NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: The number of documents for the implementation of an investment and construction project has been reduced to 582

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The growth in construction volumes is inextricably linked to a comprehensive approach to reducing the procedures of the investment and construction cycle. The number of administrative procedures in the industry has been reduced from 96 to 32, the number of necessary documents has been reduced by almost half, and the duration of the investment and construction cycle has been reduced by more than 900 days. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The government continues to work actively to reduce the investment and construction cycle. This will help speed up the commissioning of socially significant facilities without reducing the requirements for safety and quality of work. Thus, citizens will be able to get new schools, kindergartens, hospitals and much more faster. We strive to ensure that the entire cycle from the idea to the commissioning of the facility takes no more than 1,000 days. This duration is based on international construction experience, takes into account the current economic situation and creates new opportunities for developers in terms of accelerated construction of facilities that people in Russia need. In this work, increasing labor productivity, digitalization and automation of construction processes, starting with the design stages and passing the examination of construction documentation, are of great importance. This work is carried out within the framework of the federal project “New Rhythm of Construction”, which is part of the new national project “Infrastructure for Life”. Thus, today, thanks to the optimization of procedures, the number of required documents has been reduced to 582,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The stages and activities required to implement a construction project are specified in the Urban Development Code, the list is the same for each category of objects, regardless of their type and characteristics. This was facilitated by the digital registers of documents and requirements launched on September 1, 2024, allowing for the prompt updating of documents, requirements, materials, information, and approvals required to implement a construction project.

    The Ministry of Construction carries out quarterly work to measure the duration of the investment and construction cycle in the regions, based on the results of which a rating of the subjects of the Russian Federation is compiled.

    Thus, according to the results of the first quarter of 2025, the regions with the shortest project implementation time include 55 entities that received 22 to 32 points in the rating. In first place with 32 points is Moscow, followed by Novgorod, Sakhalin and Oryol regions. In the second category, there are 25 entities that received 16 to 21 points, including Kemerovo Region – Kuzbass, Vologda, Penza Regions and others.

    The monitoring measures: the timing of the project for the construction of capital construction projects, the digital maturity of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, and the compliance of regional requirements with federal legislation. Data on the average duration of administrative procedures, as well as statistics obtained from the unified information system for housing construction, are analyzed. Indicators are assessed according to 64 criteria, including information on the timing of the provision of an urban development plan for a land plot, obtaining construction permits and commissioning of a facility.

    “The monitoring conducted showed a significant reduction in the time required to implement housing projects. According to the results of the first quarter of 2025, the average duration of the investment and construction cycle in the construction of apartment buildings was 1,211 days, which is 48 days less than the same indicator last year. This includes both administrative procedures, which take about 212 days, and the construction process itself,” said Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Irek Faizullin.

    In addition, the duration of construction is assessed in practice every six months. The regions send the Ministry of Construction a list of capital construction projects put into operation in various categories. From this list, 12 projects are randomly selected in each group, for which the implementation dates for all procedures are requested.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin held a meeting with participants of the federal program “Time of Heroes”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin visited the Senezh Management Workshop, where he held a meeting with participants in the federal program Time of Heroes. The participants discussed issues of spatial development, results and plans for the restoration of the reunited regions.

    “The “Time of Heroes” program, which was launched on the initiative of the President of Russia, effectively helps those who have proven their loyalty to the country and demonstrated professionalism in the conditions of a special military operation to reveal their potential in the state and municipal service. There are many tasks in civilian work that require strong, unconventional people who are well-versed in difficult situations. As a mentor of this program, I see a great desire in the participants to continue serving the Motherland. I am sure that their participation in important projects will be of great benefit,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    During the meeting, they discussed, among other things, the Strategy for Spatial Development of the Country until 2030 with a forecast until 2036. One of the elements of the strategy is the creation of a single list of support settlements, which includes 2,160 cities, towns and villages. 70% of the country’s population lives in these settlements. Improving the quality of life in them will largely help solve current development problems in other territories.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Primary Sector-Government partnership to boost rural health and resilience

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is stepping up support for rural New Zealand with a $4 million Rural Wellbeing Fund to expand investment in community-based initiatives, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced today at Fieldays.
    “The establishment of this fund is a result of advocacy by Federated Farmers Chair, Wayne Langford, who has been a long-time champion of rural wellbeing and mental health,” Mr McClay says. 
    The contestable fund to drive rural health and community resilience will prioritise initiatives that have strong local backing and secure co-funding from industry or regional partners. It will support new and existing initiatives like Surfing for Farmers, Farmstrong, NZ Young Farmers, FirstMate and many more.
    A five-member panel with representation from the primary sector will be established to assess project applications. Projects must demonstrate strong local delivery, provide clear benefits to rural people, and ability to attract co-investment from industry and sector partners.
    “We’re backing the people on the ground who are already doing great work—this fund is about scaling up, reaching further, and removing barriers for rural communities to lead their own wellbeing efforts,” Mr McClay says.
    This fund brings the Government’s total investment in rural resilience and mental health to more than $11 million over the next four years.
    “This package is about ensuring the farmers and growers who generate our export income, create jobs, and sustain our regions have the support they need to thrive,” Mr McClay says.
    “When rural New Zealand is well, New Zealand does well,” Mr McClay says.
    In addition to the Rural Wellbeing Fund, the Government has confirmed:

    $6 million over four years for Rural Support Trusts across the country;
    An extra $1 million in 2025 for frontline rural mental wellbeing services;
    $400,000 in grants for A&P shows that foster rural connection and pride; and
    $250,000 to support the expanded outreach work of Rural Women New Zealand in 2025/26.

    Expressions of interests for project funding are now open. For more information, visit www.mpi.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Responding to requests for a child or young person’s personal information

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    This guidance aims to help agencies respond appropriately to requests for personal information about children and young people.  The guidance covers:

    • Information Privacy Principle 6 (IPP 6) of the Privacy Act 2020.
    • Who can make an IPP 6 request for information about a child or young person.
    • Requests made by parents, legal guardians or other caregivers, including:
      • when a parent, legal guardian or caregiver is acting as a representative of the child or young person.
      • whether the Privacy Act 2020 or the Official Information Act 1982 applies
      • what other laws may apply.
    • Requests made by a Lawyer for the Child.
    • Responsibilities of an agency before giving access to personal information.
    • Requests made by other agencies.
    • Applying the guidance in practice- some examples.

    Information Privacy Principle (IPP) 6 

    The Privacy Act applies to any individual regardless of age.  A child or young person has the same privacy rights as an adult but sometimes needs the assistance of another person to exercise those rights. 

    One of those rights is a person’s right to ask for information about themselves, set out in IPP 6. 

    An agency must respond to the requester within 20 working days and usually has to provide the information, unless one of the refusal grounds applies. 

    Read more general information about responding to IPP 6 requests.

    Information covered in this guidance

    Download a copy of this guidance (opens to PDF, 333 KB).

    Who can make an IPP 6 request about children and young people?

    An IPP 6 request may be made by the child or young person themselves or their representative. A representative is a person who is lawfully acting on the child or young person’s behalf.

    Information requests from parents, legal guardians or caregivers

    The Privacy Act does not provide an automatic right of access by a parent, legal guardian, or caregiver to their child’s personal information. 
    Assessing and processing a request from a parent, legal guardian or caregiver is a two-step process:

    1. Determine whether the parent, legal guardian or caregiver is a representative.
    2. If yes, then determine whether any of the refusal grounds apply. 

    In most cases, a parent or legal guardian can be considered a representative, particularly where the child is too young or otherwise not able to act on their own behalf. Where a caregiver is making the request, determining whether they are a representative may not be so clear cut as they won’t have the same legal status as a parent or legal guardian. 

    The circumstances will be different for each request, so it is important that an agency considers each request on a case-by-case basis before deciding whether the parent, legal guardian or caregiver is acting as a representative of the child or young person. 

    Step 1: When is a parent, legal guardian or caregiver a representative?

    For the purposes of IPP 6, a parent, legal guardian or caregiver may be considered representative of the child where:

    • the child is too young or otherwise not able to act on their own behalf, or
    • an older child or young person has authorised them to make the request on their behalf. 

    Before determining that a parent, legal guardian or caregiver is a representative, agencies should consider:

    • The age and maturity of the child and whether they are capable of understanding and exercising their rights under the Privacy Act.
    • Any court orders relating to parental access or responsibility (e.g. protection orders, custody and guardianship orders).
    • Whether, based on what is known to the agency, it is (or isn’t) likely to be in the best interests of the child or young person for the parent, legal guardian or caregiver requesting the information to be able to exercise their child’s Privacy Act rights on their behalf. 

    Where there is a family breakdown of some sort such as family harm, a custody or guardianship dispute or where the child is or has experienced abuse, the best interests of the child or young person should be a primary consideration. When determining whether it is in the best interests of the child or young person agencies should consider:

    • the interests of the parent, legal guardian, caregiver and the child or young person are no longer the same or are in conflict, and/or disclosing the information to the parent/legal guardian would go against the child’s interests.
    • whether there are reasonable grounds for believing the child or young person does not or would not wish the information to be disclosed.

    If any of the factors above exist, an agency may determine that a parent, guardian or caregiver is not acting as representative of the child or young person and the request does not fall under the Privacy Act. 

    Where a parent, guardian or caregiver is not a representative you can consider the request under the Official Information Act (see table below).  

    Non-custodial parents

    A non-custodial parent is the parent who doesn’t live with their child most of the time. Non-custodial parents with guardianship rights still have legal rights and responsibilities, ensuring they can maintain a relationship with their child.  A non-custodial parent has guardianship rights if they meet the test in section 17 of the Care of Children Act 2004 (or are otherwise appointed by the Court). 

    A non-custodial parent with guardianship rights can exercise their child’s privacy rights in the same way the custodial parent can, taking the wishes of the child into account if expressed or known (for older children or young people). 

    Where an agency receives an information request from a non-custodial parent with guardianship rights, it should follow the same process for managing a request from a custodial parent or other legal guardian.

    Step 2: Decision to release or refuse the request

    A representative does not have automatic access to a child or young person’s personal information. An agency still needs to consider whether any of the refusal grounds apply in the circumstances. 

    In situations where parents are separated, agencies do not need the consent of the other parent (either custodial or non-custodial) to disclose information about the child or young person. However, agencies should consider whether the child or young person’s personal information also reveals personal information about the other parent (e.g., the other parent’s home address or contact details where there is a protection order in place). 

    Read more general information about refusal grounds: Office of the Privacy Commissioner | Principle 6 – Access to personal information. 

    When a request for information should be managed as an Official Information Act request

    The Official Information Act (OIA) enables an individual to make a request for ‘official information’ (certain information held by public sector agencies). Official information can include personal information about other people, including children and young people. 

    Where the person requesting the information isn’t the child or young person or a representative, the request should be considered under the OIA. 

    The following table can help you determine which Act may apply depending on the specific circumstances of the request:

    Individual making request Purpose of request Applicable Act

    Child/young person – capable of making their own request.

    Their own personal information 

    Privacy Act

    Parent/legal guardian/caregiver of child/young person who is too young or not capable of exercising their rights.

    (Parent/legal guardian/caregiver probably a representative)

    Personal information about the child or young person

    Privacy Act, unless there are circumstances which suggest the Parent/Legal Guardian/caregiver is not acting on their behalf or in their best interests, then the request should be processed under the OIA

    Parent/legal guardian/caregiver of older child or young person capable of making their own request with the older child/young person’s authorisation to make the request on their behalf.

    (Parent/legal guardian/caregiver probably a representative)

    Personal information about the older child or young person 

    Privacy Act, unless there are circumstances which suggest the Parent/Legal Guardian/caregiver is not acting on their behalf or in their best interests, then the request should be processed under the OIA
    Parent/legal guardian/caregiver of older child capable of making their own request where the older child/young person has made it clear they do not authorise the requestor to make the request on their behalf.(Parent/legal guardian/caregiver is not a representative) Personal information about the older child or young person Part 2 OIA/LGOIMA. 
    All other cases where a parent/legal guardian/caregiver of child/young person is determined not to be a representative. Personal information about the child or young person

    Part 2 OIA/LGOIMA.
    Subject to eligibility requirements in the OIA (s 12(1)), but not the LGOIMA

    Other laws that may apply

    Agencies should also consider whether any other laws may apply to requests made by parents, legal guardians or caregivers and proactive disclosures of children and young person’s information. These laws include:

    • The Health Act 1956 and the Health Information Privacy Code (HIPC) regulate access to “health information” held by a “health agency”. Under the HIPC, parents or guardians of children under 16 years are legally defined as their ‘representatives’, whose access requests are treated as though made by the child themselves. 
      As with any information privacy request, these requests may be refused in certain circumstances (Rule 11(4) HIPC). 
    • Section 103 of the Education and Training Act 2020 says that principals should tell parents about matters affecting their child’s progress through school or relationships with others. 
    • Under IPP 11 of the Privacy Act 2020, an agency may disclose personal information to a third party if it believes there are reasonable grounds that one of the exceptions in IPP 11 applies. 

    For example, this could be when the child or young person authorises the disclosure (IPP11(1)(c)) or where disclosure to parents is one of (or is directly related to) the purposes for which an agency obtained the information (IPP11(1)(a)). 

    However, unlike IPP 6 and the OIA, IPP 11 does not give a right to access or request information. IPP 11 gives an agency discretion to disclose personal information where that agency considers it is necessary to do so (rather than legally being required to respond to a request for the information). Whether an exception applies will depend on the circumstances.

    Information requests from Lawyer for the Child

    A Lawyer for the Child is a specialist lawyer appointed by the Family Court to represent the interests of the child or young person in Family Court proceedings involving custody or guardianship disputes, or situations of family harm.

    To fulfil their responsibilities, the Lawyer for the Child often needs information about the child or young person held by agencies such as a school or healthcare provider. When making a request for information, the Lawyer for the Child will be acting as a representative for the child or young person.

    The Lawyer for the Child should provide evidence of their appointment and brief from the Family Court. (A Lawyer for the Child is appointed by Court Minute and receives their brief by letter from the Court.) If it not clear whether the requestor is acting as the Lawyer for the Child, you should ask them to provide evidence of their appointment before you provide access to any personal information.

    Responsibilities of an agency before giving access to personal information

    Providing access to personal information to an unauthorised person can cause serious harm to an individual and be a form of notifiable privacy breach – where the personal information is about children and young people the harm can be long lasting and significant.

    When providing access to personal information under IPP 6, the agency must (Section 57 of the Privacy Act 2020): 

    • be satisfied of the identity of the requestor (e.g. the child or young person or the representative)
    • not provide access to the information if the agency has reasonable grounds to believe that the request is being made under the threat of physical or mental harm (coercion)
    • ensure that the information intended for the requestor (or their representative) is provided to the right person.

    You may need to request additional information from the requestor to satisfy these requirements of the Privacy Act. 

    Confirming a requestor’s identity

    Where additional information is required to confirm a requestor’s identity the agency should inform the requestor what information is required and why. Agencies must also ensure that any identification documentation requested is securely destroyed once confirmation of the requestor’s identity has been made. 

    Where a decision has been made to grant access to personal information, agencies should confirm with the requestor (or their representative) the method in which they would like to receive the information and double check email, or postal addresses are correct.

    Read more about how you can confirm someone’s identity.

    Information requests from other agencies

    Where a request for information about a child or young person is made by another agency other laws may apply. These include:

    • Section 66C of the Oranga Tamariki Act permits Child Welfare and Protection Agencies to request and share information about children and young people for specified purposes. 
    • Section 20 of the Family Violence Act permits Family Violence Agencies to request and share information about individuals who have been subject to family harm for specified purposes.
    • Any law that requires the information to be provided to the requestor e.g. section 66 Oranga Tamariki Act, section 11 Social Security Act, section 17 Tax Administration Act.

    Where requests for information are made under one of these laws an agency cannot refuse the request under one of the IPP 11 refusal grounds (or a withholding ground under the OIA). An agency should assess the request and decide whether to share the requested information in line with the law under which the request was made. 

    Examples

    See examples of how this guidance is applied in practice.

    Download a copy of this guidance (opens to PDF, 333 KB).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Applauds FBI for Stopping Potential Billion-Dollar “Agroterrorism” Event Against Kansas’ Wheat Crops

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington –U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today issued a statement applauding the FBI’s recent arrest of two Chinese nationals, with alleged Chinese Communist Party (CCP) ties, who were caught smuggling the fungus Fusarium Graminearum into the United States. This fungus can cause ‘head blight’, which devastates wheat, barley, maize, and rice crops, and has caused billions of dollars in economic losses globally. When ingested, the toxins can cause liver damage, vomiting, and reproductive defects in both humans and livestock.
    “I want to thank FBI Director Kash Patel for saving Kansas’ economy and America’s food supply from potential ruin. Kansas, the largest wheat producer in America, faces the constant threat of wheat scab, a devastating disease that could wipe out a major portion of both Kansas’ and the United States’ economy,” said Senator Marshall. “I have long maintained that food security is national security, and the FBI’s arrest of two individuals with alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party only reinforces the critical need to protect American agriculture from foreign influence, interference, and ownership.”
    Background:
    Senator Marshall previously introduced the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act, which would help prevent improper foreign interference and disruption to the U.S. agriculture industry.
    Senator Marshall has also continuously spoken out against the lies around COVID-19, both from China and the Biden-Harris Administration.  
    In 2024, Senator Marshall joined fellow Kansas U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (R-Kansas-01) in demanding that he stand up against a proposal before the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Council that would alter governance and leadership arrangements at the FAO, strengthen China’s position in the organization, and weaken American agricultural leadership on the world stage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FOLLOWING HIS PUSH, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES EPA RELEASES $1.75 MILLION IN FED FUNDING TO PROTECT DRINKING WATER FOR 40,000 IN ONTARIO & WAYNE COUNTIES

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Earlier This Spring, Schumer Called On EPA To Release $1.75M In Fed Funding He Secured For Canandaigua To Upgrade Drinking Water System To Remove Toxic Chemicals Linked To Liver And Kidney Damage And Cancer

    Canandaigua Had All Its Paperwork In Order For Months But Red Tape At The EPA Had Been Holding Up Progress, But Now Thanks To Schumer’s Push, Construction Can Begin As Planned

    Schumer: Fed $$ On The Way For Clean Water Across Ontario & Wayne Counties

    After calling on the EPA to cut through the red tape for the City of Canandaigua to install crucial equipment to remove disinfection by-product (DBP) chemicals from drinking water, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced the EPA has heeded his calls and released federal funding for the city to begin construction. Schumer explained the City of Canandaigua will remove disinfection by-product (DBP) chemicals – which have been linked to health issues including liver and kidney damage and cancer – from the water supply that over 40,000 New Yorkers across Ontario and Wayne Counties rely on.

    “Access to clean water and modern water-sewer systems are fundamental, and soon thousands more families from Canandaigua to Walworth will have access to cleaner drinking water. I was proud to secure $1.75 million in federal funding so Canandaigua can upgrade its drinking water system and eliminate harmful chemicals that have been linked to liver and kidney damage and cancer. When I heard the final agreement still hadn’t been signed, I pushed the EPA to release these funds ASAP so construction can start soon,” said Senator Schumer. “Now, this federal funding can start flowing to boost public health for over 40,000 New Yorkers across Ontario and Wayne Counties while creating good-paying jobs. I will always fight to keep New York’s drinking water clean and our communities safe and healthy.”

    Now that the EPA has signed off on the final agreement and released this federal funding, the City of Canandaigua can begin construction as planned. The city needed the EPA to sign off on the final agreement for construction to move forward, but had previously faced weeks of delays.

    Disinfection by-products (DBP) have recently been found in excess of the maximum contaminant level established by the EPA in the water of systems that have purchased the city’s water. Schumer secured $1.75 million in federal funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act to enable the City of Canandaigua to install a new aeration system into its three water storage tanks that will eliminate the DPA chemicals. This system will specifically integrate aerators and mixers into the city’s water storage tanks to eliminate the harmful DBPs from the drinking water supply. These DBPs are formed when disinfectants, like chlorine, react with naturally occurring substances in the water which have known toxicity and carcinogenic impacts that have been linked to liver and kidney damage and cancer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Seasonal Drop-In Services in Saskatoon Support Youth and Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 10, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Tribal Council and the City of Saskatoon are moving forward on new community services to meet emerging needs in Saskatoon. This includes a daytime drop-in centre for individuals experiencing homelessness and an overnight drop-in centre for youth aged 16 and older. Both services are anticipated to open on June 15. 

    “Together with the Saskatoon Tribal Council and the City of Saskatoon, we are working as quickly as possible to meet the emerging needs we are seeing in the community,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “Saskatoon Tribal Council has been an invaluable partner in providing Indigenous-led, culturally reflective services founded on their ability to build meaningful relationships and trusting bonds with individuals and families experiencing homelessness.” 

    Located at Station 20 West, the new daytime drop-in centre is co-funded by the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon and operated by Saskatoon Tribal Council. It will provide a safe space, and access to support services for individuals experiencing homelessness from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Saskatoon Tribal Council’s Sawēyihtotān project will offer outreach services including connections to emergency shelters and housing, coordinated access systems, recovery and mental health programs and services.  

    “The urgency could not be clearer — this partnership is a critical step in creating safe spaces for vulnerable people in Saskatoon,” said Mayor Cynthia Block. “The City is committed to keeping the momentum going and working closely with our partners to open centres that are Indigenous-led and grounded in community.”

    To provide a safe space for youth throughout the summer months, the Government of Saskatchewan is partnering with Saskatoon Tribal Council to provide an overnight drop-in centre for youth 16 and older. Located at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, the centre will be open from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. and provide food and a place to rest as well as an on-site elder, shower and laundry services, case planning and referrals to programs in the community.  

    “These two new drop-in centres will offer safety, dignity and support when it is needed most,” Tribal Chief Mark Arcand said. “Homelessness disproportionately impacts Indigenous people, and we cannot ignore that reality. These facilities will help keep people safe and create opportunities for us to do what the Saskatoon Tribal Council does best: building trust and connection with our relatives. That is the first step toward linking them with the wraparound supports and services that can truly change lives. Real solutions come when governments and community partners work together, and that is exactly what we are doing.” 

    Since the announcement of the $40.2M Provincial Approach to Homelessness, the Government of Saskatchewan has collaborated with all levels of government and Indigenous and community partners to develop new emergency and complex needs shelter spaces, supportive housing spaces and street outreach, warming centres and community safety responses.  The two new services in Saskatoon build on these investments as the Government of Saskatchewan continues to work with communities to respond to arising needs.    

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Balancing drug coverage for the long-term

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 3: Alberta wildfire update (June 10, 3 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pointing to success: Marathon potential is in your hands – literally

    Source:

    11 June 2025

    Is your ring finger longer than your index finger? If so, you may be great in endurance sports.

    Whether it’s a personal challenge, for charity, or on your bucket list, marathons are one of the most sought-after goals for amateur and recreational runners worldwide.

    Now, a world-first study from the University of South Australia and the University of North Dakota suggests that a person’s marathon potential may be identified through a simple check of their hands.

    In a meta-analysis of 22 studies (representing 5293 participants and 12 countries) researchers found that a lower digit ratio – when a person’s ring finger is longer than their index finger – is a biomarker of cardiorespiratory fitness, specifically exercise tolerance and endurance performance.                                      

    The findings indicate that someone with longer ring fingers than index fingers may perform better in endurance sports like marathons or long-distance cycling.

    While previous studies have explored digit ratio and sports performance, this is the most comprehensive synthesis of evidence for digit ratio and cardiorespiratory fitness, and the first meta-analysis to link it specifically to exercise tolerance and endurance performance.

    Exercise tolerance is the level of physical activity an individual can endure before experiencing excessive fatigue. Endurance performance is the ability to sustain physical activity for long periods, often at a moderate to high intensity.

    UniSA researcher and PhD candidate Bethany Gower says that digit ratios could present a useful, low-cost screening tool for spotting potential in high-performance endurance athletes.

    “Measuring and comparing finger lengths might seem like a novelty, but research shows that this is a proven and biologically sound method for identifying muscle strength – and now, endurance performance,” Gower says.

    “Our research found that digit ratio is significantly linked to exercise tolerance, which reflects the highest intensity of exercise you can tolerate for a long time before it becomes too challenging to continue.

    “What this means is that people with lower digit ratios – a ring finger longer than their index finger – are more likely to tolerate increasing exercise intensity and perform better in longer-duration activities, such as marathons or distance cycling.

    “It’s a significant finding that could help coaches and sports scientists identify talent, or help recreational athletes better understand their endurance potential.”

    With elite athletes soon to compete in the Tour de France (5 July – 20 July) or the TCS Sydney Marathon (31 August), it’s a curiosity that could be put to the test.

    Prof Grant Tomkinson says that digit ratios are determined during early foetal development.

    “Greater exposure to testosterone in the womb has been linked with the development of lower digit ratios, which could influence a person’s ability to exercise intensely,” Prof Tomkinson says.  

    “It also has short-term benefits in later life by helping ‘charge’ the endocrine system to respond to challenging situations, like intense exercise, by suddenly spiking testosterone levels.

    “This could manifest as people having stronger body systems or organs that physically improve their ability to tolerate intense aerobic exercise, or as a stronger psychosocial, competitive response to being challenged when exercising.”

    For everyday athletes curious about their fitness potential, Gower says there’s a simple way to get a clue – just look at your fingers.

    “Digit ratio is easy to measure – just compare the length of your index and ring fingers of your hand. If your ring finger is longer, you’ve got a lower ratio.

    “You never know – your fingers might just reveal you’re built for endurance.”

    The University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide are joining forces to become Australia’s new major university – Adelaide University. Building on the strengths, legacies and resources of two leading universities, Adelaide University will deliver globally relevant research at scale, innovative, industry-informed teaching and an outstanding student experience. Adelaide University will open its doors in January 2026. Find out more on the Adelaide University website.

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contacts for interview:

    Bethany Gower E: bethany.gower@unisa.edu.au

    Prof Grant Tomkinson E: grant.tomkinson@unisa.edu.au

    UniSA media contacts:

    Josh Owen-Thomas M: +61 428 715 401 E: josh.owen-thomas@unisa.edu.au

    Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Energy Secretary Wright Testifies Before House Energy Subcommittee on FY2026 Budget Request

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright testified today before the U.S. House Energy Subcommittee on the Department of Energy’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request.

    Last month, Secretary Wright testified before the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development to outline the Department’s priorities and provide an overview of the FY2026 request.

    The FY2026 Budget aligns with President Trump’s directive to restore American energy dominance and rein in bloated federal spending. It brings non-defense discretionary spending to the most disciplined level since 2017 and redirects more than $15 billion away from Green New Scam programs that drive up costs and weaken the U.S. energy system. For more details, view the budget toplines here.

    Secretary Wright’s opening remarks:

    Thank you Chairman Latta, Chairman Guthrie, Ranking Member Castor, and Ranking Member Pallone, and Members of the Committee. It is an honor to appear before you today as Secretary of Energy to discuss the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget request for the Department of Energy.   

    Under President Trump’s leadership, our priorities for the Department are clear – to unleash a golden era of American energy dominance, strengthen our national security, and lead the world in innovation. A reliable and abundant energy supply is the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation. When America leads in energy, we lead in prosperity, security and human flourishing.  

    America has a historic opportunity to secure our energy systems, propel scientific and technological innovation, including AI; maintain and strengthen our weapons stockpiles; and meet Cold War legacy waste commitments. The Department of Energy will advance this critical mission while cutting red tape, increasing efficiency, and ensuring we are better stewards of taxpayer dollars.   

    The President’s Fiscal Year 26 budget will ensure taxpayer resources are allocated appropriately and cost-effectively. We will invest DOE’s resources in sources and technologies that support affordable, reliable, and secure energy and provide a return on investment for the American taxpayers. We will return the Department to its core mission and eliminate spending on projects that fail to provide such a return, fail to advance our energy needs, and fail the test of economic viability.  

    It is deeply concerning how many billions of dollars were rushed out the door without proper due diligence in the final days of the Biden administration. DOE is undertaking a thorough review of financial assistance that identifies waste of taxpayer dollars, protects America’s national security and advances President Trump’s commitment to unleash American energy dominance.  As a result, we recently announced the termination of 24 projects totaling over $3.7 billion in taxpayer-funded financial assistance. These projects failed to meet the economic, national security or energy security standards necessary to sustain DOE’s investment, and the taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize them. 

    Instead, we are advancing a policy of energy addition – fully leveraging affordable, reliable and secure resources that have powered our country for generations. The United States is blessed with an abundance of coal, oil, and natural gas, and our Administration is committed to using them to meet growing energy needs of the American people.  

    Every one of these resources was unleashed through the world-changing power of American innovation. Our National Labs are the engine that drives research and development to expand our energy dominance. We will prioritize research that supports true technological breakthroughs and maintains America’s global competitiveness. 

    America must play a leading role commercializing of reliable, safe and secure nuclear energy, and we are taking steps to accelerate innovation in this sector. DOE is working to advance the rapid deployment of next-generation nuclear technology, including small modular reactors.  

    I am proud to report that we have officially ended the previous administration’s reckless pause on LNG export permits and have returned to regular order for reviewing and approving new permits. DOE will also work to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve – a national asset that protects our security in times of crisis. I want to thank this committee for prioritizing funding to refill the SPR in the One Big Beautiful Bill as well. 

    We are advancing President Trump’s pledge to lower the cost of living and expand choice by rightsizing DOE’s approach to home efficiency standards and regulations. Under the President’s direction, we’ve begun slashing more than 47 regulations as part of the largest deregulatory effort in history. These actions are projected to save the American people approximately $11 billion while restoring consumer freedom and lowering costs. 

    The responsible stewardship and modernization of the nation’s nuclear weapons system is paramount for this Administration. DOE is focused on addressing critical upgrades for the U.S. nuclear stockpile and maintaining our engine powerhouses for submarines and aircraft carriers.  Both tasks will be even more crucial in the next few years. 

    Our nuclear innovation as a nation began with the Manhattan Project, and the next Manhattan Project is clearly AI. DOE has a significant role to play in driving AI innovation for scientific discovery and national security. Our agency has world-class high-performance computing capabilities, including four of the world’s top ten supercomputers.  

    Harnessing our energy potential to power global AI leadership while meeting growing energy demand will be the challenge of our time. But America doesn’t back down from big challenges or big builds.  

    As Secretary of Energy, I am honored by the responsibility to help meet the American people’s growing energy needs and lead the world in energy development. I appreciated the opportunity to work with many of you on this committee to unlock America’s full energy potential and drive down costs for families with the One Big Beautiful Bill, and I look forward to continuing to work together to achieve President Trump’s energy dominance agenda. 

    Thank you for the opportunity to testify before this committee.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2139, Strengthening State and Local Efforts to Counter Transnational Repression Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2139 would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop a training program to enhance nonfederal law enforcement agencies’ preparedness for and response to transnational repression and related terrorist threats. The bill also would require DHS to conduct, to the extent practicable, research and development on technology to increase participation in training offered to nonfederal law enforcement and to share information on identifying and collecting information on such threats. Lastly, the bill would require the Government Accountability Office to report to the Congress within two years of enactment on the implementation of the bill.

    Using information from DHS, CBO estimates that developing and implementing the training program would cost $5 million over the 2025-2030 period. Additionally, based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that completing the report would cost $1 million. Because DHS already conducts research and development to enhance its security and intergovernmental awareness, CBO expects implementing that provision would cost less than $500,000. In total, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 2139 would cost $6 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1508, DHS Special Events Program and Support Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1508 would codify the Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) program that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) currently administers. Under that program, state and local governments submit events to an inter-agency working group that assesses each event for potential security risks, such as terrorist attacks and other hazards. Depending on the level of risk determined by the group, DHS and other federal agencies may provide support to the state or local government in managing security operations for the event.

    H.R. 1508 also would require DHS to report to the Congress annually on the program’s activities and once every five years on the program’s effectiveness. Lastly, the bill would require DHS to engage in research and development of emerging technologies that would enhance the department’s efforts to support federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies with respect to mass gatherings.

    Based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 1508 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period, primarily to comply with the bill’s reporting requirements. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Under current law, DHS already can conduct research and development of emerging technologies to enhance its security and intergovernmental awareness. On that basis, CBO estimates that the cost of implementing that provision and codifying the existing SEAR program would be insignificant.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Trent Kelly (R-Miss)

    Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

    Washington, June 6, 2025

    WASHINGTON –  U.S. Representative Trent Kelly announces the appointment of Henry Gaschk of Olive Branch, Mississippi, to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education. Gaschk, a senior at Lewisburg High School, has demonstrated excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership. He has served as varsity soccer captain and received honors including the Randy West Mississippi State All-Star, MHSAA North Mississippi All-Star, and Offensive Player of the Year award. In addition to his athletic achievements, Gaschk is committed to community service, volunteering with organizations such as Mississippi Project Package and The Arc of Northwest Mississippi. His academic achievements include being named a National Merit Semi-Finalist and receiving top subject averages in multiple disciplines. Gaschk’s leadership experiences include serving as an officer in the National Honor Society, a member of the Olive Branch Mayor’s Youth Council, and lead gatekeeper for the Southaven Parks Department. He is also involved in the English Honor Society, Chess Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

    “I’m excited to attend the United States Air Force Academy because it offers the opportunity to challenge myself academically and physically while preparing me for a career in the military,” Gaschk said. “I plan to study Systems Engineering and hope to become a pilot or pursue a master’s degree, eventually working in Air Force contracting.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2116, Law Enforcement Support and Counter Transnational Repression Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2116 would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct a public service outreach campaign to educate the public and international allies about transnational repression and related terrorist threats. The outreach campaign would include information on resources and ways for victims of threats and intimidation by foreign governments and related terrorism threats to anonymously contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The bill also would require DHS to engage in research and development of technologies and techniques that would help state and local governments counter transnational repression and related threats.

    Based on the costs of similar outreach campaigns, CBO expects that the required campaign would have no significant costs. Under current law, DHS can conduct research and development to enhance its security and intergovernmental situational awareness. On that basis, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 2116 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar: House Democrats will continue to fight for a stronger economy and lower costs

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – June 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, Vice Chair Ted Lieu and DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene held a press conference highlighting the politically toxic Republican Budget, which throws 16 million people off their health insurance to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

    CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: I’m grateful, as always, to be joined by Caucus Vice Chair Ted Lieu, and today we’re joined by Chair Suzan DelBene, who shared an update this morning about our path to a House majority in 2026.

    House Democrats are winning on the economy, we are winning on health care and we’re going to win back the fight for the American people to lead this country at this moment. And the weak and cowardly actions of Donald Trump are evidence of this. Just a few days ago, the world’s richest man, and Donald Trump’s biggest campaign contributor, betrayed the President and called on Republicans in the Senate to kill Trump’s signature piece of legislation—which throws 16 million people off of their health insurance to pay for more tax breaks for billionaires. Elon Musk did this not to protect the people who rely on Medicaid and food assistance to meet their basic needs, but because the bill doesn’t go far enough to enrich him and his companies. Musk even said that Trump’s reckless tariffs will cause a recession. Trump knows all of this. He knows that the Republican Budget is politically toxic, he knows that the economy is crashing because of his policies and he is desperate to change the subject. He sees the protests in Los Angeles as an excuse to unleash more chaos and distract the American people from the failing economy and his plans to cut Medicaid and food assistance. Remember: Donald Trump refused to call up the National Guard on January 6th when thousands of violent rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in search of his own Vice President. This isn’t about law and order or protecting public safety. Donald Trump wants conflict and violence. House Democrats stand on the side of peaceful protests and condemn the violence that Donald Trump is rooting for. We will continue to fight for a stronger economy and lower costs. Vice Chair Ted Lieu.

    VICE CHAIR LIEU: Thank you, Chairman Aguilar. Peacefully protesting is an American right. It’s part of the rich tradition of our country. Burning cars, looting and destroying property are crimes, and anyone who takes advantage of this situation and engages in those crimes should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. State and local law enforcement have repeatedly said they have the resources necessary to handle the situation. It is completely un-American and needlessly provocative for Donald Trump to deploy the National Guard and Marines to Southern California. So, I want to talk about the National Guard first. Their legal authority Trump is using is 10 U.S.C. Section 12406. I encourage all of you to read it. It very specifically says the only way he can do this is through the orders of the Governors of the states. Governor Newsom clearly has not given this order; the National Guard troops are following unlawful orders. I ask every National Guard person who is under this order to read the order, to see if it came from Governor Newsom and then to read the law and then decide for themselves if they are following unlawful orders. It also turns out that when Secretary Hegseth ordered this deployment, and in carrying out those orders, he put all these troops into Southern California without federal funding for food, water, fuel, equipment. They were sleeping on the floor. They were sleeping on each other. It is a complete mess. Secretary Hegseth’s repeated incompetence is next level. He needs to resign. And in terms of the Marines deployment, we should not be deploying Marines against Americans. Marines are trained to kill the enemy. What are they going to do at this protest? They’re going to shoot protesters? What exactly is their role? They are not trained to do crowd control. They are not trained to handle these kinds of situations. They are not trained for law enforcement. So I asked the President to rescind his orders. He’s being needlessly provocative and inflammatory.

    And Chairman Aguilar is right. He is losing on his Big Ugly Bill. It is going to give massive tax breaks to billionaires and it’s going to be funded by the greatest health care cuts in U.S. history. So, do not fall for the trap that the President is laying here with his shiny objects that he’s trying to do. Focus on how he’s messing up the economy, messing up your health care. And with that, I want to introduce our amazing DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene from Washington, she’s going to be the field general that leads us to flipping the House next year.

    DCCC CHAIR DELBENE: Thanks to Chair Aguilar and Vice Chair Lieu. This morning, in Caucus, we presented research on how House Republicans will lose the majority next year because of their One Big Broken Promise. It’s been only two weeks since House Republicans narrowly passed their legislation, and the more people learn about it, the more unpopular it becomes. Across the country, Americans have come out strongly against this tax scam. They’ve held protests outside of Republicans’ district offices against the cuts to Medicaid and nutrition programs. And in the very few in-person town halls that Republicans have held, we’ve seen incredibly large crowds turn out in opposition to their legislation. But, despite the overwhelming local opposition to the Big Ugly Bill from their constituents, vulnerable House Republicans are embracing it and resorting to lies when talking about it. Well, they can lie all they want, but there’s no denying the objective harm that it will cause. Independent, non-partisan analysts have said that instead of lowering costs for everyday people, House Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill raises costs on them. It will kick 16 million Americans off of their health insurance. It cuts food assistance programs, like free school lunch. It takes a chainsaw to these popular programs to pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest few.

    This Big Ugly Bill affirms everything voters already think about Republicans: that they don’t work for the American people, they work for the billionaire class. It’s clear that public support for the Republican agenda is cratering. Recent public polling shows that a majority of voters in House Republican battleground districts oppose the bill. They also revealed that most Americans agree that the GOP tax scam will help the wealthy and hurt working families. These public surveys line up with the internal research we’ve done in partnership with our Senate colleagues, and it’s what we presented to the Caucus this morning. We found that just 25% of voters think the GOP tax scam will help them and their families. The same internal research showed that Republicans’ massive cuts to popular programs are toxic with voters. We see there is a clear argument that is incredibly persuasive to voters. Instead of lowering costs, Republicans are raising costs, cutting health care and food assistance to pay for billionaire tax giveaways. 

    This vote is the defining contrast of the midterms. Remember, every single vulnerable House Republican voted for this disastrous piece of legislation. And since it passed by one vote, each one casts the deciding vote, any one of them could have stood up to stop it. But instead, they sided with the ultra-wealthy, while costs are out of control and everyday Americans are struggling. With this vote, vulnerable House Republicans have already sealed their political fate, and it’s one that they will come to regret next year when House Democrats retake the majority. Thank you. 

    Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Oz Turns 65, Launches Videos to Help Americans Navigate Medicare Enrollment

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    As he turns 65 on Wednesday, June 11, CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz is using his own Medicare enrollment experience to help Americans better understand how to sign up for Medicare and select the coverage that best fits their needs. Through a new video and social media series, Dr. Oz is walking future enrollees through simple steps they can take to get started—beginning with Medicare.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🚨Salvadoran criminal alien Jose Angel Zalaya is arrested by #ICE Washington, D.C., officers

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    WATCH as Salvadoran criminal alien Jose Angel Zalaya is arrested by ICE Washington, D.C., officers last week.

    Convictions:
    Felony unlawful wounding
    2 DUIs
    Driving w/o a license

    Report suspicious criminal behavior: 866-DHS-2-ICE

    #shorts #shortvideo #short

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYLRGe7sbIM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Assistant Secretary Micah Bock hosts This Week at DHS

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    June 1-8, 2025
    This week: DHS is protecting America – one arrest, one confiscation, and one deportation at a time.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGJpUd5MdJc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – June 10, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Tammy Bruce leads the Department Press Briefing at the Department of State, on June 10, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StateDept
    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance (American Sign Language)

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you can expect from FEMA after completing your disaster assistance application. This includes, how to stay in touch with FEMA, information about home inspections and how FEMA may contact you.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryNgsCjqP3U

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you can expect from FEMA after completing your disaster assistance application. This includes, how to stay in touch with FEMA, information about home inspections and how FEMA may contact you.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31lQzNga-oo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you will need to know before starting the application. This includes what assistance is available, what documents you will need to provide, and what types of questions you will be asked.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RF3tqG5Xhc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance (American Sign Language)

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you will need to know before starting the application. This includes what assistance is available, what documents you will need to provide, and what types of questions you will be asked.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xi_G2vI_fWU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Coast Guard suspends search for 6 missing people in downed plane near Pt. Loma, Calif.

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 06/10/2025 04:30 PM EDT

     

    06/10/2025 04:07 PM EDT

    GRAPHIC AVAILABLE: The Coast Guard suspended its search 10 a.m. Tuesday, pending further developments, for a downed Cessna 414 with six persons aboard approximately three miles west of Point Loma.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Man Sentenced to 47 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that on June 9, 2025, Kajuan Woods, 36, of Brooklyn, New York was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 47 months of imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Woods previously pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    According to court records, on January 19, 2024, Woods was one of six individuals located inside 195 St. Paul Street, Apt. A in Burlington, where law enforcement executed a search warrant as part of a drug trafficking investigation. Woods was wearing a satchel at the time, and within the satchel were nearly ten grams of fentanyl, including some fentanyl containing xylazine, drug packaging materials, and over $1,100 in U.S. currency. Within the apartment, law enforcement found seven handguns, three of which had previously been reported stolen.

    Then, in the early morning hours of May 12, 2024, when officers from the South Burlington Police Department encountered Woods and a woman apparently passed out in a running vehicle, Woods provided a false name to officers. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed over 28 grams of suspected cocaine, a partially loaded 9-millimeter Glock magazine, a stolen Apple MacBook Pro, and over $2,400 of stolen clothing.

    On June 4, 2024, after responding to reports of a male threatening a woman with a firearm, Burlington Police Department officers located Woods and a woman in a vehicle, and attempted to detain them. Woods ran from police, leading them on a foot chase through multiple backyards. After Woods was apprehended, officers learned his identity and arrested him pursuant to an active federal arrest warrant. Woods had over 34 grams of suspected cocaine on his person and a bullet in his pocket. Within the rental vehicle that Woods had been driving, officers found on the floorboard of the driver’s seat a fanny pack that contained a Glock 17 Gen4 9-millimeter pistol, suspected cocaine base, ten wax folds of suspected fentanyl, and empty wax folds. There was also $3,200 in U.S. currency.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts and hard work of the Burlington Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and also thanked the South Burlington Police Department.

    “Individuals who possess distribution quantities of deadly controlled substances, thousands of dollars in cash, and firearms pose a danger to the communities where they sell drugs, to law enforcement officers, and to themselves,” Acting United States Attorney Drescher stated. “I commend the officers of the Burlington Police Department for safely apprehending defendant Woods despite his attempt to run away from them through multiple backyards. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our federal, state, county, and local partners to investigate and prosecute armed drug traffickers in our ongoing effort to make Vermont a safer place.”

    The prosecutor was Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Woods was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Delaware Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Wilmington, Del. – Tyler Ramaley, 31, of Wilmington, pleaded guilty today to distributing child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”), announced Dylan J. Steinberg, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware.  The Honorable Gregory B. Williams accepted the plea.

    According to statements made in open court, the investigation into Ramaley began in October 2024 when law enforcement received information that an individual was seen on multiple online video calls with others watching, screen sharing, and masturbating to CSAM.  Law enforcement successfully identified the individual in the video calls as Ramaley.  Ramaley also admitted to possessing CSAM on his devices and to entering the video calls and broadcasting CSAM to others over the calls.

    “Sharing explicit images of children being sexually abused is a heinous crime, and Tyler Ramaley’s actions are a tragic reminder of the persistence of individuals who prey on children,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Steinberg.  “My office remains committed to investigating and bringing to justice those who possess and distribute child sexual abuse material.  We will continue to work alongside our federal, state, and local partners to protect children and hold offenders accountable.”

    “Tyler Ramaley’s crimes are depraved and unconscionable. Viewing and sharing child sexual abuse material online continually victimizes the child. Ramaley thought he could hide behind a keyboard, but the FBI and our partners will work relentlessly to identify and hold accountable predators who exploit innocent children,” says FBI Baltimore Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski.

    The FBI investigated this case, with the assistance of the New Castle County Police Department, Delaware State Police, and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare prosecuted this case.

    Ramaley is facing a maximum possible sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum term of 5 years.  Judge Williams will determine the defendant’s sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Child Sexual Predator Sentenced to 96 Months’ Imprisonment

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Austin Matthew Otto, 25, of Orem, Utah, was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment and a lifetime of supervised release after he produced sexually explicit photos of two children and uploaded child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to his Google Photos account. Additionally, law enforcement found 400 images and 19 videos of child sexual abuse material on his laptop and cell phone.  

    The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Howard C. Nielson, Jr., comes after Otto pleaded guilty to the charge on June 4, 2024. In addition to his term of imprisonment, he was ordered by the court to pay $3,000 in restitution to each of the victims.

    According to court documents and statements made at Otto’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, in May 2021, Otto was identified from a Google report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children after he uploaded child sexual abuse material to his Google Photos account. The investigation of IP addresses led to the identification of Otto and he was arrested. Pursuant to a search warrant, hundreds of images and video of child sexual abuse material and a pair of child size six underwear were seized. The forensic evaluation on the digital evidence also revealed filenames, keyword and web browser hits, bookmarks, playback history of videos, hidden names and folders all containing child sexual abuse material including 17 exploitive images of two victims under eight years old located on Otto’s cell phone and laptop.  

    The case was investigated by the Orem Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Carol A. Dain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    Attachments:

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Paul Woman Charged with Assaulting Law Enforcement Officers During Lake Street Narcotics Search Warrants, Punching an FBI Agent Upon her Arrest

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Isabel Lopez, 27, of St. Paul, Minnesota, has been charged by federal complaint and indictment with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers or employees, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.

    According to court documents, on June 3, 2025, law enforcement officers from multiple federal agencies were executing federal search warrants at eight Twin Cities locations.  These search warrants were related to a long-term investigation into narcotics trafficking, money laundering, human trafficking, and related offenses.  The investigation began with the seizure of 900 pounds of methamphetamine, with a street value of between $22 million and $25 million.

    One of the search warrant locations was the Cuatro Milpas restaurant on Lake Street in Minneapolis.  Shortly after the search warrant execution began, a crowd began to gather.  The crowd appeared to be under the mistaken belief that law enforcement was present to arrest individuals illegally present in the country for immigration offenses. This was incorrect.  In fact, agents were there to collect evidence pursuant to a federal search warrant signed by a federal judge.  Indeed, no one was arrested that day.  Recognizing the apparent misunderstanding, law enforcement explained the nature of the search warrant to crowd members.

    Some people in the crowd engaged in legal protest activity. Lopez, as detailed below, obstructed, impeded, and assaulted federal agents and officers, in violation of federal law.  Lopez physically assaulted several agents and officers.  She punched, kicked, and shoved agents and officers.  Crowd members moved to restrain Lopez.  Even as they were doing so, Lopez kicked an FBI agent. Lopez continued to assault federal agents and officers.  As law enforcement attempted to depart the scene, Lopez threw a softball at the back of a deputy from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.

    On June 9, 2025, Lopez was charged by complaint with Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding Officers, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 111(a)(1).  When federal agents attempted to arrest Lopez, she punched an FBI agent in the head.

    Today, June 10, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment against defendant Lopez.  The grand jury charged Lopez with three counts of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding Officers, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 111(a)(1)—two counts related to the assaults Lopez committed during the June 3rd search warrant execution and one count related to Lopez punching an FBI agent at the time of her arrest.  The grand jury also charged Lopez with one count of Obstruction of Law Enforcement During Civil Disorder, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 231(a)(3).

    “As laid out in the complaint, federal agents were executing federal search warrants signed by a federal judge,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.  “The search warrants were part of a long-term drug trafficking, money laundering, and human trafficking investigation involving a transnational criminal organization.  The defendant physically attacked law enforcement agents in the course of their duties, even as the crowd tried to hold her back.  When the defendant was arrested, she doubled-down, punching an FBI agent in the head.  Let me make clear:  it is against the law to assault or obstruct federal law enforcement agents.  We do not punch cops.”

    “Assaulting a law enforcement officer engaged in their lawful duties, or damaging government property during a protest, is not protected under the First Amendment — it is a criminal offense,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, will use every available resource to investigate these acts, identify those responsible, and ensure they are held accountable under the law.” 

    “Our agents were lawfully performing their duties when they were surrounded and obstructed by individuals attempting to interfere with a federal operation.  Let me be clear – interfering with federal law enforcement is a crime, and those responsible will be identified and held accountable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt. “HSI and its partners operate with professionalism, purpose, and the full backing of the law.  I fully support the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way every day to uphold public safety.  No one should face threats, intimidation, or violence while carrying out the duties entrusted to them by the American people.  The safety of our agents and officers will never be compromised.”

    “Respect for the rule of law is the foundation of our justice system,” said Special Agent in Charge of ATF Travis Riddle. “When federal law enforcement officers are executing a lawful search warrant, which is part of ensuring due process, interference, especially violent interference, will not be tolerated. Anyone who chooses to escalate these situations and assault officers should expect to be held accountable. Actions have consequences.”

    Assaulting a federal agent is not only a criminal act–it is an attack on an individual, a member of our community, and the integrity of the justice system itself,” said Ramsey E. Covington, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Acts of violence against federal agents will not be tolerated and will be met with swift and appropriate action. This arrest underscores our commitment to upholding the rule of law without compromise and ensuring offenders who attempt to obstruct justice are held fully accountable.”

    Lopez made her initial appearance in U.S. District Court today, before Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty.  She will remain detained pending a detention hearing.

    This case is a result of a criminal investigation conducted by the FBI, HSI, DEA, IRS-CI, ATF, USMS, and Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.

    A complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lowell Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy with Asian Boyz Gang

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Over 13,000 counterfeit “Adderall” pills containing methamphetamine recovered during search of defendant’s storage unit

    BOSTON – A Lowell man pleaded guilty yesterday to distributing thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine, including to a member of the Asian Boyz gang.

    Scott Fournier, a/k/a “S.G.,” 34, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; two counts of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine; and three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Oct. 8, 2025.

    According to court documents, a long-term investigation identified that Asian Boyz gang members and associates had access to a plentiful supply of dangerous, homemade pills pressed with varying doses of methamphetamine and caffeine and designed to resemble pharmaceutical-grade Adderall.

    Between March 2, 2023 and May 12, 2023, Fournier supplied an Asian Boyz gang member with more than 2,000 methamphetamine pills to be used in street deals. Fournier’s fingerprints were identified on one of the bags containing the pills.

    The investigation subsequently traced Fournier’s supply operation to a storage unit in Tyngsborough. Security video recordings from the facility showed Fournier routinely accessing the storage unit, including at the times in which he delivered methamphetamine pills to the Asian Boyz gang member. During a search of the storage unit in October 2023, 13,464 counterfeit “Adderall” pills containing methamphetamine were found – with a combined weight of over four kilograms – as well as other types of pills. Upon being approached by law enforcement, following the search of his storage unit, Fournier was found in possession of a bag that contained an additional 1,684 counterfeit “Adderall” pills made with methamphetamine.      

    Additionally, over the course of five separate occasions between April 2024 and October 2024, Fournier sold approximately 8,000 counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine – with a combined weight of over two kilograms – in recorded deals to a cooperating witness.

    The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least five year and up to life in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
     
    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Superintendent Gregory C. Hudon of the Lowell Police Department made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Billerica, Haverhill, North Andover and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/PSN.

    This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –