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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property and Social Trends – Are Kiwis moving more often than ever?

    Source: RealEstate.nz

    New data suggests the ‘forever home’ may be a thing of the past, with the ‘seven-year itch’ now closer to five.

    • Auckland, where properties were sold the fastest saw a modest 12.2% increase in average asking prices. 
    • Conversely, West Coast, where properties were held for longer, saw an impressive 97.9% rise over the average selling period.
    • Taranaki tops the list for staying power, holding onto their homes the longest— six years and five months on average.

    17 October 2024 – The concept of the ‘forever home’ appears to be fading in New Zealand, with new data from realestate.co.nz revealing that Kiwis now hold onto their homes for an average of just five and a half years before selling.

    The data, which looks at the amount of time that property is held onto until it is re-sold, shows, on average, people hold properties for the least time in Auckland.

    The time between sales for properties in Auckland was approximately five years and three months. At the other end of the scale, Kiwis held onto their properties for the longest in Taranaki (six years and five months) and Manawatu/Whanganui (six years and four months).

    “People move for many reasons—employment opportunities, the desire for more space, the need to accommodate aging parents, or even downsizing after the kids have left. This frequent movement is likely a reflection of changing lifestyle needs and opportunities across New Zealand,” says Vanessa Williams, realestate.co.nz spokesperson.

    The movers: Auckland, Waikato, Nelson & Bays, and Bay of Plenty

    Whether it’s the pace of the city, the pull of keeping up with the Joneses, or the appeal of various lifestyle changes, Auckland has seen its properties change hands the most often.  

    Williams says as our most populated region, Auckland’s size is likely a factor:

    “Auckland offers good employment opportunities while catering for lifestyle changes of all kinds, including for those looking for their second home or wanting to downsize into retirement. This could explain why properties are sold more often in this region.”

    Other regions where property moved more quickly than the national average were Waikato, Nelson and Bays, and Bay of Plenty, where the average time between sales was five years and four months.

    The districts where properties were sold the most often were Selwyn in Canterbury (four years and nine months), Franklin in Auckland (four years and 10 months), the Waikato district (five years), and Papakura in Auckland (five years).

    Williams notes that it’s no surprise the districts with the fastest sales are in Canterbury, Auckland, and Waikato.

    “Buying a property is so often an emotional decision. And in these larger regions, where there is more to choose from, the chances of wandering into an open home and falling in love or spotting a for sale sign on a house in the perfect location are probably higher.”


    Region

    District

    Average time between sales

    Canterbury

    Selwyn

    4 years, 9 months

    Auckland

    Franklin

    4 years, 10 months

    Waikato

    Waikato

    5 years, 0 months

    Auckland

    Papakura

    5 years, 0 months

    Auckland

    Rodney

    5 years, 1 months

    Waikato

    Waipa

    5 years, 1 months

    Canterbury

    Waimakariri

    5 years, 1 months

    Wairarapa

    Carterton

    5 years, 2 months

    Bay of Plenty

    Tauranga

    5 years, 2 months

    Auckland

    North Shore City

    5 years, 3 months


    The districts where people are re-selling their properties faster

    The stayers: Taranaki, Manawatu/Whanganui, Gisborne, West Coast, and Hawke’s Bay

    Kiwis held onto their homes longest in Taranaki (six years and five months), Manawatu/Whanganui (six years and four months), Gisborne (six years and three months), West Coast (six years and two months), and Hawke’s Bay (six years).

    At a district level, properties in South Taranaki were held the longest (six years and eight months), followed by Tararua in Manawatu/Whanganui (six years and six months) and Ruapehu in Central North Island (six years and six months).

    Williams says smaller towns tend to have fewer properties available for sale:

    “In smaller regions, limited housing options often lead people to stay in their homes longer while waiting for the ideal property to hit the market,” says Williams. “In addition, close-knit communities and businesses like farms can create a deeper connection to the area, making people less inclined to move frequently.”

    The districts where people are holding onto their properties for longer

    Region

    District

    Average time between sales

    Southland

    Gore

    6 years, 4 months

    Wellington

    Wellington City

    6 years, 4 months

    Manawatu / Whanganui

    Horowhenua

    6 years, 4 months

    Wellington

    Lower Hutt City

    6 years, 4 months

    West Coast

    Buller

    6 years, 4 months

    Manawatu / Whanganui

    Palmerston North City

    6 years, 4 months

    Manawatu / Whanganui

    Whanganui

    6 years, 5 months

    Central North Island

    Ruapehu

    6 years, 6 months

    Manawatu / Whanganui

    Tararua

    6 years, 6 months

    Taranaki

    South Taranaki

    6 years, 8 months

    But what about the financial gains? Does it pay to stay, or should you go?

    All regions saw a lift in their average asking prices, regardless of how long properties were held between sales. However, there were some regional differences.

    Five years and three months ago, in June 2019, the average asking price in Auckland was $929,742; in September 2024 it was 12.2% higher at $1,042,883. In Waikato, the increase was more substantial, with average asking prices rising 32.6%, from $609,272 in May 2019 to $808,153 in September 2024.

    “Aucklanders have been the fastest to move on, but of all regions, they have seen the smallest financial gain over the last five and a half years.”

    “Holding for longer can sometimes mean bigger gains, but many factors can impact this, including market conditions, economic factors, legislative changes, your region, and demand in your area,” says Williams.

    The biggest increases in average asking prices over the average selling period were seen on the West Coast, where prices rose by 97.9% over six years and two months. In Gisborne, where homes were sold on average every six years and three months, prices increased by 79.1%. In Manawatu/Whanganui, where properties changed hands every six years and four months, prices rose by 76.7%.

    Ultimately, Williams urges people to buy based on their personal circumstances, rather than trying to predict what the market might do.

    More than a million New Zealand homes have never been sold

    We may be a nation of property fanatics, but well over a million homes have never gone up for sale on realestate.co.nz, despite the site listing 935,048 individual properties since records began 17 years ago.

    “Statistics New Zealand data from September 2024 estimates there are just over 2 million private dwellings in New Zealand, meaning there are more than a million homes that have been in the same hands since realestate.co.nz records began 17 years ago,” says Williams.

    She notes that Kiwis tend to have a strong connection to property and place.

     “It will be interesting to look back again in another decade or two and see, as lifestyles change if we see a similar percentage of homes staying with the same owners,” adds Williams.

    About realestate.co.nz

    We’ve been helping people buy, sell, or rent property since 1996.  

    Established before Google, realestate.co.nz is New Zealand’s longest-standing property website and the official website of the real estate industry.

    Dedicated only to property, our mission is to empower people with a property search tool they can use to find the life they want to live. With residential, lifestyle, rural and commercial property listings, realestate.co.nz is the place to start for those looking to buy or sell property.  

    Whatever life you’re searching for, it all starts here.

    Want more property insights?

    Market insights: Search by suburb to see median sale prices, popular property types and trends over time.
    Sold properties: Switch your search to sold to see the last 12 months of sales and prices.
    Valuations: Get a gauge on property prices by browsing sold residential properties, with the latest sale prices and an estimated value in the current market.

    Glossary of terms:

    Average asking price (AAP) is neither a valuation nor the sale price. It is an indication of current market sentiment. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with the sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold. As it looks at different data, average asking prices may differ from recorded sales data released simultaneously.

    Sales data is provided by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ)

    New listings are a record of all the new residential dwellings listed for sale on realestate.co.nz for the relevant calendar month. The site reflects 97% of all properties listed through licensed real estate agents and major developers in New Zealand. This description gives a representative view of the New Zealand property market.

    Stock is the total number of residential dwellings that are for sale on realestate.co.nz on the penultimate day of the month.

    Rate of sale is a measure of how long it would take, theoretically, to sell the current stock at current average rates of sale if no new properties were to be listed for sale. It provides a measure of the rate of turnover in the market.

    Seasonal adjustment is a method realestate.co.nz uses to represent better the core underlying trend of the property market in New Zealand. This is done using methodology from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research.

    Truncated mean is the method realestate.co.nz uses to supply statistically relevant asking prices. The top and bottom 10% of listings in each area are removed before the average is calculated to prevent exceptional listings from providing false impressions.      

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Push DOD to Fix Rule Hurting Colo. Springs Children’s Hospitals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    Rule change has caused financial challenges for Children’s hospitals serving defense communities, limited their ability to provide care

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet and U.S. Representatives Doug Lamborn and Jason Crow, along with 16 of their Senate and House colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin urging the Defense Health Agency (DHA) to address the financial burden caused by a change in the way children’s hospitals are reimbursed for the care they provide to military families covered by TRICARE, the government health care program for active duty service members and their families.

    “We write to express our deep concerns about a 2023 Defense Health Agency (DHA) rule that catalyzed a major shift in the TRICARE reimbursement methodology for children’s hospitals,” wrote the lawmakers. “Children’s hospitals situated in defense communities in our home states are now grappling with the impacts of this change.”

    DHA previously exempted children’s hospitals from the adult Medicare reimbursement process because the program’s policies aren’t applicable to the care children typically need. Over 2.4 million children obtain care from children’s hospitals through TRICARE each year, and the change has placed an outsized burden on children’s hospitals in major defense communities, like Colorado Springs. Specifically, the Children’s Hospital Colorado said one in five patients in their Colorado Springs facility pay with TRICARE. The rule change is expected to cost them over $25 million annually.

    The Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) sent letters to the Department of Defense in 2020 and 2023 expressing their concerns about the proposed rule. However, they did not receive a response before the DHA implemented the change in October 2023.

    The lawmakers specifically asked the following questions:

    • What dialogue has DHA had with the affected children’s hospitals to understand how this new reimbursement methodology impacts operations and access to care?
    • What data and sources informed the agency’s analysis of the impact on children’s hospitals that care for TRICARE patients?
    • How did the agency account for the financial impacts of military families traveling for care in circumstances where local services are no longer available?
    • How did the agency develop the contingency payment and why did the DHA set a lower contingency payment for pediatrics?
    • Can the agency verify the number of children’s hospitals that are expected to qualify for the contingency payment that is outlined in the rule?

    Hickenlooper has publicly supported reversing the rule change and offered an amendment to the annual National Defense Authorization Act that would have defrayed some of these costs.

    The full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cardin, Van Hollen Lead Senate Call for Humanitarian Protections for Guatemalans Living in the U.S.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maryland Ben Cardin

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Van Hollen (both D-Md.), along with more than a dozen other senators, wrote to President Joe Biden requesting that his administration “provide temporary humanitarian protections for Guatemalan nationals living in the United States.” The letter asks for the president to designate Temporary Protected Status for Guatemala or authorize Deferred Enforced Departure for Guatemalan nationals. 

    “Guatemala presently faces significant and overlapping natural disasters leading to food insecurity, corruption, and violence that impede the ability of Guatemalan nationals currently in the United States to return home safely at this time. Guatemala has long experienced significant environmental disasters, which have worsened food insecurity and displaced a sizable amount of the population,” the senators wrote. “Providing these humanitarian protections will reinforce the relationship that the United States is developing with the new, democratically elected government under President Bernardo Arevalo” who “has committed to taking steps to try to ameliorate many of the conditions that have long been neglected by previous leaders.”

    They added: “Despite the efforts underway under the new administration, a sober assessment of conditions in the country today would support the conclusion that Guatemala is unable to adequately handle the return of the significant number of nationals currently in the United States.”

    Senators Cardin and Van Hollen have previously requested TPS designation for Guatemala in both 2021 and 2022.

    Joining Senators Cardin and Van Hollen on this Senate letter are Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Martin Heinrich (D-Nev.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.). Last month, Representative Lou Correa (D-Calif.-46) led a similar letter among House members.

    Full text of the Senate letter is available HERE.

    Through the Immigration Act of 1990, Congress established the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, where individuals may apply for TPS if Congress or the Secretary of Homeland Security issues a designation that “conditions in the country temporarily prevent the country’s nationals from returning safely.” Upon registration with and approval by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), TPS holders are protected from deportation and can receive work authorization. Only individuals already in the United States when a designation is announced are eligible to receive Temporary Protected Status.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Approves Nearly $2 Billion for Hurricane Response and Recovery  Efforts

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The Biden-Harris Administration continues its response and recovery efforts across the Southeast and Appalachia following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Nearly 8,000 Federal personnel remain on the ground working side-by-side with State and local officials to help survivors with recovery and rebuilding.
    As part of our commitment to remaining with impacted communities as long as it takes, under President Biden’s direction, the Administration has already approved more than $1.8 billion in assistance for hurricane recovery efforts.
    This includes assistance for individuals – including funding for temporary housing, essential needs like food, water, baby formula, and other emergency supplies – as well as public assistance to states for costs related to debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and courthouses.
    In North Carolina, where the Administration continues to surge resources, more than $100 million in assistance has been approved for more than 77,000 survivors.
    This funding supplements additional investments announced by President Biden during his visit to Florida this weekend, where he awarded more than $600 million from the Department of Energy to six projects across the Southeast to enhance the reliability and resilience of the electric grid in the face of more extreme weather events.
    Specific funding for impacted communities includes:
    For those affected by Hurricane Helene, FEMA has approved over $911 million, which includes $581 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $330 million for public assistance costs like debris removal and other activities to save lives, protect public health and safety, prevent damage to public and private property, and restore public infrastructure.
    For individual assistance related to Hurricane Helene, specific funding approved includes:
    Florida: More than $213 million for 71,000 survivors
    South Carolina: More than $132 million for 146,000 survivors
    Georgia: More than $119 million for 118,000 survivors
    North Carolina: More than $100 million for 77,000 survivors
    Tennessee: More than $11.8 million for 2,400 survivors
    Virginia: More than $4.7 million for 1,500 survivors
    For those affected by Hurricane Milton, FEMA has already approved over $620 million, which thus far includes $16 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $604 million in public assistance.  
    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has offered over $48 million in tentatively approved disaster loan funding to survivors of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The SBA also has hundreds of staff working on the ground supporting communities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia in 48 disaster recovery centers, as well as in loan processing and customer service centers. 
    Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout impacted states:
    Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are opening throughout the affected communities to provide survivors with in-person assistance. These centers serve as “one stop shops,” offering help with applications for FEMA assistance, information on available resources from other Federal agencies, and guidance on navigating the recovery process. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams remain on the ground in neighborhoods in all affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary resources.
    Survivors can visit Disaster Recovery Centers in the following cities/towns:
    Florida:
    Twelve Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Bradenton, Branford, Glen Saint Mary, Homosassa, Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Perry, Sarasota, and Tampa, and more will open in the coming days and weeks. DRCs will support survivors impacted by both Helene and Milton. In addition, 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.
    North Carolina:
    Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva. FEMA expects to open up to ten more Disaster Recovery Centers in impacted communities in the coming days. More than 1,200 FEMA staff are on the ground, and 379 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.
    Georgia:
    Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Valdosta, Douglas, Sandersville and Augusta. 152 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.
    South Carolina:
    Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Anderson, Greenville, Barnwell, Batesburg, Easley, and North Augusta. 92 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.
    Tennessee:
    One Disaster Recovery Center is open in Erwin. 48 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.
    Virginia:
    Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Damascus, Dublin, Independence, and Tazewell. 57 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.
    Additional assistance to agriculture producers includes:
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that people in parts of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee recovering from Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for food assistance through the USDA’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Approximately 982,930 households in Georgia, 152,572 households in North Carolina and 54,692 households in Tennessee are estimated to be eligible for this relief to help with grocery expenses. Through this program, which USDA makes available through states in the aftermath of disasters, people who may not be eligible for SNAP in normal circumstances can participate if they meet specific criteria, including disaster income limits and qualifying disaster-related expenses.
    USDA also announced additional assistance to help agriculture producers impacted by Hurricane Helene in the recovery process. Producers will receive over $233 million in indemnities for losses from Hurricane Helene. These payments will directly help farmers and rural communities recover.
    Currently, Hurricane Helene estimated indemnities by state include:
    Georgia: $207.7 million 
    Florida: $12.8 million
    Alabama: $5.0 million 
    North Carolina: $4.1 million 
    South Carolina: $4.1 million
    Virginia: $61,000

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Approves Nearly $2 Billion for Hurricane Response and Recovery  Efforts

    Source: The White House

    The Biden-Harris Administration continues its response and recovery efforts across the Southeast and Appalachia following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Nearly 8,000 Federal personnel remain on the ground working side-by-side with State and local officials to help survivors with recovery and rebuilding.

    As part of our commitment to remaining with impacted communities as long as it takes, under President Biden’s direction, the Administration has already approved more than $1.8 billion in assistance for hurricane recovery efforts.

    This includes assistance for individuals – including funding for temporary housing, essential needs like food, water, baby formula, and other emergency supplies – as well as public assistance to states for costs related to debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and courthouses.

    In North Carolina, where the Administration continues to surge resources, more than $100 million in assistance has been approved for more than 77,000 survivors.

    This funding supplements additional investments announced by President Biden during his visit to Florida this weekend, where he awarded more than $600 million from the Department of Energy to six projects across the Southeast to enhance the reliability and resilience of the electric grid in the face of more extreme weather events.

    Specific funding for impacted communities includes:

    For those affected by Hurricane Helene, FEMA has approved over $911 million, which includes $581 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $330 million for public assistance costs like debris removal and other activities to save lives, protect public health and safety, prevent damage to public and private property, and restore public infrastructure.

    For individual assistance related to Hurricane Helene, specific funding approved includes:

    • Florida: More than $213 million for 71,000 survivors
    • South Carolina: More than $132 million for 146,000 survivors
    • Georgia: More than $119 million for 118,000 survivors
    • North Carolina: More than $100 million for 77,000 survivors
    • Tennessee: More than $11.8 million for 2,400 survivors
    • Virginia: More than $4.7 million for 1,500 survivors

    For those affected by Hurricane Milton, FEMA has already approved over $620 million, which thus far includes $16 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $604 million in public assistance.  

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has offered over $48 million in tentatively approved disaster loan funding to survivors of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The SBA also has hundreds of staff working on the ground supporting communities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia in 48 disaster recovery centers, as well as in loan processing and customer service centers. 

    Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout impacted states:

    Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are opening throughout the affected communities to provide survivors with in-person assistance. These centers serve as “one stop shops,” offering help with applications for FEMA assistance, information on available resources from other Federal agencies, and guidance on navigating the recovery process. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams remain on the ground in neighborhoods in all affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary resources.

    Survivors can visit Disaster Recovery Centers in the following cities/towns:

    Florida:

    • Twelve Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Bradenton, Branford, Glen Saint Mary, Homosassa, Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Perry, Sarasota, and Tampa, and more will open in the coming days and weeks. DRCs will support survivors impacted by both Helene and Milton. In addition, 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    North Carolina:

    • Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva. FEMA expects to open up to ten more Disaster Recovery Centers in impacted communities in the coming days. More than 1,200 FEMA staff are on the ground, and 379 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Georgia:

    • Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Valdosta, Douglas, Sandersville and Augusta. 152 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    South Carolina:

    • Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Anderson, Greenville, Barnwell, Batesburg, Easley, and North Augusta. 92 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Tennessee:

    • One Disaster Recovery Center is open in Erwin. 48 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Virginia:

    • Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Damascus, Dublin, Independence, and Tazewell. 57 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

    Additional assistance to agriculture producers includes:

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that people in parts of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee recovering from Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for food assistance through the USDA’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Approximately 982,930 households in Georgia, 152,572 households in North Carolina and 54,692 households in Tennessee are estimated to be eligible for this relief to help with grocery expenses. Through this program, which USDA makes available through states in the aftermath of disasters, people who may not be eligible for SNAP in normal circumstances can participate if they meet specific criteria, including disaster income limits and qualifying disaster-related expenses.

    USDA also announced additional assistance to help agriculture producers impacted by Hurricane Helene in the recovery process. Producers will receive over $233 million in indemnities for losses from Hurricane Helene. These payments will directly help farmers and rural communities recover.

    Currently, Hurricane Helene estimated indemnities by state include:

    • Georgia: $207.7 million 
    • Florida: $12.8 million
    • Alabama: $5.0 million 
    • North Carolina: $4.1 million 
    • South Carolina: $4.1 million
    • Virginia: $61,000

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lawler Announces Over $32 Million in Federal Funding in FY25, Set to Deliver More Than $70 Million For District in First Term

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler was joined by Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco and other local elected officials outside the Rockland County Sheriff’s office to highlight major infrastructure and public safety investments for the Hudson Valley secured in federal community project funding for Fiscal Year 2025. Although the appropriations work for Fiscal Year 2025 is still ongoing, Congressman Lawler has already secured more than $32.9 million for fifteen different projects across New York’s 17th Congressional District. This is in addition to $38 million in federal funding for 17 projects in Fiscal Year 2024. With the latest numbers, Congressman Lawler is set to deliver more than $70 million for New York’s 17th Congressional District in his first term in office.

    “When I was elected to represent this district, I promised I would work with my partners at every level of government and in both parties to prioritize the needs of our residents,” said Congressman Lawler. “That’s exactly what I’ve done in working with each of the officials with me here today to ensure funding for each of these important projects.”

    “Projects like these are great examples of what we can accomplish when we put aside politics and focus on meeting the needs of our communities and constituents,” Congressman Lawler concluded. “That’s been my focus as a Congressman, it’s been my focus throughout the appropriations process for both Fiscal Year 2024 and 2025, and it will always be my focus.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

    Complete footage of yesterday’s press conference can be viewed here.

    Below is a list and description of each project announced by Congressman Lawler:

    Rockland County Public Safety and Crime Prevention Initiative

    Recipient: Rockland County Sheriff’s Office

    Amount: $4,500,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for necessary law enforcement priorities such as police vehicles, equipment to be utilized at a new reality-based public safety training facility, and the structural analysis and design of the facility. This project will provide necessary support to the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office to ensure effective enforcement of laws, address crimes, and improve the criminal justice system across the County. These priorities closely align with the purposes of the Byrne Justice Grants program.

    Law Enforcement Reality-Based Training Facility

    Recipient: Rockland County Sheriff’s Office

    Amount: $2,600,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to construct a new reality-based training facility for the Rockland County Sheriff Department to grow law enforcement capacity, ensure effective law enforcement operations, and overall enhance public safety throughout the county. This project will increase law enforcement capacity and enhance development of public safety in Rockland County, NY. This new facility will allow the Sheriff’s office to better combat crime, improve community safety, and foster an environment more conducive to economic development.

    Westchester Pleasantville Water District Storage Tank Replacement/Rehabilitation

    Amount: $2,250,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to mitigate risks attached to their leaking North and South Water Storage Tanks. Both 1-million-gallon water storage tanks are housed within the Millwood Water Treatment Plant approximately 3 miles north of the Village and services the entire Pleasantville Water District and approximately 2,000 residents in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Over the course of their 90-year history, both storage tanks have been exposed to natural deterioration, which has led to their useful life cycles coming to an end. Funding for the proposed Water Tank Improvement project will replace both of the Village’s North and South water tanks, which will significantly reduce the tax burden placed on residents. The completion of this project will positively impact the Pleasantville water distribution system, which services all 7,513 residents (U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Decennial Census) and an additional 2,000+ residents living in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Without funding, Pleasantville’s North and South Water Tanks would continue to suffer from leakage which will compromise the Village’s water supply, further increasing distribution risks that will negatively affect residential quality of life.

    Nanuet TOD Project

    Recipient: Town of Clarkstown

    Amount: $5,000,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for construction of the first phase of its transformative vision for the Nanuet Transit Oriented Development Plan (TOD), including water and sewer infrastructure improvements, road, sidewalk, and pedestrian safety and streetscape enhancements. Bringing this extensive new infrastructure will spark the redevelopment of the area by mitigating the drainage issues plaguing development in the area, enhancing the appeal of the area, and creating the necessary connectivity for a walkable and easily accessible TOD neighborhood. This transformational project will lead to an expansion of workforce housing, parking, and economic opportunity for the community.

    Safer Ramapo Project

    Recipient: Town of Ramapo

    Amount: $5,000,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for installation of pedestrian safety measures, including traffic signals, turning lanes, walking paths, and sidewalks in the Town of Ramapo. Directing funding towards pedestrian safety measures will not only mitigate the risk of accidents but also cultivate a more pedestrian-friendly environment. This will improve accessibility and safety, improve connectedness, and improve ADA compliance. The Town of Ramapo is also home to one of the largest Orthodox and Hasidic Jewish populations in the country, with many of these individuals walking to shul on Saturdays. To ensure the safety of these individuals, the Town of Ramapo requires additional funding for the construction of sidewalks. From 2011-2022, there have been 983 pedestrian injuries, and twenty-seven (27) deaths in the Town of Ramapo. Safer walking conditions continue to be an urgent need for Ramapo residents. 

    Carmel Water District II Water Plant Upgrade and Rehabilitation Project

    Recipient: Town of Carmel

    Amount: $1,250,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to repair/replace a 60-year-old facility and associated equipment to meet federal and state requirements of PFOAs. This project will directly benefit approximately 10,000 individuals on a daily basis. Beyond safeguarding public health, it will also have far reaching positive effects on various institutions and businesses in downtown Carmel, including the Putnam Hospital, and Carmel High School.

    Hallocks Mill Sewer District Extension Project

    Recipient: Town of Yorktown

    Amount: $1,250,000

    Summary: The funding will provide public sewer service to neighborhoods presently serviced by residential septic systems. The properties served by septic systems have generally been installed on small lots with steep slopes and environmental constraints, which are not ideal for septic system performance. The extended district will dramatically improve and enhance the water quality of Sparkle Lake, a major recreational resource for town residents, as well as the Croton Reservoir, which provides drinking water for millions of residents in the metropolitan area. The proposed wastewater infrastructure project, however, protects one of the largest public water systems in the United States. 

    Croton Falls Sewer Project

    Recipient: Town of North Salem

    Amount: $1,250,000

    Summary:  The project will install sewers in the Village of Croton Falls’ General Business district to replace existing septic and cesspools. The Village is struggling because some of its businesses, especially all of the restaurants which have mixed use with residential apartments over them, are on older septic tanks that cannot be upgraded due to a lack of space. Due to its proximity to the Muscoot Reservoir, many of the existing tanks and fields are on New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) property and under roads, some are not fixable if they were to fail. To allow the Village to take advantage of its assets and begin to realize the potential of the community, Croton Falls needs sewers, which this funding will provide.

    Town of Orangetown Sidewalk Improvement Project

    Recipient: Town of Orangetown

    Amount: $1,500,000

    Summary: The funding would be used for streetscaping improvements in the Hamlet of Pearl River in the Town of Orangetown specifically to install sidewalks, curbs, and drainage improvements. This project provides streetscape improvements that meet a compelling local need consistent with the statutory purposes of the Economic Development Initiative. The corridor receiving these improvements has seen three fatalities in the last 15 years and is part of Orangetown’s continued efforts to improve pedestrian safety on Middletown Road. Sidewalks are a critical element of community well-being and serve as a connector between residents, neighborhoods, local economies, and more. Walkable sidewalks will ensure Orangetown is a place that attracts both businesses and new residents, which will surely promote economic development in the community.

    Village of New Square Road Infrastructure Improvements Project

    Recipient: Village of New Square

    Requested Amount: $4,000,000

    Summary: The funding will complete much needed improvements for NYS Route 45, widen Village roads, and complete paving improvements. The project will enhance traffic flow and increase the safety of motorists and pedestrians by addressing long-standing concerns about road conditions and motorist/pedestrian safety in the Village of New Square. Portions of the project area lack adequate sidewalks as a buffer from narrow, congested roads and are inherently dangerous in a fast-growing Village where many pedestrians utilize Village streets to travel to school, shopping, and visits to friends and family. By rectifying roadway deficiencies, the Village will relieve congestion, reduce travel time, and increase vehicle operating benefits.

    Memorial Drive Reconstruction Project

    Recipient: Village of Suffern

    Amount: $1,000,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for the reconstruction of Memorial Drive. The project will reopen a critical thoroughfare for emergency vehicles and for their timely response which can save lives, prevent injuries and protect property. Memorial Drive, which is currently closed due to the continual road deterioration and for the safety of residents, is also a major connection between the local community and US Route 202. Its reconstruction will stabilize the road for the safe use by all traffic including emergency vehicles.

    Downtown Water Main Lining Project

    Recipient: Village of Sleepy Hollow

    Amount: $983,200

    Summary: The funding will support a multi-phase project to address hydraulic inefficiencies in the downtown area, the Village of Sleepy Hollow will reline and replace approximately 1,980 linear feet of existing 8” water main line along a portion of Cortlandt Street and College Avenue. The current downtown water system is over 100 years old. The inner village neighborhoods bordering the downtown area represent the Village’s largest number of public housing units, low-income housing, low-income senior housing, and middle-income housing. This corridor is a critical aspect of public health and safety, connectivity and multi-modal transportation, affordable housing, resilient infrastructure, and overall economic investment. As a result, this project will provide immediate remediation and resiliency to infrastructure that otherwise poses a water quality and economic risk to the community, particularly its most vulnerable residents. 

    Samsondale Avenue Curbs & Sidewalk Replacement Project

    Recipient: Village of West Haverstraw

    Amount: $800,000

    Summary: The funding will be used to construct necessary upgrades of sidewalks and curbing along Samsondale Avenue, which have rapidly deteriorated and become a hazard. The project will unlock critical improvements to a main thoroughfare for a Village operating on a limited budget. Many pedestrians utilize Samsondale Avenue to get to the business district along Railroad Avenue and Route 9W as well as access to and from the Village of Haverstraw. The lack of sidewalks is potentially hazardous to people walking on them. This project will improve accessibility and safety, improve connectedness, and improve ADA compliance.

    Westchester County Public Safety Enhancements

    Recipient: City of Peekskill

    Amount: $520,000

    Summary: The funding will be used for expanding and modernizing the Peekskill police station, which is currently at capacity. The City of Peekskill’s police station is currently at capacity and urgently requires more space. With this necessary facility expansion and modernization, the City will be able to hire 10 more law enforcement officers, which will significantly improve operations.

    North State Road Water Main Replacement Initiative

    Recipient: Town of Ossining

    Amount: $1,000,000

    Summary: The funding will upgrade the community’s water distribution system on North State Road, an area that has a history of water main breaks, including 14 incidents over the last 5 years, that has exposed the general public to health risks and requires expensive repairs. It will improve the Town’s water distribution system as a part of a larger initiative to replace all aged cast iron water mains, significantly reducing the likelihood of water main breaks in a historically problematic area and positively impacting all 37,764 users in the service area.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Joins South Pekin Leaders to Announce Funding Request for Clean Drinking Water

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    PEORIA, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) joined local leaders in South Pekin to provide updates on funding he requested from the federal government to fix the village’s water system and provide clean drinking water to families. 

    “In South Pekin, we are seeing what happens when our communities don’t have the resources to repair broken infrastructure,” said Sorensen. “The water mains need to be replaced, and we need to make sure South Pekin has a new manganese filter, so dangerous chemicals stay out of the water and out of glasses that my neighbors use to drink. That is why I have requested millions from Congress for South Pekin to replace its water mains and ensure everyone has access to safe drinking water. I will continue working across the aisle, with Republicans and Democrats to get this passed so we can deliver this funding to my neighbors here at home.” 

    “The Village of South Pekin is greatly appreciative of Representative Sorensen and the House Appropriations Committee for taking up our request for funding, which will go a long way to help South Pekin achieve the goal of installing filtering, replacing water mains, and replacing the lead pipes and/or fixtures from the curb to the resident’s dwelling. The Village of South Pekin and its residents extend their thanks,” said Eric Stout, Mayor, Village of South Pekin.  

    Photos of the event are available for use by the media here.  

    Sorensen’s request comes as the Village of South Pekin looks to overhaul its water system that has been found to have levels of manganese levels that exceed the allowable limit, according to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. 

    Sorensen requested federal funds for South Pekin as part of the Community Project Funding process, which allows members of Congress to secure funds in spending legislation for critical initiatives in their communities. 

    In the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies House Appropriations bill, Sorensen fought to include $1,105,800 in investments for South Pekin. This legislation has passed the House and is awaiting a vote in the Senate. 

    Congressman Eric Sorensen serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for nearly 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Nuer people have a sacred connection to birds – it can guide conservation in Ethiopia and South Sudan

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Abebayehu Aticho, PhD student, researcher and conservationist, Jimma University

    The pied kingfisher helps the Nuer to find parts of the river where there’s an abundance of fish. Henrik Karlsson/Getty Images

    The Nuer are a large pastoralist community living in western Ethiopia and South Sudan in east Africa. They rely on livestock keeping and have special beliefs and customs about how to live with nature. These are passed down from parents to children through the telling of stories.

    Uncommonly for east African pastoralists, the Nuer live in an expansive, low-lying floodplain. This Gambella region is shaped by the convergence of several rivers originating in the Ethiopian highlands. Its wetlands and lush greenery offer a unique habitat that supports both the Nuer and a wide variety of birds and other wildlife. The people have a centuries-old cultural connection with the local biodiversity.

    Our collaborative study involved Ethiopian and European scientists from diverse fields (such as ornithology, ethno-ornithology, biodiversity and nature conservation). We conducted interviews and 15 group discussions with Nuer people to understand their interaction with and knowledge of birds. The study included two districts and 400 households. We found a significant and seldom studied relationship with birds, which serve a range of purposes in Nuer life.

    Our study not only highlights the deep spiritual and cultural ties between the Nuer people and the avian world. It also underscores the importance of incorporating traditional ecological knowledge into contemporary conservation efforts.

    The Nuer’s relationship to birds can be a valuable model for sustainable human-wildlife interactions. It can contribute to the conservation of bird diversity and promote a more harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

    The role of birds in Nuer life

    Ethiopia, known for its rich biodiversity, is home to 821 bird species and over 80 indigenous ethnic groups. Among these, the Nuer community stands out for its unique admiration of birds, viewing them as sacred beings.

    The Nuer use three interchangeable names for birds: gaatkuoth (sacred children of God), kuoth (bearers of spirit), and diit (symbols of human twins). These terms reflect spiritual beliefs and also influence cultural practices, such as naming twins after birds. This Nuer tradition connects the prolific nature of birds to human fertility.

    In our study, participants recognised 71 bird species as having unique cultural roles. The birds that live near Nuer villages have seven distinct uses. Ten species are used as bushmeat. Five are for traditional medicine. Eight are fish indicators – by meticulously observing species like the African fish eagle, African pygmy kingfisher, pied kingfisher or malachite kingfisher, people can identify areas with high fish populations.

    Seven birds serve as omens – they signal potential dangers like the presence of wild animals. Three are used to create protective amulets. Three are used to indicate the change of seasons – for instance the return of migratory western yellow wagtails is a reliable sign that the sunny, dry season will be replacing the rainy, wet season. And 45 are hailed for their aesthetic beauty, often linked with a sense of place. The vibrant plumage, melodious songs and elegant flight patterns of birds like the black-crowned crane, blue-naped mousebird and purple heron create a spectacle that significantly enhances Nuer life.

    This intricate knowledge of birds is communal: over 90% of participants agreed on the uses of these bird species.

    Indigenous knowledge and sustainability

    One of the most striking things about the Nuer community is the sustainable practice embedded within their traditional systems. When birds are used as amulets, for example, only small, non-invasive parts of the bird, like feathers, are utilised. These are fashioned into necklaces or bracelets believed to offer protection from dangers like diseases. The birds are not killed or significantly harmed, which preserves their populations.

    A Nuer village.
    fabio lamanna/Getty

    There are strict limits on when and how birds can be used in Nuer society. The use of birds as bushmeat or for making traditional medicine is carefully controlled by elders and within family structures. Hunting is typically allowed only during severe food shortages. It’s often restricted to those in dire need, such as impoverished households. Families with a history of twins, who hold birds in special reverence, are not allowed to hunt them.

    These cultural practices help prevent overexploitation of bird species, conserving them for future generations. They ensure that the use of natural resources remains sustainable.

    It’s important to raise awareness about the conservation of birds, which are used for various purposes across Africa. Traditional medicine, bushmeat and the making of amulets has a direct impact on bird populations.

    Nuer traditions balance human needs with the preservation of bird life. Our study therefore offers a compelling case and model for the conservation of avian and indigenous cultural diversity in Africa.

    Why this matters

    It is, however, essential to acknowledge that the Nuer’s cultural practices are not immune to the pressures of modern society. As globalisation and development continue to encroach on traditional lands, the Nuer people will face increasing challenges in maintaining their sustainable practices.

    Threats such as habitat loss, climate change and illegal wildlife trading could jeopardise bird populations. In recent decades, the expansion of large-scale agriculture in the Gambella region has emerged as a driver of habitat loss and wildlife decline.

    This makes the Nuer people’s traditional conservation practices even more relevant to future generations. By recognising and valuing their knowledge and practices, we can learn valuable lessons for broader conservation efforts.

    Indigenous territories, despite their relatively small size, often harbour extraordinary biodiversity. Recognising this, the United Nations’ Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework places indigenous-occupied areas among conservation priority areas at the forefront of biodiversity preservation strategies.

    It is crucial to help the Nuer community adapt to changing circumstances while preserving their cultural heritage and ensuring the sustainability of bird biodiversity.

    Changkuoth Puok Diet, a lecturer at Gambella University in Ethiopia, contributed to this article.

    Abebayehu Aticho works for both Jimma University and the Threatened Species Conservation Organisation (a small local NGO). He got funding for this study from the International Crane Foundation and Jimma University.

    Andrew Gosler has received grant funding in the past from the Arts and Humanities Research Council for the Ethno-ornithology World Atlas.

    Abebe Beyene, Desalegn Chala, Nils Christian Stenseth, and Shimelis Aynalem Zelelew do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Nuer people have a sacred connection to birds – it can guide conservation in Ethiopia and South Sudan – https://theconversation.com/nuer-people-have-a-sacred-connection-to-birds-it-can-guide-conservation-in-ethiopia-and-south-sudan-239420

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin took part in an extended joint meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Marat Khusnullin took part in a meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    October 16, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin took part in a meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    October 16, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Marat Khusnullin took part in a meeting of the State Duma committees in preparation for the government hour

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin took part in an extended joint meeting of three relevant committees in preparation for government hour.

    On the eve of the government hour, the participants discussed the key areas of the new national project “Infrastructure for Life”, the main tasks for the country’s infrastructure development in the coming years, including the housing and utilities sector.

    “On the instructions of the President, we are forming a new national project “Infrastructure for Life”, in which one of the key blocks is the modernization of the public utility infrastructure. We must form a clear plan and a set of specific mechanisms – how exactly we will improve the quality of existing public utilities for Russians and develop housing and communal services in the future. In particular, we must take into account that by 2030 the task is to build 1 billion square meters of housing. Thus, to fulfill all the tasks set in the housing and communal services sector, it is necessary to strictly account for the existing volume of public utility networks, their capacity, improve executive discipline, and develop related infrastructure. As part of the new national project, we will also determine master plans for at least 200 settlements, which, among other things, must have verified schemes of public utility networks. In general, we have a lot of, but very important, work ahead of us. By 2030, we will allocate 4.5 trillion rubles to modernize the public utility infrastructure, which will improve the quality of services provided to about 20 million people,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Construction and Housing and Utilities Sergey Pakhomov noted that there is a lot of joint work to be done with the Government related to the modernization of the housing and utilities infrastructure. “In addition to choosing the vector of this process, we also need to strengthen the staffing. The industry already uses modern technologies, their implementation will be more widespread, but today there is no one to service the new equipment from both a methodological and practical point of view. Objectively, we need to strengthen the staff, since the housing and utilities industry has a profound impact on many related industries and on the economy of the country as a whole. And most importantly, the state of the industry affects the mood of our residents,” said Sergey Pakhomov.

    According to Nikolai Shulginov, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Energy, in order to improve the reliability of the electric grid complex, the committee ensured the adoption of Federal Law No. 185-FZ “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On Electric Power Industry” and Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation”. It launches a mechanism for creating system-forming territorial grid organizations in each region of Russia, which become single centers of responsibility for the electricity supply of regions and the elimination of accidents on electric grids. “Taking into account law enforcement practice, we consider it appropriate for the Government and the Ministry of Energy of Russia to consider the issue of introducing a similar mechanism for “picking up” heat supply facilities with a high accident rate of regional and municipal owners by owners of heat generation facilities that have heat supply sources, main networks, loops on their balance sheets and operate efficiently,” said Nikolai Shulginov.

    “We continue to actively prepare for the government hour, where during the meeting we will tell our colleagues from the deputy corps about the current national and federal projects, plans, challenges and new solutions aimed at improving the housing and utilities sector, including within the framework of the national project being formed “Infrastructure for Life”. In this part, the Ministry of Construction of Russia has organized work on promptly responding to emerging issues and developing solutions for the effective modernization of the utilities infrastructure and improving the quality of services provided. Thanks to the support of our President, we are preparing a new federal project “Modernization of Utilities Infrastructure”, which includes current and planned support measures,” noted the head of the Ministry of Construction Irek Faizullin.

    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://government.ru/nevs/53008/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Less Than Five Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Less Than Five Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

    Less Than Five Days Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

    Attention, New Mexicans affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires and/or flooding. Do not wait any longer to apply for FEMA federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for assistance is less than five days away. 

    Homeowners and renters impacted by the fires and flooding, from June 17 to Aug. 20, 2024, who live in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba, San Juan Counties, or on the Mescalero Apache Reservation have only until Saturday, Oct. 19 to apply. The deadline to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan for physical damage from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is also Oct. 19.

    FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP or other federal and state benefits.  

    How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance 

    The first step for individuals and households to receive assistance is to apply to FEMA for federal assistance. There are no costs involved to apply for, or receive, FEMA assistance. There are four ways to apply:

    1. Go online to disasterassistance.gov/
    2. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
    3. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Help is available in most languages.
    4. Visit the state of New Mexico/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at the Horton Complex, 237 Service Road in Ruidoso. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

    For an American Sign Language (ASL) video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch= WZGpWI2RCNw.

    For more information about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, visit  www.fema.gov/assistance/individual. 

    angela.ambroise
    Wed, 10/16/2024 – 14:47

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: As the CFPB tightens restrictions on medical debt collections, Navicore Solutions provides invaluable resources to consumers affected by medical debt

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MANALAPAN, N.J., Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Approximately 14 million people (6% of adults) in the U.S. owe over $1,000 in medical debt according to health policy research group KFF. The CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) stated that about 100 million Americans owe over $220 billion in medical debt, a problem that’s compounded by medical billing complexity and the third-party vendors many healthcare organizations employ to complete that billing.

    Medical debt can be overwhelming, especially when compounded with other debt loads such as credit card debt. Navicore Solutions provides a vital resource for households, providing guidance and solutions to alleviate the stress of a spiraling financial situation.

    “Medical billing is often riddled with errors, including inflated or duplicative charges, fees for services the patient never received, or charges already paid,” CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said in a statement earlier this month. “The CFPB is taking action to ensure that Americans are not unfairly chased by debt collectors over unsubstantiated or invalid medical bills.”

    The CFPB is focusing on the regulation of third-party medical debt collection companies, the enforcement of the ‘No Surprises Act’ which ensures that healthcare consumers do not face unjustifiably high medical debts, and that consumers are not pursued for falsified or ‘up-coded’ medical procedures.

    Across the United States, 14.3% of households are carrying medical debt with the aging Boomer generation holding the most medical debt with an average of $22,000 owed. The problem of medical debt is exacerbated across all generations when there is low or no medical insurance coverage, or a household includes an individual with a disability.

    “Medical debt can strike anyone at any time, throwing a household into financial uncertainty,” said Diane Gray, Navicore’s Chief Operating Officer. “Navicore offers a lifeline to those seeking actionable steps to overcome growing medical debt.”

    As the medical debt issue in America mounts, CFPB asserted that all entities involved in patient collections, including debt collectors and patients themselves, must be aware of the federal laws protecting consumers. Navicore Solutions provides a help to consumers in search of a path forward.

    About Navicore Solutions

    Founded in 1991, Navicore Solutions is a national leader in the field of nonprofit financial counseling with a mission to strengthen the well-being of individuals and families through education, guidance, advocacy, and support.

    Navicore counselors provide a wide range of services including credit counseling to consumers in need; education programs through workshops, courses and written material; debt management plan to provide relief for applicable consumers; student loan counseling for those struggling with student loan debt; and housing counseling services in the areas of rental, pre-purchase, default and reverse mortgage. The agency is an advocate of financial education helping communities achieve and maintain financial stability.

    Contact:
    Lori Stratford
    Digital Marketing Manager
    Navicore Solutions
    lstratford@navicoresolutions.org
    navicoresolutions.org

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Surgent Knowledge Summit Offers Premium CPE Courses for Accounting and Tax Professionals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RADNOR, Pa., Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Surgent Accounting & Financial Education, a division of KnowFully Learning Group, is excited to announce the inaugural Surgent Knowledge Summit, a series of exclusive, live events celebrating International Accounting Week. The Knowledge Summit will provide accounting and tax professionals with valuable, premium content designed to enhance their expertise and support their ongoing professional development.

    This event will feature a variety of insightful sessions aimed at helping attendees earn essential continuing professional education (CPE) credits while staying up to date with the latest industry trends and practices. 

    “At Surgent, we believe that continuous learning is the key to staying competitive in today’s fast-paced accounting and tax landscape,” said Liz Kolar, executive vice president of Surgent. “The Surgent Knowledge Summit is our commitment to helping professionals not only meet their CPE requirements but also stay informed on the latest industry trends and technologies.” 

    The Surgent Knowledge Summit features sessions led by industry experts and covers critical topics like the future of financial reporting, the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on accounting, post-election tax policy changes and much more. Below is the calendar of events, showcasing the diverse range of sessions that will be held during the summit. 

    “The Surgent Knowledge Summit offers unparalleled access to exclusive content delivered by top industry experts,” Kolar said. “From the latest AI developments to crucial tax updates following the 2024 elections, our courses are designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in this dynamic industry.”

    Surgent Knowledge Summit Events

    Thursday, Nov. 7

    AICPA and Surgent Panel on the CPA Exam and State of the Industry
    We kick off the summit with a free webinar at noon ET featuring a panel discussion on the CPA exam and the state of the accounting industry. Liz Kolar will join Mike Decker and Joe Maslott from the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA) to discuss the recent CPA exam overhaul, industry trends and what lies ahead for 2025 and beyond.

    Free Premium CPE: Weekly Expert Hour Webinar
    Later that afternoon, join Washington insider Ken Kies and Surgent instructor Mike Tucker for Surgent CPE’s exclusive free Weekly Expert Hour on how the 2024 election results may shape tax policies. They will explore potential changes to tax legislation and expiring provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This premium CPE course will be held 2-3 p.m. ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit.

    Tuesday, Nov. 12

    Mark Your Calendars: Surgent’s Most Exciting Annual Event Is Coming! 
    In celebration of International Accounting Day Surgent will be offering its biggest sale of the year.

    Tax Preparation for Accountants
    Join Surgent Income Tax School at 3 p.m. ET for a free webinar: How Accounting Firms Can Increase Revenue with Tax Prep. Surgent’s team of industry experts will share strategies on using tax preparation services to boost revenue and client retention.

    Wednesday, Nov. 13 

    The Surgent Knowledge Summit will kick into high gear with a day dedicated to the future of accounting and auditing with cutting-edge webinars, including:

    • What A&A Pros Need to Know About Blockchain, Bitcoin, and Digital Assets (BBD2) with Jack Castonguay will explore the impact of blockchain, Bitcoin and digital assets on accounting practices. Attendees will learn about the regulatory challenges, reporting standards and key accounting complexities related to these emerging technologies. This course will be held 9-11 a.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits.  
    • Innovating Accounting: The Impact of AI, Automation and Blockchain on Financial Reporting and Auditing (AAB1) with Eric Cohen, owner of Cohen Computer Consulting and co-founder of XBRL. This webinar will cover how AI, automation and blockchain are transforming financial reporting and audit. This course will be 11 a.m.-noon ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit. 
    • CFOs as Leaders of Organizational Change (CFO1) will feature a panel facilitated by Cory Ng, Surgent’s accounting and auditing content developer, and will include Avia Yudalevich and Landon Cortenbach, two leading CFOs from diverse industries. This program will discuss how CFOs are driving innovation and navigating economic challenges. This course will be held 1-2 p.m. ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit. 
    • The Threat and Opportunity to Accounting Posed by Generative AI and Other Emerging Technologies (GEN1) with Dr. Sean Stein Smith, associate professor at Lehman College; Jack Castonguay, Surgent vice president of learning and development; and James Madison University associate professor, Dr. Nicole Wright, will explore how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping audit functions by automating tasks like data analysis and fraud detection. It will also address challenges related to ethics, data security and the evolving role of auditors in the AI-driven landscape. This course will be held 2-3 p.m. ET and attendees will earn one CPE credit. 
    • Quarterly Update: The FASB, AICPA, SEC, and PCAOB (QFA2) with Jack Castonguay and Cory Ng will cover new FASB, SEC, and PCAOB standards. This session provides an overview of key updates from the FASB, SEC and PCAOB. Attendees will learn about recent changes to accounting standards and auditing regulations, including new standards and guidance, and their impact on financial reporting. This course will be held 3-5 p.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits. 

    Thursday, Nov. 14

    The Knowledge Summit continues with a day dedicated to the tax industry and how the 2024 presidential and congressional elections will impact the profession. Here is a rundown of the CPE webinars that Surgent has planned for the day:

    • 2024 Tax Changes and Year-end Planning Opportunities (YT24) featuring Surgent instructor Mike Tucker; Shannon Retzke Smith, a partner in the international law firm Withers Bergman; and Lance Weiss, a CPA and member of SFW Partners, LLC in St. Louis; will cover the key 2024 tax law changes and their implications for year-end planning. Attendees will gain valuable insights into new tax strategies and opportunities to optimize their tax positions before the end of the year. This course will be held 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ET and attendees will earn four CPE credits.
    • How Our Economy and Markets Perform in Election Years (ELY2) will feature David Peters, founder and owner of Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting in Richmond, Va., and financial advisor for Peters Financial, LLC. This course will look at the economic cycle and the effect of election years. It will examine how certain key investments have performed, examine why this year is unique and look at how major tax policy changes affect our economy. This course will be held 1-3 p.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits. 
    • Post-election Coverage of Potential Tax Changes and Planning Strategies (PEL2) with Mike Tucker, Ken Kies, Lance Weiss and Ed Renn, of counsel at the international tax law firm Withers Bergman, will examine potential tax law changes following the recent election. This course will explore how shifts in tax policy may impact individuals and businesses, offering strategies to adapt and plan for potential legislative changes. Participants will learn to navigate the evolving tax landscape. This course will be held 3-5 p.m. ET and attendees will earn two CPE credits.

    Friday, Nov. 15

    Mock CPA Exam
    The Surgent Knowledge Summit concludes with a free virtual mock CPA exam facilitated by Michael Matthews, director of state society partnerships at Surgent. This online event will allow CPA candidates to practice CPA exam questions, pinpoint their strengths and identify areas that need extra attention before their exam day. By simulating the actual exam, candidates will gain the confidence and insights needed to improve their performance. Plus, they will receive detailed feedback to guide them through their final stages of preparation. The mock exam will be at 3 p.m. ET and is open to the public.

    About Surgent
    Surgent Accounting & Financial Education, a division of KnowFully Learning Group, is a provider of the high-impact education experiences that accounting, tax and financial professionals need throughout their careers. For most of the company’s 35-year history, Surgent has been a trusted provider of the continuing professional education (CPE), continuing education (CE) and skill-based training that professionals need to maintain their credentials and stay current on industry changes. More recently, Surgent became one of the fastest-growing certification exam review providers, offering adaptive learning-based courses that help learners pass accounting and finance credentialing exams faster. Learn more at Surgent.com. 

    About KnowFully  
    KnowFully Learning Group provides continuing professional education, exam preparation courses and education resources to the accounting, finance and healthcare sectors. KnowFully’s suite of learning solutions helps learners become credentialed, satisfy required credit hours to maintain credentials, and stay informed on the latest trends and critical changes in their industries over the course of their careers. The company provides exam preparation and continuing education for accounting, finance and tax professionals under the Surgent Accounting & Financial Education brand. KnowFully’s healthcare education brands include CME Outfitters, CE Concepts, PharmCon, The Rx Consultant, ChiroCredit, IA Med, EMT & Fire Training Inc., Psychotherapy.net and American Fitness Professionals & Associates. For more information, please visit KnowFully.com.

    SOURCE: Surgent Accounting & Financial Education

    Contact:
    marketing@surgent.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/697a0e4f-d78c-414e-8545-08e12377070c

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: AutoScheduler.AI and Softeon Host LinkedIn Live Event: The Future of Warehouse Productivity: Strategies for Supply Chain Success

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Orchestration Platform and WMS accelerator announces that Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, and Mark Fralick, CTO from Softeon, will discuss on a LinkedIn Live session the future of warehouse productivity and the strategies that will define success in today’s supply chain. The free event occurs on October 31, 2024, at 1:00 PM EDT.

    As the warehouse management landscape evolves, businesses face increasing pressure to optimize operations, integrate advanced technologies, and respond to labor and demand volatility. In this session, Keith and Mark will explore the power of warehouse orchestration—a game-changing approach that combines automation, real-time data, and predictive analytics to maximize efficiency.

    Sign up for the Live Event at: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7252297224133451776/comments/

    “Whether your business is dealing with ongoing labor challenges or looking to future-proof your warehouse operations, this LinkedIn Live session will provide actionable insights to help you stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of supply chain management,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “Don’t miss this opportunity to hear about the innovations shaping the future of warehouse productivity.”

    Attendees will learn:

    • How warehouse orchestration can optimize workflows, minimize downtime, and enhance labor productivity.
    • How to leverage technology to gain real-time operational visibility and improve decision-making.
    • What are the practical strategies for addressing the growing complexity of supply chain operations.

    As CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, Keith Moore is a warehousing visionary, working with top Consumer Goods, Food, Beverage, Retail, and Distribution companies to drive efficiencies and improve on-time, in-full fulfillment. He is focused on bringing advanced technologies like AI and ML to the supply chain in network optimization and warehouse orchestration. Keith holds multiple patents in neural architecture search and supply chain planning. He has been published in trade journals and industry groups like SupplyChainBrain, Inbound Logistics, ISSA, and OTC for his work in logistics, cyber security, and predictive maintenance applications.

    Mark Fralick serves as Softeon’s Chief Technology Officer, driving its architectural platform, deployment infrastructure, and operating platform. For his work as a WMS architect, he has been called the “Godfather of the Modern WMS.” Mark has been a leader in the Warehouse Management System sector for three decades and a pioneer in the development of WMS technologies. His expertise and strategic vision contribute to Softeon’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology solutions, emphasizing optimizing value for its clientele.

    About AutoScheduler.AI
    AutoScheduler.AI orchestrates warehouse activities directly on top of your WMS, optimizing operations for peak performance. Developed alongside industry leaders like P&G and successfully deployed at prominent companies such as Pepsi, General Mills, and Unilever, our AI and Machine Learning platform seamlessly integrates with your existing systems. Focused on labor planning, inventory workflow, human-robotics interaction, and space utilization, we streamline operations, reducing travel and inventory handling while maximizing OTIF rates and labor efficiency. With prescriptive analytics driving insights, our clients harness the power to enhance efficiencies and generate value across their supply chains. Reach out to us at info@autoscheduler.ai for more information.

    About Softeon
    Softeon is a WMS provider focused exclusively on optimizing warehouse and fulfillment operations. For over two decades now, we have been helping our customers succeed. Investing in R&D enables us to develop software to solve the most complex warehouse challenges. Softeon is laser-focused on customer results, with a 100% track record of deployment success. We believe warehouse leaders shouldn’t have to settle for a one-size-fits-all all approach to technology. For more information, please visit http://www.Softeon.com.

    Contact:
    Becky Boyd
    MediaFirst PR
    Becky@MediaFirst.Net
    Cell: (404) 421-8497

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Fannie Mae Forgoes Issuing Benchmark Notes on October 16, 2024 Announcement Date

    Source: Fannie Mae

    About Fannie Mae
    Fannie Mae advances equitable and sustainable access to homeownership and quality, affordable rental housing for millions of people across America. We enable the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and drive responsible innovation to make homebuying and renting easier, fairer, and more accessible. To learn more, visit:
    fanniemae.com | X (formerly Twitter) | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Blog

    Media Contact
    Christopher Davis
    202-752-7724

    Fannie Mae Newsroom
    https://www.fanniemae.com/news

    Photo of Fannie Mae
    https://www.fanniemae.com/resources/img/about-fm/fm-building.tif

    Fannie Mae Resource Center
    1-800-2FANNIE

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities of Fannie Mae. Nothing in this press release constitutes advice on the merits of buying or selling a particular investment. Any investment decision as to any purchase of securities referred to herein must be made solely on the basis of information contained in Fannie Mae’s applicable Offering Circular, and no reliance may be placed on the completeness or accuracy of the information contained in this press release.

    You should not deal in securities unless you understand their nature and the extent of your exposure to risk. You should be satisfied that they are suitable for you in light of your circumstances and financial position. If you are in any doubt you should consult an appropriately qualified financial advisor.

    Benchmark Notes and Benchmark Securities are registered trademarks of Fannie Mae. Unauthorized use of these trademarks is prohibited.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Secures Major Investment for The North Coast Connector

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    CLEVELAND, OH – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced a new infrastructure investment for the City of Cleveland to connect downtown Cleveland with Lake Erie and improve the downtown transportation network.
    The North Coast Connector project will help transform downtown Cleveland by creating a 120-foot-wide land bridge for pedestrians and reconfigure a two-mile freeway segment that separates Cleveland from its lakefront into a modern and safe boulevard. The City’s project will also construct a new consolidated terminal serving Amtrak, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and intercity bus service. The project’s expanded connections between downtown Cleveland and Cleveland’s lakefront will provide greater mobility and accelerate plans to build new public green space and redevelop underutilized lakefront property. Brown advocated for the U.S. Department of Transportation to support this project.
    “This investment unlocks an exciting new future for Cleveland’s lakefront and downtown. The Cleveland community and our visitors will have new access to Lake Erie, our greatest natural resource, and a better transportation network that will drive growth,” said Brown. “I want to thank Mayor Bibb, County Executive Ronayne, and Cleveland’s business community who all worked with us to support this project that will be transformational for all of us who call Cleveland home.”
    The City’s North Coast Connector project will redesign a two-mile segment of the Memorial Shoreway (State Route 2) to establish new connections between downtown and improve pedestrian safety. The project’s pedestrian bridge will create a wide, park-like land bridge to allow walkers and bikers to safely travel from the core of downtown at the Cleveland Mall to the lakefront amenities. The City’s plans also include a new multimodal station to serve Amtrak and RTA rail services, and a dedicated, grade-separated truck route that will serve the Port of Cleveland to reduce truck queuing and eliminate pedestrian conflicts, ensuring greater safety and reliability for trucks enter and existing the Port.   
    The Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded the nearly $60 million investment through the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects program (known as the INFRA program) and the funding is being distributed under the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant Program competition. The investment was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Brown helped write and pass. This funding award will support the design, engineering, and construction of road elements, including the port access road, and Brown is supporting additional federal funding requests to accelerate construction of the overall project. 
    The project’s construction of a new multimodal Amtrak station will also help prepare Cleveland for the expansion of Amtrak service under development. Last December, Brown announced that two routes serving Cleveland were selected as priorities for Amtrak expansion: Cleveland-Columbus-Dayton-Cincinnati, the 3C+D corridor, and the Cleveland-Toledo-Detroit corridor. In addition, in May of 2023 Brown announced that the Cleveland RTA received funding for new rail cars, and the new rail cars will give the RTA the ability to provide direct service from across the agency’s network to the new lakefront station.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Transit investments in Cape Breton Regional Municipality

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Transit Cape Breton will have new buses on the road after an investment of more than $2.3 million from the federal government.

    Cape Breton Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia, October 16, 2024 — Transit Cape Breton will have new buses on the road after an investment of more than $2.3 million from the federal government.

    This project was announced today by Parliamentary Secretary Jaime Battiste, MP for Sydney-Victoria, Parliamentary Secretary Mike Kelloway, MP for Cape Breton-Canso, and Mayor Amanda McDougall-Merrill.

    Transit Cape Breton will buy two new traditional buses, two new hybrid accessible mini buses, and build five new bus shelters. This project will include the implementation of a new on-demand software that will make paratransit service more efficient by improving ride booking, cutting down route travel time, and increasing the capacity of the service. The project will also support the introduction of a new smart card fare payment system, a contactless payment service that will make paying transit fares faster and easier. 

    Quotes

    “Public transit in CBRM is vital to our community, helping residents get to school and work on time, providing an accessible way to get to meetings and appointments, and offering an affordable alternative to driving. Our government is proud to support these equipment and service upgrades to Transit Cape Breton, building a public transit system that Cape Bretoners can rely on.”

    Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney–Victoria on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Investments in Cape Breton Transit ensure that residents across CBRM from Howie Centre to Glace Bay can get to where they need to go with confidence. This project is going to make scheduling easier and day-to-day commutes better for residents of CBRM.”

    Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton–Canso

    “Today marks a significant step forward for our community as we announce vital funding for rural transit in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. This investment through the Rural Transit Solutions Fund will enhance rural accessibility, connect communities, and support our growing population. Access to transportation is essential in building an inclusive and thriving community – this fund will open up opportunities for employment, education and social events to residents across the CBRM.” 

    Amanda McDougall-Merrill, Mayor of Cape Breton Regional Municipality

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing $2,380,000 in this project through the Rural Transit Solutions Fund (RTSF), and Cape Breton Regional Municipality is contributing $595,000.

    • The RTSF helps Canadians living in rural and remote areas get around their communities more easily. It supports the development of rural transit solutions, including new transit service models that could be replicated or scaled up.

    • The RTSF’s Capital Projects stream helps cover capital costs like the purchase of vehicles or digital platforms, as well as support for the purchase of zero-emission vehicles. This stream closed on February 28, 2024.

    • A minimum of 10% of RTSF’s funding is allocated to projects that benefit Indigenous populations and communities.

    • One in five Canadians live in rural communities. Rural communities in Canada account for nearly 30% of the nation’s gross domestic product.

    • The RTSF complements Canada’s strengthened climate plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. Through the plan the federal government has committed to providing federal funding for public transit in support of making clean and affordable transportation available in every community. 

    • The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CPTF) will provide an average of $3 billion a year of permanent funding to respond to local transit needs by enhancing integrated planning, improving access to public transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable, and inclusive communities. 

    • Since 2015, the federal government has committed over $30 billion for public transit and active transportation projects. These historic investments have resulted in close to 2000 projects across the country.

    • The funding announced today builds on the federal government’s work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

    • Federal funding is conditional on the signing of a contribution agreement.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Rob MacNamara 
    Communications Advisor – Mayor’s Office
    Cape Breton Regional Municipality
    902-563-5297   
    rjmacnamara@cbrm.ns.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National Drought Group discusses preparations for extreme weather

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Water resources are healthy following the wettest 12 months in England since 1836

    The changing climate means we will see more extreme weather in the coming years, the National Drought Group heard at its latest meeting today (16 October 2024), which was attended by Water Minister Emma Hardy.

    The Environment Agency chaired a routine meeting of the expert group today in which it was confirmed that water resources are currently healthy following the wettest 12 months (October 2023 to September 2024) on record in England. However, the Group discussed that flood and drought should be viewed as different sides of the same coin and England needs to be prepared for an increase of both in the coming years.

    Despite recent warnings about flood preparedness, the Environment Agency reiterated that droughts are likely to become more frequent and more severe in future, and we need to be ready for all rainfall scenarios. Extreme dry weather can come unexpectedly, as happened in the summer of 2022, and can impact our lives in various ways, including on agriculture. At the meeting, attendees heard about the challenges farmers and growers have experienced this year in managing the variable weather conditions. The importance of making the environment more resilient to the impacts of all weather extremes was also discussed.  

    It comes a week after the Environment Agency warned there were significant areas of under-delivery against water resource management plans, meaning improvements are needed in order to manage water supplies efficiently and sustainably.

    Chairing the meeting, Environment Agency Director of Water, Helen Wakeham said:

    Heavier rainfall and drier summers are the shape of things to come, and this will be an enormous challenge over the next few decades.  

    As well as preparing for floods, we must ensure we are resilient to drought, and we cannot be complacent even when water resources are healthy. 

    Water companies must deliver on their commitments to improve infrastructure and rollout smart water meters, but we can all take small steps to reduce demand such as installing a water butt to capture rain to water the garden.

    Water and Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    Population growth and climate change is putting tremendous pressure on our water system, and we all saw in 2022 how quickly drought can take hold.  

    We need to be prepared for all eventualities and the government is taking decisive action to improve the resilience of our precious water supplies.  

    This Government will secure investment to upgrade our crumbling water infrastructure, which in turn will help fix leaks and ensure water is used more efficiently.

    The National Drought Group – which includes the government, regulators, water companies, farmers, conservation experts and the Met Office   – heard about the current water resources situation:

    • The last 12 months has been the wettest October to September on record since 1836 for England. Some parts of the country received more than three times the average rainfall in September.

    • Reservoir storage across England was at 76% of total capacity at the end of September.

    • River flows in September were normal or higher at three-quarters of sites, with a third ‘exceptionally high’ for the time of year.

    • Groundwater levels usually continue to decline in September and, despite the wet weather, this is the case for the majority of sites. However, we are now seeing groundwater levels in early October rising in many aquifers in response to the exceptionally wet September. 

    Water resources

    By 2050, England will need to find an additional 5 billion litres of water a day to meet demand for public water supply. This is more than a third of the 14 billion litres of water currently put into the public water supply. To bridge the gap between supply and demand, proposed developments over the next three decades include nine new reservoirs. However, earlier this month the EA warned of under-delivery against these plans, noting that some water companies wouldn’t have had sufficient water supply to meet planned levels of resilience in the event of a drought last year.

    In the last six months, regulators – including the EA, Ofwat and Natural England – have been working with all water companies on their final 2025-2030 Water Resource Management Plans. National Drought Group members also heard that the EA will launch an eight-week public consultation in the coming weeks on how drought is managed in England, calling for public views on the document and input into its operational area drought plans.

    Further information

    The meeting follows recent measures announced by the government and the Environment Agency to drive improvements across the water sector.  

    • 100% of storm overflows are monitored which helps the Environment Agency to inspect water companies and ensure they are operating within their permits. 

    • The EA is implementing a fourfold increase in water company inspections to hold companies to account – 4000 will be carried out by the end of March 2025, and 10,000 in 2025/26. 

    • The EA is recruiting up to 500 additional staff and using more data-driven analytics to identify any non-compliance and take action.  

    • The EA is conducting its largest ever criminal investigation into potential widespread non-compliance by water and sewerage companies at thousands of sewage treatment works. Tough enforcement action has already led to over £151m in fines since 2015.   

    • In his first week, the Secretary of State for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed announced a series of initial steps towards ending the crisis in the water sector.

    • After writing to Ofwat, the Secretary of State has secured agreement that funding for vital infrastructure investment is ringfenced and can only be spent on upgrades benefiting customers and the environment. Ofwat will also ensure that when money for investment is not spent, companies refund customers, with money never allowed to be diverted for bonuses, dividends or salary increases.

    • Water companies will place customers and the environment at the heart of their objectives. Companies have agreed to change their ‘Articles of Association’ – the rules governing each company – to make the interests of customers and the environment a primary objective.

    • There will be strengthened protection and compensation for households and businesses when their basic water services are affected. Subject to consultation, the amount of compensation customers are legally entitled to when key standards are not met will more than double. The payments will also be triggered by a wider set of circumstances including Boil Water Notices.

    • The Secretary of State has announced that the Government will be carrying out a review to fundamentally transform how our water system works and clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.

    • The Water (Special Measures) Bill has been introduced to Parliament. It will:

      • Strengthen regulation to ensure water bosses face personal criminal liability for lawbreaking.
      • Give the water regulator new powers to ban the payment of bonuses if environmental standards are not met.
      • Boost accountability for water executives through fitness and proprietary tests.
      • Introduce new powers to bring automatic and severe fines.
      • Require water companies to install real-time monitors at every sewage outlet with data independently scrutinised by the water regulators.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Assisted dying bill enters parliament – how likely is it to become law?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Daniel Gover, Senior Lecturer in British Politics, Queen Mary University of London

    Labour backbench MP Kim Leadbeater has introduced a bill in the House of Commons that aims to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales.

    Leadbeater is not a member of the government, but has been able to introduce the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill after topping this session’s private members’ bill ballot in September.

    It’s almost a decade since MPs last voted on assisted dying. Back then, the Conservatives had a majority. Now, the tables have turned and Labour has a large majority. However, it’s not yet clear whether the current cohort of MPs would back this momentous change.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    Leadbeater’s bill faces additional procedural challenges. Private members’ bills – legislation sponsored by individual MPs rather than the government – face a precarious route onto the statute book. They are highly vulnerable to objections, even if only from a small number of MPs.

    While private members’ bills go through the same basic process to become law as government-sponsored legislation, they are awarded only limited parliamentary time. There are only 13 Fridays per session (typically a year) when these bills are discussed in the House of Commons.

    A House of Commons staffer draws lots in the private members’ bill ballot in September.
    UK Parliament/Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND

    Challenge 1: second reading

    The first major test for this bill will be its second reading stage, due on November 29. For backbench bills, and especially those that are contentious, this stage can be tricky.

    Private members’ bills aren’t “programmed” like government bills, which means there is no mechanism for allocating more time to their discussion if needed. So, it only takes a small numbers of MPs to frustrate a bill’s progress by talking at length to run down the clock.

    To prevent this, supporters can attempt to move the “closure” – a motion to end the debate and make a decision. This, however, requires at least 100 MPs to vote in support – a difficult feat on Fridays, when most MPs are in their constituencies. This problem was illustrated earlier this year on a bill to outlaw conversion therapy. However, on a bill of this profile, there is a good chance of passing the closure.

    For Leadbeater’s bill, simply getting a vote at this stage would be an important accomplishment. It would mean that for the first time since 2015 – also on a backbench bill – the opinion of the Commons could be tested on assisted dying.

    Challenge 2: public evidence?

    Assuming the assisted dying bill passes the second reading stage, it would then be sent to a public bill committee for detailed consideration.

    Some major social changes have come about over the years because of backbench bills.
    Flickr/UK Parliament, CC BY-NC-ND

    Unlike for government bills, this committee cannot, by default, hold public evidence sessions on backbench bills. For a reform of this significance, though, we should expect pressure from some MPs for an exception to be made to allow outside bodies – such as campaign groups, religious organisations and medical professionals – to submit evidence. This would delay the bill’s passage a little, though this need not be lengthy.

    Challenge 3: report stage

    The bill’s biggest test is likely to be at report stage – most likely on April 25 next year. This is when the bill returns to the House of Commons chamber.

    Conventional wisdom is that this stage is often fatal for contentious backbench bills, since opponents can propose large numbers of amendments to the legislation, requiring many separate decisions to be made and time to be drained. Even if supporters attempt to move the closure, with enough amendments they may still run out of time. Something like this nearly happened on an EU referendum bill in 2013.

    Yet, this conventional wisdom may be outdated. The speaker of the house routinely groups report-stage amendments together, reducing the number of separate decisions – and in recent years the norm has been a single group. Since 2019, there has never been more than one group of amendments up for consideration on any private member’s bill. If the speaker follows this recent practice, it may be easier to get the bill through report stage.

    Challenge 4: out of time?

    It is quite possible the assisted dying bill could overcome all these procedural hurdles. But if not, ministers may need to step in to set aside some of the government’s own parliamentary time to discuss the bill further.

    Government time for backbench bills has been rare in recent years, although it did occur in 2019 during the passage of a bill to strengthen the laws around female genital mutilation. But there are some striking historical precedents.

    In the 1960s, private members’ bills were used to pass major social reforms on the laws around homosexuality and abortion, and to abolish the death penalty. In all three cases, the government stepped in to dedicate extra time in the face of attempts to slow these bills’ progress.

    Challenge 5: up to the Lords

    If the bill makes it past these stages, then it also has a good chance of completing its final House of Commons (third reading) stage. But it would then need to complete a similar process in the House of Lords. While there are not quite the same time pressures in this chamber – notably, it does not have the same system of 13 Fridays – there is also no programming for any bills.

    It is hard to predict exactly how the Lords would respond to an assisted dying bill. There have been multiple previous attempts to legislate on this matter over the years. The last time one reached committee stage, in 2015, it got bogged down with amendments and made it no further.

    Leadbeater’s bill will be helped by another bill on assisted dying, started in the House of Lords by Labour peer Charlie Falconer. This is scheduled for debate in the coming months and may help identify and resolve some of the detailed points of contention – though this is not guaranteed.

    It would be unusual, though not impossible, for the Lords to fail to pass a private member’s bill agreed by the House of Commons. Since 2010, there appear to have been only two that were actively held up in the Lords – as opposed to just running out of time. Even so, a small number of determined opponents to assisted dying could make life difficult.

    Were this to happen – at this point an extreme hypothetical – one option available to MPs would be to re-introduce the bill in the subsequent session, perhaps from the new crop of ballot bills. Under the provisions of the Parliament Act(s), this bill might then be eligible to become law without the assent of the Lords. Such a situation very nearly occurred this year on another backbench bill, on hunting trophies, though the timing of the general election intervened.

    Despite these procedural hurdles, the assisted dying bill has a reasonably good chance of passing into law. In the end, much will depend on whether MPs are willing to back this change, and how determined they are to do so.

    Daniel Gover 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. Assisted dying bill enters parliament – how likely is it to become law? – https://theconversation.com/assisted-dying-bill-enters-parliament-how-likely-is-it-to-become-law-241498

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Haegue Yang’s Leap Year is a bold and diverse show mixing cultural references and folk traditions

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Lang, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Fine Art , University of Lincoln

    Leap Year, a new exhibition of work by South Korean artist Haegue Yang at the Southbank Centre’s Hayward Gallery, is a bold and diverse display of contemporary art, mixing materials and ideas in unexpected ways.

    Those with a knowledge of art history over the last 70 years, like me, will appreciate how Yang plays with and combines various art traditions. For example, her use of LED, neon strip-lights, steel, text, projected video and even smell are deliberate references to materials commonly used in contemporary art.

    Yang’s art isn’t particularly “Korean”, but why should it be? Like many artists from around the world, Yang has been influenced by western pop culture. Coca-Cola and Hollywood movies have been as much part of life in South Korea since the Korean war as in Britain. While some see this as a downside of globalisation, many in South Korea embrace these influences, seeing them as a sign of progress. This fusion of cultures is a fact of life for Yang, and it runs through her art.

    In the wall text at the exhibition, Yang claims to have developed a “culturally hybrid visual language”. Her work references modernism, minimalism and conceptual art. Large black-and-white photo collages that bring to mind early 20th-century dada art (a post-war movement that was anti-bourgeois and often satirical and nonsensical) provide the backdrop for sculptures mounted on wheeled frames, reminiscent of stage sets or even fairground rides.

    Another resembles a shower cubicle, but with grab handles on the outside. The title, Sol LeWitt Vehicle, points to the conceptual artist Sol LeWitt. Geometric floor patterns recall the work of Gabriel Orozco, another well-known contemporary artist. In one room, the walls are painted in a blue that’s close to Yves Klein’s famous International Klein Blue (a shade of pure ultramarine he claimed to have invented and which features in his most famous works), although the paint was sourced locally by gallery staff.

    Connecting with tradition

    Yang is particularly interested in the ways contemporary art connects with older folk and craft traditions. For example, she explores weaving practices from different cultures, even working with Filipino artisans. These pieces sit alongside Reflected Red-Blue Cubist Dancing Mask, a sculpture that takes inspiration from how early cubist artists saw African masks as pure aesthetic objects, rather than ritualistic tools.

    Yang’s interpretation has wheels and handles, allowing it to be worn and used performatively, restoring its function, but with a modernist aesthetic twist.

    Her interest in folk traditions goes deeper. During the COVID lockdown in Seoul, she began exploring paper cutting, a traditional Korean craft often linked with shamanic rituals. From there, she expanded her research to include paper-cutting practices from other parts of the world, like wycinanki from eastern Europe and amate from Mexico.

    In her Mesmerising Mesh series, she uses traditional Korean paper (hanji), as well as Japanese washi and graph paper, to create intricate collages. The wooden structures she builds around these works resemble shrines from different cultures. Though some viewers might think of them as something more familiar, like the decor in a western Chinese restaurant. In fact, these designs were inspired by the Hmong people of Southeast Asia.

    In the west, since the second world war, the idea of universal art has often been viewed as tied to colonialism or cultural dominance, yet we embrace universal ideas like healthcare and human rights as progressive. Yang’s work suggests that art, too, has the power to bridge divides and foster empathy, breaking down barriers between cultures. Art may vary greatly across traditions, but at its core, it speaks to our shared humanity – a message as relevant as ever in our polarised times.

    Haegue Yang’s Leap Year: Universal Art for a Divided World is on at the Hayward Gallery in London from October 9 2024 to January 5 2025


    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.

    Martin Lang 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. Haegue Yang’s Leap Year is a bold and diverse show mixing cultural references and folk traditions – https://theconversation.com/haegue-yangs-leap-year-is-a-bold-and-diverse-show-mixing-cultural-references-and-folk-traditions-241508

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why The Rock beats politicians for trust and leadership – and what would-be rulers can learn

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Carl Senior, Reader in Behavioural Sciences, Aston University

    Celebrities can have huge influence and reach enormous audiences. That’s why Kamala Harris was happy to recently gain the endorsement of musician Taylor Swift.

    Due to their media attention and massive fan bases, some Hollywood stars and musicians can appear more powerful than traditional politicians. And these perceptions of influence may also translate into actual impact.

    Indeed, some celebrities have taken up causes, using their fame to overtly push for change (for instance, Bob Geldof and Princess Diana). Others endorse politicians, or successfully run for office themselves (for instance, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronald Reagan).

    While it may seem like celebrities who pivot to politics are able to trade on their pre-existing notoriety, few celebrities are well known beyond their fan bases and many people would expect them to lack the gravitas of world leaders.

    However, results of our recent exploratory study conducted in the UK shows that at least one celebrity, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, stands out. He achieved public recognition, leadership and trust ratings as high as the most well-known politicians.

    Indeed, our study found that The Rock’s recognition was on par with the Nobel prize-winning, two-term US president Barack Obama. He was also considered more trustworthy than many politicians.

    In the study, we invited 251 participants to evaluate the faces of 40 seasoned politicians and celebrities to assess their leadership potential and perceived personality traits.

    Only six of the faces had close to universal recognition. Former US presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, former UK prime minister Boris Johnson and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson scored 90% or above. By contrast, US president Joe Biden and Russian president Vladimir Putin were each recognised by 80%.

    Interestingly, The Rock was also judged to be more considerate, competent, credible, intelligent and trustworthy than most politicians.

    When asked to indicate how strongly participants felt about each figure’s leadership potential, the results were surprising. Biden scored 64%, higher than Putin’s 56%, which was in turn higher than Trump and Boris Johnson who both received 42%.

    But a much larger percentage, 72%, rated The Rock as a strong leader, only bettered by Obama’s score of 87%. In our statistical models, two key personality traits, competency and credibility, predicted The Rock’s perceived potential as a national leader.

    The Rock’s fame, stemming from his wrestling career persona, television presence, and Hollywood stardom, seem to demonstrate the impact of a well-maintained media image. His expertise in wrestling’s “kayfabe” style of performance (a dramatic wrestling style that is presented as genuine) has greatly boosted his public persona as an authentic “nice guy”.

    This early experience, and a strong screen presence, is likely to have contributed to leadership scores similar to Obama. Here it seems that The Rock’s heavily cultivated media personality has translated into perceptions of effective leadership.

    This idea connects with the theory of mediated authenticity , which suggests that positive perceptions arise when audiences view media figures in a favourable light. The Rock’s wrestling persona has allowed him to build a connection to his fans and he seems to have developed this further with his Hollywood roles.

    What can Trump and Harris learn?

    Politicians must also connect with the public. Boris Johnson, for example, did well in the 2019 UK election because he knew how to connect and leveraged this ability to his advantage.

    However, leaders also need to be seen as knowledgeable and trustworthy to make an enduring positive difference.

    The Rock was asked about political ambitions.

    Some theorists of power argue that social influence derives from being well-liked, not just being famous. Of course, The Rock is famous for his nice guy image, along with his movie catalogue and perpetually perfect physique. His perceived leadership potential could come from being both popular and seen as a good role model.

    The Rock’s potential has been spotted by political parties. He describes himself as an independent and back in 2023 he revealed that he had been approached by multiple political parties about possibly running for office.

    Can you be a ‘nice’ populist?

    The last few years has seen the rise of numerous political leaders around the world, who have been labelled with the term “populist”. Leading figures on this list include Trump, India’s prime minister Narendra Modi, former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro and Boris Johnson. However, these leaders tend not to be highly trusted.

    The erosion of trust in politicians and political systems is a significant issue that can lead to decreased engagement with the democratic process, regardless of political level. This ultimately results in a civic structure that fails to represent the people it is meant to serve.

    With the US presidential election just weeks away, and still virtually tied, political strategists for both of the major parties must confront a key question: how much trust does each candidate have from the public?

    Like it or not, The Rock’s wrestling persona relied on building a genuine connection with fans through his kayfabe-style performance, and his friendly image. The careful cultivation of this has given him enduring popularity and, as an unintended consequence of that performance, leadership appeal on the national stage.

    When you are perceived as being a genuinely nice leader, our early research suggests, trust will follow. Something that more politicians clearly need to understand.

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

    – ref. Why The Rock beats politicians for trust and leadership – and what would-be rulers can learn – https://theconversation.com/why-the-rock-beats-politicians-for-trust-and-leadership-and-what-would-be-rulers-can-learn-236987

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Newly Signed Settlement Agreement will Expand Service Eligibility for First Nations Children Living on Reserve

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Manitoba government has reached a settlement agreement with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission (MHRC) and the family of Alfred (Dewey) Pruden to mark the end of eligibility restrictions for Children’s disABILITY Services and home care for First Nations children residing on reserve, Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara and Karen Sharma, executive director, Manitoba Human Rights Commission, announced today.

    “We believe that who you are and where you live shouldn’t affect your ability to access the provincial services to which you’re entitled,” said Fontaine. “Our government welcomes the requirements set out in the Sumner-Pruden settlement agreement and looks forward to working with First Nations to implement these important changes.”

    In 2010, Pruden’s family filed a complaint with the MHRC alleging the Manitoba government discriminated against him when he was a child living on reserve by denying the provincial disability-related services he needed. In 2020, an adjudicator found the Manitoba government had discriminated against the Sumner-Pruden family by denying, delaying or interrupting services offered to neighbouring non-First Nation communities. However, the adjudicator’s decision only applied to Pruden and not all First Nation children on reserve. This led to a court challenge to the decision, which is now resolved by this settlement.

    “Nothing is more important than the health and well-being of children in our province,” said Asagwara. “This historic settlement will lead to lasting system-wide improvements that will ensure First Nations children, like all children across Manitoba, can have access to the health and social services they need to live their lives to the fullest.”

    “It’s been a long journey to finally obtain a resolution to our human rights complaint,” said Harriet Sumner-Pruden (Kapimashid Migiziiquay, Flying Eagle Woman), Pruden’s mother. “I filed my son Dewey’s complaint in 2010 when he was eight years old and he is now 22 years old. I am overwhelmed with relief that after this 14-year journey, Dewey’s human rights case has finally come to a resolution that will lead to positive change for all First Nations children with disabilities in Manitoba.”

    The Manitoba government, the MHRC and the Sumner-Pruden family have reached a settlement with two main commitments requiring the province to:

    “We believe that this settlement is an important step forward in advancing the equality rights of First Nation children in Manitoba,” said Sharma. “We commend the diligence and perseverance of Dewey Pruden and his mother Harriet Sumner-Pruden in making this human rights complaint and in protecting the human rights of First Nations children in Manitoba.”

    To the signatories, the agreement represents an important milestone in ensuring First Nations children residing on reserve have equitable access to services as compared to children in Manitoba who reside off reserve, the ministers noted. It also acknowledges First Nations children with disabilities have the right to inclusion and First Nations have the right to self-determination in the delivery of services to First Nations.

    The Province of Manitoba is issuing this news release on behalf of the
    Manitoba Human Rights Commission and the Manitoba government.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Narrowing the Digital Divide: Households with broadband, laptops and desktops rising

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Narrowing the Digital Divide: Households with broadband, laptops and desktops rising

    Today, we’re launching a refresh of the Microsoft Digital Equity Data Dashboard with current data from the FCC, the United States Census Bureau, Code.org, Broadband Now, and Microsoft to help federal, state, and local policymakers gain a better understanding of the factors contributing to the digital divide in communities across the United States. Originally launched in 2022 as part of our Airband Initiative, the dashboard provides critical data to help understand broadband gaps at the local level, allowing these decision makers to anchor their policies and programs in data and maximize investments in areas of highest need.  

    Today’s update allows tracking of historical broadband data to analyze trends and progress being made as a result of government and private sector investments. This includes the new data from the dashboard, which shows that all states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, saw an increase in the number of households with broadband connections as well as an increase in the number of households with laptops or desktops. The greatest changes were in households earning less than $20,000. These households saw an average increase of over 10.8 percentage points in internet connectivity compared to previous metrics, meaning there are nearly 325,000 more households connected in this group. 

    We’ve long held the belief in the value of data, and this dashboard refresh is the latest step in our ongoing journey to help close the digital divide around the world. 

    Bridging the Rural Broadband Gap in the United States 

    In 2017, we launched the Microsoft Airband Initiative with a clear mission: to bridge the significant rural broadband gap in the United States. That year, government data showed that at least 23.4 million people across the United States did not have access to reliable high-speed internet, and this lack of access created significant barriers to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. At the same time, it’s been shown that increasing access and usage of broadband in rural areas leads to higher property values, increased job and population growth, increased entrepreneurship, and lower unemployment rates. This stark reality illustrated by this data highlighted the urgent need for action to bridge the digital divide.  

    We set out to help solve the problem by bringing private sector investment and innovative technologies together with advocacy for regulatory support and financial frameworks to increase connectivity. Over the years, we have tried different approaches to bridging the digital divide, and we’ve learned a lot. We initially focused on TV White Spaces, believing this unique technology would extend reliable and affordable broadband to rural areas. As time went on, we determined that to make a tangible impact in rural communities, we couldn’t rely on specific technology, so we shifted to a technology neutral approach. Today, our partners are leveraging fiber, fixed wireless, satellite, and other disruptive technologies to drive broad networks deeper into rural areas. As a result, our partners have extended coverage to over 7.4 million people in rural communities across 41 states and territories in the United States.   

    But technology alone was not a solution. High costs, the absence of new and alternative technologies, and market and regulatory conditions all hampered efforts. The economic impact was substantial, not only hindering individual progress but also stifling the overall development of rural areas. So, we also used our corporate voice and joined forces with others to directly advocate for Congress to deploy targeted funding to combat the digital divide.  

    Targeted Funding to Combat the Digital Divide 

    In the U.S., none of the progress we’ve seen would be possible, without the vision of the U.S. Congress to proactively and significantly invest in broadband infrastructure programs. Our experiences since 2017 have made it clear that these government investments are necessary to drive deep impact. Bipartisan investments in digital infrastructure and inclusion through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) were a huge step forward in our journey to close the digital divide in the United States.  

    As a result of these government investments and public private partnerships, our internet service provider partners in the U.S. have received more than $725 million in government infrastructure funding awards to accelerate network expansion and drive broadband adoption across the country, with approximately 80% going to rural communities.  

    An example includes Microsoft partner, Nextlink Internet, which is leveraging government investment and partnership to bring meaningful connectivity to rural communities in the Midwest, Southwest, and Southeast regions of the United States. Federal infrastructure funding enabled Nextlink to extend their seven-state footprint to 11 states in total: Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.   

    Looking Forward Globally with a Clear Vision 

    Outside of the United States, our global partnerships have brought coverage to nearly 100 million previously unserved and underserved people. Internationally, we’re also seeing success from similar models of participating in government infrastructure programs, with the U.S. government leading the way. This includes significant investments and leadership from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) via the Digital Invest program and the Women in the Digital Economy Fund (Wi-DEF), as well as the United States Trade and Development Agency’s (USTDA) Digital Transformation with Africa initiative.  

    These partnerships have also enabled digital infrastructure and off-grid energy in unserved and underserved communities around the world. In Nigeria, for instance, providers like Tizeti are leveraging government investments to bring connectivity to schools, health clinics, and community anchor institutions. And communities are experiencing improved outcomes in education and healthcare as a result. If connectivity alone has enabled these outcomes, imagine what additional innovation AI could unlock. 

    But there are still 2.6 billion people who remain offline. Limited internet can exacerbate economic inequalities and inhibit access to social services, civic activities, and online learning resources. In places where we’re using AI to map global populations in real-time, we can provide early warnings that allow communities to better plan disaster recovery during times of crisis. Communities that remain offline do not get these early warnings and cannot act on them. As AI becomes more prevalent, communities that remain offline will not be able to fully access the benefits of this new technology. 

    To continue momentum, we are looking to the lessons we learned in the U.S. We must scale innovative technologies, expand connectivity and energy access, and leverage strategic partnerships. Governments, financial institutions, philanthropic institutions, and the private sector must come together to address critical financing barriers, invest in development finance, and expand digital infrastructure. 

    We’ve committed to reaching 250 million people with meaningful connectivity by the end of next year. Today, we’re calling for continued support and collaboration from all sectors to ensure no one is left behind. We call on all stakeholders to join us in this mission. 

    • Governments must create enabling regulatory environments that prioritize funding for digital infrastructure and support quick and efficient allocation of funding by federal, state, and local entities. 
    • The private sector must invest in innovative technologies and business models. 
    • Philanthropic organizations must continue to advocate for digital inclusion and develop initiatives anchored in the local community. 

    The journey to close the digital divide is a long one. Building out infrastructure takes time. It’ll take time for us to see some of the direct results of this work, but there is room for optimism. We are extremely grateful for the leadership and vision of the United States government, which is laying a blueprint for other countries to follow, as well as state and local leaders working to ensure these programs are successful. We encourage all policymakers to proceed efficiently so the benefits of these investments reach local communities sooner rather than later.  

    With continued collaboration and commitment, we can use the power of data, technology, and partnership to achieve our ambitious goals. We’re dedicated to making a lasting impact, and we are excited about the future. Let’s come together to bring the power of digital connectivity and transformation to people around the world. 

    Tags: Airband initiative, broadband, broadband access, connectivity, digital access, digital divide, digital inequity, Digital Inequity Dashboard, Internet access, rural broadband

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Fifth U.S. Navy DDG Homeport Shifts to Rota, Spain

    Source: United States Navy

    The arrival of Oscar Austin expands U.S. Navy capabilities in the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) areas of responsibility. Oscar Austin is now assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60 / Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65 and U.S. 6th Fleet.

    “USS Oscar Austin’s arrival to Naval Station Rota strengthens our commitment to maintaining a forward presence in Europe,” said Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “The addition of this ship to our forces in the region provides our Allies with an added layer of security and assurance, and serves as a powerful symbol of the enduring partnership between the United States and Spain.”

    Modernized with the latest Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) upgrade, USS Oscar Austin offers a key capability for the U.S., directly contributing to extended deterrence by providing Allies and partners protection against the threat of ballistic missile attack. The second U.S. Navy destroyer to shift its homeport to Naval Station Rota, scheduled to arrive in 2026, also has the latest Aegis BMD upgrade.

    “Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers are true multi-mission ships, capable of providing maritime security, conducting anti-air and anti-submarine warfare, and providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” said Capt. Alex Mamikonian, commodore, DESRON 60 and CTF 65. “Bringing USS Oscar Austin to Spain enhances our ability to maintain ready and postured forces to assure, deter and defend in an increasingly complex security environment.”

    Oscar Austin departed Norfolk, Va. Sept. 30 to transit to Spain and assist in providing full coverage and protection for all NATO European populations, territories and forces against the increasing threats posed by the proliferation of ballistic missiles.

    The initial decision to base destroyers out of Spain is part of the U.S. European Phased Adaptive Approach announced by President Obama in 2009. Since its announcement, the U.S. has broadened its Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) capabilities in theater including increasing FDNF-E from four to six and the finalization of the second Aegis Ashore site in Poland.

    Oscar Austin is the first Flight IIA Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer and proudly bears the name of Pfc. Oscar P. Austin, United States Marine Corps. Oscar Austin was commissioned on August 19, 2000, in Norfolk, Va. Oscar Austin is ballistic missile defense, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare capable. The ship can embark two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters to assist in anti-submarine and other warfare areas. Destroyers can work with Carrier Strike Groups, Surface Action Groups, Expeditionary Strike Groups or independently.

    U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Agencies Working Together in Multimillion-Dollar Mission to Remove Debris in Virginia

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Agencies Working Together in Multimillion-Dollar Mission to Remove Debris in Virginia

    Federal Agencies Working Together in Multimillion-Dollar Mission to Remove Debris in Virginia

    BRISTOL, Va.— Tropical Storm Helene devastated communities throughout southwestern Virginia. Since then, federal agencies have been working with Commonwealth and local partners to address communities’ needs and help individuals on their journey to recovery. At the request of the Commonwealth, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have announced a multimillion-dollar commitment dedicated to removal of debris in and around Claytor Lake State Park and the South Holston Lake Area, which were impacted by Tropical Storm Helene.

    Alongside rain, tornados, wind and flooding, Tropical Storm Helene left debris on land and in waterways. Lakes in Virginia are a source of drinking water, provide power through hydropower dams, serve as recreation sites for boating and fishing and support many species of wildlife. 

    A significant amount of debris, including woody debris, boats, propane and fuel tanks, and pieces of structures litter Claytor Lake State Park and the South Holston Lake Area, threatening critical functions of the parks and waterways. Boating, kayaking, swimming and fishing are not currently possible at Claytor Lake State Park because of debris in the water and on the park shoreline.

    Debris in Claytor Lake, Va., Oct. 9, 2024 Photo: FEMA. 

    Due to the extent of debris, the Commonwealth has requested support for debris removal. In support of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s request, as directed by and in coordination with FEMA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will be removing debris from public property in the South Holston area and on Claytor Lake to reduce threats to public health and safety. 

    This is the largest debris mission in Virginia since 2003 and will last for over three months. “This debris mission shows the full federal family’s commitment to Virginia communities,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy Pheil. “Recovery cannot be achieved alone, with one program or one agency. I am grateful to the Commonwealth and to our federal partners for responding to the needs of the whole community.” 

    The Army Corps of Engineers will be taking on the multimillion-dollar mission, which includes waterway debris removal for Claytor Lake and South Holston River at South Fork. USACE crews began land and water debris assessment Oct. 4, and continue providing assistance to the Virginia debris task force. The USACE contractor will mobilize and begin removing debris next week. USACE estimates the work could take about 120 days to complete.   

    The waterway debris removal presents unique challenges for the USACE team. Crews will operate heavy equipment from land and afloat on barges to collect the debris, moving it to land for sorting and disposal. USACE debris specialists estimate up to 300 acres of debris in the two waterways. 

    “Debris removal on the water is inherently more complex,” said Col. Sonny Avichal, commander of USACE’s Norfolk District, “and our first priority is ensuring the safety of the public and our teams. We’re working together toward the same goal, so we also want to make sure we’re talking with the communities frequently to share information and listen to concerns.”

    EPA’s first responders have been at the site assisting federal and state agencies since Sept. 29, and received federal approval to begin oil and hazardous material cleanup on Oct. 6. The EPA’s mission in the debris removal efforts includes assessing and cleaning up hazardous material, white goods, and oil across the entire impacted area to ensure human health and the environment is protected. 

    “A person’s safety is always our top priority, especially following a natural disaster like Hurricane Helene,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “We are incredibly proud of our first responders who are working tirelessly along with our local, state and federal partners to remove hazardous materials and protect drinking water that our communities depend on. We are committed to ensuring affected families in the Commonwealth have the support and resources they need to move forward.”

    EPA crews lay yellow horizontal boom which acts as a barrier that protects access to boat ramps and also collects debris and makes it more effective for crews to retrieve hazardous waste containers. Photo: EPA.
    FEMA and local officials surveying debris in Claytor Lake. Photo: FEMA. 

    The debris mission does not include private property. If residents have household hazardous materials or oil containers that were damaged by the storm, they can be brought to 919 S. Shady Avenue in Damascus, Va. seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find resources for residents and business owners, including tips for staying safe and information on agencies that can help here: 9 Ways to Stay Safe Cleaning Up Debris After a Disaster | FEMA.gov.

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

    ###

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

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

              

    erika.osullivan
    Wed, 10/16/2024 – 15:55

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Program to Keep Money in New Yorkers’ Pockets

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York State Public Service Commission approved a request by the New York Power Authority to establish the Renewable Energy Access and Community Help program to provide electric bill credits for low-income households in disadvantaged communities across the state. The new program stems from NYPA’s expanded authority to develop, own and operate renewable energy generating projects—either alone or in collaboration with other entities—granted in last year’s State Budget.

    “My administration remains steadfast in supporting that New York State remains an affordable place to live and do business,” Governor Hochul said. “The NYPA REACH program will help ensure that low-income New Yorkers in disadvantaged communities will not be left behind as we make the critical transition to a clean-energy economy.”

    New York State Public Service Commission Chair Rory M. Christian said, “The PSC fights every day to protect the interests of consumers, and the program approved today is one step in that fight. Authorizing the implementation of the REACH program allows NYPA to make progress toward the State’s clean energy goals and ensures low-income customers in disadvantaged communities have access to renewable energy and directly benefit from NYPA’s new program.”

    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “REACH will directly benefit low-income electric ratepayers in disadvantaged communities using renewable generation from distributed energy sources in their communities or from large-scale renewable projects located throughout the state’s electric power grid. The bill credits will be funded from a portion of revenues from new renewable energy generation projects developed by NYPA and designated for REACH.”

    Today, the PSC established a regulatory framework to allow electric utilities to receive funds from the Power Authority to credit the electric bills of low-income ratepayers in disadvantaged communities. New York Power Authority (NYPA) had requested that the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) adopt the Renewable Energy Access and Community Help (REACH) program utilizing the same structure as the Energy Affordability Program (EAP) and as the Statewide Solar for All program, which Governor Hochul announced in this year’s State of the State and approved by the PSC earlier this year. The use of existing regulatory structures will lower costs for program administration and ultimately allow for more funds to be received by low-income ratepayers.

    To align with the implementation of the Statewide Solar for All program, the PSC directed that the electric utilities initially enroll EAP eligible low-income customers within disadvantaged communities, and as more resources come online, expand enrollment to all low-income and moderate-income customers, regardless of location to align with the implementation of the Statewide Solar for All program.

    NYPA will implement REACH with DPS Staff and the utilities according to the order, including arrangements to fund REACH bill credits as project revenues become available. Once the REACH framework is established, NYPA plans to confer with the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) to implement REACH within LIPA’s service territory.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: The main idea of the development strategy is to make Moscow the best city in the world

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Sergei Sobyanin met with students of the Science and Technology University, College and Educational Centre “Sirius”. The meeting was held in the “Atom” hall in Sochi. The Moscow Mayor spoke about new solutions in the sphere of improving the quality of life in cities using the example of the strategy for the development of the capital until 2040 and answered questions.

    According to the Mayor of Moscow, the main idea of the development strategy is to make the capital the best city in the world.

    “For our city to be the best, it must have the most powerful economy in our country, it must have the best opportunities for every person, the best urban environment, and it must be a global center of attraction that the whole world would know and strive to come to Moscow,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    The capital has a large-scale public transport infrastructure – underground, surface and water. Over the past 14 years, the city has built a large number of new metro stations, equal in number to those built throughout the history of Moscow. An above-ground metro has appeared – four Moscow Central Diameters, which allow you to get to the Moscow region and nearby areas. In addition, a decision has been made to build a high-speed railway (VSM-1) to St. Petersburg.

    “This is the President’s project, a high-speed railway (HSR) connecting St. Petersburg and Moscow, then Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov-on-Don, Voronezh. I think that most of you live in one or another region where this project should come. This means that the entire country will be closer, travel options will be more comfortable, accessible, and the country will develop differently,” the Moscow Mayor emphasized.

    The new rail framework will become a powerful impetus for regional development. The HSR-1 (Moscow-St. Petersburg), the construction of which began in 2024, will cover more than 80 percent of the Russian population. The speed of trains will reach 400 kilometers per hour.

    More than a million trips have been made by passengers on electric ships since the beginning of the year110 carriages of the Ivolga 4.0 train will be launched on the MCD by the end of the year

    New centers of economic activity are being created in the capital. In addition to the historical center, there will be six more comparable in size. They will be located in abandoned depressed areas where a large number of transport highways intersect. Thus, all districts of Moscow will receive their own modern center for life, work and leisure.

    One such center of economic activity is “Yuzhny Port – Tekstilshchiki”It is being created as part of the world’s largest industrial zone reorganization project.

    The city is implementing a complex renovation program that has no analogues in the world. It includes 5,175 buildings. City residents are moving from outdated apartments to new, modern and comfortable ones. In 2024, housing was provided for the resettlement of more than 170 thousand Muscovites. In addition, as part of the renovation program, over 400 social facilities will be built and more than 200 thousand jobs will be created.

    Renovation program: about 75 percent of new residents took advantage of the city’s assistance when movingSergei Sobyanin: About 1.7 thousand capital courtyards were improved this year

    The capital is renewing its urban environment and creating comfortable public spaces. Moscow is developing not just residential areas, but complex districts with parks, squares and embankments where you can work and relax. They are becoming mini-cities with high-quality infrastructure, where there is everything necessary for life.

    The world’s largest monument restoration program is in effect in the capital. More than 2,100 of them were restored in 2011–2024. More than 150 more monuments are planned to be restored annually.

    “In total, more than two thousand monuments have been restored, are in very good condition and continue to serve Muscovites not only as monuments, but also as life, business, public and city organizations,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    Instead of old cultural centers, multifunctional recreation and entertainment centers are appearing in the city. The largest cinema park “Moskino” was built in TiNAO.

    The capital can be proud of its unique, accessible and best healthcare system in the world. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) helps to recognize diseases from CT, MRI and ultrasound images. With the help of AI, it will be possible to predict health problems for each resident and conduct preventive work. The average life expectancy in the capital is expected to approach 80 years.

    Digital technologies are also being implemented in the education system. The world’s largest project, the Moscow Electronic School, allows for the creation of a digital twin of each student and the personalization of their development trajectory. Secondary vocational education is being revived. The capital is dramatically improving its quality and doubling the number of colleges. 75 percent of vacancies on the labor market are for workers with this type of training.

    Moscow Mayor: Funds for school reconstruction included in draft budgetSobyanin: Budget expenditures on healthcare development will be increased by 8%

    The digital ecosystem is developing. Its 90 key projects cover all areas of city life, from public utilities to city services, transport, and education.

    The digital system of Moscow services is the best in the world according to the United Nations. The mos.ru portal offers 420 electronic services. They allow you to draw up documents and social benefits, pay bills, and transmit meter readings.

    A digital twin of a city is a project that helps to see its future for decades to come, plan development, design buildings, structures, engineering and social infrastructure, ensuring a comfortable life for Muscovites.

    The capital is becoming safer thanks to new technologies, artificial intelligence systems, video surveillance, and facial recognition. The crime rate in Moscow is one of the lowest among world cities.

    Sobyanin: The draft budget for 2025 includes the development of digital technologies

    The capital’s economic structure corresponds to the world level: it has a powerful industry, government services, transport, logistics, creative industry, etc. Labor productivity in Moscow is twice as high as the national average.

    “Well, Moscow ultimately occupies a worthy place among all the cities of the world in terms of economy, despite the fact that the largest financial centers of the world are ahead of us. Despite the sanctions, despite the sanctions war declared against us, despite the difficulties, the SVO and so on, Moscow today is one of the world leaders. It is very important that it maintains its leadership. It is the locomotive of the country’s development, and I hope that you will carry this flag further and develop our beautiful capital and wonderful Russia,” the Mayor of Moscow concluded.

    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.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11903050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov took part in the opening of a customs and logistics terminal in Buryatia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Denis Manturov took part in the opening of the Kyakhta customs and logistics terminal on the Russian-Mongolian border

    19 hours ago

    First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov took part in the opening of the new Kyakhta customs and logistics terminal on the Russian-Mongolian border via video link. The event was also attended by the head of Buryatia, Aleksey Tsydenov.

    “A modern, technologically advanced complex has been created for cargo handling, temporary storage, customs clearance of goods, radiation and phytosanitary control. The formed infrastructure will increase the efficiency of customs procedures when moving goods across the Russian-Mongolian border. We currently have 10 border crossings in this direction. Among them, the Kyakhta automobile checkpoint is one of the busiest. The new terminal will allow us to expand bottlenecks and increase throughput. This is especially important given the growing role of Asian countries in the global economy and the reorientation of significant volumes of our foreign trade to this direction. The counter flow of goods with the states of the eastern macroregion will continue to expand. Therefore, today’s event, we can safely say, contributes to the development of Russia’s foreign economic activity,” Denis Manturov noted.

    “The terminal that opens today in Kyakhta is the first and so far the only such facility. Kyakhta is the main checkpoint and communications hub between Russia and Mongolia. And the growing cargo flow is exactly what meets the task set by the President of increasing the throughput capacity of international transport corridors by one and a half times. The new infrastructure for handling cargo and handling vehicles creates all the necessary conditions for increasing throughput capacity,” said Alexey Tsydenov.

    The total area of the terminal is 188.8 thousand square meters. The customs control zone is designed to accommodate 80 trucks at a time. Temporary storage warehouses can accommodate up to 350 trucks. There are also two accredited laboratories on the territory of the terminal, which will allow checking the quality of supplied products and other goods. All this will increase throughput: clearance at the point will take no more than 10 minutes.

    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://government.ru/nevs/53010/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko and His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ held a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ held a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago

    October 16, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko during a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago

    October 16, 2024

    His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ during a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago

    October 16, 2024

    A meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago was held

    October 16, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin at a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago

    October 16, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ held a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago

    His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ and Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko held a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin also took part in the event.

    During the meeting, the most important issues of implementing measures to preserve and develop the Solovetsky Archipelago were discussed.

    In his speech, Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus’ Kirill noted that the Government of the Russian Federation has done a great deal of work to organize effective interaction between government agencies and the Church in order to preserve the spiritual, cultural and natural heritage of the Solovetsky Archipelago, as well as to develop its infrastructure.

    As part of the implementation of the decisions of the Board of Trustees, meetings of the headquarters on issues of preserving and developing the Solovetsky Archipelago are regularly held at the Government site under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko. Representatives of federal and regional authorities, as well as representatives of the Church, participate in these meetings.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko noted that the meeting was held with a new composition: by decree of President Vladimir Putin, six new members were included in the board of trustees, and a new chairman of the foundation’s board, Andrei Guts, was appointed.

    “Let me remind you that President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on celebrating the 600th anniversary of the founding of the first monastic settlement on Solovki in 2029. Preparations for this date are of particular importance, because the Solovetsky Archipelago is simultaneously one of the most important religious sites, a point of attraction for pilgrims and tourists, it bears the imprint of the turning point in the history of our country and, in addition, is a unique natural landmark. In anticipation of the 600th anniversary, the Government is carrying out comprehensive work. The federal budget provides funds for the restoration of cultural heritage sites and the construction, reconstruction of transport, utilities and social infrastructure. I would like to note that research work is being carried out that will help determine the optimal annual flow of pilgrims to Solovki,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    In connection with preparations for the celebration in 2029 of the 600th anniversary of the founding of the first monastic settlement on the Solovetsky Archipelago, an organizing committee has been created, and plans have been prepared for the main and additional events to prepare for and conduct the celebration.

    Schedules for construction and restoration work until 2029 have been drawn up and approved by the co-chairs of the board of trustees. The implementation of activities on the Solovetsky Archipelago is carried out in accordance with the schedules.

    Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov said that in the summer of 2024, a set of educational and outreach events for children and youth related to the study of the heritage and history of the Solovetsky Archipelago was held for the first time on the Solovetsky Archipelago. Schoolchildren visited the day camp “Roads of Victory”, took part in thematic shifts and programs, including a student tour guide team.

    “Together with the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, Rosmolodezh, the Ministry of Defense, the government of the Arkhangelsk region, the Directorate for the Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago and in cooperation with the Russian Orthodox Church, we have prepared a draft plan of events for next year, which includes holding a shift of the “Movement of the First”, a regional youth sea expedition “Young Fleet of Pomorye”, educational programs of a patriotic nature, an interregional labor project of the Russian student teams “Solovki”, excursion and educational programs, volunteer shifts and schools, as well as other events,” noted Sergey Kravtsov.

    In conclusion, His Holiness the Patriarch thanked Dmitry Chernyshenko for the great work done to preserve the spiritual, cultural and natural heritage of the Solovetsky Archipelago and develop its infrastructure. He also expressed confidence that, through joint efforts, the tasks set will be accomplished by the 600th anniversary of monastic life on Solovki and the ancient monastery will shine in its former glory.

    The meeting of the board of trustees took place in the Patriarchal Hall of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. It was also attended by Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration Maxim Oreshkin, First Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Utilities Alexander Lomakin, Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova, Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov, Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dmitry Vakhrukov, Chairman of the Board of the Foundation for the Preservation and Development of the Solovetsky Archipelago Andrei Guts, Abbot of the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Solovetsky Monastery Bishop Porfiry of Ozersk, Governor of the Arkhangelsk Region Alexander Tsybulsky and others.

    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://government.ru/nevs/53009/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Poll Finds Swing State Voters Concerned About Out-of-Control National Debt

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19)

    Washington, D.C. – Recently, the Peter G. Peterson Foundation released a report showing that swing state voters overwhelmingly believe that the rising national debt is a critical campaign issue.

    According to the report, more than 90 percent of voters across seven key states – Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin – say that it’s important for presidential candidates to have a plan to rein-in the national debt.

    “The numbers don’t lie – the American people are concerned about our country’s unsustainable fiscal path, and rightfully so,” said House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19). “Record deficit spending is devaluing the dollar, weakening our economy, and pushing us closer to a debt crisis. We must rein-in Washington’s out-of-control spending and restore fiscal sanity before it’s too late. Instead of reducing the size of government and living within our means, we borrow from the future – placing a deferred tax on our children. We must reverse the Biden-Harris spending spree, fix the broken health care and welfare system, and reignite economic growth by lowering taxes, cutting regulations, and incentivizing work.”

    Background:

    • The poll was commissioned by the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that is dedicated to increasing public awareness of the nature and urgency of key fiscal challenges threatening America’s future, and to accelerating action on them.
    • Read Chairman Arrington’s statement on the CBO report showing that the Biden-Harris Administration raised the deficit to $1.8 trillion in FY24 HERE.
    • Read more about the sharp decline in consumer confidence HERE.
    • Read more about how interest payments on the debt have skyrocketed by 153 percent under Biden and Harris HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government invests to strengthen Canada’s expertise in satellite communications

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    Kepler Communications is developing an in-orbit, high-speed connectivity network

    Kepler Communications is developing an in-orbit, high-speed connectivity network

    October 16, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario 

    Canada is a world leader in satellite communications, an industry that contributes billions of dollars to the Canadian economy each year and supports thousands of good-paying jobs. The federal government is committed to strengthening this crucial sector of our economy through key investments that will cement Canada’s global leadership position and expertise in space.

    Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced a $20 million investment through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) to support Kepler Communications’ development of the Aether constellation and its in-orbit, high-speed connectivity network, a project valued at $280.3 million. Kepler Communications, a Canadian leader in small satellite mass manufacturing, also received $2 million in funding for this project from the Canadian Space Agency in September 2024.

    Today’s investment will advance Canada’s satellite communications capabilities to deliver higher-speed data relay between space and the earth by using optical intersatellite link laser technology. These SIF contributions will also enable Kepler to create 95 full-time jobs and 346 future co-op positions for students. Kepler will undertake this work at its headquarters in Toronto, Ontario.

    The federal government is committed to strengthening the Canadian space sector’s leadership in space exploration, science and innovation.

    Quotes

    “Today, the government is investing in Kepler Communications’ Aether Network, an innovative project to establish an in-orbit high-speed connectivity network, which will create and maintain hundreds of highly skilled jobs and internships for Canadians in addition to partnerships with small and medium-sized enterprises and with universities and colleges. Through this investment and others, the government is positioning Canada as a global leader in space and developing critical technologies for Canadians.”

    – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    “Space innovations such as the Aether constellation reinforce Canada’s reputation as a key player in the global space industry—for today and tomorrow. Thanks to our long-standing collaboration with the European Space Agency, Kepler will further advance its technology by leading a major mission, HydRON-DS, and will be positioned to become a global leader in providing Internet-like connectivity in space.”

    – Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency

    Quick facts

    • In 2022, Canada’s space sector employed over 12,000 people and contributed over $3.2 billion to Canada’s GDP. The sector is highly innovative and R&D-intensive.

    • Since 2016, the government has committed over $9 billion to the country’s space sector.

    • Kepler Communications Inc. is a vertically integrated satellite manufacturing and telecommunications company that fully designs, manufactures and operates its satellites in-house.

    • The company intends to further its satellite technology in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) in the next phase of its satellite technology development and demonstration program, the High thRoughput Optical Network program, or HydRON Demonstration System. 

    • This contract is made possible by the long-standing cooperation agreement between Canada and the ESA.

    • Canada has held the privileged position of being the only non-European cooperating state of the ESA since 1979, resulting in commercial sales and job creation, as well as knowledge and expertise sharing, all of which benefit the Canadian economy.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Audrey Milette
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

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

    Canadian Space Agency
    Media Relations Office
    asc.medias-media.csa@asc-csa.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Find more services and information on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada website.

    Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on social media.

    X (Twitter): @ISED_CA | Facebook: Canadian Innovation | Instagram: @cdninnovation | LinkedIn: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025
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