NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Letter to Congress on Disaster  Needs

    Source: The White House

    Dear Speaker Johnson and Leaders Schumer, McConnell, and Jeffries,

    I write to you regarding the needs of the Nation.  As communities across the Southeast devastated by Hurricane Helene assess the extent of the damage, they are expecting their Federal Government to stand behind them in their most urgent time of need.  I have seen firsthand the devastation that Hurricane Helene brought to communities across the Southeast.  During my travels this week to North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Georgia, I met with families, business owners, farmers, local and state officials, and first responders, all of whom shared with me their stories of survival—and resilience.  As leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure that everyone in communities ravaged by natural disasters will have the Federal resources they need and deserve to respond to and recover from deadly storms and other natural disasters.  

    My Administration will be with those affected until the job is done, and we have a solemn obligation to provide confidence that the Federal Government will stand with them as they rebuild their lives and their communities.  Furthermore, this responsibility extends to the many communities around the Nation that are still rebuilding from previous disasters.

    Over the past 10 days, including in the lead up to Hurricane Helene making landfall, my Administration has provided robust and well-coordinated Federal support for the ongoing response and recovery efforts.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Defense, and other Federal partners have quickly mobilized to support impacted citizens and communities in the six States where major disasters have been declared due to Hurricane Helene:  Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.  They are performing critical life-saving and life-sustaining missions and will continue to do so within present funding levels.  As with other catastrophic disasters, it will take some time to assess the full requirements for response and recovery efforts, and I fully expect that the Congress will do its part to provide the funding needed.

    While FEMA has the resources needed for the immediate emergency response phase, at least one other agency does not.  Most urgently, the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program will run out of funding in a matter of weeks and well before the Congress is planning to reconvene.  I warned the Congress of this potential shortfall even before Hurricane Helene landed on America’s shores.  I requested more funding for SBA multiple times over the past several months, and most recently, my Administration underscored that request as you prepared a continuing resolution to fund the Government.  Now the need is even more urgent.  Small businesses and individuals in affected areas depend on disaster loans as a critical lifeline during difficult times.  In fact, for individual disaster survivors, SBA loans are often the largest source of Federal disaster recovery funds.  Renters and homeowners use these loans to repair and rebuild their homes as well as replace or repair damaged property including their personal vehicles, while businesses use them to cover basic operating expenses.  The Congress must act to restore this funding.

    In addition, while FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund has the resources it requires right now to meet immediate needs, the fund does face a shortfall at the end of the year.  Without additional funding, FEMA would be required to forego longer-term recovery activities in favor of meeting urgent needs.  The Congress should provide FEMA additional resources to avoid forcing that kind of unnecessary trade-off and to give the communities we serve the certainty of knowing that help will be ongoing, both for the short- and long-term.

    As the Congress heeds the call to assist the communities across the Nation recovering from Hurricane Helene, it must remember that many other communities are also in urgent need of disaster assistance.  As recently as this summer, my Administration requested that the Congress provide additional disaster assistance to many communities across America.  Many of the programs we requested to receive additional funding would also help response and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene.  This includes funding for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to respond to devastating fires in Maui and tornados in Mississippi, Iowa, and Oklahoma as well as funding for the Department of Transportation to support rebuilding roads and bridges across the Nation, including the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland.

    I urge you to keep faith with those communities and provide the requested additional funding to rebuild housing infrastructure, to support farmers and ranchers with crop losses, to address impacted schools, and to repair damaged Federal highways.  In addition to FEMA’s ongoing support, these are the resources that communities need and deserve to fully respond to and recover from devastating events.

    It is critical that Congress ensures that no critical disaster programs, such as the SBA disaster loan program, run out of funding during the Congressional Recess period.  I also urge that after the Congress comes back into session on November 12th, you will act with all appropriate speed and provide comprehensive disaster relief so that the people, families, businesses, and communities affected by Hurricane Helene—as well as those still recovering from past disasters—are not only made whole, but can proceed in a way to make them more resilient in the face of future extreme weather events and other disasters.

    My Administration will keep the Congress apprised of efforts to assess the full resource requirements associated with Hurricane Helene, including for long-term rebuilding and resilience efforts, as those estimates become available.  I urge you to assist those impacted by this hurricane and every other disaster since the Congress last passed a comprehensive disaster package in 2022.  We must stand with these communities on their long road to recovery.

    Sincerely,

                                   JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letter to Congress on Disaster  Needs

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Dear Speaker Johnson and Leaders Schumer, McConnell, and Jeffries,
    I write to you regarding the needs of the Nation.  As communities across the Southeast devastated by Hurricane Helene assess the extent of the damage, they are expecting their Federal Government to stand behind them in their most urgent time of need.  I have seen firsthand the devastation that Hurricane Helene brought to communities across the Southeast.  During my travels this week to North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Georgia, I met with families, business owners, farmers, local and state officials, and first responders, all of whom shared with me their stories of survival—and resilience.  As leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure that everyone in communities ravaged by natural disasters will have the Federal resources they need and deserve to respond to and recover from deadly storms and other natural disasters.  
    My Administration will be with those affected until the job is done, and we have a solemn obligation to provide confidence that the Federal Government will stand with them as they rebuild their lives and their communities.  Furthermore, this responsibility extends to the many communities around the Nation that are still rebuilding from previous disasters.
    Over the past 10 days, including in the lead up to Hurricane Helene making landfall, my Administration has provided robust and well-coordinated Federal support for the ongoing response and recovery efforts.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Defense, and other Federal partners have quickly mobilized to support impacted citizens and communities in the six States where major disasters have been declared due to Hurricane Helene:  Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.  They are performing critical life-saving and life-sustaining missions and will continue to do so within present funding levels.  As with other catastrophic disasters, it will take some time to assess the full requirements for response and recovery efforts, and I fully expect that the Congress will do its part to provide the funding needed.
    While FEMA has the resources needed for the immediate emergency response phase, at least one other agency does not.  Most urgently, the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program will run out of funding in a matter of weeks and well before the Congress is planning to reconvene.  I warned the Congress of this potential shortfall even before Hurricane Helene landed on America’s shores.  I requested more funding for SBA multiple times over the past several months, and most recently, my Administration underscored that request as you prepared a continuing resolution to fund the Government.  Now the need is even more urgent.  Small businesses and individuals in affected areas depend on disaster loans as a critical lifeline during difficult times.  In fact, for individual disaster survivors, SBA loans are often the largest source of Federal disaster recovery funds.  Renters and homeowners use these loans to repair and rebuild their homes as well as replace or repair damaged property including their personal vehicles, while businesses use them to cover basic operating expenses.  The Congress must act to restore this funding.
    In addition, while FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund has the resources it requires right now to meet immediate needs, the fund does face a shortfall at the end of the year.  Without additional funding, FEMA would be required to forego longer-term recovery activities in favor of meeting urgent needs.  The Congress should provide FEMA additional resources to avoid forcing that kind of unnecessary trade-off and to give the communities we serve the certainty of knowing that help will be ongoing, both for the short- and long-term.
    As the Congress heeds the call to assist the communities across the Nation recovering from Hurricane Helene, it must remember that many other communities are also in urgent need of disaster assistance.  As recently as this summer, my Administration requested that the Congress provide additional disaster assistance to many communities across America.  Many of the programs we requested to receive additional funding would also help response and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene.  This includes funding for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to respond to devastating fires in Maui and tornados in Mississippi, Iowa, and Oklahoma as well as funding for the Department of Transportation to support rebuilding roads and bridges across the Nation, including the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland.
    I urge you to keep faith with those communities and provide the requested additional funding to rebuild housing infrastructure, to support farmers and ranchers with crop losses, to address impacted schools, and to repair damaged Federal highways.  In addition to FEMA’s ongoing support, these are the resources that communities need and deserve to fully respond to and recover from devastating events.
    It is critical that Congress ensures that no critical disaster programs, such as the SBA disaster loan program, run out of funding during the Congressional Recess period.  I also urge that after the Congress comes back into session on November 12th, you will act with all appropriate speed and provide comprehensive disaster relief so that the people, families, businesses, and communities affected by Hurricane Helene—as well as those still recovering from past disasters—are not only made whole, but can proceed in a way to make them more resilient in the face of future extreme weather events and other disasters.
    My Administration will keep the Congress apprised of efforts to assess the full resource requirements associated with Hurricane Helene, including for long-term rebuilding and resilience efforts, as those estimates become available.  I urge you to assist those impacted by this hurricane and every other disaster since the Congress last passed a comprehensive disaster package in 2022.  We must stand with these communities on their long road to recovery.
    Sincerely,
                                   JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sewell Announces $24.7 Million from the Department of Justice to Fight Crime and Make Alabama Communities Safer

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07)

    Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced more than $24.7 million in federal funding from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) to address crime and public safety across Alabama’s 7th Congressional District and in the State of Alabama. This comprehensive investment will support law enforcement, crime prevention, victim assistance, and emergency management programs across the Northern District of Alabama.

    “I am thrilled to announce that the City of Birmingham, Jefferson County, the Alabama Department of Commerce, ADECA, and ALEA will receive $24.7 million in grant funding from the DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs, ” said Rep. Sewell. “These critical grants will ensure that local law enforcement agencies and community organizations have the resources they need to break the cycle of violence, prevent crime, and save lives. They will go a long way in making our communities safer for our children and families. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to keep Alabamians safe.”

    Rep. Sewell announced the following DOJ grants for communities in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District:

    Birmingham and Jefferson County 

    • $4,200,000 – The City of Birmingham will use this funding for additional cameras and intelligence resources that provide information to its Real Time Crime Center. 
    • $1,000,000 – This funding will allow Jefferson County to provide Veterans’ Treatment Court Services that will be provided via the University of Alabama of Birmingham.
    • $833,000 – Jefferson County will use this funding to support the treatment of substance abuse disorders for people involved within the local justice system. 
    • $500,000 – This funding will be used by the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office to enhance its investigations and prosecutions of domestic violence cases. 

    Rep. Sewell announced the following DOJ grants for state agencies:

    The Alabama Department of Commerce

    • $741,975 – This funding will be used to collaborate with The Dannon Project for opioid recovery and intervention youth programming. 

    Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) 

    • $11,850,932 – This funding will go to the Victim of Crimes Act (VOCA) Victim Assistance Formula Grant, which provides direct assistance to crime victims, with priority going to victims of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault and population groups who have been previously underserved. 
    • $2,555,663 – This funding will be distributed for crisis intervention programming. 

    Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) 

    • $3,097,598 – This funding will be used to enhance criminal background check and justice statistics systems.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Biden travels to the southeast and Appalachia in the wake of Hurricane Helene

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

    To all those across the southeast and Appalachia who’ve had their lives and livelihoods torn apart by Hurricane Helene, I want you to know this Administration isn’t leaving your side.

    There’s not a damn thing we can’t get done when we work together.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7shTh6HGaNs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Cramer Bills Addressing Alzheimer’s Disease Signed into Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    BISMARCK, N.D. – Two critical pieces of legislation in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease were signed into law this week. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) cosponsored both pieces of legislation, the National Alzheimer’s Project (NAPA) Reauthorization Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act. These bills are meaningful advancements in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

    The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act requires the National Institutes of Health to annually submit an estimate of its budget and personnel needs for carrying out initiatives and essential research pursuant to the National Alzheimer’s Project. The NAPA Reauthorization Act extends the National Alzheimer’s Project to 2035. The project was first authorized in 2011 and supports coordination of federal planning, programs, and research to support efforts addressing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia such as healthy aging and cognitive decline.

    “Like many others, Alzheimer’s has a personal connection to me and my family,” said Cramer. “I am committed to doing everything I can to support those that are affected by the disease while at the same time, working toward treatments that work and ultimately, a cure. I believe we can get there. There’s a lot to be done, but I am heartened by the progress of these bills that are being signed into law.” 

    Cramer has worked to support the community of people who experience Alzheimer’s disease including their families, loved ones, and medical care teams. In September, he participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Bismarck and visited the Bismarck Memory Cafe. 

    Cramer joined U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) in cosponsoring theComprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act to direct the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to test an innovative payment and delivery system tailored for dementia care management. Additionally, Cramer joined U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the CMS requirement for Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) for monoclonal antibodies drugs designated for the treatment of Alzheimer’s. The letter encouraged CMS to take steps to remove these requirements for FDA-approved treatments to ensure reasonable access for Alzheimer’s patients outside of a clinical trial.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Lake Tahoe, Cortez Masto Celebrates the Passage of her Lake Tahoe Restoration Reauthorization Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Reno, Nev. – Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Representative Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-03) hosted community leaders and local advocates at Lake Tahoe following the passage of her legislation extending the authorization of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act for 10 years. The measure passed the Senate in July and the House of Representatives on September 24th. It was signed into law on October 1, 2024.
    “Since it was first passed nearly 25 years ago, the LTRA has helped combat invasive species, maintain the environment, and improve water infrastructure in the Tahoe Basin. It’s helped support local jobs and welcome new travelers, making the lake a better space for visitors and residents alike,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This reauthorization is key to continuing that work. This isn’t just a box to check or a project we can just move on from – this is an ongoing effort, and we need to keep up our work to keep the water clean, prevent wildfires, and protect the environment surrounding the Tahoe Basin.”
    The Lake Tahoe Restoration Reauthorization Act is cosponsored by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), as well as Representatives Mark Amodei (R-Nev.-02), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Dina Titus (D-Nev.- 01), Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.-04), John Duarte (R-Calif.-13) and Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-03). It will allow critical funding to support environmental protection and habitat restoration programs across the basin for the next ten years. This law has delivered millions in federal dollars to Lake Tahoe since the original law passed in 2000.
    Senator Cortez Masto has been a champion for Lake Tahoe, leading efforts in the Senate to conserve the region and protect the lake. She recently secured $24 million to extend the popular East Shore Train around Lake Tahoe, and almost $8 million to help the Tahoe Transportation District purchase new electric hybrid busses and improve transit safety. She secured nearly $17 million in funding for the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, in addition to critical resources to address microplastic pollution in the Lake and to improve transportation options to and from Reno. She has led calls for a comprehensive, collaborative, and science-based approach to protect Lake Tahoe from the threat of climate change. Cortez Masto helped pass the Great American Outdoors Act, which was signed into law to repair and maintain public lands nationwide.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 10.04.2024 Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Celebrate Another Victory for South Texas ­– Securing Presidential Permit for Laredo 4/5 International Bridge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and  U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) released the following statement today after fighting to secure a presidential permit for the Laredo 4/5 International Bridge (Bridge 4/5) in Webb County.
    Upon issuance of the presidential permit, Sen. Cruz said, “I’ve made securing presidential permits for Texas-Mexico border bridge infrastructure projects a top priority. My bipartisan legislation to streamline the approval process for these bridge projects has now resulted in yet another swift approval for a bridge that will massively increase trade with our neighbor to the south, boost the resiliency of our supply chain, and support good-paying jobs across the Lone Star State.
    “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to support Bridge 4/5 in Webb County and I am thrilled that they have now secured their presidential permit.”
    Sen. Cornyn said, “International bridges are engines to foster greater trade with Mexico and promote economic growth. I am pleased that the permit for the Laredo 4/5 bridge has been approved, which will help increase commerce, bolster our supply chain, and bring more good-paying jobs to hardworking Texans in Webb County and beyond.”
    Judge Tano Tijerina, Webb County Judge said, “For more than 20 years, Webb County has awaited the development of an international bridge. Mexico stands as a vital trading partner—not just for Texas, but for the entire United States. In 2023 alone, $807 billion worth of goods traversed our southern border, affirming Mexico’s status as our nation’s foremost trading ally. This moment feels almost surreal. After years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance, we are finally witnessing this project come to life. The 4/5 bridge is not merely a structure; it embodies hope, progress, and unity for Webb County and Nuevo Laredo. The community has long awaited this day, and they truly deserve this monumental achievement—and so much more. Change has arrived, bringing with it a renewed sense of possibility. Together, we are moving mountains and breaking barriers, transforming dreams into reality. In this journey, we give all the glory to God, whose guidance and strength have been with us every step of the way. This is just the beginning of a brighter future for our people. This was a bipartisan project where Republicans and Democrats came together to benefit South Texas and the border. It serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when county, state, and federal entities share a common vision.”
    Glenn Hamer, President & CEO of the Texas Association of Business said, “For years, the Laredo 4/5 bridge has been a priority project for enhancing and facilitating trade between Texas and Mexico – our largest trade partner. Thanks to the outstanding bipartisan work led by Senator Cruz and Senator Cornyn to streamline the presidential permitting process for cross-border bridge infrastructure projects, the long-awaited approval of the Laredo 4/5 bridge has turned from a dream to a reality. Streamlining the presidential bridge permitting process  is the most important effort to advance trade for Texas and the U.S. since the passage of the USMCA, and will result in the creation of thousands of new jobs and billions more in investment for the Lone Star State. We applaud Senator Cruz for his leadership on this important issue that will further solidify Texas as an epicenter for trade, economic growth, and investment in North America.”
    Dennis Nixon, President & Chairman, IBC Bank said, “With this approval, I’m incredibly excited that the 4/5 Bridge Project can now take the next step towards construction and ultimately to open as an entirely new trade asset and solution for Port Laredo, the largest port in the nation. This magnificent project will advance Port Laredo on the global stage as one of the most important ports in the entire world. After years of work, the sponsors achieved this milestone by being relentless in their pursuit of success, which has clearly been applauded today. This could not have been possible without the dedication of Senator Cruz and Senator Cornyn to the trade communities in the border region and their understanding of the infrastructure needs that are vital to our continued success. Without additional bridges, the trade community would have faced an increasingly dire situation without congestion control, impeding our ability to keep up with the rapid rate of increase in the volume of goods moving across the border. At IBC, we will continue to work with the county, sponsors, and all interested parties to make sure this long-awaited dream becomes a reality.”
    Gerald Schwebel, Executive Vice President, Corporate International Division, IBC Bank said, “What a great moment in history we are living today with the news that the Presidential Permit for Bridge 4/5 has been granted by the White House. This innovative and transformative port of entry project will become the benchmark of future border ports of entry.  This is a great day for Laredo, for Texas, and for the entire North American region. Bridge 4/5 will solidify and strengthen the strategic location of Port Laredo as the premier port of entry of all of North America. We are extremely grateful to Senator Cruz for his leadership and diligent work in a true bi-partisan effort with Senator Cornyn, Congressman Cuellar, and others. Senator Cruz showed us that he was not about to wait for projects like these to happen – he made them happen.”
    John D. Esparza, President & CEO, Texas Trucking Association said, “Senator Cruz’s victory in securing legislation to streamline the permitting process for Texas-Mexico border bridges is a testament to his effectiveness in Washington. This is precisely the type of no-nonsense, no-frills approach we need because it encourages the further growth and development of job creation in Texas. We appreciate both Senator Cornyn and Senator Cruz’s ability to propose and shepherd public policy that directly benefits our state’s economy is why we need them to continue to be successful in the United States Senate. Their bipartisan efforts have cleared bureaucratic roadblocks, paved the way for expanded trade and improved supply chain resilience, all while increasing economic opportunities for Texans.”
    BACKGROUND
    Before securing this victory for the Lone Star State, Sen. Cruz teamed up with Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) to send a letter to President Biden yesterday urging him to approve the Bridge 4/5 presidential permit application submitted by Southwebb Bridge Company in Webb County, Texas to bolster trade with Mexico, improve supply chain resiliency, and create good paying jobs in Texas.
    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis and Budd Issue Joint Statement on Helene Response Operations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    Our National Guard and local, state, and federal first responders on the ground have been working tirelessly to respond to this disaster with the resources they have. Given the unprecedented extent of the devastation and complexity of search and rescue operations, it would be helpful to assign an active-duty military leader who has extensive experience with operations of this magnitude to lead moving forward.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Leading the way to Chinese modernization through sci-tech innovation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The launch of the BeiDou-3 Navigation Satellite System’s (BDS-3) final two satellites in September marked the completion of China’s independently-developed satnav system, for which President Xi Jinping has given continuous support.
    Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, has been closely following the development of the BDS-3 program.
    He visited the satellite launch site, cared about and encouraged scientists and technicians in the BDS-3 program, officially announced the commissioning of the program, sent a congratulatory letter to an international summit on the application of BeiDou, and mentioned it as a highlight of China’s achievements in his New Year messages.
    He has called for wider application of the BeiDou system to make new and greater contributions to China’s economic and social development, as well as the building of a human community with a shared future.
    Under the new system of concentrating nationwide efforts and resources on key undertakings, sci-tech workers have surmounted a multitude of technological hurdles — successfully integrating BeiDou into both industrial applications and daily life.
    BeiDou has become a standard configuration for mass consumer products such as smartphones and wearable devices. In the first half of 2024, over 98 percent of China’s 139 million units of smartphone shipments supported the BeiDou positioning system.
    The growth of BeiDou mirrors the modernization drive underpinned by the modernization of science and technology, and shows how the Chinese leader values sci-tech innovation and its fruits for bolstering the economy and facilitating high-quality development.
    At this year’s meeting with the country’s sci-tech workers in June, Xi said that Chinese modernization should be supported by sci-tech modernization, and achieving high-quality development relies on new driving forces cultivated by sci-tech innovation.
    What he calls for is happening. China has moved up to 11th place in the rankings of the world’s most innovative economies, representing one of the fastest rises over the past decade, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
    The country is also home to 26 of the world’s top 100 sci-tech innovation clusters, maintaining its position as the global leader for two consecutive years, the WIPO’s Global Innovation Index 2024 confirmed.
    Xi has emphasized the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation by enhancing the principal position of enterprises in technological innovation.
    The development of new energy vehicles is a good example. In 2014, during an inspection tour of SAIC Motor, a major Chinese carmaker, Xi called for the research and development of products that cater to diverse needs and highlighted the importance of new energy vehicles in enhancing China’s automotive industry.
    In the following decade, the president became a big fan of electric cars, visiting automotive companies, touring laboratories, and showing great interest in trying new home-developed models. He encouraged carmakers to focus on product quality and cultivate market competitiveness.
    Now new energy vehicles have become a highlight of China’s tech-intensive industry. Their penetration rate, a gauge of popularity, climbed to 53.9 percent in the domestic market in August, meaning that their sales volume exceeded that of traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines.
    New energy vehicles are also gaining popularity in Southeast Asian, South American and European markets. In the first eight months of 2024, China exported 818,000 new energy vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 12.6 percent.
    In addition to boosting economic growth through new energy industries, Xi also places great emphasis on the role of such industries in green development and promotes the sharing of green technologies — as harmonious coexistence between human and nature is one of the key features of China’s modernization.
    He has repeatedly expressed China’s commitment to re-adjusting industrial structure and energy mix, vigorously developing renewable energy, and making faster progress in planning and developing large wind power and photovoltaic bases.
    Over the past decade, China’s annual installation of renewable energy power generation capacity has accounted for more than 40 percent of the global total, while exceeding 50 percent in 2023.
    China’s fast progress in developing renewable energy technologies and their massive applications have also significantly contributed to an over 60 percent reduction in wind power costs and a more than 80 percent drop in photovoltaic power costs globally. This has played a pivotal role in global efforts to cut carbon emissions and transit toward a greener economy.
    At the same time, its renewable energy technology is still making breakthroughs, providing impetus for the future development of the industry. According to a study published in Nature at the end of September, Chinese chemists Yuan Mingjian from Nankai University cooperated with a scientist in Canada to prepare perovskite solar cell devices with high energy conversion efficiency and high operational stability, marking a major breakthrough in new-generation photovoltaic technology.
    At a recent symposium on ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin, Xi mentioned that many African countries have been discussing cooperation with China concerning wind and photovoltaic power.
    “Green and low-carbon cooperation has a promising future,” he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NH Delegation Honors Law Enforcement Community at NH Congressional Law Enforcement Awards Ceremony

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Concord, NH) – On Friday, New Hampshire’s Congressional delegation honored members of the New Hampshire law enforcement community for exemplary service at the New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Awards (NH-CLEA) ceremony in Concord. You can find photos from the event here.
    “Granite State law enforcement officers put their lives on the line day after day, doing essential work that often goes underappreciated,” said Senator Shaheen. “This year’s recipients have been recognized for their unique and outstanding efforts, often in the face of great danger to themselves, to protect and serve the citizens of New Hampshire. I offer my sincere gratitude for all that they do.”
    “New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every single day to keep our state safe,” said Senator Hassan. “I was honored to attend the Congressional Law Enforcement Award ceremony tonight and recognize the officers whose extraordinary actions have made an incalculable difference to our communities.”
    “New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers go above and beyond the call of duty every day to protect us and keep our communities safe,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “Tonight’s ceremony is an opportunity for us to express our thanks and gratitude for their selflessness and sacrifices. I want to extend my congratulations to this year’s recipients and their families.”
    “Congratulations to the men and women of law enforcement who were honored this year for going above and beyond to protect and serve our communities,” said Congressman Pappas. “They always stand ready to answer the call, and that’s why it is so critical that we provide our law enforcement with the support, resources, and respect that they have earned.  I’m grateful for the dedication and sacrifice of the New Hampshire law enforcement community which ensures our state has a safe and strong future ahead.”
    The New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Awards were started in 1998. All New Hampshire law enforcement officers – whether they are serving full – or part-time – are eligible to be nominated for recognition from the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation. Awardees are selected by an independent committee of law enforcement officers comprised of current and retired federal, state, county, and local officials.
    At the ceremony, Shaheen, Hassan, and Pappas honored the following law enforcement personnel with certificates of recognition on Friday: 
    2024 Congressional Law Enforcement Award Recipients 
    Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award
    This award recognizes officers who put their lives in harm’s way to help others. The NH-CLEA committee realizes that this is always part of any officer’s duties, but there are times when heroism and sacrifice in extreme circumstances need to be recognized. 
    Conservation Officer Levi Frye (NH Fish & Game) 
    Officer Brian Jenkins (Northumberland PD) 
     Lieutenant Geoffrey Pinard (Goffstown PD)  
    Lieutenant James Mitchell (Goffstown PD) 
    Sergeant Kevin Laroche (Goffstown PD) 
    Sergeant Jonathan Babcock (Goffstown PD) 
    Officer Timothy Chabot (Goffstown PD) 
    Sergeant Forrest Walker (Franklin PD) 
    Officer Christopher Hart (Franklin PD) 
    Officer James DeLuca (Hampton PD) 
    Trooper Philip Sheehy (NH State Police) 
    Trooper First Class Nathan Sleight (NH State Police) 
    Officer Richard W. Bateman Dedication and Professionalism Award
    This award, named in honor of Officer Richard W. Bateman, recognizes law enforcement personnel that go beyond their normal duties in service to others.  
    Officer Jagger Bell (Franklin PD)  
    Dispatch Supervisor Kate Burton (Franklin PD) 
    Dispatcher Ryleigh O’Keefe (Franklin PD) 
    Dispatcher Taylee Wolfe (Franklin PD) 
    Trooper Benjamin Olmstead (NH State Police) 
    Communications Specialist Angelique M. Carter (NH State Police) 
    Marine Patrol Supervisor David Jones (NH Marine Patrol) 
    Marine Patrol Officer Timothy Pinkham (NH Marine Patrol) 
    Detective Wade Brown (Concord PD) 
    Detective Danika Gorham (Concord PD) 
    Sergeant Richard Sprankle (Nashua PD) 
    Officer Adam Anderson (Nashua PD) 
    Border Patrol Agent John Sue (U.S. Border Patrol)
    Associate Service Award
    This award recognizes that fire or rescue personnel as well as civilians have come to the assistance of law enforcement personnel in the course of their duties, at times putting their own lives in harm’s way and deserved recognition by the law enforcement community for their assistance.
    Ms. Christine Lavoie  
    Ms. Suzanne Folsom  
    Career Service Award
    This award recognizes an individual that has, over the course of his or her career, shown an outstanding dedication to law enforcement and their community.
    Mr. Thomas Andross (Grafton County Sheriff’s Office) 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Nation ramps up public services to meet rising cultural demand

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Shanghai resident Wang Yanqing, 38, said that her recent experience of trying to secure a spot in the upcoming autumn courses at the Shanghai Resident Night School took her back to university days, when students had to scramble to register for classes online.
    In the blink of an eye, nearly 900,000 eager applicants flooded the system as soon as the night school’s registration portal opened. The most sought-after classes for the autumn session of the school spanned a wide range of disciplines, including archery, baking, leather crafting, popping and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
    Priced at a modest 500 yuan for a series of 12 classes, the Shanghai Resident Night School has gained a reputation for its accessibility and top-quality instructors, establishing itself as the hottest public cultural service hub in the city.
    Catering to people aged 18 to 55, the night school offers courses during the spring and autumn terms. In the ongoing autumn semester, the service has been expanded to include 37 branch campuses and 367 teaching venues, spanning across the city.
    For Wang, who has been learning dance skills at the primary campus of Shanghai Mass Art Center since 2021, the night school represents a vital outlet for personal growth and exploration.
    “Elderly people have their senior universities and children have various art training institutions to choose from. We young people also need some public cultural services to develop our interests and add color to our lives,” says Wang.
    “At the night school, you’ll find courses with solid reviews, awesome teachers and prices that are budget-friendly. It’s also easy to locate a class close to home,” Wang adds.
    In recent years, the country has been actively improving the public cultural service system and expanding the coverage of basic public cultural services.
    The Resolution of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization released in July includes plans for enhancing the public cultural service system.
    This includes establishing a mechanism for high-quality cultural resources to reach grassroots levels and enhancing the participation of social entities in the provision of public cultural services.
    Li Guoxin, director of Peking University’s national center for modern public culture research, explained that the resolution highlights the importance of offering higher quality, more efficient, fairer and sustainable public cultural services to grassroots communities. This is aimed at enhancing people’s sense of cultural attainment and happiness.
    In recent years, the Chinese government has actively promoted innovation and reform in public cultural services. Over 35,000 new public cultural spaces have been set up nationwide, including libraries and cultural centers in urban and rural areas, making cultural services more accessible for a wider population, Li added.
    Hefei, capital of Anhui province, has witnessed active expansion of reading spaces since 2017.
    With more than 100 urban reading spaces, urban residents are guaranteed to reach a reading space within a 15-minute walk from their homes.
    Ji Yuanyuan, a resident from Hefei’s economic development zone, said that the reading space has provided a group of full-time mothers like her with a place where “they can temporarily set aside the family’s troubles and worries, and just be themselves”.
    Formerly an entrepreneur who devoted herself to her career, she used to have her parents take care of her children. After her children started primary school, she decided to devote her time to her children and family.
    However, she found that upon returning from the workplace to the family, women easily fell into anxiety. So she initiated a reading club in 2017, where full-time mothers come together to recommend good books to each other and share parenting experiences.
    The club’s gathering place is called Forest Book House, an urban reading space within her community that not only provides residents with reading facilities but also features workshops on calligraphy and handicrafts.
    The book club receives an average of around 400 visitors per day, and last year, it hosted a total of 140,482 readers.
    “We now have over 100 female members and hold events every Thursday afternoon at the Book House,” Ji said.
    “When we meet like-minded people in the space, our anxious feelings fade away, and we feel more uplifted as a whole.”
    In the first half of the year, the urban reading spaces in Hefei received 4.86 million visitors, with 1.115 million books borrowed and 8,983 events hosted, according to Meng Xianlei, an official from the city’s bureau of culture and tourism.
    Meng points out that these reading spaces are constructed by the government, owned by the government and operated by third parties through bidding processes. The separation of ownership and operation rights of public cultural facilities shows the reform measures proposed by the aforementioned resolution on further deepening and advancing Chinese modernization.
    Starting this year, Hefei is transforming these urban reading spaces into public cultural hubs featuring art exhibitions, training seminars, literary salons, film screenings and a range of other services.
    Originally from Guilin in Southwest China’s Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Wang said she has found pleasure and fulfillment in Shanghai’s public cultural amenities, despite the long distance from her hometown.
    The abundance of libraries, art centers and communal spaces has not only enriched Wang’s own life but has also provided a welcoming place for her mother, who recently traveled from Guilin to Shanghai to live with her.
    “She frequents the free movie screenings at the community cultural center near our residence every week. Such public cultural spaces have aided her in swiftly having a social circle in this unfamiliar city,” she added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CalMatters: Laphonza Butler wants you to know she’s your U.S. senator

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for California – Laphonza Butler

    By Lynna La
    Ever since Laphonza Butler took herself out of the running for U.S. Senate a year ago — just two weeks after Gov. Gavin Newsom picked her to replace the late Dianne Feinstein — she has faded into the background quite a bit. 
    Thursday, to mark one year since the Democrat took the oath of office, her office sent a clear message that she’s busy representing California — and will be until whoever voters pick in November is sworn in to serve until January, and then a full six-year term after that.  
    Butler, in a statement to CalMatters: “I’m proud to represent one of the most racially and ethnically diverse states in America, with a population of young people who have shown up to be the face of change. Their courage, their passion, their drive to lead have fueled me every single day in the Senate…”
    In a series of social media posts, Butler’s office gave some facts and figures on what she’s been up to — 342 votes and much more:
    Read the full article HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Takes Executive Action to Make State of Minnesota a Recovery-Friendly Workplace

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    Governor Tim Walz today took executive action to make the State of Minnesota a recovery-friendly workplace. Under Executive Order 24-11, the state will adopt policies and procedures to increase support for employees in recovery. This executive order builds on legislation from the 2023 session establishing a statewide Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative by positioning state government to lead by example.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Verge: Senator Laphonza Butler thinks supporting Big AI or human workers is a ‘false choice’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for California – Laphonza Butler

    By Lauren Feiner
    Representing California in Congress comes with a unique challenge: navigating national politics while reflecting the interests of the most populous state in the US, including a large constituency from the tech industry. It’s a challenge both current California Sen. Laphonza Butler and Vice President Kamala Harris — who previously held that title — have taken on. And right now, governing the tech world means addressing AI.

    Congress hasn’t made much headway on a national framework for regulating generative AI. But California is the epicenter of the AI industry, home to companies like OpenAI and Google. On the national stage, Harris has acted as an AI czar within the Biden administration, leading discussions with industry players and civil society leaders about how to regulate it. Butler, who has a long history with the VP, is focusing on a specific problem: how AI systems impact labor and social equity.

    Butler spoke with The Verge about balancing the interests of AI companies and the people their products impact, including workers who fear being automated out of a job. “It all starts with listening,” says Butler, a former labor leader. “It starts with listening to both the developers, the communities potentially impacted negatively, and the spaces where opportunity exists.”

    Like many officials, Butler says she wants to help protect Americans from the potential dangers of AI without stifling opportunities that could come from it. She praised both Schumer and the Biden administration for “creating spaces for communities to have [a] voice.” Both have brought in labor and civil society leaders in addition to major AI industry executives to educate and engage on regulation in the space.

    Butler insists lawmakers don’t need to make “false choices” between the interests of AI company executives and the people who make up the workforce. “Listening is fundamental, balancing everyone’s interest, but the goal has to be to do the most good for the most people. And to me, that is where a policymaker will always tend to land.”

    California state Senator Scott Wiener made similar statements about his hotly contested state-level bill, SB 1047. The bill, which would have required whistleblower protections and safeguards for potentially disastrous events at large AI companies, made it all the way to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk before being vetoed, with companies like OpenAI warning it would slow innovation. In August, Wiener argued that “we can advance both innovation and safety; the two are not mutually exclusive.” So far, however, lawmakers are struggling to find a balance between the two.
    Read the full article HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: First Regional Meeting of UNESCO World Heritage Marine Site Managers in Latin America and the Caribbean

    Source: United Nations

    From 8 to 13 September 2024, the Península Valdés marine World Heritage property in Argentina hosted the inaugural Regional meeting of UNESCO World Heritage marine site managers from Latin America and the Caribbean. The event brought together managers from the 12 UNESCO World Heritage marine sites in the region, alongside experts from UNESCO and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

    The meeting aimed to foster the exchange of best practices, promote dialogue on shared challenges, and establish collaborative strategies to address critical conservation issues at the regional level. Key topics included the impact of avian influenza on elephant seals, designing sustainable visitor strategies, early detection of invasive species, and the impacts of increasingly warming waters. These discussions were enriched by conservation success stories presented by the site managers, as well as insights provided by invited local and global experts.

    Alongside the working sessions, the managers conducted field visits to Península Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999, to gain firsthand insights into the management of the site’s Outstanding Universal Value. The event also featured community-focused talks aimed at engaging local students, researchers, tourist guides, park rangers, and other stakeholders in discussions about the conservation of Peninsula Valdés. These interactions strengthened collaboration among stakeholders and raised public awareness about the importance of preserving UNESCO World Heritage marine sites in Argentina and the world.

    A key outcome of the meeting was the ‘Declaration of Península Valdés’, in which the gathered managers reaffirmed their commitment to the conservation and sustainable management of UNESCO World Heritage marine sites in Latin America and the Caribbean. The declaration emphasized strengthening governance through participatory, adaptive management plans to address emerging threats like climate change, invasive species, and avian influenza. It highlighted the importance of involving local communities in decision-making, promoting innovative conservation training, and enhancing education to raise awareness about the significance of protecting a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Organisation of the first Regional meeting followed the 5th UNESCO World Heritage Marine Managers Conference that was held in the Wadden Sea World Heritage site (Denmark, Germany, Netherlands) in October 2023.

    The regional meeting was organized in partnership with the Península Valdés World Heritage site management team (Argentina) and UNESCO’s regional office in Montevideo (Uruguay), with financial support from the Provincial Government of Chubut, the Península Valdés management team, and UNESCO’s Montevideo office.

    The World Heritage Centre also expresses its sincere gratitude to the French Biodiversity Office (OFB) for their ongoing support in strengthening the UNESCO Marine World Heritage Network through initiatives of this nature.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Photos: Rubio Visits Barrier Islands Post-Hurricane Helene

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Photos: Rubio Visits Barrier Islands Post-Hurricane Helene
    Oct 4, 2024 | Press Releases

    Following Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic damage throughout Florida’s Gulf Coast, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) met with local officials and volunteers from the barrier islands to discuss the storm’s impact and current recovery efforts. 
    Photos are courtesy of Senator Rubio’s office.

    Senator Rubio gets a briefing from Gulf Coast barrier island officials.

    Senator Rubio thanks volunteers from the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

    Senator Rubio meets with members of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on World Teachers’ Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Teachers’ Day:

    “Teachers are the best. They help us learn and grow. They encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. They pick us up when we fall. And they’re our guides and mentors when we need that extra push to succeed.

    “We all have a favourite teacher. The one who comforted us when we didn’t feel confident. The one who, despite being asked a thousand questions, would happily answer all of them. The one who made learning fun.

    “This year’s theme – ‘Valuing teachers’ voices: towards a new social contract for education’ – highlights the critical role of educators in supporting and shaping our future. Whether it’s in the classroom or in extracurricular programs, as early childhood educators or counsellors, or as coaches or mentors, teachers build the foundations to help every generation reach its full potential.

    “With the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence, Teaching Excellence in STEM, and Excellence in Early Childhood Education, we thank the outstanding educators across the country for their dedication to their students and communities. Today, I am pleased to launch the call for nominations for the 2025 awards. I invite Canadians to nominate an outstanding educator from their community who has made a real difference in their life, or in the life of one of their children.

    “The federal government is making sure teachers and students have what they need to succeed. With programs like CanCode, we are providing professional development opportunities for 100,000 teachers. This will help over nine million students gain skills in areas such as coding and artificial intelligence over the next two years. With our new National School Food Program, we will get healthy meals for up to 400,000 more kids in school – because teachers know that students learn better on a full stomach.

    “Beyond our borders, initiatives such as the Global Partnership for Education and the Simameni project are increasing access to quality education, particularly in low-income and crisis-affected countries. And as part of our work toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Canada is playing its part in making learning more inclusive for young students, no matter where they come from.

    “Some of my best memories are from my time as a teacher. I was proud to be a teacher. And I know the hard work and sacrifice that the thousands of teachers across the country put in every single day.

    “So, on behalf of the Government of Canada – thank you. For the late nights marking papers. For the weekends spent creating course materials so your students are engaged. For the moments where you feel like a parent, guardian, mentor, guide, and coach – all at once. For the often-unsung contributions you make to help others succeed.

    “Today, on World Teachers’ Day, and every day, let’s show our gratitude and give thanks to our teachers and educators. They make the world better and more prosperous.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: QUICK-SHIP BONUS! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    : AEMO

    About the U.S. Army:

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

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

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #15K #QuickShip

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhAZ79Dujwg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Prime Minister on World Teachers’ Day

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Teachers’ Day:

    “Teachers are the best. They help us learn and grow. They encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. They pick us up when we fall. And they are our guides and advisors when we need extra encouragement to succeed.”

    “We all have a favorite teacher. The one who comforted us when we lacked self-confidence. The one who, despite the thousands of questions we asked, was happy to answer each one. The one who made learning fun.”

    “This year’s theme, ‘Elevating Teacher Voices: Toward a New Social Contract for Education,’ highlights the critical role educators play in advancing and shaping our future. Whether in the classroom or in after-school programs, as early childhood educators or counselors, or as coaches or mentors, teachers lay the foundation for each generation to reach their full potential.

    “By awarding thePrime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and Excellence in STEM Education and those for theexcellence in early childhood education, we thank exceptional educators across the country for their dedication to their students and communities. Today, I am pleased to launch the call for nominations for the 2025 awards. I invite Canadians to nominate an exceptional educator in their community who has made a real difference in their life or the life of one of their children.

    “The federal government is working to ensure that teachers and students have what they need to succeed. Through programs likeCanCode, we are providing professional development opportunities to 100,000 teachers. This will enable more than nine million students to acquire skills in areas such as coding and artificial intelligence over the next two years. In addition, through our newNational School Feeding Program, we will provide healthy meals to some 400,000 more children in schools, because teachers know that students learn better when their stomachs are full.

    “Beyond our borders, initiatives such as theGlobal Partnership for Educationand the Simameni Project(in English only) improve access to quality education, particularly in low-income and crisis-affected countries. In addition, as part of its work towards achieving the2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Canada is playing its part in making learning more inclusive for young students, regardless of their background.

    “Some of my fondest memories are from my time as a teacher. I was proud of my job. And I know how hard the thousands of teachers across the country work and sacrifice every day.

    “So on behalf of the Government of Canada, I want to thank you. For the nights spent grading homework. For the weekends spent creating course materials that engage your students. For the times you feel like a parent, guardian, mentor, guide, and coach all rolled into one. For the contributions that often go unnoticed but help others succeed.

    “Today, on the occasion of theWorld Teachers’ Day, and every day, let us show our gratitude to our teachers and educators and thank them. They contribute to making the world a better and more prosperous place.”

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Hurricane Francine

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Hurricane Francine

    Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Hurricane Francine

    BATON ROUGE, La. – Like all natural disasters, hurricanes can cause massive destruction to homes, property and infrastructure. Typically, hurricanes cause the greatest damage to structures of light construction, including some manufactured homes and other residential dwellings.

    Mitigation measures are available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damages to structures and personal property. FEMA building specialists can give you information on how to repair, retrofit, or rebuild your home to be safer and stronger before the next disaster.

    Mitigation Topics to Consider

    Roof Design

    Roof failures are a common cause of major damage to buildings and their contents from high winds. There are mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce potential roof damage.

    These mitigation measures include:

    • Designing Wind-Resistant Roofs
    • Reinforcing Gable Roof Ends
    • Securing Sheathing Properly
    • Installing Shingles Properly 

    flood mitigation

    • PREPARE OR UPDATE A LIST OF BELONGINGS – Documenting all of your belongings will help with the insurance claims process. Consider taking photos of high-value items or doing a video walkthrough of your home to document its contents. 
    • GET FLOOD INSURANCE – Most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage. Protect your investment by purchasing flood insurance for your home and contents, even if you do not live in a high-risk flood zone.
    • ELEVATE UTILITIES ABOVE BASE FLOOD ELEVATION (BFE) – Elevate or floodproof mechanical units, furnaces, water heaters, electrical systems, and other utilities on masonry, concrete, or pressure-treated lumber at least 12 inches above the BFE. 
    • REPLACE CARPETING WITH TILES – Tiles are more flood-resistant than carpet. Using tile or other flood-resistant materials in areas below the BFE can help reduce water damage.
    • INSTALL FLOOD VENTS – Install flood vents in foundation walls, garages, and other enclosed areas to allow water to flow through, drain out, and lower the risk of structural damage. 
    • USE FLOOD-RESISTANT INSULATION AND DRYWALL – Flood-resistant insulation and drywall will help minimize damage and can be easily cleaned and sanitized. 
    • PREVENT SEWAGE BACK-UP – In some areas, flooding can cause sewage to back up through drainpipes in your home. Consult with a plumber and, if applicable, invest in a sewer backflow valve to prevent this potential health hazard.
    1. Local Building Officials

    Always check with local building officials before beginning any repairs or rebuilding because:

    • Building codes, permits, inspection requirements, and zoning ordinances may be involved.
    • A floodplain ordinance will affect rebuilding when the structure has sustained substantial damage and is situated in a floodplain.

    Building officials will reinforce the point that only licensed professionals are qualified to perform structural repair or structural mitigation work.

    Email a Specialist

    If you are unable to call, email your questions, comments, or issues to FEMA-LAMit@fema.dhs.gov to receive a written response from a Specialist.

    Speak to a Specialist

    • Mitigation Helpline – Available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by calling 833-FEMA-4-US or 833-336-2487.
    • Not available when you call? Leave a message and a Specialist will return your call within 24 hours.

    Online Resources

    For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

    alexa.brown

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache Tribe

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache Tribe

    Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache Tribe

    WASHINGTON — FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the San Carlos Apache Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the Watch Fire from July 10-17, 2024.

    The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the San Carlos Apache Tribe. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. 

    Federal funding is also available to the Tribal Nation and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the fire. 

    Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures.

    Benigno Bern Ruiz has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further assessments.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Christina Bohannan and national Democrats caught red-handed

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

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

    October 5, 2024

    Christina Bohannan and national Democrats were caught LYING about Rep. Miller-Meeks’ record.

    In fact, they were proven wrong three separate times.

    WQAD:

    KCCI:

    KCRG:

    “It is worth noting Miller-Meeks was not in the legislature when that law was passed, so she never voted on it.”

    “Christina Bohannan and national Democrats were caught red-handed lying about Rep. Miller-Meeks because they have nothing else on which to run. Iowa voters see through Bohannan’s act — she’s nothing more than a radical leftist who supports defunding the police, bailing out criminals and abolishing prisons.” — NRCC Spokesman Mike Marinella

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with General Secretary and President of Vietnam Tô Lâm

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the General Secretary and President of Vietnam, Tô Lâm, on the margins of the 19th Sommet de la Francophonie.

    The Prime Minister and the President discussed the ongoing implementation of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Canada-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership. They underlined areas for enhanced co-operation, including regional security, climate change, clean energy, and sustainable development. Prime Minister Trudeau raised consular issues and the importance of advancing the promotion and protection of human rights. Both countries reiterated their commitment to the principle that disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the international law.

    The Prime Minister and the President discussed ways to expand bilateral trade and investment through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. The two leaders also underscored the importance of collaborating within the Francophonie forum.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and President Lâm reaffirmed the strong partnership between Canada and Vietnam, including through strong people-to-people ties, and they agreed to remain in close and regular contact.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba’s Excellence in Education Awards Opens Call for Nominations

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 5, 2024

    Manitoba’s Excellence in Education Awards Opens Call for Nominations

    – – –
    Parents, Guardians, Students, Teachers, Administrators and School Trustees Encouraged to Nominate Exceptional Educators: Altomare

    Nominations are now being accepted for the 2024-25 Manitoba’s Excellence in Education Awards to recognize exceptional achievements in education, Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Nello Altomare announced today. 

    “On World Teachers’ Day, I want to celebrate Manitoba educators across the province who work tirelessly every day to help young Manitobans learn, grow and reach their full potential,” said Altomare. “Manitoba’s Excellence in Education Awards provides an opportunity to celebrate the inspirational stories of K to 12 educators who make a difference. It’s an honour to recognize their dedication to their students and communities.” 

    Nominations are open until Dec. 5. Nominees must be educators who hold a valid, permanent Manitoba teaching certificate and work directly with kindergarten to Grade 12 students in a school setting daily. 

    Awards will be presented in the following categories:

    • teaching excellence award;
    • outstanding new teacher award;
    • outstanding team collaboration award;
    • outstanding school leader award; and
    • premier’s award for excellence in education.

    Nominations will be reviewed by a selection committee that includes representatives from across the education sector and Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning. 

    Award recipients will be honoured at a ceremony in the spring, added Altomare. 

    For more information on the awards and to access nomination forms, visit: http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/excellence. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Parks Canada recognizes the importance of Penman Textile Mill, in Paris, Ontario, the foundation of the Penman Manufacturing Company which grew from a single mill in 1868 to become the largest woollen knit goods producer in Canada by the end of the century. 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Parks Canada recognizes the importance of Penman Textile Mill, in Paris, Ontario, the foundation of the Penman Manufacturing Company which grew from a single mill in 1868 to become the largest woollen knit goods producer in Canada by the end of the century.

    October 5, 2024                                      Toronto, ON                             Parks Canada

    Today, Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada commemorated the national historic significance of Penman Textile Mill at a special plaque unveiling ceremony at Penman Manor in Paris, Ontario. Penman Textile Mill, located in Paris, Ontario, was once the cornerstone of the Penman Manufacturing Company, Canada’s largest producer of woollen knit goods at the end of the 19th century. Established in 1868 by John Penman, the mill’s story illustrates the evolution of the textile industry in the region as well as broader trends in industrialization in Canada.

    By 1887, the firm expanded to include a new mill across the Grand River. These developments along with the operation of other firms in the area established the Grand River Valley as the heart of the Canadian knit goods industry. Penman Textile Mill’s early operations encompassed a broad array of yarn and knitwear production, and later evolved to specialize in hosiery. By the late 1890s, the mill had a significant impact on employment in the community, and in the early 1900s, a significant portion of the workforce was made up of unmarried British women who were recruited for their skill with hosiery machines and knitted fabric.

    Founder John Penman acquired other mills in Ontario and Quebec before selling the firm which became Penmans Limited in 1906. In 1965, Penmans became part of the Dominion Textile Company. The Nith River mill was sold in 1970 and repurposed over the years, including being converted into a residential property in the early 2000s, which allowed for the preservation of the exterior architecture of the mill. Though this site no longer contributes to the manufacturing of textile goods, it remains a symbol of the industrial development which took place across Canada throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.

    The Government of Canada, through Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, recognizes significant people, places, and events that shaped this country as one way of helping Canadians connect with their past. By sharing these stories with Canadians, we hope to foster understanding and reflection on the diverse histories, cultures, legacies, and realities of Canada’s past and present.

    The designation process under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration is largely driven by public nominations. To nominate a person, place or historic event in your community, please visit the Parks Canada website for more information: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/culture/clmhc-hsmbc/ncp-pcn/application.

                                                                                                                                         -30-

    • Penman Textile Mill was designated as a national historic site in 1989. 

    • Following a fire in 1874, John Penman constructed a 4-storey mansard roofed brick mill building, along with other mill buildings, which came to be known as Penman’s No. 1 Mill. 

    • The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating Penman Textile Mill will be unveiled in Paris, Ontario, located on the lands and territory of the Anishinaabeg, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Haudenosaunee, including the Six Nations of the Grand River, and the traditional territory of the Attiwonderonk. Today, Paris is home to many First Nations and Métis peoples.

    • Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national significance of persons, places, and events that have marked Canada’s history. To date, more than 2,250 designations have been made nationwide. 

    • Together with Parks Canada, the Board ensures that subjects of national historic significance are recognized under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration and these important stories are shared with Canadians.

    • Parks Canada is committed to working with Canadians in our efforts to tell broader, more inclusive stories in the places that it manages. In support of this goal, the Framework for History and Commemoration outlines a comprehensive and engaging approach to sharing Canada’s history through diverse perspectives, including shedding light on tragic and difficult periods of Canada’s past.

    Oliver Anderson
    Director of Communications     
    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    819-962-0686
    oliver.anderson@ec.gc.ca

    Hayley Lashmar
    a/Public Relations and Communications Officer
    Parks Canada, Rouge National Urban Park Field Unit
    519-324-5648  
    hayley.lashmar@pc.gc.ca

    Gabe Camozzi
    a/HSMBC Communications Officer
    Parks Canada, Southwestern Ontario Field Unit
    905-870-5724
    gabriel.camozzi@pc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister strengthens our ties with French-speaking countries at the Francophonie Summit

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today concluded his participation in the 19th Summit of La Francophonie in Villers-Cotterêts and Paris, France. This visit was an opportunity for him to promote the French language, strengthen Canada’s relations with other member states and governments of La Francophonie, and advance our shared values, such as peace, democracy, human rights and inclusion.

    At the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau underscored Canada’s commitment to promoting development, security and inclusion in Francophone Africa. To this end, he announced more than $11 million to support initiatives that include improving access to education, the empowerment of women and girls, youth nutrition and overall health, and community safety and security, while strengthening our relationships with Francophone countries in Africa.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting the modernization of the governance of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) so that it can fulfill its mandate as effectively as possible and with complete transparency, including the promotion of our shared values and the influence of the French language. He noted the work underway to map and identify workforce needs for teaching French and teaching in French. In addition, Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s support for Francophonie operators and institutions by announcing a federal investment of nearly $1.6 million. This funding will support scientific research in French, student mobility and youth employability, as well as enrich the diversity of French-language content broadcast on the TV5MONDEplus platform. It will also promote research to enhance the French language and Francophone identities in Francophone cities and encourage the participation of women in Francophone parliaments.

    In the Villers-Cotterêts Call, Canada and other OIF member states and governments called on digital platforms to strengthen their commitments to a safer and more integrated digital space. They also agreed on the importance of promoting the responsible use and development of artificial intelligence and combating disinformation. In this regard, Prime Minister Trudeau stressed the importance of continuing to build strong ties with our partners in the Francophonie in order to build a safer and more prosperous future for our populations.

    As a founding member and second largest donor of the OIF, Canada is firmly committed to supporting the mandate and initiatives of the OIF, particularly to protect and promote the French language and cultural and linguistic diversity. To this end, Canada signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the Cité internationale de la langue française, which aims to promote the richness and diversity of the French language and its role in the world. Through its support for this project, Canada will contribute to promoting minority Francophone communities in the country, deepening exchanges between Francophones in Canada and elsewhere, and making the diversity of the Canadian Francophonie known to visitors to the Cité.

    Building on the progress made during President Macron’s visit to Canada last month, Prime Minister Trudeau also reiterated his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Canada and France.

    During his participation in the Summit, the Prime Minister met with his international counterparts to discuss current geopolitical challenges with wide-ranging repercussions in the world, including within the Francophone space, including the situation in Haiti as well as tensions in the Middle East and along Lebanon’s southern border. He stressed the importance of working together, among OIF partners, to preserve peace and security in the world.

    Quote

    “At the Francophonie Summit, I renewed Canada’s commitment to protecting and promoting the French language. In collaboration with the OIF and other member states and governments, we can create new opportunities for French-speaking populations around the world.”

    Highlights

    This is Prime Minister Trudeau’s fourth participation in the Francophonie Summit. During the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau met with the Secretary General and President of Vietnam, To Lam, the Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, the Prime Minister of Belgium, Alexander De Croo, and the President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara. In addition to the Villers-Cotterêts Appeal, the OIF member states and governments adopted a Resolution on crisis situations, crisis resolution and peacebuilding in the Francophone world. They also decided to accept applications from countries and governments wishing to obtain observer status with the OIF, including Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia joins Quebec and New Brunswick, full members of the OIF, as well as Ontario, which is already an observer. At the Summit, Canada joined Quebec, the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, France, Monaco and Switzerland in signing the Declaration of TV5Monde Donor Governments. The Government of Canada is proud to be a partner of TV5Monde and to contribute to the influence of the Francophonie. This Declaration reaffirms our support for the French-language channel and expresses our desire to strengthen its ties with other OIF member countries. Canada also signed a bilateral collaboration agreement with France on emergency management. This agreement supports cooperation in planning in response to emergencies and other international crises, as well as mutual assistance in times of crisis, particularly in terms of consular efforts during assisted departures. The Memorandum of Understanding on the Cité internationale de la langue française, signed at the Summit, will also explore possibilities for cooperation with the Collège international de Villers-Cotterêts to train French-speaking teachers and translators. Canada and France maintain close bilateral relations as well as dynamic and diversified trade relations. In 2023, the French diaspora in Canada represented between 140,000 and 150,000 people. Canada also attracted 27,110 French students in 2023.

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    Related links

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of Côte d’Ivoire Alassane Ouattara

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, on the margins of the 19th Sommet de la Francophonie.

    The leaders expressed their interest in working together closely to advance shared priorities within La Francophonie. Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, and in particular to chairing its Membership Committee. He also recognized Côte d’Ivoire’s principled stand in condemning Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. President Ouattara acknowledged Canada’s positive role in supporting West Africa and the region. The leaders also discussed the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

    The Prime Minister underscored Canada’s commitment to continue strengthening bilateral relations with Francophone countries. The two leaders discussed their shared commitment to increase access to education. They also discussed opportunities for Canadian business in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in the natural resources, agriculture, infrastructure, and technology sectors.

    The two leaders expressed their concerns over the increasing instability in Western Africa. Prime Minister Trudeau thanked President Ouattara for his leadership in the region and lauded his efforts to welcome refugees from the Sahel.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and President Ouattara agreed to remain in close and regular contact and looked forward to continue working together to advance shared priorities.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister strengthens our ties with Francophone countries at the Sommet de la Francophonie

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded his participation at the 19th Sommet de la Francophonie in Villers-Cotterêts and Paris, France. This visit was an opportunity for him to promote the French language, strengthen Canada’s relations with other member states and governments of La Francophonie, and advance our shared values, including peace, democracy, human rights, and inclusion.

    At the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau underlined Canada’s commitment to promoting development, security, and inclusion in Francophone Africa. He announced more than $11 million to support initiatives that focus on improved access to education, the empowerment of women and girls, youth nutrition and health, and the safety and security of communities, while strengthening our relations with French-speaking countries in Africa.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting governance modernization at the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) so it can fulfill its mandate transparently and as effectively as possible, especially with respect to promoting our shared values and the French language. He noted the work underway to map and identify workforce needs for the teaching of French and instruction in French. Prime Minister Trudeau also reiterated Canada’s support for La Francophonie’s operators and institutions by announcing a federal investment of nearly $1.6 million. This funding will support scientific research in French as well as student mobility and youth employability, while helping expand the diversity of French-language content on the TV5MONDEplus platform. It will also support research on promoting the French language and Francophone identities in cities across La Francophonie and foster the participation of women in parliaments in the Francophone world.

    In the Villers-Cotterêts Call, Canada and the other OIF member states and governments invited digital platforms to strengthen their commitments to create a safer and fairer digital space. They also agreed on the importance of promoting the responsible use and development of artificial intelligence and countering disinformation. To support this goal, Prime Minister Trudeau underscored the importance of continuing to build strong relationships with our partners in La Francophonie to create a safer and more prosperous future for our peoples.

    As a founding member of the OIF and its second-largest donor, Canada is firmly committed to supporting the OIF’s mandate and initiatives, in particular to protect and promote the French language as well as cultural and linguistic diversity. To that end, Canada signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the Cité internationale de la langue française, which seeks to promote the richness and diversity of the French language and its role in the world. By supporting this project, Canada is highlighting the importance of its Francophone minority communities, deepening exchanges between Francophones in Canada and abroad, and showcasing the diversity of the Canadian Francophonie to Cité visitors.

    Building on the progress made during President Macron’s visit to Canada last month, Prime Minister Trudeau also reiterated his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Canada and France.

    At the Summit, the Prime Minister met with international counterparts to discuss current geopolitical challenges with wide-ranging impacts, including in the Francophone world, especially the situation in Haiti, as well as tensions in the Middle East and along Lebanon’s southern border. He emphasized the importance of working together, as OIF partners, to preserve peace and security in the world.

    Quote

    “During the Sommet de la Francophonie, I renewed Canada’s commitment to promoting and protecting the French language. In collaboration with the OIF and the other member states and governments, we can create new opportunities for Francophone people around the world.”

    Quick Facts

    • This is the fourth time Prime Minister Trudeau has participated in the Sommet de la Francophonie.
    • During the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau met with the General Secretary and President of Vietnam, Tô Lâm, the Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, the Prime Minister of Belgium, Alexander De Croo, and the President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara.
    • In addition to the Villers-Cotterêts Call, OIF member states and governments adopted a resolution on crisis situations, crisis recovery, and peacebuilding in the Francophone world. They also approved the applications from countries and governments seeking observer status in the OIF, including Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia joins Quebec and New Brunswick, which are full members of the OIF, as well as Ontario, which has observer status.
    • At the Summit, Canada joined Quebec, the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, France, Monaco, and Switzerland in signing the Declaration of donor governments for TV5Monde. The Government of Canada is proud to be a partner of TV5Monde and to help promote La Francophonie. This declaration reaffirms our support for the French-language network and reflects our commitment to strengthening the network’s ties with other OIF member countries.
    • Canada and France also signed a bilateral collaborative agreement on emergency management. This agreement supports co-operation in planning responses to emergencies and other international crises, as well as mutual assistance in times of crisis, including consular efforts during assisted departures.
    • The Memorandum of Understanding on the Cité internationale de la langue française, signed during the Summit, will also make it possible to explore opportunities for co-operation with the Collège international de Villers-Cotterêts to train Francophone teachers and translators.
    • Canada and France enjoy deep bilateral relations and a dynamic and diversified trade relationship. In 2023, the French diaspora in Canada represented between 140,000 and 150,000 people. Canada also welcomed 27,110 French students in 2023.

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    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Parks Canada recognizes the importance of the Penman Textile Mill in Paris, Ontario, which formed the basis of the Penman Manufacturing Company, which grew from a single mill in 1868 to become the largest producer of knitted woollen goods in Canada by the end of the century.

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Parks Canada recognizes the importance of the Penman Textile Mill in Paris, Ontario, which formed the basis of the Penman Manufacturing Company, which grew from a single mill in 1868 to become the largest producer of knitted woollen goods in Canada by the end of the century.

    October 5, 2024 Toronto, Ontario Parks Canada

    Today, Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada commemorate the national historic significance of the Penman Textile Mill with a special plaque unveiling ceremony at Penman Manor in Paris, Ontario. The Penman Textile Mill, located in Paris, Ontario, was once the cornerstone of the Penman Manufacturing Company, Canada’s largest producer of knitted woollen goods in the late 19th century. Founded in 1868 by John Penman, the mill’s history illustrates the evolution of the textile industry in the region as well as broader trends in industrialization in Canada.

    In 1887, the company expanded to include a new mill across the Grand River. These developments, along with the operations of other businesses in the area, established the Grand River Valley as the heart of the Canadian hosiery industry. The Penman Textile Mill’s early operations included a wide range of yarn and knitwear production, before specializing in hosiery. By the late 1890s, the mill had a significant impact on employment in the community, and by the early 1900s, much of the workforce consisted of single British women, recruited for their skills in hosiery machinery and knitted fabrics.

    Founder John Penman acquired other mills in Ontario and Quebec before selling the business to become Penmans Limited in 1906. In 1965, Penmans was incorporated into the Dominion Textile Company. The Nith River Mill was sold in 1970 and has been converted over the years, including into residential property in the early 2000s, preserving the mill’s exterior architecture. While the site no longer contributes to the manufacturing of textile products, it remains a symbol of the industrial development that took place across Canada during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

    The Government of Canada, through Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, recognizes the significant people, places and events that have shaped this country to help Canadians connect with their past. By sharing these stories with Canadians, we hope to foster understanding and reflection on the diverse histories, cultures, heritage and realities of Canada’s past and present.

    The nomination process under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration relies largely on nominations from the public. To nominate a historic person, place or event in your community, please visit the Parks Canada website for more information: https://www.pc.gc.ca/fr/culture/clmhc-hsmbc/ncp-pcn/application.

    -30-

    Oliver AndersonDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change819-962-0686oliver.anderson@ec.gc.ca

    Media RelationsParks Canada Agency1-855-862-1812pc.media@pc.gc.ca

    Hayley Lashmar Acting Officer, Public Relations and Communications Parks Canada, Rouge National Urban Park Field Unit 519-324-5648hayley.lashmar@pc.gc.ca

    Gabe Camozzi Acting Officer, Communications with the CSMHC Parks Canada, Southwestern Ontario Field Unit 905-870-5724gabriel.camozzi@pc.gc.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Virginia

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Virginia

    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Virginia

    WASHINGTON — FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the Commonwealth of Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 25, 2024 and continuing.

    The President authorized these federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance has been increased to 100% of the total eligible costs for a period of 90 days of the Commonwealth’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –