NewzIntel.com

Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI Video: This Week at Justice – September 20, 2024

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    #ThisWeekAtJustice

    • Justice Department Awards Over $600M to Hire Law Enforcement Officers, Keep Schools Safe, and Improve Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Services
    • Justice Department Announces Five Cases Tied to Disruptive Technology Strike Force
    • Justice Department and Department of Housing and Urban Development Secure Over $15M from OceanFirst Bank to Resolve Redlining Claims in New Jersey
    • Justice Department Files Lawsuit Against Owner and Operator of the Vessel that Destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge
    • Suspect at Trump International Golf Course Charged with Firearms Offenses

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGRCk_SUVW8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) Receives Royalty Payment for Ownership Stake in Listerine Antiseptic

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Naples, FL, Sept. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), a diversified holding company, is pleased to announce the receipt of a royalty payment derived from its ownership stake in Listerine® Antiseptic (Mouthwash), a globally recognized brand in oral hygiene.

    As part of its strategic portfolio, Music Licensing, Inc. holds a valuable interest in the Listerine® brand, which continues to perform exceptionally well in the marketplace. The latest royalty payment reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to maximizing shareholder value through diversified asset holdings, including high-profile consumer goods.

    “We are proud of the steady revenue stream generated from our stake in Listerine® Antiseptic,” said Jake P. Noch, CEO of Music Licensing, Inc. “This payment not only highlights the strength and reliability of our diverse portfolio but also underscores our ability to create sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders.”

    Music Licensing, Inc. continues to pursue strategic investments in both the entertainment and consumer goods sectors, further reinforcing its position as a leader in intellectual property and royalty-based assets.

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (ProMusicRights.com) 

    Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), also known as Pro Music Rights, is a diversified holding company and the fifth public performance rights organization (PRO) formed in the United States. Its licensees include notable companies such as TikTok, iHeart Media, Triller, Napster, 7Digital, Vevo, and many others. Pro Music Rights holds an estimated market share of 7.4% in the United States, representing over 2,500,000 works by notable artists such as A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, Pharrell, Young Jeezy, Juelz Santana, Lil Yachty, MoneyBagg Yo, Larry June, Trae Pound, Sauce Walka, Trae Tha Truth, Sosamann, Soulja Boy, Lex Luger, Trauma Tone, Lud Foe, SlowBucks, Gunplay, OG Maco, Rich The Kid, Fat Trel, Young Scooter, Nipsey Hussle, Famous Dex, Boosie Badazz, Shy Glizzy, 2 Chainz, Migos, Gucci Mane, Young Dolph, Trinidad James, Chingy, Lil Gnar, 3OhBlack, Curren$y, Fall Out Boy, Money Man, Dej Loaf, Lil Uzi Vert, and countless others, as well as artificial intelligence (A.I.) created music.

    Additionally, Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) owns royalty stakes in Listerine “Mouthwash” Antiseptic and musical works by artists such as The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Mike Posner, blackbear, Lil Nas X, Lil Yachty, DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, XXXTentacion, Jeremih, Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Bellinger, Ne-Yo, MoneyBagg Yo, Halsey, Desiigner, DaniLeigh, Rihanna, and numerous others.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the ability of Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. to accomplish its stated plan of business. Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Pro Music Rights, Inc., Music Licensing, Inc., or any other person.

    Non-Legal Advice Disclosure:

    This press release does not constitute legal advice, and readers are advised to seek legal counsel for any legal matters or questions related to the content herein.

    Non-Investment Advice Disclosure:

    This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and does not in any way imply or constitute a recommendation or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities, commodities, bonds, options, derivatives, or any other investment products. Any decisions related to investments should be made after thorough research and consultation with a qualified financial advisor or professional. We assume no liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this communication

    Contact: investors@ProMusicRights.com

    SOURCE: Music Licensing, Inc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Following Apalachee High School Shooting, Senator Reverend Warnock Spotlights Harmful Impact of Gun Violence on Nation’s Youth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    ICYMI: Following Apalachee High School Shooting, Senator Reverend Warnock Spotlights Harmful Impact of Gun Violence on Nation’s Youth

    Senator Reverend Warnock hosted a panel discussion titled “Youth Under Fire: Addressing Gun Violence in Our Communities” during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 53rd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC)

    The forum followed a deadly school shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia that took the lives of two students and two teachers

    Senator Reverend Warnock previously examined the impact of gun violence in the Black community during a forum at last year’s ALC

    This year’s panel discussion featured Greg Jackson, the Deputy Director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Congresswoman Lucy McBath, and several other gun violence activists

    Senator Reverend Warnock: “This public health crisis is undoubtedly stealing generations of youth from the Black community, and the American people are crying out for action on this issue”

    Above left to right: Senator Reverend Warnock, Dr. Roger Mitchell, Jr., Armani White

    Washington, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) convened survivors and gun safety advocates for a forum aimed at addressing the dangerous, deadly consequences of the nation’s gun violence epidemic on young people, particularly Black youth, during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 53rd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) in Washington, D.C. The panel discussion, titled “Youth Under Fire: Addressing Gun Violence in Our Communities”,was Senator Warnock’s second session focused on efforts to curb gun violence at the ALC, and was held in the wake of the shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, GA that claimed the lives of two teachers and two students. 500 conference participants and community members, including high school students, attended the session.

    “This public health crisis is undoubtedly stealing generations of youth from the Black community, and the American people are crying out for action on this issue,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “They want commonsense gun safety reform, but there’s a growing chasm between what the people want and what they can get from their government.”

    Above Left: The Youth Under Fire: Addressing Gun Violence in Our Communities panel discussion

    Above Right: Gregory Jackson, Deputy Director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention & Senator Reverend Warnock

    Senator Warnock moderated the discussion, which included remarks from Gregory Jackson, Deputy Director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and Special Assistant to the President; Dr. Roger Mitchell, Jr., President of Howard University Hospital; Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-GA-07), who lost her son, Jordan, to gun violence in 2012, Maciah King-Brooks, a gun violence student advocate in the DMV and partner for Guns Down Friday; Zoe Touray, a survivor of the 2021 Oxford High School shooting in Michigan that killed four students, youth activist, founder of S.E.E (Survivors Embracing Each Other), and a March For Our Lives national spokesperson; Hip-Hop artist Armani White, Mariah Cooley, Midwest Advocacy Associate with the Community Justice Action Fund; and Angela Ferrell-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action.

    Above Left: Maciah King-Brooks, student advocate and partner for Guns Down Friday & Senator Reverend Warnock

    Above Right: Zoe Touray, founder of Survivors Embracing Each Other & Senator Reverend Warnock

    Senator Warnock has vocally championed efforts to address the gun violence crisis in the United States, as a pastor and legislator. Following the tragic shooting in Winder, Senator Warnock met with students and families from the Apalachee High School community, and honored the victims on the Senate floor while calling for Congress to come together to pass popular gun safety reforms supported by broad swaths of the American public, regardless of political ideology; the Senator’s speech marked his third time lamenting a mass shooting in Georgia on the Senate floor.

    Additionally, since arriving to the Senate, Senator Warnock has championed several pieces of legislation to curb rampant, routine gun violence and help make communities safer, including cosponsoring bills to ban assault weapons, institute universal background checks on firearms, and the bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the first gun safety reform legislation passed by Congress in over 30 years.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Georgia’s Deadliest School Shooting, Congressman Dan Goldman Joins Oversight Committee Democrats in Call for a Hearing and Commonsense Legislation to Address Gun Violence

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Since the Start of the 118th Congress, There Have Been More than 1000 Mass Shootings in the United States

    Read the Letter Here

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and 16 of his Democratic committee colleagues in sending a letter to Chairman James Comer calling for the Oversight Committee to hold a hearing to address the gun violence epidemic plaguing this country following the Apalachee High School shooting in Winder, Georgia. According to reports, the 14-year-old gunman entered the school armed with an AR-15 firearm, the preferred tool of mass shooters, to kill his classmates.

    “On Wednesday, America experienced another massacre by AR-15 in a public school. With two more students and two more teachers dead and nine wounded in Winder, Georgia, with their families and communities grieving and ripped apart by this violence, we wonder whether you agree it is now time to call a hearing to address why our nation sees rates of gun violence hundreds of times higher than the United Kingdom and why gun violence is now the leading cause of death for American children and teens,” the Members wrote.

    In the 118th Congress, the Republican-led Committee has only held one hearing about a mass shooting and that hearing was entirely focused on the operational failures of the United States Secret Service. On July 22, 2024, Chairman Comer convened a hearing to examine the attempted assassination of Donald Trump that took the life of one person and critically injured two people.

    Since January 3, 2023, the first day of the 118th Congress, there have been more than 1,000 mass shootings, with more than 70 of those mass shootings following the July 22 hearing. Even though the majority of Americans favor stricter gun laws, Chairman Comer and Republicans in Congress have failed to address this public health crisis which is the leading cause of death in children and teens.

    “This Committee should show the American people that Congress can and will act to stop the devastation caused by AR-15s and other firearms every single day. We therefore urge you to convene a hearing this month about our gun violence epidemic and to discuss popular commonsense legislation, like a universal violent criminal background check and a ban on military-style assault weapons, to protect the lives of children at school, teachers, and the rest of the American people,” the Members concluded.

    Read the letter here or below:

    On Wednesday, America experienced another massacre by an AR-15 in a public school. With two more students and two more teachers dead and nine wounded in Winder, Georgia, with their families and communities grieving and ripped apart by this violence, we wonder whether you agree it is now time to call a hearing to address why our nation sees rates of gun violence hundreds of times higher than the United Kingdom and why gun violence is now the leading cause of death for American children and teens. 

    Do you agree that it is time for Congress to act to stop these atrocities, or do you think it is time for us to continue to do nothing at all?

    Not doing anything in response to another firearm attack at a school would send the message that we think this kind of savage gun violence in schools is normal and acceptable.

    We know we don’t have a lot of time left in this Congress, but it is hard to think of a more pressing public policy problem than gun violence.

    Would you, as Chairman of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, convene a hearing to examine the causes of—and best solutions to address—the gun violence epidemic plaguing our country?

    Details are still emerging about the events of this most recent mass shooting in Georgia. It is clear, however, that the 14-year-old shooter—who is not even old enough to legally drive a car—obtained from his father an “AR-15-style” firearm to kill his classmates and teachers. As you know, AR-style rifles are now the preferred weapon of mass shooters.

    The Committee has only held one hearing this Congress about a mass shooting and that hearing was entirely focused on the operational failures of the United States Secret Service. On July 22, 2024, you convened a hearing to examine the attempted assassination of Donald Trump that took the life of one person and left two others critically injured. We joined you in calling not only for that hearing but for the resignation of the Secret Service Director for her outrageous failure to answer the most basic questions about the Secret Service operational failures on that day. We also said that we were right to seek dramatic improvements in the protective posture of the Secret Service in keeping presidential candidates safe from gun violence.

    But we also asked what we are planning to do to keep the rest of the population safe from mass gun violence.

    It is a serious dereliction of duty for this Committee—and the Republican-led House Representatives—to act to protect presidential candidates from gun violence but do nothing at all to protect the rest of the American people whom the president serves. When a former president is nearly assassinated in an AR-15 mass shooting, we don’t simply call it a “fact of life,” offer casual “thoughts and prayers,” and then move on.10 When a president is targeted by a mass shooter wielding an AR-15, we call hearings, analyze the problem, and act to reduce the risks of another attack.

    Since the beginning of the 118th Congress on January 3, 2023, there have been more than 1,000 mass shootings in America.11 And, just since the hearing in July, the United States has seen more than 70 additional mass shootings.12 In June, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared that the soaring number of children killed by firearms has created an “urgent public health Crisis.”

    This Committee should show the American people that Congress can and will act to stop the devastation caused by AR-15s and other firearms every single day. We therefore urge you to convene a hearing this month about our gun violence epidemic and to discuss popular commonsense legislation, like a universal violent criminal background check and a ban on military-style assault weapons, to protect the lives of children at school, teachers, and the rest of the American people.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Jury’s Verdict in Trial of Michael P. Owens, Dawson L. Davenport, Robert A. Gunton, Andrea J. Lindstrom, and Julie A. Yale

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Today, after a 10-day trial and just over two hours of deliberation, a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California found Michael P. Owens, Dawson L. Davenport, Robert A. Gunton, Andrea J. Lindstrom, and Julie A. Yale liable for securities fraud. The jury also determined that Owens, Gunton, and Yale violated the securities registration provisions of the federal securities laws, and that Owens violated the broker-dealer registration provisions of the federal securities laws.

    Statement by SEC Division of Enforcement Director Gurbir S. Grewal:

    “We are pleased with the jury verdict holding these defendants liable for their roles in fraudulent securities offerings that raised more than $67 million from investors. Defendants Owens, Davenport, and Lindstrom set up and controlled a boiler room that cold-called investors to solicit private investments in an aerospace start-up, but misrepresented how the investor funds would be used: they concealed that significant investor funds were spent on sales commissions to unregistered brokers, that nearly a third of the invested funds were spent on offering costs, and that most of these offering costs went to Owens and entities he controlled. The jury also found all of the defendants liable for a separate fraudulent scheme to conduct unregistered offers and sales of securities to generate more illicit profits for Owens. As this trial demonstrates, the SEC is committed to protecting investors and holding fraudsters accountable.”
     

    *   *   *

    More Information

    The SEC filed its civil complaint on Sept. 1, 2021.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Don Cheadle, Dame Emma Thompson, Julianne Moore, Khaled Hosseini, Robert Redford and Sir Mo Farah among more than 150 notable parents urging an end to fossil fuels ahead of UN Summit of the Future

    Source: Save The Children

    Signatories to an open letter to world leaders, spearheaded by parent’s and caregivers’ organisation Our Kids’ Climate, as part of a movement to mobilize parents around the world to take climate action and help protect what we love, include:

    • Actors Cobie Smulders, David Morrissey, Dia Mirza, Djimon Hounsou, Emmy Rossum, Halle Bailey, Hend Sabry, Isabelle Carré, Julie Walters, Kevin Bacon, Matthew Rhys, Ray Winstone, Rosario Dawson, Simon Pegg and Steve Buscemi; and film director Fernando Meirelles.
    • Musicians Angelique Kidjo and Annie Lennox.
    • Author Ian McEwan, and children’s writers and illustrators Axel Scheffler, LeUyen Pham and Malorie Blackman.
    • Prominent activists Bill McKibben, Princess Esmeralda of Belgium, Kumi Naidoo, Naomi Klein, Nnimmo Bassey and Tasneem Essop.
    • Former UN Climate Chief and architect of the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change, Christiana Figueres.
    • Mayor of London and C40 Cities Co-Chair, Sadiq Khan, and Mayor of Freetown and C40 Cities Co-Chair, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr.

    In an open letter addressed to world leaders, more than 150 notable parents from across the globe are calling for an end to the world’s “dangerous dependence on fossil fuels” ahead of the UN Summit of the Future on 22-23 September.

    The letter is released against months of wrangling over whether and how to include a crucial reference to fossil fuels—the primary driver of the climate crisis—in the Summit’s key document, the Pact for the Future.  

    The parents’ letter says: “The burning of fossil fuels drives the climate crisis, harming children now and stealing their futures. It is crucial that the Summit makes an unambiguous commitment to a just and fair transition away from fossil fuels.”

    The letter has been spearheaded by Our Kids’ Climate, a global network bringing together parents and grandparents from over 55 countries to take action on climate. It is part of an effort taking place during Climate Week NYC supported by Groundswell (Global Optimism), Save the Children International, Potential Energy, C40 Cities, Climate Crisis Advisory Group, WE ARE FAMILY FOUNDATION,  and the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, which seeks to harness the power of love-led climate action and share the parents’ letter under the hashtag #ProtectWhatWeLove.

    Parents from entertainment, sport, science, religion, civil society, literature and business have added their names to the letter. Further signatories include: actors Alison Steadman, Alysia Reiner, David Lyons, Jessica St. Clair, Krista Kosonen, Lucian Msamati, Piper Perabo and Shabana Azmi, artist Olafur Eliasson; authors Lily Cole, Paul Hawken, Romesh Gunesekera and Sergei Urban; broadcaster Gary Lineker; business leader Paul Polman;  children’s writers and illustrators Beverley Naidoo, Britta Teckentrup, Chris Riddell, Debi Gliori, Jackie Morris, Jim Field, Ken Wilson-Max, Margarita Engle, Michael Rosen, Yuyi Morales and Zillah Bethell;  climate activists Farhana Yamin, Jill Kubit, Lidy Nacpil, Maya Mailer, Omar Elmawi, and Tzeporah Berman;  economists Kate Raworth, Dr. Guido Schmidt-Traub, Dr. Mariana Mazzucato; faith leader Pastor Henrique Vieira; health leaders Dr Maria Neira from the World Health Organization and Rosamund Kissi-Debrah; models Amber Valletta, Arizona Muse and Cameron Russell; scientists Dr Arunabha Ghosh, Sir David King, Dr Fatima Denton, and Michael E. Mann.

    The letter was released alongside a powerful video produced by the Potential Energy Coalition, which was informed by the organization’s research that found the number one reason people around the world care about climate change is to protect children and future generations.

    Today (Saturday 21 September), on the eve of the Summit, a colorful and family-friendly street action, outside the UN, organized by Climate Families NYC and Our Kids’ Climate will see the letter being read out by parents to coincide with the letter’s release. Parents and children from New York together with climate leader parents from around the world will attend. 

    The letter continues: “To be worthy of its name, the Summit of the Future must be a reset moment. We want our children to inherit a world in which they can breathe clean air, enjoy nature, and meet their potential without threat from ever-worsening climate disasters.”

    On the eve of the Summit,  the organizations supporting the letter are urging high-income countries and historical emitters to take the lead in driving a just and equitable transition, calling on these nations to provide critical support to low-income countries, ensuring that children’s rights and needs are prioritized at every step.

    The public supports robust climate action. According to research, 77% of the global population want their government to do whatever it takes to limit the effects of climate change. Next year, countries must present updated climate plans to the UN. These plans are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to respond to this global mandate for action.

    Parents and grandparents across the world are being invited by Our Kids’ Climate to join forces with the eminent parents by signing the open letter themselves.

    The letter to world leaders ends: “We, the parents, simply wish for a decent future for our children, and all children. You have the power to protect what we love. For the children of today and tomorrow, we are counting on you.”

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    • For media enquiries on the Our Kids’ Climate letter and signatories contact Rebecca Wynn on rebecca@ourkidsclimate.org  and +44 7779618197 or Cora Bauer on cora.bauer@digacommunications.com  or +447787897467
    • Full letter and list of signatories will be hosted here on Our Kids’ Climate’s website when the embargo lifts, and this is also where all parents can add their name to the open letter.  You can read the full letter under embargo here
    • A powerful video, created by Potential Energy, about love-led climate action is also being released alongside the letter.  The video can be found here. Protect What You Love is a unifying concept created by Potential Energy, based on global research on what moves people the most on demand for climate action, in partnership with the Yale Climate Communications Center. For media inquiries, contact Caroline Behringer at cbehringer@potentialenergycoalition.org or +31 6 1556 8756.
    • Journalists are invited to attend Our Kids’ Climate and NY Climate Families family-friendly street action, where the parents’ letter will be read out. The action will feature colorful props, music, parents and children. It will take place on Saturday, September 21, 10 AM ET.  Please contact Liat Olenick, LiatOlenick@Gmail.com, + 1 917-930-2788. Photos from the action will be made available here.

    *******************************************************************************************************************

    For further enquiries please contact:

    Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409

    Please also check our Twitter account @Save_GlobalNews for news alerts, quotes, statements and location Vlogs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Charged in Complaint Alleging He Injured Five People in Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse

    Source: US State of California

    A California man was charged today in a federal criminal complaint alleging he committed a bomb attack at a courthouse in Santa Maria, California, on Wednesday, in which at least five people were injured.

    Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria, is charged with maliciously damaging a building by means of explosive.

    McGuire, who was arrested Wednesday shortly after the attack, is expected to make his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    “This defendant will now face justice in federal court for his alleged attack that injured at least five people and struck fear across a county courthouse and an entire community,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Attacks on our public institutions and on public servants threaten the safety of our communities and the rule of law itself. Such attacks will not be tolerated by the Justice Department.”

    According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, on Sept. 25, McGuire entered a courthouse of Santa Barbara County Superior Court and threw a bag into the lobby. The bag exploded and McGuire left the courthouse on foot. The explosion injured at least five people who were present at the courthouse at that time.

    Shortly thereafter, McGuire was apprehended and detained by law enforcement officials as he was trying to access a red Ford Mustang car parked outside the building. McGuire allegedly yelled that the government had taken his guns and that everyone needed to fight, rise up, and rebel.

    Inside the car, a deputy saw ammunition, a flare gun, and a box of fireworks. A search of the car revealed a shotgun, a rifle, more ammunition, a suspected bomb, and 10 Molotov cocktails. Law enforcement later rendered the bomb safe.

    A search of McGuire’s residence revealed an empty can with nails glued to the outside, a duffel bag containing matches, black powder, used and unused fireworks, and papers that appeared to be recipes for explosive material.

    “This defendant’s alleged misconduct was chilling,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for Central District of California. “Not only did he injure five people and traumatize many more, but he possessed a cache of weapons that would have allowed him to wreak even greater destruction had he not been stopped. Attacks on our courts, law enforcement officers, and other public servants are unacceptable, and it is critical that those who carry out such assaults be prosecuted to the fullest extent.”

    “The idea of intentionally setting off an explosive device to do harm and avoid justice in the process shocks the conscience,” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Make no mistake, we are committed to holding McGuire accountable for this blatant act of violence. As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety.”

    “This was a shocking and unprecedented crime in our county, but, in spite of its audacity, the security of the Santa Maria courthouse was maintained,” said Sheriff Bill Brown of Santa Barbara County. “The suspect was swiftly apprehended by a court security officer, a sheriff’s deputy, two California Highway Patrol officers, and a district attorney’s investigator; we are proud of their resolute actions that almost certainly prevented further violence. We are also grateful for the substantial investigative assistance that has been provided by our colleagues with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and from U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada and his office.”

    If convicted, McGuire faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden for the Central District of California are prosecuting this case with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

    A complaint 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 –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Charged in Complaint Alleging He Injured Five People in Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    A California man was charged today in a federal criminal complaint alleging he committed a bomb attack at a courthouse in Santa Maria, California, on Wednesday, in which at least five people were injured.

    Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria, is charged with maliciously damaging a building by means of explosive.

    McGuire, who was arrested Wednesday shortly after the attack, is expected to make his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    “This defendant will now face justice in federal court for his alleged attack that injured at least five people and struck fear across a county courthouse and an entire community,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Attacks on our public institutions and on public servants threaten the safety of our communities and the rule of law itself. Such attacks will not be tolerated by the Justice Department.”

    According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, on Sept. 25, McGuire entered a courthouse of Santa Barbara County Superior Court and threw a bag into the lobby. The bag exploded and McGuire left the courthouse on foot. The explosion injured at least five people who were present at the courthouse at that time.

    Shortly thereafter, McGuire was apprehended and detained by law enforcement officials as he was trying to access a red Ford Mustang car parked outside the building. McGuire allegedly yelled that the government had taken his guns and that everyone needed to fight, rise up, and rebel.

    Inside the car, a deputy saw ammunition, a flare gun, and a box of fireworks. A search of the car revealed a shotgun, a rifle, more ammunition, a suspected bomb, and 10 Molotov cocktails. Law enforcement later rendered the bomb safe.

    A search of McGuire’s residence revealed an empty can with nails glued to the outside, a duffel bag containing matches, black powder, used and unused fireworks, and papers that appeared to be recipes for explosive material.

    “This defendant’s alleged misconduct was chilling,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for Central District of California. “Not only did he injure five people and traumatize many more, but he possessed a cache of weapons that would have allowed him to wreak even greater destruction had he not been stopped. Attacks on our courts, law enforcement officers, and other public servants are unacceptable, and it is critical that those who carry out such assaults be prosecuted to the fullest extent.”

    “The idea of intentionally setting off an explosive device to do harm and avoid justice in the process shocks the conscience,” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Make no mistake, we are committed to holding McGuire accountable for this blatant act of violence. As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety.”

    “This was a shocking and unprecedented crime in our county, but, in spite of its audacity, the security of the Santa Maria courthouse was maintained,” said Sheriff Bill Brown of Santa Barbara County. “The suspect was swiftly apprehended by a court security officer, a sheriff’s deputy, two California Highway Patrol officers, and a district attorney’s investigator; we are proud of their resolute actions that almost certainly prevented further violence. We are also grateful for the substantial investigative assistance that has been provided by our colleagues with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and from U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada and his office.”

    If convicted, McGuire faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden for the Central District of California are prosecuting this case with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 80th Anniversary Operation Union II

    Source: US Marines (video statements)

    During World War II, a small operational detachment from the Office of Strategic Services parachuted behind enemy lines into the German-controlled French Alps to arm, train, and organize the French resistance fighters on August 1, 1944.

    #Marine Maj. Peter Ortiz led the OSS team of five other Marines, an Army Air Corps Captain, and a French resistance fighter wearing a Marine Corps uniform.

    The operation ultimately led to them being surrounded by German forces in the town of Centron, where the team willingly surrendered to save the local civilian population. Eighty years later, their actions are remembered by U.S. and French service members and civilians.

    Marine Sgt. Kedrick Schumacher and Gunnery Sgt. Donato Maffin

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vy_7W5JCRg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kindness is simple! The seventh inter-university “School of Volunteers” has opened

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Every autumn the team

    The welcoming speech was given by the Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Youth Policy and Interaction with Public Organizations Oleg Polischuk, Vice-Rector for Youth Policy and Communication Technologies Maxim Pasholikov, Director of the Humanitarian Institute Natalia Chicherina and Director of the Harmony Center Tatyana Nam.

    “School of Volunteers-2024” united active students into a single community of like-minded people. From September 18 to 20, there was an intensive course with thematic days “Kindness. Opportunities”, “Kindness. Skills” and “Kindness. Directions”.

    The first day was devoted to the skills that a volunteer develops. Leadership, team building, communication, self-control and time management — these skills help in life, creativity and work. Maria Kukushkina, head of the educational and project art laboratory “ArtPoliLab”, showed how a team is formed through joint games, dances and creative tasks.

    The meeting continued with a mini-lecture on social design from Maxim Smirnov, Deputy Director of the Dobro.Center “Harmony” of the Polytechnic University. Maxim told how to turn your dream into a goal and create your own social project, assemble a team for it and effectively organize work using agile methods.

    The evening ended with a presentation on time management from copywriter and fundraiser of the Dobro.Center “Harmony”, student of the Humanitarian Institute Vasilisa Sallinen. The speaker introduced the participants to the functionality of the WEEEK task manager and talked about how to effectively manage your time.

    The second day was called “Dobro.Napravleniya” and was dedicated to those areas of volunteering that are actively developing at the Polytechnic University. On this day, participants learned about creative, event and zoo volunteering, as well as volunteering in the emergency sector.

    First, there was a presentation on cultural and creative volunteering from the curator of the PoliNova author’s club, first-year student Maria Guner. She introduced future volunteers to creative master classes, charity exhibitions, auctions and concerts of the Dobro.Center. After that, the guys painted two canvases with oil paints together, which they will then finish together with a member of the Union of Artists of Russia Alexander Dudorov and send to an exhibition in hospitals as part of the mutual aid campaign

    From year to year, we try to make the “Volunteer School” more useful and interesting. This year, the idea was for the participants not only to learn something new about volunteering and practice different functions, but also to help in the “here and now” format. The guys painted pictures for exhibitions in hospitals, sewed soft toys, prepared publications, took photographs. So already at this stage they can feel how their deeds bring good, – noted Maxim Smirnov.

    The second speaker was Maxim Degterev, team leader of the volunteer event direction. He spoke about the most striking and large-scale events. And then he explained how to build relationships in a team and determine the most suitable place for yourself in the team.

    At the end of the second day, the participants were treated to two lectures and presentations on animal volunteering and volunteering in emergency situations. From the curator of the animal volunteer direction, Angelina Zinchenko, the participants learned how to help animals and how this is implemented in the Dobro.Center of the Polytechnic University. First aid instructors Tatyana Plekhanova and Violetta Lee spoke about volunteering in emergency situations. After the presentation, the girls held a master class.

    On the third day, the children had a lecture on social volunteering from the curator of the direction, Anna Pushchina. They learned how and what they can help, and also got acquainted with the basic rules of working in social homes. Anna and the activists held a master class on creating felt hearts for a basket of goodness. All of them will go to social institutions.

    Anastasia Savina, specialist of the Laboratory of Applied Psychology of the Humanitarian Institute, curator of the school of self-development

    Maxim Smirnov and the curator of the media volunteer direction Anastasia Kalinina told about the direction of volunteering hidden from the eyes of most – media volunteering. Then Maxim and Anastasia held a master class on creating texts and posters for social networks.

    A student of the Humanitarian Institute, Elizaveta Kruppa, shared her experience. She went from being a media volunteer at Dobro.Center to an experienced communications specialist. She is the organizer of the international communications award Proba Awards 2023.

    When I started doing media volunteering, I didn’t even suspect that it would become such an important step in my career. Media volunteering helped me develop professional skills and build communications with people more easily. Now I am a successful communications professional, and it all started with that small step I took as a volunteer. Thank you to everyone who supported me on this path and helped me grow! — shared her experience media volunteer and student of the Humanitarian Institute Elizaveta Kruppa.

    Then the kids had a fascinating lecture from the team leaders of the Dobro.Center “Harmony” Anastasia Shkolyanok and Maxim Degterev about the possibilities of volunteering. Forums, scholarships, training, travel – these are only some of the opportunities that the kids talked about.

    At the final of the Volunteer School, Tatyana Nam, Director of the Dobro.Center “Harmony” of SPbPU, gave a presentation and presented to the students her original project “Ecosystem of Volunteering at the University” with 15 areas of volunteering. She shared her experience of various social projects and told how important it is to do good, and not to cause it.

    Participants of the inter-university volunteer school were awarded certificates and gifts from our partners – the museum “In Silence” and the quest room “Vzaperti”.

    It was an unforgettable experience! We met the team of the Polytechnic University Dobro.Center, learned about their activities and the skills that we can develop through volunteering. The realization that by helping others we improve ourselves is very inspiring and motivating! We managed to learn that volunteering not only brings benefits, but also opens doors to new opportunities – it’s amazing! Travel, training, scholarships – all this makes volunteer work even more attractive. I realized that this is not just an activity, but a whole life perspective! – said a student of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade Diana Zaydullina.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/student_life/good-it-just-opened-the-seventh-interuniversity-school-of-volunteers/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Tourism announces Winners of Best Tourism Villages Competition-2024

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Tourism announces Winners of Best Tourism Villages Competition-2024

    36 villages recognized as winners across 8 categories

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Tourism, Government of India announced winners of the Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024, today, on 27th September, 2024, on the occasion of World Tourism Day.

    To promote tourism to the Soul of India (India’s villages), the Best Tourism Villages Competition was introduced in 2023. The focus was to identify and recognize villages which preserve and promote cultural and natural assets through community-based values and commitment to sustainability in all aspects.

    The first edition of the Best Tourism Villages Competition in 2023 saw applications from 795 villages. In the second edition of the Best Tourism Villages Competition, a total of 991 applications were received from 30 States and UTs, out of which 36 villages were recognized as winners across 8 categories of the Best Tourism Villages competition 2024.

    These 36 are as follows:

    S.No

    Name

    State / UT

    Category

    1

    Dhudmaras

    Chhattisgarh

    Adventure Tourism

    2

    Aru

    Jammu & Kashmir

    Adventure Tourism

    3

    Kuthlur

    Karnataka

    Adventure Tourism

    4

    Jakhol

    Uttarakhand

    Adventure Tourism

    6

    Kumarakom

    Kerala

    Agri Tourism

    7

    Karde

    Maharashtra

    Agri Tourism

    8

    Hansali

    Punjab

    Agri Tourism

    9

    Supi

    Uttarakhand

    Agri Tourism

    5

    Baranagar

    West Bengal

    Agri Tourism

    10

    Chitrakote

    Chhattisgarh

    Community Based Tourism

    11

    Minicoy Island

    Lakshadweep

    Community Based Tourism

    12

    Sialsuk

    Mizoram

    Community Based Tourism

    14

    Deomali

    Rajasthan

    Community Based Tourism

    13

    Alpana Gram

    Tripura

    Community Based Tourism

    15

    Sualkuchi

    Assam

    Craft

    17

    Pranpur

    Madhya Pradesh

    Craft

    18

    Umden

    Meghalaya

    Craft

    16

    Maniabandha

    Odisha

    Craft

    19

    Nirmal

    Telangana

    Craft

    20

    Hafeshwar

    Gujarat

    Heritage

    21

    Andro

    Manipur

    Heritage

    22

    Mawphlang

    Meghalaya

    Heritage

    23

    Keeladi

    Tamil Nadu

    Heritage

    24

    Pura Mahadev

    Uttar Pradesh

    Heritage

    25

    Dudhani

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Responsible Tourism

    26

    Kadalundi

    Kerala

    Responsible Tourism

    27

    Tar Village

    Ladakh

    Responsible Tourism

    28

    Sabarvani

    Madhya Pradesh

    Responsible Tourism

    29

    Ladpura Khas

    Madhya Pradesh

    Responsible Tourism

    34

    Ahobilam

    Andhra Pradesh

    Spiritual And Wellness

    30

    Bandora

    Goa

    Spiritual And Wellness

    31

    Rikhiapeeth

    Jharkhand

    Spiritual And Wellness

    32

    Melkalingam Patti

    Tamil Nadu

    Spiritual And Wellness

    33

    Somasila

    Telangana

    Spiritual And Wellness

    35

    Harsil

    Uttarakhand

    Vibrant Village

    36

    Gunji

    Uttarakhand

    Vibrant Village

    ****

    BeenaYadav

    (Release ID: 2059419) Visitor Counter : 76

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEW: Footage of radical Rebecca Cooke reveals she wants to ban assault weapons

    Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee

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

    September 27, 2024

    New footage of extreme Democrat Rebecca Cooke reveals she supports a ban on assault weapons and AR-15s.

    “Extreme Democrat Rebecca Cooke is running her campaign on lies about her radical record and long history as a paid political consultant for far-left Democrats. Voters see through her facade and will reject her this November because her policies are too out of touch with Western Wisconsin.” — NRCC Spokesman Mike Marinella

    Read more from National Review here or see excerpts below.

    ‘AR-15s Have No Place at a Deer Camp’: Wisconsin Democrat Running as Moderate Calls for Banning Popular Rifle Platform
    National Review
    Brittany Bernstein
    September 27, 2024

    Rebecca Cooke, the Democratic challenger to Representative Derrick Van Orden (R., Wis), has previously said she supports a ban on assault weapons and AR-15s, according to recordings obtained by National Review. 

    Cooke… has not strongly highlighted her stance on gun control during the campaign. Of eleven policy priorities listed on her website, none mention gun-policy reform.

    In the first of two recordings, she was asked during a campaign meet-and-greet on February 13 whether she would support an assault-weapons ban.

    “I do. Yeah,” she replied, according to an audio recording of the event. 

    And on July 16 at the WI-03 Democrat forum, Cooke voiced support for a ban on AR-15s. 

    […]

    The recordings find Cooke taking an even stricter stance on gun reform than is laid out in her biography on the website of the pro-gun control group Giffords, which has endorsed her.

    “In Congress, she’ll work to close the Charleston Loophole, enact red flag laws that allow law enforcement and families to disarm those who pose a risk to themselves or others, and expand background checks to all gun sales. She’ll also be a champion for strong safe storage requirements, because she wants people to be able to responsibly own guns, while still ensuring that they can’t fall into the hands of an innocent child or someone who shouldn’t have access,” the biography reads. 

    Cooke’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment on the extent of her gun-control policy goals.
    Cooke is running as a moderate in the district that has been represented by Van Orden, a conservative Republican, since 2022. The congressman is a self-described “American patriot, retired Navy SEAL and Christian.”

    […]

    Read more here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five classic concept albums that will take you on a sonic road-trip across America

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Scott, Head of Division, School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland

    The concept album is often viewed as an art form that is primarily focused on lyrical storytelling. But in these five key records, musical ambition, performance and production combine to take the listener on a road-trip through America.

    1. Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs by Marty Robbins (1959)

    Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs, by Marty Robbins, has rightly been lauded as one of the most important artworks of the 20th century – indeed it was preserved in the Library of Congress in 2017.

    The thematic album transports the listener into a mythical west. Each song tells its own story, but there is a distinct unity of characterisation. The tearful convict awaiting death in They’re Hanging Me Tonight might well be an alter ego of the desert rider, hallucinating and desperate in Cool Water. Or even the ebullient narrator celebrating his own American dream in A Hundred and Sixty Acres.

    Marty Robbins performing El Paso.

    The album’s arrangements are mostly simple and stripped back, allowing Robbins’ extraordinary vocal performances and expressive backing vocal arrangements to fly. This reaches a stylistic peak in his greatest song, the white-knuckle ride of El Paso, wherein our protagonist willingly throws himself into a living hell.

    2. Smile by Brian Wilson (2004)

    The Beach Boys released 15 studio albums in the 1960s. Their voluminous output represented one of the most supercharged evolutions in contemporary music – fired by the imagination, energy and ambition of Brian Wilson.

    In 1965, in partnership with lyricist Mike Love, Wilson was extolling the virtues of California girls. Just a few months later, he was creating the mature, introspective humanity of Pet Sounds with collaborator Tony Asher. From there Wilson engaged lyricist Van Dyke Parks to help him realise an “American gothic trip”. Smile describes a journey across the country on the “ribbon of concrete”, or along the railroad with the early settlers.

    Heroes and Villains by Brian Wilson, from Smile.

    One key track on Smile, Heroes and Villains, took its narrative cue directly from Marty Robbins’ El Paso. But others – Cabin Essence and Surf’s Up – painted a new old west and still feel revolutionary today. However, the album became most famous for being left unfinished for 34 years, with snippets appearing piecemeal before its completion as a new recording by Brian Wilson in 2004.

    Van Dyke Park’s lyrics remain intriguing and unique. But I’d argue the real conceptual unity of Smile comes from its musical design. This is an album about American music as much as it is about America. It’s a kaleidoscope of Gershwin, Ives, Bernstein and goofy doo-wop, scaffolded by unexpected and rich textural juxtapositions (double bass, banjo and backing vocals going “boing boing” anyone?). And, of course, there’s the peerless vocal performances of The Beach Boys.

    3. The Delta Sweete by Bobbie Gentry (1968)

    Bobbie Gentry’s The Delta Sweete is another concept album that looks at both America (in this case the Mississippi Delta) and American music.

    Gentry first found fame with Ode to Billie Joe, a narrative ballad that became a major hit single. In The Delta Sweete, Gentry blended her own distinctive vignettes of southern life with skilfully curated covers of classics, like Mose Allison’s Parchman Farm.

    In Reunion, Gentry invites listeners into the front parlour of an alternately loving and warring southern family. She illustrates the scene by interweaving dialogue, vocal chants and rhythmic solo cello. Elsewhere we meet the swaggering, comedic Okolona River Bottom Band and experience a southern gothic nightmare in Refractions.

    Bobbie Gentry performs Courtyard.

    The sense of journey is enhanced by a series of orchestral pieces that link each of the 12 tracks. So when we finally alight on the solitude of the closing track, Courtyard, there is a feeling of coming home.

    The ambition of The Delta Sweete was not met with commercial success, but Gentry never quite gave up the conceptual flame. Her follow up – Local Gentry, in 1968 – shared some of the same approach to musical portraiture. And in her final studio album, Patchwork (1971), she returned to a series of vignettes with orchestral links. All make for essential listening.

    4. What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye (1971)

    From a journey across America, to a journey across the Mississippi Delta, we turn now to the streets of 1971 inner-city America, via Marvin Gaye’s masterly record, What’s Going On.

    This album represented a clear shift in Gaye’s artistic voice towards commentary, question and critique, against the will of Motown Records boss Berry Gordy resulting in a standoff during which Gaye threatened never to record for the label again. What’s Going On is perhaps most famous for its engagement with the social and political issues of the day, but the ambition of the music, performance and sound stand up thrillingly, 55 years after its release.

    A new music video for What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye, released in 2019.

    Motown Records house arranger David Van De Pitte set congas and guiros against sweeping orchestral arrangements, glockenspiel, choirs and jazz influences. The juxtaposition of tempo and feel created by transitions between the tracks hold you there as listener, walking around Gaye’s landscape, and seeing it through his eyes.

    The key sound of What’s Going On though – and the element that most solidifies its status as a conceptual album – is the approach taken with the vocals. Different takes of the same song overlap, and different ad libs collide and diverge as choral passages peek out from the background. These are the voices talking to Gaye during his walk through the inner city of What’s Going On.

    5. Cowboy Carter by Beyoncé (2024)

    Cowboy Carter’s conceptual birth sprang from the artist’s performance at the 2016 Country Association Awards, where prejudiced questions were raised (in the room and online) about Beyonce’s legitimacy and place in the context of a country music performance. Her ultimate response was this detailed exploration, celebration and critique that gets under the skin of American music itself. Beyoncé creates a searing and detailed a commentary on, and road-map to, American music.



    Read more:
    The genius of Cowboy Carter is Beyoncé’s accent – a musicologist explains

    Jolene by Beyoncé.

    Big questions around the origin and evolution of genre are asked via the medium of a Jolene cover, use of the banjo, impressionistic music arrangements and flights of performative imagination.

    There are spoken inserts (from Linda Martell, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton) and striking musical juxtapositions. Like other albums on this list, Cowboy Carter’s conceptual veracity springs as much from this kaleidoscopic approach to sound as from the central narrative at its heart.

    In this collage we hear new songs, interpretations of classic songs and quotes from American classics, including one from The Beach Boys’ Smile – Good Vibrations.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    David Scott 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. Five classic concept albums that will take you on a sonic road-trip across America – https://theconversation.com/five-classic-concept-albums-that-will-take-you-on-a-sonic-road-trip-across-america-239011

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet Introduce Public Lands Bill to Protect Gunnison Basin and Surrounding Regions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Bill shaped by over a decade of deliberation with Western Colorado leaders and public land users
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet introduced the Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection (GORP) Act to permanently protect over 730,000 acres of key portions of the Gunnison Basin and the surrounding regions.
    “Adventurers across Colorado and the country come to the Gunnison Basin for its rugged canyons and untamed wilderness,” said Hickenlooper. “Protecting these additional 730,000 acres will help keep it that way for generations.”
    “For over a decade, Coloradans have come together at trailheads and kitchen tables to share their love for the spectacular landscape in and around Gunnison County,” said Bennet. “This bill proves that people with wide-ranging interests can forge compromise and develop a common vision to protect our public lands for future generations.”
    The bill is based on over a decade of collaboration with local governments, Tribes, and public lands user groups. It has the bipartisan support of six counties in Western Colorado, as well as the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and local municipalities. A wide variety of local outdoor recreation businesses, ranchers, hunters, anglers, and water users also support the bill.
    “Land is very important to the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and throughout history we have lost a lot of land that has been taken from the tribe unjustly,” said Manuel Heart, Chairman Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. “To get land back for the tribe by putting it into Trust status as this legislation does, is important to the tribe’s children and grandchildren. The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe appreciates Senator Bennet’s work on the GORP Act, supports the legislation and hopes it will move forward quickly in the US Senate.”
    “Colorado’s great outdoors are known around the world and this bill marks a valuable step in the need to protect the incredible Gunnison Basin for future generations of Coloradans and visitors,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “I appreciate Senator Bennet’s leadership on this issue and look forward to seeing this bill move forward.”
    “As a former resident of the Gunnison Valley and Western Colorado University graduate, I am intimately aware of the importance public lands, wildlife and outdoor recreation are to local communities’ economy and environment,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Natural Resources. “Our forests, water, wildlife and open spaces are some of our most precious natural resources and outdoor recreation drives visitors and residents to our state to enjoy our diverse opportunities. I commend the work of Senator Bennet and the many diverse stakeholders on developing the locally driven Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act. Introduction is a great first step and I look forward to working alongside all interested parties as this legislation makes its way through the U.S. Congress.”
    “The GORP Act reflects the way we do business in Gunnison County: we sit down with our neighbors to find common-ground solutions and a way forward to best serve our community. Public lands are our backyard here and I’m proud of the work we’ve done to bring so many stakeholders – snowmobilers, ranchers, mountain bikers, and conservationists to name a few – together,” said Jonathan Houck, Gunnison County Commissioner. “While GORP started in Gunnison County, I couldn’t be happier to stand with five neighboring Western Slope counties in support of this legislation, and I thank Senator Bennet for listening to our communities.”
    “Delta County is glad to have worked with Senator Bennet on the GORP Act,” said the Delta County Commissioners. “Its provisions for Delta County will provide public access to a boat ramp, ensure that the BLM can continue to permit existing motorized boat use, and bring forward a thoughtful balance of uses on public lands in the North Fork Valley. This legislation shows what’s possible when we roll up our sleeves and work together.”
    “The Saguache County Board of Commissioners are pleased to support the introduction of Senator Bennet’s Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act (GORP), and eagerly anticipate the passing of this legislation,” said the Saguache County Commissioners. “We appreciate the many years the many stakeholders have committed to this project.”
    “Pitkin County Is a strong supporter of public lands, and we believe in designating new Wilderness areas in sensitive landscapes, where appropriate,” said Greg Poschman, Chairman, Pitkin County Board of Commissioners. “We are incredibly grateful to Senator Bennet for his work on the GORP Act, and we look forward to celebrating the two proposed Wilderness designations in Colorado’s wild and pristine high country.”
    “Hinsdale County was proud to have collaborated with Senator Bennet, Gunnison County and Ouray County on the GORP Act,” said Kristie Borchers, Chair, Hinsdale County Board of County Commissioners. “We are excited that a key portion of the scenic Cimarron area where Hinsdale, Ouray and Gunnison County come together will be protected by this legislation. This bill will help protect our watersheds and the landscapes that attract the visitors who help drive our mountain town economies in the San Juan Mountains. We look forward to seeing the GORP Act move forward in Congress.”
    “The GORP Act sets the bar for collaborative and beneficial legislation,” said Lynn Padgett, Vice-Chair, Ouray County Board of County Commissioners. “I am forever grateful to Senator Bennet and his team and stakeholders like Gunnison, Hinsdale, and Ouray Counties for enthusiastically working together to include the proposed Uncompahgre Wilderness expansion and especially for protecting Turret Ridge. The peaks of the Cimarron range are unique in their scenery and geology. The GORP Act not only protects important migration areas for elk and key habitats for lynx and moose. The GORP Act protects our precious wildlands, vital to our local economy and quality of life.”
    “Our groups have worked for nearly a decade to craft a vision for public lands in and around Gunnison County that will benefit our economy, environment, and quality of life into the future,” said members of the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative in a joint statement. “The GORP Act reflects the countless hours we spent working together and with communities around the Gunnison Basin. We are eager to see this thoughtful and well-vetted legislation signed into law.”
    Specifically, the GORP Act would:
    Protect over 730,000 acres of public lands in Western Colorado, safeguarding the region’s local economy, world-class recreation, ranching heritage, wildlife habitat, and clean air and water
    Preserve recreational boating in Delta County
    Support the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe’s request to transfer the Pinecrest Ranch from fee ownership to trust ownership
    Hickenlooper and Bennet also championed the CORE Act and Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act as an effort to ensure Colorado public lands are protected. Hickenlooper helped pass both bills through the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) with bipartisan support.
    Maps of the areas designated by the bill are available HERE and a summary of the bill HERE. You can find additional information, including support letters and answers to frequently asked questions on the GORP Act website HERE.
    The text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –