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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Minister to attend international meetings in the Philippines and Singapore

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti will travel to Manila this weekend, leading New Zealand’s delegation to the World Health Organization’s Western Pacific Regional Committee Meeting.

    “Significant health challenges remain in our diverse Western Pacific region, which is also prone to the impacts of climate change,” says Dr Reti.

    “Being represented at and engaging in Manila for the 75th regional meeting will signal New Zealand’s commitment to working collectively on solutions for global and regional health issues.

    “It will also be a landmark meeting for our Pacific neighbours. It is highly significant that the first WHO Regional Director from the Pacific, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala of Tonga, will present his vision for addressing the region’s health priorities over the next five years. 

    “Although I have already met a number of Pacific Ministers of Health this year, this will be a further opportunity to demonstrate our shared support for very important work.”

    While in Manila, Dr Reti will address the Regional Committee on WHO governance matters and health issues of importance to New Zealand. This includes sharing the Government’s new direction for health and key features of New Zealand’s health strategy.

    He will also undertake bilateral meetings with ministerial counterparts before returning to New Zealand via Singapore, for additional meetings.

    “New Zealand and Singapore value a longstanding relationship, built on mutual respect. We are looking for new opportunities to collaborate, including in the health sector,” Dr Reti says.

    Dr Reti leaves New Zealand on 19 October and returns on 24 October.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Yates, ND Woman Indicted for Arson and Destruction of Government Property

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Bismarck – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on October 17, 2024, Melody Walker-White Twin, age 33 from Fort Yates, ND, made her initial appearance and was arraigned in federal court. The United States District Court for the District of North Dakota unsealed an Indictment revealing that a federal grand jury indicted Walker-White Twin for Arson and Destruction of Government Property, arising from a October 9, 2024 incident in Bismarck.

    The Indictment in this case is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    The Indictment alleges that on or about September 15, 2024, Walker-White Twin damaged or attempted to damage the United States Post Office located in Selfridge, North Dakota. Specifically, Walker-White Twin used rocks to break windows out of the Post Office.  It also alleges that between September 15 and 16, 2024, Walker-White Twin damaged or attempted to damage the United States Post Office located in Selfridge, North Dakota by means of fire. The Post Office was a total loss with only the vault remaining.  

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Investigative Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brandi Sasse Russell.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Tillis to introduce legislation to promote protection of international digital freedom

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) today announced plans to introduce the Advancing Digital Freedom Act of 2024, which would equip the U.S. State Department with the authorities to elevate digital freedom as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and support its critical role in advancing democratic governance around the world. Companion legislation will also be introduced in the House by Representatives Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.) and Young Kim (R-Calif.).
    “As a global leader of human rights, the United States must deter authoritarian and illiberal states that are using advanced technologies to threaten human rights alongside our own national security,” said Senator Coons. “Protecting digital freedom abroad is a cornerstone of American foreign policy for the modern age, and that is why we must cooperate with like-minded countries to develop and deploy emerging technology in a manner that respects democracy and rule of law. As Co-Chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I’m confident that this bill will help protect digital freedoms and counter global misinformation and disinformation in partnership with our allies.”
    “With increasing cyber threats and attacks on the horizon than ever before, working with our allies to counter them is all the more important,” said Senator Tillis. “Protecting and promoting digital freedom across the globe must be a priority, which is why I look forward to introducing this bipartisan legislation to ensure the Department of State continues to prioritize this as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.”
    “Digital technology has both benefits and drawbacks when it comes to advancing democracy,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “It can enable citizens to access information, share ideas, and organize while simultaneously allowing for authoritarian regimes to spread propaganda, enhance surveillance, and stifle free speech. We must ensure that digital technologies are used to strengthen democracy, not dismantle it. It is crucial for the United States to develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard digital freedom worldwide and work with partners to implement this plan. Promoting human rights and democracy at home and abroad must remain a bipartisan issue, and I am proud to advance these priorities with a bipartisan, bicameral group of congressional colleagues.”
    “The Unholy Alliance, including the People’s Republic of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, relies on abusive surveillance technologies to restrict access to information and the outside world and to maintain their grip on power,” said Congresswoman Young Kim, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. “To remain a global human rights leader, the United States cannot stand idly by as these authoritarian regimes use digital technologies and platforms to suppress innocent civilians, religious minorities, and political dissenters. I am proud to join Representative Kamlager-Dove and Senators Coons and Tillis to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to protect the right to international digital freedom. I’ll keep fighting to ensure the United States promotes global human rights and protects freedom-loving people around the world.”
    The right to freedom of expression has become a fault line between pro-democracy groups and authoritarian governments. Digital platforms, including social media, have been crucial tools for movements such as the Mahsa Amini protests in Iran or the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong. However, autocratic governments have attempted to stifle these efforts by cracking down on digital freedom. Russia and China deploy digital tools to identify and silence dissidents, Iran routinely blocks access to thousands of websites conveying political content, and North Korea and Venezuela coordinate disinformation campaigns to undermine citizens’ access to credible information. To address such threats to digital freedom, the Advancing Digital Freedom Act would strengthen the United States’ role in leading efforts to ensure technology is used to uphold human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law. 
    Specifically, the bill would:
    Elevate digital freedom as a foremost foreign policy priority of the United States;
    Empower the Coordinator for Digital Freedom in the State Department’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to lead global efforts to protect digital freedom, counter disinformation and misinformation, and advance democratic governance in the digital space;
    Encourage the State Department to engage with foreign governments, nongovernmental organizations, and other actors to coordinate efforts to defend digital freedom against digital authoritarianism; and
    Require the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to submit an annual report to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the state of global digital freedom, including analysis of emerging and concerning trends impacting digital freedom.                                                                                                
    As Co-Chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, Senators Coons and Tillis are committed to the promotion and protection of human rights and democracy through U.S. foreign policy. Recently, the caucus has held briefings and issued statements on the state of conflict and human rights across the globe, including in the Horn of Africa, Ukraine, and across Latin America.   
    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping early childhood educators to upskill

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Government is helping early childhood educators gain the valuable on-the-job experience they need to complete qualifications and upskill. 

    Minister for Early Childhood Education Dr Anne Aly today launched a new Practicum Exchange Network to help early learning providers participate in prac exchanges with other services. 

    “This will help early childhood educators complete prac requirements for early learning qualifications,” Minister Aly said.

    “The new Practicum Exchange Network website will enable early learning services and educators to find and organise prac exchanges with other services and educators.  

    “Prac exchanges help students learn from experienced educators and teachers, gaining a wealth of experience and knowledge in a variety of settings.

    “From January 2025, educators who undertake prac in a rural or remote location, away from home, will be able to apply for a living allowance to assist with relocation costs.”

    The new website is part of the Government’s $72.4 million Early Childhood Education Workforce package which is helping to build and retain a highly skilled early learning workforce.  

    The package is also helping existing educators upskill through a paid prac wage subsidy, supporting educators to complete placements.

    The funding also enables positions to be backfilled while early childhood educators, teachers and centre directors undertake professional development opportunities.

    Shaped by engagement with the sector, the workforce package is another way the Albanese Government is recognising the professionalism of early childhood educators.

    The Government is also delivering a historic 15 per cent wage rise for the critical early childhood education and care workforce, helping to retain the current workforce while also attracting new people to the sector. 

    A sustainable and high-quality early childhood education and care workforce is a vital step towards building a universal early learning and care system that works for children and families.

    To learn more or to join the Practicum Exchange Network visit prac.education.gov.au.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Nowhere to hide: Five in custody following flees

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police in Counties Manukau South have taken four teenagers into custody following a fleeing driver incident overnight.

    At about 1.30am, officers attempted to stop a Nissan Wingroad driving at excessive speed along Grove Road, Takanini.

    Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says the vehicle failed to stop and the unit elected not to pursue.

    “Enquiries with the registered owner confirmed the vehicle had been stolen.

    “Ten minutes later the vehicle was sighted travelling on Dominion Road, Papakura.”

    Inspector Hoyes says the Police Eagle helicopter quickly got overhead and followed the vehicle as it drove to Tilbrook Place where it was abandoned and the group fled on foot.

    “The youths were seen running into a property on Hethdale Crescent where they attempted to hide in the garage, but were taken into custody without incident.

    “This was a great outcome from our staff last night and another great example of multiple Police resources successfully working together.”

    Four youths, aged 13-14, have been referred to Youth Aid Services.

    Meanwhile, Police in Pakuranga attempted to stop a speeding vehicle travelling on Pakuranga Road at about 3.18am.

    Counties Manukau East Area Commander, Inspector Rod Honan, says Police did not pursue the vehicle and instead called on air support to assist.

    “Eagle located the vehicle parked in the driveway of a Hillside Road, Mt Wellington address.

    “A male was then observed hiding in a construction site, where officers have quickly taken him into custody.

    “Police are often being called to incidents of this nature, however we hope the public are reassured that we are continuously holding those involved to account.”

    A 32-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with unlawfully getting into a motor vehicle, failing to stop, unlicensed driver failing to comply with probation and failing to carry out obligations in relation to a computer search.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Murder charge laid after man found critically injured in Whangamarino dies

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    To be attributed to Detective Senior Sergeant Kristine Clarke:

    A 32-year-old Auckland man has been charged with murder, following the death of a man found critically injured on Hampton Downs Road, Whangamarino earlier this week.

    The victim, a 43-year-old man, had been transported to Auckland Hospital in a critical condition and tragically has since passed away.

    A 32-year-old man was arrested in Papakura last night (17 October) and will be appearing in Manukau District Court today.

    Police would still like to hear from anyone who was travelling on Hampton Downs Road between 10pm on Sunday 13 October and 1am on 14 October, particularly if you have dashcam footage.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241014/2225.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Charges laid over alleged historical offending

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A former staff member of St Bede’s College is before the courts in relation to historical sexual offending against students.

    The accused faces four charges of assault on a boy between 12 and 16, and three charges of indecent assault on a man/boy over 16. He is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court on 5 November.

    The charges relate to offending against three individuals who boarded at St Bede’s College approximately two decades ago.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons says Police believe the alleged offender targeted those boarding at the school during this time, and the investigations remain ongoing to determine if there is any further offending not yet reported to Police.

    “Police are making contact with students who boarded at the school over the identified period of time.

    “We know it can be incredibly hard and at times distressing to report or talk about incidents of this nature, but we would like to reassure any victims of sexual offending we take these matters seriously.

    “We have a number of officers and detectives dedicated to these cases, and we will ensure you have a safe space to report offending in confidence,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Simmons.

    If any survivors would like to contact Police please contact Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons at the Christchurch Central Police Station, alternatively you can report it online here, referencing the file number 230122/3143.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces Charges Against Indian Government Employee in Connection with Foiled Plot to Assassinate U.S. Citizen in New York City

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Vikash Yadav Directed Plot to Murder U.S.-Based Leader of Sikh Separatist Movement

    Note: View the second unsealed superseding indictment here.

    The Justice Department today announced the filing of murder-for-hire and money laundering charges against Indian government employee, Vikash Yadav, 39, also known as Vikas, and Amanat, in connection with his role in directing a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. citizen in New York City. Yadav is charged in a second superseding indictment unsealed today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Yadav’s alleged co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, 53, was previously charged and extradited to the United States on the charges contained in the first superseding indictment. Yadav remains at large.

    “The Justice Department will be relentless in holding accountable any person — regardless of their position or proximity to power — who seeks to harm and silence American citizens,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As alleged, last year, we foiled an attempt by Vikash Yadav, an Indian government employee, and his co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, to assassinate an American citizen on U.S. soil.  Today’s charges demonstrate that the Justice Department will not tolerate attempts to target and endanger Americans and to undermine the rights to which every U.S. citizen is entitled.”

    “The defendant, an Indian government employee, allegedly conspired with a criminal associate and attempted to assassinate a U.S. citizen on American soil for exercising their First Amendment rights,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI will not tolerate acts of violence or other efforts to retaliate against those residing in the U.S. for exercising their constitutionally protected rights. We are committed to working with our partners to detect, disrupt, and hold accountable foreign nationals or others who seek to engage in such acts of transnational repression.”

    “Today’s charges are a grave example of the increase in lethal plotting and other forms of violent transnational repression targeting diaspora communities in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “To the governments around the world who may be considering such criminal activity and to the communities they would target, let there be no doubt that the Department of Justice is committed to disrupting and exposing these plots and to holding the wrongful actors accountable no matter who they are or where they reside.”

    “DEA foiled this assassination attempt last year and has continued to trace this case back to an employee of the Indian government whom we charge was an orchestrator of this intricate murder-for-hire scheme. DEA did not relent, and today’s indictment names Vikash Yadav as an alleged mastermind,” said Administrator Anne Milgram of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “We charge that Yadav, an employee of the Indian government, used his position of authority and access to confidential information to direct the attempted assassination of an outspoken critic of the Indian government here on U.S. soil. This case was led by the DEA New York Division’s Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of DEA, the New York State Police, and the New York City Police Department, and is a true testament to the tenacity and determination of our team.”

    “Last year, this office charged Nikhil Gupta for conspiring to assassinate a U.S. citizen of Indian origin on U.S. soil,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. “But, as alleged, Gupta did not work alone. Today, we announce charges against an Indian government employee, Vikash Yadav, who orchestrated the plot from India and directed Gupta to hire a hitman to murder the victim. The right to exercise free speech is foundational to our democracy, and predicated on the notion that we can do so without fear of violence or reprisal, including from beyond our borders. Let this case be a warning to all those who would seek to harm and silence U.S. citizens: we will hold you accountable, no matter who and where you are.” 

    As alleged in the second superseding indictment and other public court documents, in 2023, Yadav, working together with others, including Gupta, in India, and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on U.S. soil an attorney and political activist who is a U.S. citizen of Indian origin residing in New York City (the victim). The victim is a vocal critic of the Indian government and leads a U.S.-based organization that advocates for the secession of Punjab, a state in northern India that is home to a large population of Sikhs, an ethnoreligious minority group in India. The victim has publicly called for some or all of Punjab to secede from India and establish a Sikh sovereign state called Khalistan, and the Indian government has banned the victim and his separatist organization from India.

    During times relevant to the second superseding indictment, Yadav was employed by the Government of India’s Cabinet Secretariat, which houses Indian’s foreign intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing. Yadav has described his position as a “senior field officer” with responsibilities in “security management” and “intelligence.” Yadav also has referenced previously serving in India’s Central Reserve Police Force and receiving “officer[] training” in “battle craft” and “weapons.” Yadav is a citizen and resident of India, and he directed the plot to assassinate the Victim from India.

    In or about May 2023, Yadav recruited Gupta to orchestrate the assassination of the victim in the United States. Gupta is an Indian national who resided in India and has described his involvement in international narcotics and weapons trafficking in his communications with Yadav and others. At Yadav’s direction, Gupta contacted an individual whom Gupta believed to be a criminal associate, but who was in fact a confidential source (the CS) working with the DEA, for assistance in contracting a hitman to murder the victim in New York City. The CS introduced Gupta to a purported hitman, who was in fact a DEA undercover officer (the UC). Yadav subsequently agreed, in dealings brokered by Gupta, to pay the UC $100,000 to murder the victim. On or about June 9, 2023, Yadav and Gupta arranged for an associate to deliver $15,000 in cash to the UC as an advance payment for the murder. Yadav’s associate then delivered the $15,000 to the UC in Manhattan.

    In or about June 2023, in furtherance of the assassination plot, Yadav provided Gupta with personal information about the victim, including the victim’s home address in New York City, phone numbers associated with the victim, and details about the victim’s day-to-day conduct, which Gupta then passed to the UC. Yadav directed Gupta to provide regular updates on the progress of the assassination plot, which Gupta accomplished by forwarding to Yadav, among other things, surveillance photographs of the victim. Gupta directed the UC to carry out the murder as soon as possible, but Gupta also specifically instructed the UC not to commit the murder around the time of the Indian Prime Minister’s official state visit to the United States, which was scheduled to begin on or about June 20, 2023.

    On or about June 18, 2023, approximately two days before the Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to the United States, masked gunmen murdered Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia, Canada. Nijjar was an associate of the victim, and, like the victim, was a leader of the Sikh separatist movement and an outspoken critic of the Indian government. On or about June 19, 2023, the day after the Nijjar murder, Gupta told the UC that Nijjar “was also the target” and “we have so many targets.” Gupta added that, in light of Nijjar’s murder, there was “now no need to wait” on killing the Victim. On or about June 20, 2023, Yadav sent Gupta a news article about the victim and messaged Gupta, “[i]t’s [a] priority now.”

    Yadav and Gupta of India have been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; and conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The DEA New York Division and the FBI New York Field Office’s Counterintelligence Division are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the DEA Special Operations Division, DEA Vienna Country Office, FBI Prague Country Office, Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and Czech Republic’s National Drug Headquarters.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camille L. Fletcher, Ashley C. Nicolas, and Alexander Li for the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Christopher Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Trial Attorney A.J. Dixon of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New members appointed to NZ On Air Board

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Brett Banner and Philip Crump have been appointed to the NZ On Air Board, Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

    “I am delighted to appoint two members who bring such fantastic media skills and experience. 

    “Mr Banner has a strong commercial and accounting background which will be a great asset to NZ On Air. He has an extensive knowledge of the entity having been an independent member of the NZ On Air Audit and Risk Committee for many years.

    “Mr Crump brings a strong background in media, having recently been an editor for Newstalk ZB Plus. He has a background as a lawyer and substantial knowledge of commercial contracts, financing, and the broadcasting sector.

    “I would like to acknowledge outgoing board member John McCay for his service on the NZ On Air Board whose term has come to an end.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Planned closure SH35 Rotokautuku (Waiapu) Bridge, Ruatoria next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    18 October 2024 7:56 am | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

    The first planned closure of State Highway 35 at Rotokautuku (Waiapu) Bridge will take place next Wednesday 23 October between midday and 12.30pm.

    During the closure, the highway will be closed in both directions between Bridge Rd and Thatcher Rd.

    While the bridge remains structurally sound, repairs to the bearings and cross bracing are needed to restore the damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle and to improve its strength.

    Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) crews, on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), will be raising the bridge by a few millimetres to carry out this work.

    Repair work beneath the bridge has been underway for a number of weeks and will continue through to Christmas. Further 30-minute bridge closures are required with the dates and times to be communicated in the next few weeks. Outside of the planned closures, minimal impact on traffic is expected.

    There are no viable detours. NZTA is reminding road users on this stretch of SH35 to plan for this delay or avoid travelling at these times.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minns labor government continues support for regional and community papers

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional NSW

    This Minns Labor Government is continuing work to safeguard the production of local stories across the state with $3 million in grants to be made available to regional and rural newspapers.

    Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty announced the delivery of the Government’s top up of $3 million to make the Regional Media Fund a $6 million commitment since its election, at the 2024 Country Press NSW Conference and Awards of Excellence in Dubbo.

    Regional media plays a vital role in keeping their communities informed and reporting on matters of importance, as well as informing, celebrating and connecting people.

    The first round of the Regional Media Fund, which closed in April 2023, delivered grants to 47 regional outlets to support diversification and expansion into digital content.

    Following consultation with regional media stakeholders, including the Country Press NSW and Australian Community Media, the second round of this program will be improved to better reflect industry needs and ease accessibility for support.

    This new funding will be made available to help support media organisations to meet the production, operational and content gathering costs associated with running a regional and rural media outlet.

    Eligibility and guidelines of the second round will be finalised in the coming weeks in close consultation with industry and stakeholders with grant applications to open before the end of the year.

    This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing work to deliver solutions which will support regional NSW communities to thrive.

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

    “The Minns Labor Government understands the importance of local papers and local stories particularly in regional communities.

    “It is regional and rural papers that help get local issues on the agenda that would otherwise fall through the cracks.

    “We understand complex barriers face these outlets, including the rise of technology. This funding is about providing responsible support which will ease the pressure facing regional media.   

    Country Press NSW President Lucie Peart said:

    “We are pleased that the Minister has announced the Regional Media Fund Round Two. This second round was a key piece of the government’s election commitment.

    “We are grateful that this round will provide further support to regional publishers. Since the first round of the fund, the landscape for regional news businesses has changed; we are challenged by digital platforms and a further decline in newsrooms across the state.

    “This second round of funding will provide a boost to the regional news industry and allow journalists and local newspaper publishers to keep doing what they do best – keeping communities informed and providing vital public interest journalism.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work starts to find NSW’s next new cruise terminal

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Transport

    A panel of cruise and tourism industry experts has been established to work on identifying the preferred location for a potential new cruise terminal in NSW.

    This will allow the NSW Government to determine the best solution to plan for a new terminal so our state can maintain and grow its market share of Australia’s multi-billion dollar cruise industry well into the future.

    A new cruise terminal will provide greater capacity for our cruise industry, which contributed $4.4 billion to the NSW economy in 2023-24 and created more than 13,700 jobs.

    The Cruising Industry Advisory Panel has been convened by NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen and will be chaired by Port Authority CEO Phil Holliday, supported by industry experts including:

    • John McKenna, Port Authority Chief Customer and Commercial Officer
    • Margy Osmond, CEO Tourism and Transport Forum
    • Marika Calfas, NSW Ports
    • Gavin Smith, Vice President and Managing Director in Australia and New Zealand of Royal Caribbean International
    • Peter Little, Interim Leader for P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia
      Jill Abel, CEO, Australian Cruise Association
    • Sarina Bratton, Ponant
    • Joel Katz, Managing Director Cruise Lines International Association Australasia
      Antony Ritch, CEO, TFE Hotels
    • Ben Angell, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Vice President & Managing Director

    While Sydney cruise terminals have not reached capacity for bookings yet, the panel will identify options for a future berthing facility to support the long-term growth of the cruise industry across our state.

    The Panel will also investigate options for increased capacity at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, ensuring the cruise industry remain well supported for growth, as plans progress to investigate options for a potential third cruise terminal.

    This work follows the Minns Government’s announcement that Shore Power at the White Bay Cruise Terminal will be delivered by the end of 2026, so cruise ships can plug into power instead of running their engines while in port.

    Quotes attributable to NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen:

    “The cruise industry in NSW is making a massive contribution to our economy, but it needs certainty so we can all get the benefits from its long-term growth.

    “NSW’s next permanent cruise terminal will be a massive new piece of infrastructure and we have to get it right. That’s why we’ve assembled the best people to find the best location, so we can grow our cruise industry long into the future.”

    Quotes attributable to Tourism and Transport Forum CEO Margy Osmond:

    “It’s fantastic to see the State Government and industry coming together to identify a third cruise terminal, to attract more visitors and boost tourism across NSW. We look forward to working with the Port Authority to deliver a more certain future for the cruise industry and all Australians who love to cruise.

    Increasing capacity will be essential to cater for the growing interest in cruising and support a range of jobs linked to cruise tourism, spanning restaurants, hotels, retailers, travel agents and more.”

    Quotes attributable to Port Authority CEO Captain Philip Holliday:

    “Port Authority is delighted to be leading this cross-industry panel as the next step in determining the right location for a new state-of-the art third cruise terminal in NSW.

    Planning for a third terminal is about keeping NSW in pole position as the capital of cruise and retaining the lion’s share of economic benefits from cruise right here in NSW to support local hospitality and retail businesses, tourism and suppliers.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian tourism ministers join forces to propel tourism forward

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023.

    October 17, 2024 – Banff, Alberta

    Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023. In several jurisdictions, tourism is the top or one of the top service exports. Today, the federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for tourism participated in the 2024 Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) meeting in Banff National Park. The meeting was held in Alberta with the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, as well as the Honourable Joseph Schow, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport, co-chairing and recognizing the traditional Treaty 7 territory.

    In 2023, tourism industries represented nearly 6 percent of Canada’s total economy and almost 8 percent of the Canadian service economy. Tourism revenues reached $113.4 billion in 2023 and the positive experiences international tourists have in Canada enhance the country’s brand abroad. Tourism has strong growth potential in every province and territory, and ministers recognized that strategic and collaborative actions will propel the sector forward.

    Throughout the meeting, ministers heard from tourism stakeholders on the areas of destination development, investment attraction, workforce development and retention, air access, parks and recreation, and emergency management. Ministers acknowledged the importance of having consistent dialogue with experts in these fields to capitalize on trends, glean critical operational insights, and work collaboratively with industry partners to find solutions for the most pressing challenges facing the sector. Ministers sought an international perspective by inviting a speaker from the Government of Australia to discuss experiences and best practices in attracting workers to careers in tourism. Ministers also heard from Alberta officials about their successes in supporting the recovery and relaunch of the tourism sector, while bringing attention to ambitious strategic plans for the future, which aim to more than double the size of the province’s visitor economy within the next decade. Alberta demonstrated leadership within Canada’s overall tourism economy, ushering in a return to pre-pandemic levels of visitor spending two years ahead of schedule.

    Ministers also acknowledged the economic impact of this summer’s wildfires across Canada, particularly in the Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park, as well as the critical importance of effective emergency management and disaster preparedness. Ministers also noted that emergency management is paramount for all jurisdictions as, like other countries, Canada faces the potential of a range of emergency events year-round. Maintaining Canada’s brand and reputation are important components of the collaborative work of jurisdictions to respond to events as they arise.

    Ministers were pleased with the work accomplished by the CCTM Working Groups throughout 2024 to address the topics of destination access and economic growth, as well as the important connections forged with external organizations. Ministers took the opportunity to discuss areas that impact the growth of tourism in Canada, such as limited transportation connectivity in some regions, barriers to raising private capital for investments, fees and regulations impacting the competitiveness of domestic air travel, and associated challenges including the seasonal nature of tourism. Recognizing the critical importance of the link between tourism and transportation, there was a desire to invite the Federal Minister of Transport to next year’s CCTM meeting.

    In 2025, the CCTM will seek to refresh the mandates of the Working Groups to ensure their work addresses emerging priorities while effectively leveraging inter-governmental collaboration. To that end, jurisdictions will be focusing on the responsiveness and preparedness of the sector to emergency events, and ensuring capacity for strong economic growth of the industry. Efforts will be made to look at new mandate areas from different angles, while also engaging broadly across the sector to ensure CCTM priorities align with industry.

    Canada’s provinces and territories continue to showcase their diverse tourism offerings globally, ranging from parks and attractions in the great outdoors, to major festivals and events, and Indigenous tourism. Successes are evident with Canada’s overall position on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index improving to 11th place in the 2024 ranking, up from 13th place in 2021. Going forward, ministers are keen to work collaboratively to tackle persistent issues and showcase Canada’s leadership in tourism on the world stage. 

    Marie-Justine Torres
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
    613-327-5918
    marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Amber Edgerton
    Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Tourism and Sport
    Government of Alberta
    780-222-6113
    amber.edgerton@gov.ab.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government praises important progress on East Coast clean-up

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Important progress is being made on cleaning-up and strengthening resilience in the Tairāwhiti region, 18 months on from the devastating weather events in 2023, Forestry Minister Todd McClay said today.

    To date the Government has committed $110 million resulting in approximately 440,000 tonnes of slash and debris being removed from Tairāwhiti.

    “I want to acknowledge the significant impact on the region and local people and praise the clean-up efforts of all those involved. There is strong momentum and coordination of work in the region across local and central government, and the Forestry and Agriculture sectors in addressing the impacts of last year’s cyclones,” Mr McClay says.

    In response to Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle in January and February 2023, the previous Government initiated the Ministerial Inquiry into Land Use in Tairāwhiti/Gisborne and Wairoa. It resulted in 49 recommendations to both reduce risk and strengthen resilience in the region.

    “This Government is focused on delivering tangible outcomes through the recently established Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group and Gisborne District Council-led Transition Advisory Group.

    “The Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group made up of forestry owners, farming interests, Māori landowners and council officials, is working to accelerate the clean-up in the region, remove debris and sediment, address the legacy issue of wood that poses future risk and help to implement best practice for forestry. 

    “The Gisborne District Council-led Transition Advisory Group is working together to support landowners make the changes required to a more sustainable land-use.

    “Central government will continue to stay closely engaged in regionally led initiatives through existing work programmes. This will ensure efforts to align with Government priorities and support the Crown’s Treaty relationships.”

    “Forestry has an important role in Tairāwhiti, but it will be done differently in the future to ensure risks are well managed. 

    “The Government recognises the importance of the forestry sector to the regional economy. Proposed changes to the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry will enable council to implement rules to ensure land use is appropriate, but also give certainty and confidence to the forestry sector.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: MEDIA AVAILABILIY: Coast Guard, partners to discuss rescue of 17-year-old kayaker

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    10/17/2024 06:15 PM EDT

    WHO: Coast Guard Sector Honolulu, Honolulu Fire Department, Honolulu Ocean Safety Department WHAT: Holding joint press briefing about rescue of missing 17-year-old kayaker off Waikiki WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 WHERE: Hale Kinai Ahi Auditorium, Honolulu Fire Department Headquarters, 636 South St., Honolulu, HI 96813

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson City Man Sentenced for $26 Million Bank Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Jefferson City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for a multi-million dollar bank fraud scheme that included fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for four businesses.

    Tod Ray Keilholz, 61, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to a total sentence of 12 years in federal prison without parole.

    On March 28, 2024, Keilholz pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud, one count of money laundering, and one count of aggravated identity theft.

    Keilholz was the sole owner of TRK Construction, LLC, TRK Valpo, LLC, TL Builders, LLC, and Project Design, LLC.

    By pleading guilty, Keilholz admitted that he engaged in a bank fraud scheme from Jan. 1, 2018, to Jan. 7, 2021.

    Prior to the bank fraud scheme, Keilholz obtained three business loans totaling $3,526,771 from Hawthorn Bank between Aug. 31, 2017, and Sept. 21, 2018. One of these loans financed the purchase of property in Valparaiso, Indiana. As Keilholz’s businesses failed, these loans fell into default and sub-contractors sued him for unpaid invoices during 2019 and 2020. In February 2020, Hawthorn Bank initiated foreclosure proceedings. Keilholz delayed the foreclosure proceedings and paid off these loans and other past due debts with fraudulent PPP loans.

    The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the PPP authorized forgivable loans, guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments.

    Keilholz received a total of $12,430,932 in PPP loans for his four businesses. In each of those loan applications, Keilholz admitted, he failed to disclose his ownership in the other three businesses, and made materially false and fraudulent claims in the loan applications and supporting documentation. Keilholz falsely stated the businesses were in operation on Feb. 15, 2020, and eligible for PPP loans. He inflated the income of those businesses and claimed payrolls for employees who did not exist or no longer worked for him. Additionally, Keilholz applied for a $7,818,705 PPP loan for TRK Valpo but the loan was denied by the bank.

    Keilholz received a $1,706,260 PPP loan for TRK Construction, a $3,618,815 PPP loan for TL Builders, a $3,903,857 PPP loan for Project Design, and a $3,202,000 PPP loan for TRK Valpo.

    Keilholz admitted that he used PPP loan proceeds for unauthorized purposes other than legitimate payroll, lease and mortgage interest, and utilities as required by the PPP. Keilholz, through TRK Construction, had accrued substantial and delinquent indebtedness to a number of lenders, and all or part of these debts were satisfied by PPP loan proceeds.

    The conviction for aggravated identity theft is related to Keilholz’s use of a former TRK Construction employee whose name and Social Security number were used without his knowledge or authorization on wage reports in connection with a fraudulent PPP loan application for TRK Valpo.

    Under the terms of his plea agreement, Keilholz must forfeit to the government any property involved in, or derived from the proceeds of his bank fraud scheme, including a money judgment of $12,430,932, two properties in Jefferson City, one property in Valparaiso, one property in La Porte, Ind., four vehicles (a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, two 2021 Chevrolet Silverados, and a 2019 BMW X5), a 2020 John Deer ZTrak, a 2020 John Deere Tractor, a Kubota Compact Track Loader, a Gents 43mm IWC Schaffhausen Perpetual Chronograph wristwatch, two Gents stainless steel Rolex Sea-Dweller self-winding automatic diver’s watches, and a Gents Citizen Eco-Drive Radio-controlled world time self-winding automatic watch with sapphire crystal.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Oliver. It was investigated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General; the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General; the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration; the FBI; and IRS-Criminal Investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fifteenth Defendant Sentenced for Prison Drug Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Gulfport, Miss. – A Long Beach, Mississippi man was sentenced to 99 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

    Johnson Tran, 47, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.

    According to court documents and information presented to the Court, in 2018, agents with the DEA received information from the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) that drug laced letters and greeting cards were being sent to inmates in the Bureau of Prisons from the Southern District of Mississippi.  The drug laced letters and cards were intercepted at prisons in Illinois, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

    DEA and BOP officials were able to determine that inmates were ordering the drug laced letters and cards from Johnson Tran via prison email accounts and jail calls.   The inmates would typically order the drugs using coded language. The letters or greeting cards were laced with FUB-AMB and 5F-MDMB-PICA, which are Schedule I controlled substances and synthetic cannabinoids.  Many of them were sent through the postal service in Gulfport, Mississippi, and Tran’s base of operation was Harrison County, Mississippi.

    Agents were also able to determine through the review of financial records that Tran would ultimately receive payment for the drugs that he sent into prison via U.S. Department of Treasury checks drawn from the inmate’s prison accounts and/or peer-to-peer money transfers from associates or family members of the inmates.  When Tran’s associates would receive funds on Tran’s behalf, Tran would give them a portion of the funds they received as payment for their services.

    In addition to Johnson Tran, fourteen other defendants have now been sentenced in the case:  

    Chaze Lowery and William Hernandez previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. Lowery was sentenced to 48 months in prison and Hernandez was sentenced to 87 months in prison.  Jermaine Jones pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced to 62 months imprisonment.

    Jorge Pena, Trae Short, Bobby Huneycutt, Clarence Plato, Ryan Douglas, Salomon Ayala, Stanley Spriggs, Corderius Trammell, Jonathan Estrada, Marcus Thames, and Allen Butler all pled guilty to conspiring to commit an offense against the United States by conspiring to introduce contraband to a federal correctional facility. Their sentences ranged from time served to 52 months in prison.

    Two additional defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing:

    Ryan Schmittaur pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. He will be sentenced on October 22, 2024, and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. Ashley Magee pled guilty to engaging in an unlicensed money transmission business by accepting and transferring money on behalf of Johnson Tran and the inmates. She will be sentenced on January 7, 2025, and faces a maximum of 5 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Todd Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw of the Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Buckner.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor- led, intelligence driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Completes Visits to All 87 Counties in 2024

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    MINNESOTA – With stops today in three remaining counties: Aitkin (American Peat Manufacturing); Carlton (local airport), and Kanabec (Lakes & Pines Community Action Council), U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has once again visited every one of Minnesota’s 87 counties in one year.

    “The best way for me to do my job is by listening to the people of Minnesota and getting things done for them,” said Klobuchar. “That’s why every year I meet with Minnesotans all over our state and discuss what we can get done together. From expanding child care and housing to supporting local businesses, I’m committed to taking action on the issues that matter most.”

    Today, Klobuchar toured American Peat Technology in Aitkin and then went to the Cloquet Airport in Carlton County which is developing a new storage hanger thanks to federal funding. Klobuchar ended the day in Mora and visited the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council. 

    This year, Klobuchar’s stops included: 

    1. Aitkin
    • Toured American Peat Technology and met with their leadership team.

    2. Anoka
    • Gave remarks at the USA Cup Opening Ceremony in Blaine.
    • Attended the 43rd annual Game Fair and discussed conservation policy with Ron Schara.
    • Participated in Coon Rapids 4th of July Festivities.
    • Attended the Blaine Festival.

    3. Becker
    • Led a child care discussion and toured the Boys & Girls Club of Detroit Lakes LEAP Preschool.

    4. Beltrami
    • Led a breakfast discussion with Bemidji City and Beltrami county and tribal leaders.
    • Spoke at the dedication ceremony of the new Bemidji Veterans Home, toured it with veterans, and met with Red Lake Band Members.

    5. Benton
    • Toured SNX Technologies Inc. and met with their leadership.

    6. Big Stone
    • Discussed agriculture with local farmers while touring Anne Schwagerl’s farm.

    7. Blue Earth
    • Visited Mankato in the aftermath of severe flooding with Mankato mayor and Representative Finstad.
    • Met with family and friends of Sergeant Cade Wolfe.

    8. Brown
    • Attended the community celebration at the Pheasant Opener in Sleepy Eye and spoke at the Pheasants Forever land dedication.
    • Toured the New Ulm Airport’s recent upgrades and met with local leaders.

    9. Carlton
    • Toured the new Cloquet airport hangar with airport leadership and the Cloquet mayor.

    10. Carver
    • Led a discussion with the City of Chaska mayor and public safety leadership about their Emergency Operations Center project.
    • Toured the town of Carver with the mayor in the aftermath of severe flooding.
    • Attended the Highway 212 Groundbreaking Ceremony.
    • Spoke to veterans at the Chanhassen Memorial Day event.

    11. Cass
    • Led a community discussion with the Walker mayor and local business leaders.

    12. Chippewa
    • Spoke with veterans and toured the new Montevideo Veterans Home.

    13. Chisago
    • Discussed regional tourism and toured the Franconia Sculpture Park.

    14. Clay
    • Celebrated the launch of the federally funded Moorhead 11th Street Underpass project.
    • Attended the Reimagine Romkey Park event.

    15. Clearwater
    • Toured TEAM Industries and met with their leadership.

    16. Cook
    • Visited the North Shore Winery and Coho Cafe.

    17. Cottonwood
    • Toured Red Rock Rural Water Treatment Center and visited with local leaders.

    18. Crow Wing
    • Met with the mayor and city leadership about the Highway 210 expansion in Brainerd.
    • Toured the new YMCA child care center.

    19. Dakota
    • Gave remarks at the Kaposia Library opening in South Saint Paul.
    • Met with Burnsville first responders.
    • Attended the opening ceremony of the Veterans Memorial Greenway in Inver Grove Heights.
    • Met with law enforcement and community leaders in Hastings to highlight the Cooper/Davis Act that requires social media to alert authorities when controlled substances are being distributed illicitly on their platforms.
    • Attended an event in Inver Grove Heights to highlight the new Criminal Justice Network for Minnesota law enforcement.
    • Led the Survivor March and delivered remarks at the Susan G. Komen 32nd Annual Race for the Cure in Eagan.

    20. Dodge
    • Met with the owner and toured Chaotic Good Brewery in Kasson.

    21. Douglas
    • Led a discussion at the Alexandria YMCA about their child care program.

    22. Faribault
    • Met with leadership and toured Winnebago Manufacturing in Blue Earth.

    23. Fillmore
    • Toured Harmony Enterprises manufacturing facility and their child care center.
    • Toured the new Preston State Veterans Home and met with veterans.

    24. Freeborn
    • Led a discussion and toured the Freeborn/Mower Electric Cooperative in Albert Lea.

    25. Goodhue
    • Met with students and school leadership to hear about the Red Wing Flight Path workforce training program.
    • Spoke at the 50th Anniversary Jaunt With Jim bike ride in Cannon Falls.

    26. Grant
    • Toured the West Central High School Greenhouse and the Central Lakes College’s mobile meat cutting trailer and met with FFA students and their instructors.

    27. Hennepin
    • Attended the annual MLK Breakfast.
    • Delivered remarks at the Asia Mall Lunar New Year celebration in Bloomington.
    • Delivered Remarks at the MN Newspaper Association Convention.
    • Met with officers at the Minneapolis Second Precinct Station.
    • Convened a meeting with the Metropolitan Airport Commission leadership to hear updates on aviation safety and passenger experience.
    • Delivered remarks at the Stand with Ukraine Two Year Commemoration event.
    • Spoke at the Annual Parkinson’s Foundation Walk in Plymouth.
    • Delivered remarks at the Celebrating the Sistas Awards Ceremony and presented the Icon Award honoring Laysha Ward.
    • Delivered remarks at the MN Ovarian Cancer Alliance Gala.
    • Visited Woodlake Nature Center in Richfield and met with staff.
    • Spoke at the 78th Annual Paralyzed Veterans of America National Convention.
    • Participated in the groundbreaking event for the St. Louis Park Cedar Lake Road Reconstruction project.
    • Spoke at the Annual Somali Independence Day Street Festival.
    • Delivered remarks at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation 75th Anniversary Gala.
    • Toured the I-494 construction site and met with local project leaders in Bloomington.
    • Attended the Minnesota Business Partnership Annual Dinner.
    • Attended the Twin Cities Pride Parade and Festival in Minneapolis.
    • Honored the Legendary Cornbread Harris at an event with his son Jimmy Jam.
    • Attended Champlin Father Hennepin Festival.
    • Convened a meeting with the Metropolitan Airport Commission leadership to hear updates on aviation safety and passenger experience.
    • Attended the Charles Lindbergh Richfield Post Office Dedication Ceremony.
    • Presented the Spirit of Hospitality Award at the Bloomington Travel and Tourism Diamond Service Awards Gala.
    • Attended the Niron opening and met with local businesses and Shakopee Band investors.

    28. Houston
    • Led a discussion with leadership and toured the Houston County airport in Caledonia.

    29. Hubbard
    • Toured a workforce housing development and met with local leaders.

    30. Isanti
    • Toured the North Star Child and Family Advocacy Center in Braham.

    31. Itasca
    • Met with leadership and toured the KOOTASCA Child Care Hub.

    32. Jackson
    • Met with first responders to discuss the new EMS telemedicine ambulance in Jackson.

    33. Kanabec
    • Toured the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council and visited with leaders.

    34. Kandiyohi
    • Toured the Life Link III Air Base at Willmar Municipal Airport.
    • Attended the four lane Highway 23 completion celebration.

    35. Kittson
    • Met with owners and toured Far North Distillery.

    36. Koochiching
    • Met with the team at the Voyageurs National Park Headquarters.

    37. Lac qui Parle
    • Toured PURIS Plant-Based Protein manufacturing facility and met with leadership.

    38. Lake
    • Visited the iconic Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors.

    39. Lake of the Woods
    • Met with county leadership about their new water safety equipment.

    40. Le Sueur
    • Led a discussion with the Le Sueur Sheriff and other local leaders and toured the department.
    • Viewed the flood damage and met with leadership in Waterville about federal assistance.

    41. Lincoln
    • Led a discussion at Lyon-Lincoln Electric Co-Op with their leadership.

    42. Lyon
    • Visited the farm of Carolyn and Jonathan Olson in Cottonwood.

    43. McLeod
    • Participated in the Winsted Post Office Rededication Ceremony to James A. Rogers, Jr.

    44. Mahnomen
    • Toured the White Earth Nation College with Chairman Fairbanks and members of the Tribal Council.

    45. Marshall
    • Toured North Valley Health Center Community Hospital in Warren.

    46. Martin
    • Toured the CHS soybean processing facility in Fairmont.

    47. Meeker
    • Toured the Doosan Bobcat manufacturing plant and met with leadership in Litchfield.

    48. Mille Lacs
    • Met with the owner and enjoyed breakfast at the Bee Cafe in Milaca.

    49. Morrison
    • Delivered remarks at the Memorial Day program at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.
    • Met with the mayor and area leadership to discuss the Little Falls bridge project.

    50. Mower
    • Led a discussion and toured the Hormel Foods child care center in Austin.
    • Attended the I-90 bridge project groundbreaking ceremony in Austin.

    51. Murray
    • Met with the owners and got a tour of Painted Prairie Vineyard in Currie.

    52. Nicollet
    • Toured KATO Engineering and met with leadership in North Mankato.
    • Delivered remarks and presented the Purple Heart at a ceremony honoring Corporal Earl Meyer in St. Peter.

    53. Nobles
    • Met with CEDA and county officials to discuss child care projects and solutions in Worthington.
    • Toured the Highway 59 federally funded street project with Worthington leadership.

    54. Norman
    • Convened a meeting with Norman County leadership to discuss the West Central Regional Water District project.

    55. Olmsted
    • Delivered remarks at the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association Annual Legislative Conference in Rochester.
    • Attended the Memorial Day Rochester Honkers game.
    • Toured the Mayo Clinic’s new Kellen building.
    • Delivered remarks at the Soldier’s Field Aquatic Center improvements opening ceremony.
    • Led a discussion with county leadership and law enforcement about efforts to combat illegal fentanyl use in Rochester.

    56. Otter Tail
    • Met with leadership from Pioneer Kids Child Care and toured the facility in Fergus Falls with Fergus Falls Chamber of Commerce members.

    57. Pennington
    • Visited Northern Woodwork Inc. in Thief River Falls.
    • Met with city and business leadership at Rivers and Rails Brewing Company.

    58. Pine
    • Toured Pine Technical & Community College and met with leadership.

    59. Pipestone
    • Met with local leaders at the Pipestone Airport to discuss improvement plans.

    60. Polk
    • Met with child care and city leaders at the Prairie Pines Child Care Center in Fosston.

    61. Pope
    • Met with staff and toured Clyde Machines in Glenwood with the mayor and Pope County leadership.

    62. Ramsey
    • Toured PAR Systems in Shoreview.
    • Delivered remarks at the St. Paul Firefighters Local 21 Installation celebration.
    • Gave welcome remarks at the Thai Songkran Festival opening ceremony.
    • Delivered remarks at the Official State Memorial Day event at Fort Snelling.
    • Spoke at the Hmong Freedom Festival in St. Paul.
    • Hosted Secretary Becerra at the Episcopal Homes Senior Living Center to highlight Medicare drug pricing.
    • Hosted tourism event at the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights.
    • Toured the Carter Work Project in St. Paul with Habitat for Humanity leadership.
    • Delivered remarks at the Military Appreciation Day event at the MN State Fair.
    • Spoke at the CLUES Fiesta Latina in St. Paul.
    • Toured Delkor Systems in Arden Hills with Ex-Im Bank Director Herrnstadt.
    • Led a round table discussion with Ex-Im Bank director and Minnesota business leaders.
    • Delivered remarks at the St. Paul Kellogg-Third Street Bridge Construction Kick Off event.
    • Attended the Serving Our Troops Event in support of military families.
    • Attended St. Paul St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
    • Toured the Neighborhood Development Center with Secretary Yellen

    63. Red Lake
    • Led a discussion about the Farm Bill with the Minnesota Wheat Growers Association and Minnesota Barley Growers Association.

    64. Redwood
    • Delivered remarks and met with agricultural leaders at Farmfest.

    65. Renville
    • Toured K&M Manufacturing in Renville and met with employees.

    66. Rice
    • Met local leaders and manufacturers to tour a planned child care facility in Faribault.
    • Toured flood damage and met with leadership in Northfield.

    67. Rock
    • Toured the new child care center under construction in Luverne.

    68. Roseau
    • Attended annual Hockey Day Celebration activities in Warroad.

    69. Saint Louis
    • Toured flood damage in downtown Cook with the mayor and local leaders.
    • Toured the flash flood damage in Biwabik with the mayor and local leaders.
    • Joined Duluth mayor to highlight the success of their flood mitigation projects.
    • Visited the Blatnik Bridge to highlight its need for repair.
    • Attended Fourth of July festivities in Aurora, Gilbert, Eveleth, Tower, and Ely.
    • Presented a flag to the Ely mayor at Ely Memorial High School in commemoration of their 100th Anniversary Celebration.
    • Attended Labor Day events in Duluth and Virginia.

    70. Scott
    • Met with Scott County Sheriff leadership, viewed the new rescue equipment, and toured the 911 Dispatch Center in Shakopee.

    71. Sherburne
    • Met with leadership of the Wave Youth Center in Big Lake to tour and discuss their expansion project for middle and high school-aged youth.

    72. Sibley
    • Toured the Heartland Ethanol Plant in Winthrop with company leadership.

    73. Stearns
    • Delivered remarks at the annual St. John’s Boys’ Choir Spring Gala in St. Cloud.
    • Spoke at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center 100th Anniversary celebration.
    • Toured the St. Cloud Coborn’s with business leadership.

    74. Steele
    • Convened a discussion with Owatonna High School staff and Chamber of Commerce leadership about their Youth Skills Training Program.

    75. Stevens
    • Met with the Chancellor of UMN Morris and toured the campus.

    76. Swift
    • Toured the Swift County Historical Museum in Benson and met with leadership.

    77. Todd
    • Met with company leadership of EnterpriseCP Manufacturing and toured the facility.

    78. Traverse
    • Led a discussion with Browns Valley mayor and fire chief to hear about fire department operations.

    79. Wabasha
    • Toured Pepin Manufacturing Inc. in Lake City.
    • Spoke at the Governor’s Fishing Opener Kick-Off in Lake City.

    80. Wadena
    • Met with Central Lakes College leaders to discuss their Butchery Program and federal partnerships.

    81. Waseca
    • Met with staff and toured Winegar Manufacturing in Waseca.

    82. Washington
    • Spoke at the 1st Annual Momentous Music Festival with Brian Mueller in Woodbury, honoring Aimee Muller.
    • Attended the Hugo Good Neighbors Day festivities.

    83. Watonwan
    • Visited the farm of Harold Wolle in St. James.

    84. Wilkin
    • Toured CHI St. Francis Health and met with leadership in Breckenridge.

    85. Winona
    • Visited local businesses in Winona with Chamber of Commerce leadership to discuss tourism.

    86. Wright
    • Attended the I-94 West Corridor Coalition Gap Project Groundbreaking Ceremony in Monticello which received federal funds.

    87. Yellow Medicine
    • Met with leadership and visited the Yellow Medicine County Historical Society and Museum.
    • Walked the Dave Smiglewski Memorial Trail in Granite Falls with the Smiglewski Family.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: A sister’s last hope to save her brother from addiction – David Vincent Smith’s He Ain’t Heavy is a triumphant debut

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Thompson, Lecturer, Australian Catholic University

    Bonsai Fims

    So, on we go
    His welfare is of my concern
    No burden is he to bear
    We’ll get there
    For I know
    He would not encumber me
    He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
    – He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother by The Hollies

    Writer–Director David Vincent Smith’s reference to The Hollies’ 1969 hit as the title for his new film is not without irony.

    Max (Sam Corlett) – drug-dependent and out of control – is clearly a crushing weight on his sister Jade (Leila George) and mother Bev (Greta Scacchi).

    The opening scene of this compelling new Australian production throws us right into the chaos he visits upon them. The desperate, violent, off-camera shouts of abuse from Max as his sister sneaks past concerned neighbours and into their mother’s house are obviously nothing new.

    Bev, seated at the kitchen table, shows none of the anxiety we see in Jade. Perhaps she’s beyond reacting to Max’s outbursts. Perhaps she looks past the ugly side of her son through eyes that see only with a mother’s love.

    Jade, however, is at the end of her tether. Everything she’s tried has failed. She’s left with just one last desperate measure.

    This desperate measure didn’t come to David Vincent Smith as a narrative conceit. It was much closer to home.

    One night, Smith got a call from his mother who told him his own drug-addicted brother was outside their home. As he explains in the film’s press kit:

    I could hear smashing windows in the background as he tried to claw his way inside. I was done. There had been many years of violence, emergency rooms and mental trauma […] my own life was suffering as a result […] what could I do? I had an idea – I could kidnap him. Take him out to the desert, throw away the car keys and resolve this once and for all.

    Smith didn’t pursue that extreme thought in real life. Instead, it found its way onto the screen, first as a short “proof of concept” film – I’m Not Hurting You, which played at the 2019 Sydney Film Festival – and then as He Ain’t Heavy, his first feature film.

    The kidnapping and withdrawal

    Jade does indeed kidnap her brother. She sedates him and brings him to their dead grandparents’ home in the country, which Jade and Bev have been packing up in preparation to for its sale.

    Here, we see Jade’s methodical preparation of the room where she will incarcerate Max, the food she will feed him, the posters and pamphlets that inform her how to manage a drug addict’s withdrawal.

    The film follows Jade (Leila George), who has spent much of her life trying to bring her brother Max out of his drug addiction.
    Bonsai Fims

    The choice of the grandparents’ home is significant for our understanding of this fractured family. Here we find evidence that things weren’t always like this.

    We see old photo albums of happier times, toys and games that are now just reminders of fun family visits, a guitar that was once part of Max’s promising singing career, the nearby waterhole where lazy days were spent, and pencil marks on the door jamb recording the siblings’ growth.

    Perhaps the resonance of their better days will be as powerful as the enforced withdrawal in bringing Max back. But, of course, Jade’s best-laid plans don’t go as she might have hoped.

    Sam Corlett, who plays Max, also plays the role of Leif Eriksson in the popular Netflix series Vikings: Valhalla.
    Bonsai Fims

    In many ways, Max’s drug addiction is what Alfred Hitchcock would have called a McGuffin – the story element you think the film is about, when in fact the film is about something else entirely.

    In this case, that something else is love: the love Jade feels for her brother that leads to this extreme action, the love Bev feels for her son that makes her vulnerable to his unpredictable and violent behaviour, and the absence of love Max feels for himself – a void that sucks him into a self-destructive spiral.

    He Ain’t Heavy is essentially a three-handed chamber piece that delivers a triumvirate of distinctive, grounded and well-delineated performances, each one serving a sharply written screenplay imbued with an authenticity that reflects Smith’s lived experience.

    Bev (Greta Scacchi) feels a lot of lover for her son, which makes her vulnerable to his unpredictable and violent behaviour.
    Bonsai Fims

    A powerful portrait of familial love

    Without giving any spoilers, there are some narrative conveniences along the way that might detract from a lesser film. In this case, however, they are easy to forgive, in favour of the powerful viewing experience they help deliver.

    If only for the curiosity factor, it’s worth noting Leila George is also Greta Scacchi’s real-life daughter (her father is Vincent D’Onofrio). This obviously doesn’t hurt when it comes to casting for family resemblance. But this tidbit of trivia is quickly forgotten in the moments of each of their finely crafted, absorbing performances.

    In Smith’s earlier short film version, we see a plaque on the grandparents’ kitchen wall with the following aphorism:

    RECIPE FOR LIFE – pinch of persistence, dash of kindness, spoonful of laughter, heap of love.

    This is a story about a family that has exhausted its persistence, and for whom laughter is something of the past. But Jade’s extreme action is really an act of kindness. Both she and Bev, in their own ways, are driven by that heap of love.

    He Ain’t Heavy is a film that deserves the same heap of love from its audience.

    The film serves a sharply written screenplay imbued with authenticity.
    Bonsai Fims

    He Ain’t Heavy is in select cinemas from October 17.

    Chris Thompson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A sister’s last hope to save her brother from addiction – David Vincent Smith’s He Ain’t Heavy is a triumphant debut – https://theconversation.com/a-sisters-last-hope-to-save-her-brother-from-addiction-david-vincent-smiths-he-aint-heavy-is-a-triumphant-debut-237764

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Potential long-term outcomes of recent intrusions in Kīlauea East Rift Zone

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. 

    Chain of Craters within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park before 1969, when several craters were partly or completely filled with lava. Now the Chain of Craters Road turns south, away from its pre-1969 route, between Pauahi and ʻAloʻi, a pit crater buried in 1969 by Maunaulu lava flows. The junction with the Hilina Pali Road is essentially at Devil’s Throat.

    The eruption in and near Nāpau Crater on September 15–20 is an example of a brief eruption in this area. If a longer and larger eruption were to occur, such as at Maunaulu (1969-1974), most lava flows would head south from their vents because of the topography. Some, however, could be trapped within craters, as at Nāpau, partly or completely filling them.

    This part of the rift zone is popularly known as the Chain of Craters. Geologically, all the craters are pit craters, which form solely by collapse of the ground surface without accompanying eruption at the site. Probably all the pit craters are younger than the 15th century.

    Before about 1900, 16 pit craters dimpled the surface from Luamanu to Nāpau. Some of the craters coalesced, so there are more craters than crater names; Hiʻiaka had two craters, Pauahi three; ʻAlae two, and Makaopuhi two. Another crater, Devil’s Throat, formed around 1900. 

    Beginning in the 1960s and continuing to the early 1980s, this area erupted numerous times. Seven craters were partly filled (Luamanu, Hiʻiaka, Pauahi, and Nāpau) or completely filled (Aloʻi, ʻAlae, and the deepest pit in Makaopuhi). Today, the upper East Rift Zone is defined by some to end at Maunaulu, a shield that grew in 1969-1974 between now-filled Aloʻi and ʻAlae Craters.

    The Chain of Craters is the only section of the East Rift Zone and its submarine extension, the Puna Ridge, that contains pit craters. This probably relates to the proximity of the Chain of Craters to the summit of Kīlauea, where magma rises from the mantle.  It stands to reason that such proximity leads to more intrusions than elsewhere along the rift zone. The infrequent lateral draining of such intrusions is the likely explanation of how pit craters form.

    The recent intrusions along the Chain of Craters could have three very different outcomes. Repeated intrusions might spawn eruptions could bypass the craters completely, or partly or completely fill one or more craters. Another possibility is that underground draining of one of the intrusions could lead to formation of a new pit crater. One or more eruptions seem far more likely (such as the recent Nāpau eruption), but collapse to form a new pit crater happened at least 17 times in the past 550 years and so is not a rare occurrence.

    History suggests another potential effect that could accompany continued intrusions in the East Rift Zone is earthquakes beneath the south flank of Kīlauea. Kīlauea volcano is always in a constant state of balance between extension of the south flank due to pressure beneath the summit of the volcano and intrusion of magma along the rift zones.  At times, the flank becomes loaded like a spring and even the relatively small force of an intrusion can trigger an earthquake. 

    The largest earthquake beneath Kīlauea’s south flank happened in 1975. On November 29, 1975, a deadly magnitude 7.7 earthquake, the largest on the island since 1868, struck the south flank. It unleashed a tsunami that killed two campers and many horses at Halapē, and the south flank of Kīlauea moved several meters southward and downward. We don’t know what led directly to this earthquake, but following, as it did, about 15 years of repeated intrusions along the Chain of Craters, a relationship with these intrusions is a possible interpretation. Current conditions provide an excellent opportunity to better understand the generation of south flank earthquakes. 

    All of these extreme scenarios—a new pit crater or massive seaward movement of the south flank— are less likely than one or more eruptions. Continued close monitoring of the Chain of Craters may provide clues down the road. 

    A holistic, historically based approach to studying Kīlauea helps us appreciate what can happen in the long run. Evaluation of the past activity of the volcano, no matter how imperfect known, can influence our thoughts about what could happen. Even with this approach, though, we must remind ourselves that there are no facts about the future.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is ADVISORY.

    Over the past week, about 30 earthquakes were located in Kīlauea summit region, and about 100 were located in the upper-to-middle East Rift Zone. Ground deformation rates have greatly decreased since the September 15-20 middle East Rift Zone eruption, but data show that magma is continuing to move at a low rate from the summit to the middle East Rift Zone. Future intrusive episodes and eruptions could occur with continued magma supply. The most recent measurement of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rate at the summit was 60 tonnes per day on September 17, 2024, and SO2 emissions were not detected at downwind of the eruption site on Monday, September 23.

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary visits China

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy arrives in China on two-day trip, which will include meetings in Beijing and Shanghai

    • Foreign Secretary arrives in China on two-day trip, which will include meetings in Beijing and Shanghai
    • UK is taking a consistent, strategic and pragmatic approach to China which prioritises the UK national interest
    • Foreign Secretary will urge China to stop its political and economic support of the Russian war effort

    The UK is to take a stable, consistent and pragmatic approach to China, with engagement vital between two global players. That is the message the Foreign Secretary David Lammy will deliver as he lands in Beijing today. 

    The Foreign Secretary will meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday (18), with talks which will cover a breadth of issues, from climate and trade, to global foreign policy challenges including Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    In Shanghai, the Foreign Secretary will meet with British business leaders to discuss how our economic links with China support growth in the UK.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    As permanent members of the UN Security Council with major global economies, the UK and China are global players. Our relationship matters.

    Engagement with China is pragmatic and necessary to support UK and global interests. From stopping Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, to supporting a global green transition, we must speak often and candidly across both areas of contention as well as areas for cooperation in the UK’s national interest.

    UK diplomatic efforts with China will be one of serious, stable and pragmatic reengagement across the full spectrum of government, prioritising the UK’s national interests.

    This will come with a firm recognition that the UK and China will not, and do not, always agree. We have significant differences including on democratic values and freedoms, Hong Kong and support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine; but we also have shared interests, including a global green energy transition, and deep economic links, with China including Hong Kong the UK’s 4th largest trading partner.

    The Foreign Secretary’s visit is a reflection of the consistent, strategic and pragmatic approach the UK government will take to managing the UK’s relations with China – co-operating where we can; competing where we need to; and challenging where we must.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard, partners to discuss rescue of 17-year-old kayaker

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    10/17/2024 06:15 PM EDT

    WHO: Coast Guard Sector Honolulu, Honolulu Fire Department, Honolulu Ocean Safety Department WHAT: Holding joint press briefing about rescue of missing 17-year-old kayaker off Waikiki WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 WHERE: Hale Kinai Ahi Auditorium, Honolulu Fire Department Headquarters, 636 South St., Honolulu, HI 96813

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

    FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

    WASHINGTON — As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to lead the federal response to Helene and Milton in six states, today she is in Virginia to meet survivors and local officials as they continue their recovery from Helene.

    In Virginia, the administrator visited affected communities with Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Earlier in the week she and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper in Buncombe County to speak with disaster survivors and meet staff at a local high school as part of the recovery.

    Critical services continue being restored. The Commonwealth of Virginia is focused on debris removal, particularly in lakes that provide the commonwealth a source of drinking water. Removing debris will also reduce threats to public health and safety. In Florida—hit by both storms—power outages have been reduced to about 17,000, down from a peak of 3.2 million. And in North Carolina, approximately 13,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of about 1 million customers without power. 

    In total, about 433,000 households have been approved for nearly $619 million in FEMA assistance for their Helene recovery while 61,000 households have received $54 million for Milton. Survivors are using these funds to replace essential items, pay for somewhere to stay and make home repairs.

    Hurricane Milton survivors in 34 Florida counties and one Tribal Nation can register for federal disaster assistance. On Oct. 11, President Jospeh R. Biden, Jr., approved a major disaster declaration for Florida following the hurricane. President Biden previously approved federal disaster assistance in six states affected by Helene. This opens up federal help for survivors in designated areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

    In addition, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the Operation Blue Tarp which is a free service to homeowners. Residents impacted by Hurricane Milton can sign-up at www.blueroof.gov, or by calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258). The initial sign-up period is set for 21 days and ends Nov. 5. The Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Milton currently identified for the program include: Brevard, Citrus, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia.

    FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply online as this remains the best way to apply for disaster assistance. Here are the ways to apply for federal assistance: 

    ·         Apply online at disasterassistance.gov

    ·         Call 800-621-3362

    ·         Use the FEMA App

    ·         Visit a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

    In total, over 8,200 federal personnel—including 4,300 FEMA staff—are in communities in these states supporting the ongoing response and recovery efforts. 

    These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states impacted by Helene and Milton.

    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56489″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/51c770e055bfac2bdf77a115b7d1e1e9.jpg?itok=d6OkGMpD” alt=”Caption: Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56511″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/0ac80a360274e00254b29ac8e241b18a.jpg?itok=d3rO453K” alt=”Caption: Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56462″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/7037f02841813c689a6e8dc2d71c40b7.jpg?itok=p12cSWX5″ alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.
    BUNCOMBE COUNTY, North Carolina – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visits with staff and disaster survivors about recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station. (Source: FEMA)
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56452″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/a0cbc8cb1e9938b50f025fa483a0d283.jpg?itok=pClsD1s-” alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56481″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/80ff6cd868da9e52fceb6d20106f1667.jpg?itok=9Hhe7DBi” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56531″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/50d8ffc037538c49d382007aa1769886.jpg?itok=xW7qucuF” alt=”Caption: Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56426″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/6ed91d66e28321cf80a1887989c06c4a.jpg?itok=qM79h6sL” alt=”Caption: Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56473″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/cf9d4bec75102ebbb97b6fc199bfe0d0.jpg?itok=9VB86i5n” alt=”Caption: Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56471″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/9050b3d4f1ac9a6e2bd7cdfbf7ae3a71.jpg?itok=o0HpV_iy” alt=”Caption: Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.

    FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor control web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene response. 

    amy.ashbridge
    Thu, 10/17/2024 – 22:12

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

    Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for Floridians displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton in 52 counties and for tribal members of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians.

    Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

    Applicants may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

    Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone or movie rental. 

    Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

    TSA is limited to participating hotels and motels in Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Applicants must refer to the TSA Locator to find a hotel, which will be visible to them when they go to DisasterAssistance.gov.  

    TSA participants may also be eligible for other FEMA financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

    Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile App or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand calls to FEMA’s helpline are experiencing delays because of the increased volume due to multiple recent disasters. The fastest way to apply is online or through the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

    For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834.Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    kirsten.chambers
    Thu, 10/17/2024 – 22:53

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Statement On Death Of Yahya Sinwar

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    October 17, 2024

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Thursday released the following statement on the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
    “Yahya Sinwar was a brutal U.S.-designated terrorist and the mastermind of the October 7th terror attacks. His death provides an important measure of justice for the 1,200 innocent Israelis murdered that day, their families, and the more than 100 hostages still being held in Gaza. With Sinwar’s death, Hamas’s military command structure has been decimated and the group no longer has the capability to stage another attack like October 7th. It is time to redouble efforts to secure an agreement to end this war and bring home all of the hostages.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Speech – Community Broadcasting Association of Australia Conference 2024 – Gold Coast

    Source: Australian Ministers for Infrastructure and Transport

    Hi, I’m Michelle Rowland, Federal Communications Minister.

    Thank you for inviting me to say a few words.

    I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands you are gathered on – the You-Gam-Be (Yugambeh) people – and the Traditional Owners of the lands that community radio broadcasts from across Australia.

    I pay respect to First Nations people attending. 

    And thank all the community broadcasters who give First Nations communities, connection to culture, and language a voice and a platform.  

    I congratulate you on a very special milestone: 50 years of community broadcasting in Australia.

    The Whitlam Government’s move in 1974 to establish this sector was a landmark moment in our history.

    What was then referred to as ‘experimental radio licences’ were granted to a handful of community groups.

    Five decades on, more than 450 stations reach 5 million Australians each week.

    Your sector is vibrant, diverse and it enriches people’s lives. 

    It connects communities and gives locals a voice.

    On behalf of the Albanese Government, thank you to all the staff and the volunteers for your outstanding contribution to our media landscape.

    I also congratulate you on your comprehensive ten-year roadmap, which sets clear priorities to ensure your sector continues to thrive and meet community needs.

    Labor has long backed community radio.

    The first Bill I presented to Parliament as Communications Minister was to provide a funding boost and on-going certainty for community broadcasting.

    This financial year, this translated into $23 million through the Community Broadcasting Program. 

    My first visit as a Minister was to a community radio station. 

    And I haven’t stopped since.

    At every station I visit around the country, I’m inspired by your commitment to serving your audiences. 

    And you are well-represented by an industry organisation in CBAA

    The Albanese Government is committed to working with community broadcasting to identify a sustainable funding basis for the future.

    At last year’s event, I spoke about the importance of the Community Broadcasting Sector Sustainability Review and outlined key findings.

    Phase 1 of the review found that while the Community Broadcasting Program delivers positive impacts, grant funding does not adequately promote sustainability and resilience.

    The Community Broadcasting Foundation has since actioned key recommendations to better measure outcomes and impact of the Commonwealth funding it distributes. 

    I look forward to seeing this translate into outcomes-based funding streams that better align to areas of need, like news, youth engagement and emergency broadcasting.

    Phase 2 of the review has gathered views and ideas directly from you – the community broadcasters – on how to build a stronger, more sustainable future.

    As part of this, I met with community broadcasters in suburban Sydney, Byron Bay, Cairns and Darwin. 

    My Department has held a series of stakeholder roundtables in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Darwin and online. 

    What we are hearing is a united call for increased, sustainable funding. 

    Alongside diverse views on how to create a sustainable future. 

    This includes regulatory changes to reflect the modern broadcasting era, and to afford licensees flexibility in community participation and sponsorship. 

    And views on supports that sector bodies, such as CBAA, can deliver to better assist stations with governance and business planning.

    Thank you to everyone who participated; I look forward to receiving the Department’s findings and advice by the end of the month.

    In establishing the community broadcasting sector in Australia, the then Minister for Media, Doug McClelland, heralded – and I quote – “a new era in the advancement of radio development in Australia.” 

    The subsequent Labor Minister, the great Dr Moss Cass, oversaw the national expansion of the experimental radio licences which enabled the sector to grow.

    The community broadcasting sector has more than delivered on the vision of the Whitlam Government. 

    You are at the heart of every community.

    The Albanese Government is 100 per cent committed to supporting the next era of community broadcasting in Australia.

    To ensure it is strong, sustainable, vibrant and remains an essential part of our media landscape. 

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man appears in court in relation to three Rotorua murders

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    To be attributed to Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow: 

    A 52-year-old man has appeared in court today, in relation to the murder of three people in Rotorua in September.

    Justin Matthew Jeffries appeared in Rotorua High Court today, charged with the murders of Glendon Brent Currin (76), Jessie Florence Currin (78).

    Mr and Mrs Currin had been assaulted at their Western Heights home on 23 September and subsequently both passed away in hospital.

    Jeffries had previously been charged with the murder of Michelle Nicola Schiller (59), who was found deceased at her Utuhina home on 23 September.

    Jeffries is also facing a number of other charges, including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary and fraud.

    He has been remanded in custody to appear again on 15 November 2024

    Police are continuing to support the families of the three victims. This has been an incredibly distressing time for them and they have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve the loss of their loved ones.

    As part of our enquiries into the three homicides, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in contact with Jeffries since the beginning of September.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105 and quote reference number 240923/0552.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Casey, Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

    In July 2023, after the release of the damning Robodebt Royal Commission report, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared:

    it was wrong, it was illegal, it should never have happened and it should never happen again.

    A major finding was some senior public servants were overly responsive to the wishes of ministers, to the detriment of the general public. The report describes an environment that was:

    fraught […] characterised by a powerful drive for savings, strongly expressed ministerial policy positions […] and intense pressure experienced by public servants.

    Investigating the scheme, which ran under the Morrison government, Commissioner Catherine Holmes was disturbed by “the lengths to which public servants were prepared to go to oblige ministers”, undermining the concept of impartiality and frank and fearless advice.

    The release of Rick Morton’s new book Mean Streak brings a renewed focus on the lessons from Robodebt. To learn from such a serious crisis, organisations need to openly confront what happened, discuss and understand what the failure means. What were the systemic causes? What cultural failings did it expose? How can we ensure a similar disaster does not happen again?

    Our research found little evidence these questions were being asked by many public service leaders immediately after the royal commission.

    In the six months after the royal commission report’s release, almost half of the heads of Australian Public Service (APS) agencies apparently decided they didn’t need to communicate with their staff about Robodebt and explain what it meant for them.

    What did department leaders do?

    Learning from the failure of Robodebt will take time. In 2024, the public service is investigating and punishing some of those involved and implementing a new integrity plan.

    Our research focuses on the six months after the release of the royal commission report: July to December 2023. Research shows the immediate post-crisis period is crucial to effective learning.

    But before organisations can respond, they have to interpret and understand the meaning of the failure.

    Just as the public turns to political leaders in a crisis, employees look to management. Leaders’ communication, whether by email, an all staff video, or a town hall meeting, is crucial.

    These messages set the organisational narrative that explains what happened and why, what the repercussions are, how it can be resolved, and what lessons (if any) should be drawn from the crisis.

    Three days after the royal commission report was released, the secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Glyn Davis, and Australian Public Service Commissioner Gordon de Brouwer, emailed all public service employees saying:

    we are committed to working through the findings in an open and constructive way with you — the APS — and with the Australian public.

    Our focus, however, is on how leaders of individual departments and agencies responded. Using Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, we asked how leaders communicated with staff in the crucial period straight after the commission reported.

    Departments are where policy development occurs and they often work closely with ministers.

    But only half of all public servants work for departments. The rest work across the 100 or so agencies.

    While most department heads communicated with their staff about Robodebt, only 54% of agencies’ leaders did.

    The 50 agencies that did not communicate with their staff about the meaning of Robodebt in the months following the report employ more than 45,000 people, more than 25% of the public service.

    Not my problem mentality

    Three large departments told us that “no documents were identified” or “the Department does not hold documents […] that meet the terms of the request”. This indicates they did not communicate with staff in the first six months after the Robodebt report was handed down. The departments were:

    • defence

    • home affairs

    • infrastructure, transport, regional development, communications and the arts.

    It is not clear why those secretaries decided not to write to their staff directly about Robodebt, but the absence of communication sends a message.

    This was explicit in some responses. For example, in declining our request, we were told that the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority:

    […] is not an outwardly facing organisation and as such does not provide payments to individual recipients. Consequently, it is not required to respond to the Royal Commission and there are no documents that are relevant to your request.

    Even when there was some communication, agencies were not necessarily addressing the cultural issues. For example, the Clean Energy Regulator was focused on public perception:

    there is a heightened sense of scrutiny on regulators […] please be vigilant if you are approached by anybody working for a media outlet.

    In such circumstances, it is unlikely cultural change will occur.

    Some positive signs

    On the positive side, there were examples of agencies that addressed the serious implications of Robodebt for their work, which is likely to improve their organisational culture.

    The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) identified a number of recommendations “albeit directed at other agencies […] that ASIC should act on”. They noted that “given most of our people come from the private sector”, there was a need to improve training on “our obligations as public servants”.



    Read more:
    Two former federal departmental heads breached public service code 25 times in Robodebt scandal

    Similarly, Australian statistician David Gruen emphasised creating a culture where “people feel supported if and when they seek to raise difficult issues with their colleagues or superiors”. Similar discussions were had at AUSTRAC.

    Departments are closest to ministers, so we hoped their communications would address problems in the relationships between senior public servants and ministers, a key issue exposed in the Robodebt case.

    Unfortunately, only four departments discussed over-responsiveness with their staff or in executive meetings, in the period studied.

    The department of industry and science was the most comprehensive. Secretary Meghan Quinn wrote to staff several times, reflecting that the “findings go to the heart of leadership and culture and this should be our focus going forward”. The department’s integrity branch wrote to staff:

    public servants [must] […] provide the government with advice that is frank and honest. If you ever feel pressured to do or sign something you are not comfortable with, it’s important you speak with your supervisors […] you have the Executive’s backing not to put your name to anything that is not true or not in the public interest.

    However, this was one of the few departments where senior staff confronted these core issues directly in the early months after the royal commission reported. Most departments did not name or discuss the underlying cause of the failures: over-responsiveness to ministers at the expense of protecting the public.

    While many of the errors of Robodebt can be solved through new procedures and rules, changing public service culture is a bigger learning project.

    It requires a shift in norms and reweighting the competing duties of public servants. They must serve elected ministers, but equally, they must serve the public by ensuring probity, fairness and legality.

    Robodebt illustrated the harm that occurs when the balance tips too far towards ministers and away from the public interest.

    That this was rarely part of the communication from public service leaders to their staff in the immediate aftermath of the royal commission does not bode well for lessons being learnt from the crisis.

    Daniel Casey worked in the Department of Social Services during the period of Robodebt, but did not work on the Robodebt program.

    Maria Maley received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing – https://theconversation.com/how-did-public-service-leaders-talk-to-staff-about-robodebt-what-they-said-or-didnt-is-revealing-240015

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Fehrer, Associate Professor, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    New Zealand is highly reliant on trade – particularly on maritime routes, which are lifelines for exports and imports. Key sectors such as agriculture, construction, and wholesale and retail trade depend heavily on this global network.

    External events can severely disrupt the flow of goods, delay deliveries or damage critical infrastructure.

    But a crisis like the COVID pandemic can also disrupt business commitments to sustainability goals such as reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste and improving resource efficiency.

    This is important, because several major New Zealand companies have introduced sustainability measures into their operations over the past decade.

    Fonterra, for example, adopted low-carbon logistics and distribution practices. Zespri uses blockchain technology to improve the transparency of its sustainable practices and enhance tracking across its supply chain. Air New Zealand partners with local suppliers and adopts initiatives to lower its carbon emissions.

    In our recent research, we reviewed 287 studies on supply chains. We identified key tensions between efficiency and sustainability, and how major disruptions to supply chains and operations can swing the balance between the two.

    On one hand, businesses are pressured to maintain lean, cost-effective operations. On the other, there is a growing recognition of the need to build resilience and sustainability, particularly in the face of climate change.

    Traditional strategies

    New Zealand’s supply chains are susceptible to disruptions from natural disasters (such as earthquakes and floods), geopolitical tensions and global health crises.

    Businesses have historically responded in a variety of ways: diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory buffers and securing alternative transport routes.

    The use of technology, such as radio frequency identification, has played a crucial role in tracking goods across the supply chain. It provides real-time visibility and accurate inventory management.

    Blockchain is becoming a key tool for making supply chains more sustainable. This technology uses a digital ledger to keep information safe and easy to trace.

    But the ongoing technological innovation risks disadvantaging people and businesses with limited resources and capabilities along the supply chain.

    Embracing a circular economy

    During the pandemic, businesses experienced shortages of critical supplies, delays in shipments and fluctuating demand. This forced them to temporarily abandon long-term sustainability strategies in favour of short-term survival tactics.

    This made sense from a business perspective. But to build more resilient and sustainable supply chains, businesses will need to move beyond traditional strategies.

    Our research found integrating circular economy principles into supply chain management can help create a buffer for businesses.

    The circular economy model focuses on minimising waste – keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. There is also a focus on regenerating natural systems to foster economic, social and environmental resilience.

    Companies can reduce their reliance on external supply chains by focusing on reusing materials, creating closed-loop systems with regional partners and by boosting the technologies already in place.

    By fostering stronger links with local suppliers and focusing on regional sourcing, businesses can reduce their exposure to global risks. This will also help build more self-sufficient supply chain ecosystems.

    Building sustainable supply chains requires investing in advanced technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence. But implementing these technologies should be done carefully and in stages to minimise disruption. Going slowly can also allow for the inclusion of all supply chain partners in these technological transitions.

    The way forward

    New Zealand’s supply chain future hinges on greater collaboration between everyone involved, including businesses, policymakers and communities.

    In practice, this means working together to build systems that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also resilient and sustainable.

    Equally, resilient supply chains require regional manufacturing ecosystems. To mitigate the risks from global supply chain disruptions, it’s essential to support local manufacturing, even when offshore manufacturing costs are lower.

    This will require government support and strategic investment in regional manufacturing innovation.

    While New Zealand’s supply chains face significant challenges, there are great opportunities to reshape them for a more resilient and sustainable future.

    By integrating circular economy principles, using advanced technologies and fostering regional collaboration, New Zealand can build supply chains that are prepared for future crises and which also contribute to the country’s sustainability goals.

    Julia Fehrer receives funding from the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.

    Christina Stringer, Sunny Kareem, and Timofey Shalpegin do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis? – https://theconversation.com/can-nzs-supply-chain-build-enough-resilience-and-sustainability-to-survive-the-next-global-crisis-241348

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland overnight motorway closures 20-28 October 2024

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    18 October 2024 11:15 am | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 25 October 2024.

    Please note this Traffic Bulletin is updated every Friday.

    Daily updated closure information(external link) 

    Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.

    NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Warkworth Roundabout and Silverdale on-ramp, 21 October
      • Puhoi southbound on-ramp, 21 October 
    • Northbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Warkworth Roundabout, 21 October
      • Orewa northbound on-ramp, 21 October
      • Silverdale northbound on-ramp, 21 October
    • Southbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Tristram Avenue on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October
    • Northbound lanes between Onewa Road off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Esmonde Road (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 20 October
      • Esmonde Road (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 20 October
      • Onewa Road northbound on-ramp, 20 October
    • Onewa Road southbound on-ramp, 21-24 October
    • Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 21-24 October

    CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

    • Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH1) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH16) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 20 October

    SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 20-22 October
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 20-22 October
    • Bombay southbound off-ramp, 20-24 October
    • Bombay northbound off-ramp, 20-24 October
    • Nikau Road southbound off-ramp, 20-23 October
    • Southbound lanes between Hampton Downs off-ramp and Te Kauwhata on-ramp, 20 October
      • Hampton Downs southbound on-ramp, 20 October

    NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

    • Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 20-23 October
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 25-28 October (approx. 9:00pm to 9:00pm, 24hrs)
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 28 October

    UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

    • None planned

    SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

    • Northbound lanes between Hillsborough Road off-ramp and Maioro Street on-ramp, 22 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Hillsborough Road northbound on-ramp, 22 October
      • Dominion Road northbound on-ramp, 22 October
    • Northbound lanes between Neilson Street off-ramp and Hillsborough Road on-ramp, 21 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Neilson Street northbound on-ramp, 21 October
    • Mahunga Drive southbound off-ramp, 20 October
    • Northbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Rimu Road on-ramp, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Coronation Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October
      • SH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October
    • Northbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 24 October
      • Cavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 24 October

    GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

    • Northbound lanes between Kirkbride Road off-ramp and SH20 link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20A northbound to SH20 northbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Kirkbride Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October

    PUHINUI ROAD (SH20B)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 22 (SH22)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)

    • None planned

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025
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