez continued. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    For SBA declaration 20320 for severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred April 26–June 5, 2024, the deadline to apply for a loan for property damage has passed, small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size still have until Feb. 18, 2025, to apply for an economic injury disaster loan to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    For SBA declaration 20445 for Hurricane Beryl that occurred July 5-9, the deadline to apply for property damage is Oct. 10, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is April 14, 2025.

    SBA will accept all disaster loan applications up to 60 days after the filing deadline without an explanation of why you were delayed. You can apply online using the MySBA portal at https://lending.sba.gov, or by coming into our centers.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA’s Temporary Housing for Wildfire Survivors Extended to February 2026, Supporting their Continued Recovery

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA’s Temporary Housing for Wildfire Survivors Extended to February 2026, Supporting their Continued Recovery

    FEMA’s Temporary Housing for Wildfire Survivors Extended to February 2026, Supporting their Continued Recovery

    HONOLULU – At the request of the state of Hawaiʻi, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a one-year extension of the Individuals and Households Program (IHP), including Financial Assistance and Direct Temporary Housing Assistance for survivors of the Maui wildfires.

    The 18-month initial period of assistance for FEMA IHP was set to end Feb.10, 2025 but has now been extended to Feb. 10, 2026.

    Under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, FEMA may extend the period of assistance due to extraordinary circumstances. Last year’s wildfires caused unprecedented damage to Lahaina and impacted numerous households, businesses, communities and the infrastructure on Maui.

    FEMA is working closely with the state of Hawai‘i, local officials and volunteers to help survivors in temporary housing find permanent solutions. Disaster case managers are also providing personalized assistance.

    FEMA approved the Direct Lease as a form of Direct Temporary Housing Assistance in September 2023 and currently has 1,194 households occupying FEMA-provided units. 

    During the extended period, survivors who continue to live in a FEMA-provided temporary housing unit are generally expected to work on their permanent housing plan and start paying rent, depending on their financial ability. The rent amount would be based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Market Rent. 

    FEMA will send occupants an advance notice of the rent requirement.

    Occupants who provide documentation of their post-disaster income that meets or is below HUD’s very low-income limit will qualify for fully reduced rent of $50 per month without having to appeal and submit documentation of pre- or post-disaster housing costs. 

    Occupants with household incomes above the HUD very low-income limit will only have to provide documentation of post-disaster housing costs for FEMA to evaluate the amount of rent to be charged based on their financial ability. 

    FEMA will conduct outreach to assist occupants of temporary housing units with the documentation necessary to evaluate their ability to pay. This effort is designed to reduce the need for occupants to appeal the rent amount determined by FEMA. 

    For more information on temporary housing, call the Individual Assistance Housing Hotline at 808-784-1600. Or contact 2-1-1 to reach the disaster case management program. 

    You may also call FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators can assist you in many languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

    You may get help in person at:
    Lahaina Gateway (next to Ace Hardware)
    Maui County Office of Recovery – West Maui
    8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    CNHA Office (next to Maui Mall)
     Kākoʻo Relief & Aid Services Center
    153 E. Kamehameha Ave. Suite 101

    Kahului, HI 96732
    9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires – YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

    shannon.carley

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Culture – Auckland Museum sinks its teeth into nature’s vampires

    Source: Auckland Museum

    Discover the fascinating science lurking beneath the surface of history’s most enduring legends at Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum in a new exhibition, Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches, open from Monday 9 December 2024 until Sunday 27 April 2025.

    Blood is a vital source of life for humans, and an abundant food source for an astounding 30,000 species across the globe, including birds, mammals, fish, insects, leeches, and flatworms. Bloodsuckers draws visitors into this world, starting on a microscopic level with the biology behind blood. Immersive experiences, larger-than-life installations, and interactive displays delve into these diverse organisms and their feeding mechanisms in detail, showing visitors just how clever blood-feeders are, and the intricate ways they have evolved to take blood and thrive on it.

    Bloodsucking animals have captured the human imagination for centuries, providing fodder for fear and fantasy. Stories of vampiric creatures persist across cultures and time, borne out of fear of the unknown, from the first publication of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1897 and his immortal incarnations on stage and screen, to the more recent urban legend of the coyote-like Chupacabra. In the exhibition, immersive experiences bring myths and beliefs in the undead and bloodthirsty beasts to life, highlighting the history of vampire hunting and pop culture’s most famous monsters.

    Auckland Museum’s Tumu Whakarae Chief Executive David Reeves says, “Bloodsuckers blends of science, history, and pop culture, to explore the natural environment and the cultural impact of blood feeding creatures in both our real and imaginary worlds. Drawing from science and culture, Bloodsuckers transforms a subject that might seem gory into something truly fascinating.”

    “This award-winning international exhibition lets you get close to bloodsuckers – without the risk of being bitten,” says Reeves.

    Bloodsuckers is full of juicy facts on the role that bloodfeeders have played in medicine for over 3,000 years, and how they spark scientific discoveries today. The exhibition explores the evolution of bloodletting, from hungry leeches feeding on patients in the name of health, to barbers and physicians tapping veins for vitality in Medieval and Victorian times. Current research on bloodborne diseases around the world and how leech anticoagulants—the strongest in the world—enable advancements in medical care highlight the impact bloodfeeders continue to have on human health. The exhibition will also arm visitors with knowledge on how to identify, avoid, and heal bites from bloodfeeding organisms, and ultimately live in harmony with them.

    Reeves says, “In Aotearoa, bloodsuckers like mosquitoes, sandflies, and ticks are an inevitable part of the summer experience. While they may be a nuisance, these creatures have evolved fascinating adaptations to survive and thrive. Bloodsuckers gives visitors the opportunity to understand species like these in a new light, from their role in nature to their influence on our daily lives.”

    The exhibition showcases over 200 unique objects, including wet, mounted, and taxidermy specimens, 17th–19th century bloodletting instruments, and 20th-century pop culture artefacts, all telling the story of blood feeding creatures through time. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore these creatures up close, with highlights including a giant glowing column of red blood cells, an old-world bloodletting shop, an audio experience of a mosquito swarm and a retro movie theatre playing clips from classic bloodsucker-inspired films.

    Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches is coming exclusively to Auckland Museum and opens Monday 9 December. Tickets are on sale from Tuesday 26 November at aucklandmuseum.com.

    Auckland Museum Membership provides unlimited free entry to Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches, discounted event tickets and exclusive Member-only events. Find out more at aucklandmuseum.com/membership.

    Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches is produced and circulated by ROM (Royal Ontario Museum), Toronto, Canada.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Push DOJ to Investigate Requirements for Hamas-Linked Campus Orgs to Register as Foreign Agents

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley, a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote the Justice Department (DOJ) and FBI regarding Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) enforcement, raising concerns Hamas-linked entities are escaping FARA scrutiny as they seek to shape U.S. public opinion and policy outcomes through partnerships with campus organizations. Joining Grassley on the effort are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.).

    The senators’ inquiry hones in on the National Students for Justice in Palestine (NSJP) – which received backing from an organization whose associated entities the U.S. government has implicated for financing Hamas – and the hundreds of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapters NSJP claims to support across the U.S. Their letter reads, in part:

    “It is incumbent upon all of us crack down on hidden foreign influence. […] The introduction of hostile foreign adversaries into domestic political discussion is especially of issue when it is fueling an alarming rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment. The public reporting appears to indicate that NSJP and related chapters may fit into the FARA definition of ‘publicity agent,’ at minimum, and its conduct, among other activity, may constitute a public relations effort designed to impact U.S. public opinion in favor of a foreign principal, which would meet FARA’s definition of political activities.

    “Taken as a whole, these actions require further investigation from DOJ and the FBI to fully determine whether NSJP and SJP chapters should register as foreign agents under FARA and the extent of Hamas and Iran’s potential involvement.”

    Grassley and his colleagues cite numerous examples that signal NSJP and SJP chapters may have an obligation to register as agents under FARA. Several follow.

    • Federal court filings from state Attorneys General assert NSJP’s material support to Hamas.
    • Dozens of SJP chapters echoed NSJP’s social media messages lauding Hamas’ brutal October 7, 2023, attack on Israel; some “[praised] the creativity” of Hamas’ surprise attacks on Israeli civilians.
    • NSJP urged SJP chapters in the U.S. to publicly facilitate and join “armed struggles, general strikes and popular demonstrations.”
    • NSJP launched a campaign against U.S. college administrators, pushing for divestments in Israel-connected assets.
    • NSJP held a summer 2024 program for SJP participants to “deepen our understanding of our current political moment […] with the aim entrenching the frameworks necessary to sustain and grow the Student Intifada.”
    • NSJP has stated it “aim[s] to develop a student movement that is connected, disciplined, and equipped” with tools toward fulfilling its mission.

    Considering this evidence and more, the senators are asking DOJ and FBI pointed questions about the steps they have taken to assess NSJP and SJP’s potential requirement to register as foreign agents.

    Read the full letter HERE.

    Background:

    Congress passed FARA in 1938 to identify Nazi propaganda and other foreign efforts to sway U.S. policy and public opinion. The content-neutral law was designed not to prohibit activity, but rather, to ensure certain individuals who act as agents of a foreign government or enterprise register with DOJ.

    Grassley previously pressed for FARA enforcement as Confucius Institutes cropped up on college campuses, working to combat Chinese Communist Party influence in the U.S. education system. He has probed potential FARA violations in recent Congresses, including by Qatari media network Al Jazeera, a Ukrainian operative who consulted for the Democrat National Committee and a Russian lobbyist who attended a meeting with Donald Trump, Jr. Grassley questioned the Biden family’s FARA compliance amid business dealings with a Chinese energy company and sought answers upon learning the top lobbying firm for Ukrainian energy company Burisma filed incomplete disclosures. A longtime advocate of enforcing FARA to the fullest extent, he is leading congressional oversight and legislative reforms to further strengthen the law.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Hosts Rural Community Summit in Leesville

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    ALEXANDRIA – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) hosted his third Rural Community Funding Summit of 2024, where he continued to connect local officials for towns and villages in central Louisiana with representatives of federal and state agencies that can distribute funds from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

    “My goal in working on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill was to bring opportunity to Louisiana to rebuild our infrastructure. My goal for the summit is to connect public officials in Rapides, Vernon, Beauregard, and throughout Cenla with these opportunities,” said Dr. Cassidy. “It was good to see these officials eager to bring resources to their communities.”
    In addition to the authorization of the I-14 corridor going through Leesville, communities throughout the parish have benefitted from the IIJA, including in Vernon Parish. There are millions of dollars to improve roads and build roundabouts, $1.3 million was awarded to the East Central Vernon Water System from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, an example of how the IIJA can be used to improve drinking water. Over $300,000 was also awarded to the Leesville City Airport.
    Other awards in the region include $15 million for the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway, over $11 million to extend CC Bel Road in the form of a RAISE grant, and over $9.8 million to replace school buses in Rapides Parish. Money has also been awarded in the region to improve roads and replace old natural gas pipes.
    Cassidy was welcomed to Leesville and thanked for his leadership in a statement by Mayor Rick Allen.
    “Thanks to Senator Cassidy’s infrastructure bill, money has already been delivered to upgrade key roads and the Leesville City Airport,” said Mayor Allen. “We are keen to learn what else the bill can do to strengthen our communities, and we appreciate the Senator connecting us to its opportunities, as well as his support for our troops at Fort Johnson and those who support them.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of President Joe  Biden’s Meeting with Taoiseach Simon Harris of  Ireland

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met with Taoiseach Simon Harris of the Republic of Ireland today in the Oval Office to mark 100 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Ireland.  The President reflected on the deep cultural, people-to-people and economic ties between the two countries, and expressed confidence that the next 100 years will see even deeper cooperation.  The President and Taoiseach Harris affirmed that the United States and Ireland will continue to strengthen our partnership and friendship—founded on our shared history, heritage, and hope—in the years ahead.

    MIL OSI USA News –