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  • MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks, Frankel, Shaheen, Schatz Send Letter Objecting to Trump Administration’s Proposed Reorganization of USAID

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Lois Frankel (D-FL), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State and Related Programs, and U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs, sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio objecting to the Trump Administration’s proposed reorganization of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The lawmakers expressed a willingness to work with the Secretary on reforms but stated concern that the current plan violates federal law, further endangers lifesaving global health and humanitarian programs, overburdens the State Department, and damages U.S. credibility. They urged Secretary Rubio to testify before Congress and commit to a lawful and transparent reform process. 

    “It is critical that the Department of State and USAID undertake any reform or realignment in a transparent manner that adheres to applicable laws so that implementation is effective and sustainable. Unfortunately, that is not how you have pursued reforms and realignment to date, including through this CN. Not only has the process that produced the CN been unlawful, but its implementation would render it impossible for the Administration to lawfully comply with authorizing laws and spending directives enacted in recent appropriations bills and meet other statutory requirements,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    “In addition, we have serious concerns about the legal, financial, and national security risks the proposal will create.  The CN also does not address the proposed process for consolidating USAID operations into the State Department, including the requisite staffing, contracting, vetting, and oversight that would be required to maintain critical USAID programs, including lifesaving humanitarian and global health programs, without interruption.  The concurrent plan to fire all USAID staff — and therefore all expertise — raises further concern about disruptions to lifesaving programs and other critical harm to American workers, businesses, and implementing partners and increases the risk of waste, fraud, and abuse,” continued the lawmakers. 

    “The fundamental goal of any reform effort should be to strengthen the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy, including by enhancing our capabilities. As proposed, this plan will overburden the State Department, jeopardize the continuity of programs that save lives and keep Americans safe at home, and further undermine U.S. credibility and reliability. We remain open to working with you on reforms, including reorganization proposals, pending your testimony before our committees on the foreign assistance review and related reorganization, responses to the questions and requests we have sent in prior letters regarding these matters and a demonstrated commitment to a transparent process that protects and advances U.S. national security interests,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    Full text of the letter is provided below. 

    Dear Secretary Rubio:  

    We write to object to the Congressional Notification (CN) submitted to the Appropriations Committees, Senate Foreign Relations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee on March 28, 2025, notifying your intent to undertake a reorganization that would realign or discontinue all functions of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).  

    We do not believe that the State Department, USAID or the broader foreign assistance enterprise should be immune from reform. In fact, we have supported many reform initiatives designed to maximize impact and ensure we have the best diplomatic and development agencies in the world. These efforts have included increasing burden sharing, expanding the implementing partner base, better leveraging the private sector and holding partners more accountable for delivering results and controlling costs, among others.  

    We also recognize that the Trump Administration will have different foreign policy priorities than prior Administrations.  

    However, it is critical that the Department of State and USAID undertake any reform or realignment in a transparent manner that adheres to applicable laws so that implementation is effective and sustainable. Unfortunately, that is not how you have pursued reforms and realignment to date, including through this CN. Not only has the process that produced the CN been unlawful, its implementation would render it impossible for the Administration to comply with authorizing laws and spending directives enacted in recent appropriations bills and meet other statutory requirements.  

    In addition, we have serious concerns about the legal, financial and national security risks the proposal will create. The CN also does not address the proposed process for consolidating USAID operations into the State Department, including the requisite staffing, contracting, vetting and oversight that would be required to maintain critical USAID programs, including lifesaving humanitarian and global health programs, without interruption. The concurrent plan to fire virtually all USAID staff — and therefore lose all expertise — raises further concern about disruptions to lifesaving programs and other critical harm to American workers, businesses and implementing partners and increases the risk of waste, fraud and abuse.  

    The fundamental goal of any reform effort should be to strengthen the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy, including by enhancing our capabilities. As proposed, this plan will overburden the State Department, jeopardize the continuity of programs that save lives and keep Americans safe at home and further undermine U.S. credibility and reliability.  

    That is why we object to any implementation of your proposal at this time. 

    We remain open to working with you on reforms, including reorganization proposals, pending your testimony before our committees on the foreign assistance review and related reorganization, responses to the questions and requests we have sent in prior letters regarding these matters and a demonstrated commitment to a transparent process that protects and advances U.S. national security interests.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Putin meets with US special envoy for Ukraine talks

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday met with Steve Witkoff, a special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump, in St. Petersburg for talks on the Ukraine conflict.

    The Kremlin said the meeting focused on “various aspects of the Ukrainian settlement,” without elaborating.

    The talks were held behind closed doors, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier. He said the two sides would exchange views on the Ukraine issue but no breakthrough was expected in the talks.

    Before meeting with Putin, Witkoff held talks with Kirill Dmitriev, the head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund and the Russian special presidential envoy for economic cooperation with foreign countries. Dmitriev later said that talks with Witkoff were “productive.”

    According to Russian news agency TASS, Witkoff arrived in Russia on a business visit Friday morning and departed St. Petersburg late in the evening.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Votes No on SNAP & Medicaid Cuts, Slashing Lifesaving Services for Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams Ph.D. (ND-12) voted against the disastrous GOP budget blueprint that will grow the deficit by $7 trillion, decimate Medicaid and SNAP, and worsen the cost-of-living crisis in the United States.

    “At a time when people are struggling to make ends meet, Republicans in Congress chose billionaire tax breaks over the needs of everyday Americans,” said Congresswoman Adams. “This reckless bill will force people to go hungry. It will cause families to go into debt. It will cost lives by stripping healthcare away from our most vulnerable communities. This budget is reckless and harmful, and anyone who voted for it has abandoned our working- and middle-class families.”

    “As we look forward, it is essential that our Charlotte, Mecklenburg, and North Carolina communities come together to take care of our neighbors,” Adams continued. “My office will continue working with state and local governments, non-profits, community and civic groups, and local leaders to discuss the needs of our community and how we can continue to provide for them when Republicans in Congress won’t. I want my constituents to know that they always have an ally and an advocate in me.”

    The GOP budget bill will slash some of the most critical services to Americans:

    • $230 billion in SNAP cuts, the largest food security program in the country.
    • Up to $880 billion in cuts to programs like Medicare, Medicaid, ACA, and CHIP.
    • $330 billion in cuts to education and workforce, cutting critical education services and programs like student loans, Pell grants, and school lunch.
    • At least $50 billion in cuts which will likely include government employee retirement benefits.

    In North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District, residents will feel the direct impact of these reckless cuts:

    • 160,000 Mecklenburg County residents receive aid from SNAP, with $500 million in economic impacts.
    • 400,000 Mecklenburg County residents rely on Medicaid for critical programs and services.
    • 17,000 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students with disabilities rely on Medicaid to fund special education programs.
    • Many NC-12 residents are part of the 638,000 North Carolinians covered under Medicaid expansion. Due to North Carolina’s Medicaid trigger law, these residents could all lose their healthcare.

    These cuts will only worsen the period of economic hardship that the United States is currently facing:

    • Around 30% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Slashing social safety nets will harm families struggling to get by.
    • The Trump Administration trade war has resulted in the worst stock market start to a presidential term in modern history, losing $9 trillion in wealth over the last several days.
    • Economists overwhelmingly agree that President Trump’s extreme tariffs will increase costs of living from groceries to housing to medical expenses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Harris Statement on the Senate Amendment to the Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus and House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration released the following statement on the Senate’s amendment to the budget resolution.

    Statement From Chairman Harris:

    “If the Senate can deliver real deficit reduction in line with or greater than the House goals, I can support the Senate budget resolution. However, by the Senate setting committee instructions so low at $4 billion compared to the House’s $1.5-2 trillion, I am unconvinced that will happen. The Senate is free to put pen to paper to draft its reconciliation bill, but I can’t support House passage of the Senate changes to our budget resolution until I see the actual spending and deficit reduction plans to enact President Trump’s America First agenda.”

    For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Denounces Republican Budget Plan That Will Gut Medicaid to Fund Tax Breaks for Billionaires

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    SCHAUMBURG – Yesterday, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined WGN Chicago and Fox32 Chicago to discuss the passage of a House Republican budget plan that calls for drastic spending cuts to offset tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) have called for total spending cuts up to $1.5 trillion, the majority of which would come from essential programs including Medicaid and SNAP that millions of Illinoisans depend on for access to health care and food.

    “The House Republicans’ budget plan is a direct assault on Illinois families. Slashing Medicaid to fund tax breaks for billionaires would strip health care from over 850,000 Illinois residents, including two out of every five infants and two-thirds of nursing home residents who rely on this vital program. This reckless plan endangers lives and threatens the stability of our health care providers — harming the health and well-being of every single Illinoisan. Furthermore, this horrendous plan protects Trump’s irresponsible blanket tariffs that are already driving up costs and pushing our country toward recession. I will continue to fight this draconian GOP plan and do anything I can to protect Illinoisans from Donald Trump’s havoc.” 

    What They’re Watching:

    WGN Chicago:

    “It would end up as a tax cut of almost 7 trillion dollars financed by trillions of dollars of cuts to our social safety net, including to Medicaid, including to SNAP, once known as food stamps, and it’s going to hurt millions of families.”

    Fox32 Chicago:

    “We estimate that it will basically slash $880 billion from Medicaid, $230 billion from food stamps, now known as SNAP, and then a host of other cuts that are unspecified that total $1.5 trillion in cuts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Vows to Fight Senator Mike Lee’s Anti-Home Rule Bill Addressing D.C. Council Meetings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – After Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) told the Washington Post that he would introduce an anti-home rule bill to repeal recently passed local emergency legislation that amends D.C.’s Open Meetings Act, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) vowed to fight the bill’s advancement in Congress. The D.C. Council last week passed a measure to amend the Open Meetings Act. Emergency legislation in D.C. remains in effect for 90 days and is not subject to a congressional disapproval resolution. Lee threatened to introduce a disapproval resolution if the D.C. emergency legislation becomes permanent.

    “There are more than 700,000 D.C. residents who live in D.C., and they include neither Senator Lee nor the people of Utah, who he represents in Congress,” Norton said. “D.C. has a local legislature whose members are elected by D.C. residents. If D.C. residents do not approve of how the members vote, they can vote them out of office. That is called democracy.

    “The people of D.C. are worthy and capable of self-government without interference from members of Congress who are not accountable to D.C. I urge Senator Lee to turn his attention to his own constituents, and I will use all the tools at my disposal to fight his anti-home rule legislation’s advancement in Congress.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Republican Middle Class Betrayal in San Francisco

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    From the Speaker Emerita’s Press Office:

    Today, House Republicans passed a budget that betrays the middle class with the largest cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in American history.  

    Republicans are taking away health care, increasing the cost of essentials like food and housing, and decimating services working families count on – all to pay for $7 trillion giveaways to Donald Trump’s billionaire donors, big corporations and the ultra-rich.

    Below is a fact sheet prepared by the Office of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11) and the Democratic Staff of the House Committee on the Budget:

    This is what Republican budget plans would mean for San Francisco:

    • $7 trillion in giveaways to billionaires and big corporations
    • $314,266 in average annual tax cuts for the richest 0.1 percent

    Meanwhile, middle class families would be left holding the bag.

    Ripping Away Health Care

    The Affordable Care Act

    Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, tens of millions of Americans can afford high-quality health care. House Democrats built on the Affordable Care Act, delivering lower prices and expanding coverage.

    Under the Republican budget plan, the 32,000 people who receive coverage under the Affordable Care Act in San Francisco would see their average premium go up by $3,070 per year — a 112% increase.

    Many families would face even steeper consequences. A 60-year-old couple with a household income of $85,000 in San Francisco would see their health insurance costs increase by $22,193 per year — a 307% increase in premiums.

    Medicaid

    Nearly 80 million Americans receive health care through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, which provide critical care throughout all stages of life. Medicaid covers everything from childbirth to nursing home care and everything in between.

    In San Francisco, the 162,583 people on Medicaid (also known in California as Medi-Cal) are at risk of losing their health care under Republican budget plans.

    This includes 33,336 children under the age of 19 and 44,000 seniors over 65 in San Francisco.

    Raising the Cost of Living

    Food Assistance

    With many American families struggling to put food on the table, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides critical support for over 40 million Americans including children, seniors, veterans, and working parents.

    Extreme Republican budget plans threaten the 211,000 people in San Francisco who count on SNAP to put food on the table.

    School Lunches

    Every year, more than 23 million children receive healthy school meals thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision.

    Across California, the Republican budget threatens 2,452,931 children who rely on free school lunches.

    If Republicans are successful, their extreme budget will make it even harder for these children to get the meals they need to grow and learn.

    Pell Grants

    About one in three undergraduate students receive Pell grants, which have helped millions of students afford the cost of a college education. These investments in future generations help grow our economy and our middle class.

    The Republican budget would jeopardize the futures of 19,382 students in San Francisco who use Pell grants to help afford their education.

    And that’s only the beginning. Republicans are targeting even more critical services to fund their tax cuts for billionaires and big corporations.

    The Trump Administration is already undermining our nation’s economy by threatening essential public servants with reckless layoffs. In San Francisco alone, the federal government employs 7,602 people.

    Learn more about how the Republican budget betrays the middle class here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Evans, House & Senate Colleagues Reintroduce ‘Poverty-Busting’ Bills to Expand Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dwight Evans (2nd District of Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON (April 11, 2025) – Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) and House and Senate colleagues have reintroduced what Evans calls “poverty-busting” legislation to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.

    Evans is sponsoring the House bill to expand the EITC, the Tax Cut for Workers Act (H.R. 2764). 

    Evans said, “I’m proud to join with Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) and our Senate colleagues to introduce this bill to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit. The EITC is one of the most effective poverty-busting tools that we have, and expanding it is something that members of Congress from both parties should support!”

    Evans’ bill would benefit an estimated 14 million Americans. It would:

    • Virtually triple the maximum value of the EITC for so-called “childless workers” from about $540 to about $1,500. These are workers not raising children in their home who are currently taxed into or further into poverty.
    • Extend the credit to both younger and older workers who are currently ineligible for the credit because of their age – delivering the credit to people ages 19 to 24 as well as 65 and older.
    • Make the credit more accessible for adults aging out of the foster youth system.

    A more detailed one-page fact sheet about the bill is available here.

    In addition to co-lead sponsor Khanna, House co-sponsors of Evans’ bill include Reps. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-5), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Steven Horsford (D-NV), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Jerry Nadler (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Linda Sánchez (D-CA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Shri Thanedar, (D-MI), Dina Titus (D-NV) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). 

    Organizations endorsing the bill include: Americans for Tax Fairness, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Coalition on Human Needs, Economic Security Project Action, Golden State Opportunity, National Council of Jewish Women, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, RESULTS, UnidosUS, and Young Invincibles.

    Evans is also co-sponsoring the American Family Act in the House. That bill would make permanent the expanded, monthly Child Tax Credit that was passed in 2021. 

    “We know from recent experience that this can lift millions of children out of poverty. I’m going to keep pushing for this too!” Evans said.

    The Child Tax Credit bill would:

    • Increase the value of the CTC from the current level of $2,000 per child to $6,360 for newborns, $4,320 for children ages 1 through 6, and $3,600 for children age 6 through 17;
    • End the longstanding, discriminatory policy that reduces the value of the Child Tax Credit for low-income families, ensuring that the families of 17 million low-income children left out of the CTC under current law would receive the same credit as families in the middle class;
    • Provide for monthly delivery of the credit so families would have access to it as bills arrive; and
    • Index the CTC for inflation to preserve the value of the credit moving forward.

    Evans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans’ office’s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight years in Congress.

    Evans serves on the influential House Ways and Means Committee, including its Subcommittee on Health. In addition to taxes, the committee also oversees trade, Social Security and Medicare. Evans’ website is evans.house.gov and his social media handle is @RepDwightEvans on Youtube, Bluesky, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Threads.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Next steps for South Tuggeranong Health Centre

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The centre will ensure South Tuggeranong residents have access to more health services closer to home.

    Designs have been released for the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre in Conder.

    The Development Application (DA) has also been publicly notified.

    This marks a significant milestone in the project, which will ensure South Tuggeranong residents have access to more health services closer to home.

    This follows extensive consultation last year, with the designs reflecting community input.

    The DA lodgement gives the community another opportunity to provide feedback on the designs.

    South Tuggeranong Health Centre services

    The centre will feature consultation rooms and a multi-purpose space.

    These will support a range of specialities and non-government organisations to deliver services.

    These will include:

    • paediatrics
    • pathology collection
    • dementia care
    • diabetes clinics
    • falls and falls injury prevention
    • chronic disease programs
    • a virtual care space for people to access specialist services closer to where they live.

    A head contractor will soon be selected.

    Construction is expected to start early next year and be completed towards the end of 2025.

    More health centres for Canberra

    Early design work and planning is underway for new health centres in:

    • North Gungahlin
    • the Inner South
    • West Belconnen.

    The ACT Government recently completed consultation on the services for the centres in the Inner South and North Gungahlin.

    You can view the plans and provide feedback until 9 September 2024.

    Visit Planning ACT.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New neighbourhood park now open in north Watson

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The park’s impressive eagle centrepiece was designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church.

    In brief:

    • A new park on Aspinall Street, Watson is now open.
    • It provides families a vibrant new space to play and learn more about Ngunnawal culture.
    • It is part of the Section 76 Watson site, which will include new housing.

    The new Maliyan Park in north Watson is now open.

    It is located on Aspinall Street, near the Negus Crescent intersection.

    This new neighbourhood park celebrates Ngunnawal culture through:

    • vibrant artwork
    • new trees and plantings
    • diverse play equipment.

    It was designed with the aim of sharing Ngunnawal culture while enjoying time outdoors.

    The park’s centrepiece is a Maliyan (wedge-tailed eagle) structure. This was designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church.

    The impressive structure signifies the Maliyan’s importance to the traditional custodians. It is believed she was chosen to create resources for Ngunnawal people.

    Other artworks include native animals and insects designed by Ngunnawal artists Jazz and Krystal Matthews from Wilay Designs.

    The park also features a selection of endemic plants with a special and practical connection to Ngunnawal community and culture.

    Visitors will find play equipment for a range of ages and play styles. There is nature play, swings, slides, climbers and spinners.

    Older children and adults can make use of exercise equipment and a kick-around space.

    Maliyan Park is a unique space for local families to play, relax and learn more about Ngunnawal culture.

    It is part of the Section 76 Watson site that will provide for:

    • approximately 200 new homes
    • a demonstration housing project of approximately 20 to 30 homes while keeping high-quality trees to continue to provide habitat for wildlife and reduce urban heat.

    Section 76 was developed in consultation with the community. This includes input from the Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee.

    There is play equipment for a range of ages and play styles.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Activities for toddlers in Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    • Here is a list of fun experiences in Canberra for you and your toddler.

    When it comes to keeping toddlers busy, not just any activity will do.

    They have moved beyond entertainment for babies but aren’t quite ready for school-aged fun.

    Luckily, Canberra has plenty of facilities and activities for kids of all ages, including toddlers.

    Here are some toddler-friendly activities loved by Canberra families:

    The Discovery Centre at the National Museum of Australia

    The Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre is a play space for children from birth to 6 years. It is jam-packed with different activities, including:

    • a quiet reading area with books
    • a wheelchair-accessible rocking deck
    • platforms, ropes, ramps and stairs to climb
    • light projections
    • and plenty more.

    There are also activity sessions during the school term, including:

    • pyramid making sessions on Wednesdays
    • story time on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

    Little Griffins Play & Learn 

    Join a free event for babies and toddlers aged 0 to 4 on the last Friday of every month at the National Capital Exhibition. Each month has a different theme and includes activities like arts and craft and music.

    When you’re finished, pop next door to the Canberra and Region Visitor Information Centre at Regatta Point. There is colouring in and some fun activities from Questacon. There is also a playground next door to the Centre.

    Curious Corner at the National Gallery of Australia

    On the first Thursday of the month, the National Gallery of Australia hosts a program designed for children aged 3-5 and their caregivers.

    The sessions encourage curiosity and creativity. They build on ideas from the Gallery through creative making in the Tim Fairfax Learning studio.

    The event is free, and bookings are essential.

    Little Faces at the National Portrait Gallery

    The National Portrait Gallery hosts a range of family-friendly activities. Little Faces is a way for babies and toddlers to explore portraits through play, music and fun.

    Bookings are essential.

    PlayUP at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

    PlayUP is a playful way for young families to explore the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The exhibition includes play spaces, roleplay, craft activities, story time, and more.

    PlayUP is open from 9am to 4:30pm daily.

    National Arboretum Canberra

    The National Arboretum Canberra’s outdoor educators host weekly nature-based playgroups for children aged between 18 months and 5 years.Sessions run from 10am to 2pm on Mondays and Fridays during the school term.

    The Playgroup is designed for children to build physical and emotional confidence and unleash their creativity. It also helps them to become environmentally conscious individuals.

    Playgrounds

    Regardless of what side of Canberra you live in, you’re never far from an excellent playground.

    Some popular Canberra playgrounds include:

    • Ruth Park Playground in Coombs
    • Farrer Nature Play & Adventure Trail
    • Boundless Canberra
    • Pod Playground at the National Arboretum Canberra
    • Point Hut Pond Gordon District Playground
    • Moncrieff Community Recreation Park.

    Yarralumla Play Station

    The Yarralumla Play Station in Weston Park includes:

    • the Weston Park Miniature Railway
    • Lake Walter Mini Golf
    • Mini Farm Friends.

    Catch the mini train for a farm visit for an exciting day out. Afterwards, grab a babycino and some lunch from the Station Stop Café. There’s also a playground across the road.

    National Dinosaur Museum

    Dinosaurs are a source of fascination for toddlers. The National Dinosaur Museum is a fun, interactive way to learn about the earth’s ancient history. Explore the indoor exhibitions and then venture outside to the landscaped dinosaur garden.

    Giggle & Wiggle

    Giggle and Wiggle is a free program held at Libraries ACT for babies and toddlers up to two and their carers.

    The program focuses on language development. Sessions include singing, dancing and sharing rhymes.

    Families are encouraged to spend time in the library afterwards to build connections and make friends.

    Questacon

    Questacon is always a hit with kids, but Mini Q is built specifically for curious toddlers.

    There are a range of activities and spaces for children aged up to 6. Each area is designed to help children learn about the world around them.

    There is a play café, vet office and mechanic. You’ll also find water play, a space-themed area, and much more.

    Mini Q is included with general admission. There may be session times in place during peak periods like school holidays and long weekends.

    The Australian National Botanic Gardens

    The Botanic Gardens are the perfect place for toddlers to spend some time outdoors. There’s plenty of space to run, wander and explore.

    Head to the Visitors Centre to get a guide and map. The staff can also tell you about the family-friendly activities available at the Gardens.

    The ‘Who Lives Here?’ children’s discovery walk takes 30 minutes and is designed for children up to 8. It’s fun and teaches children about their environment.

    There is also Bush magic: storytime in the Gardens on the first Friday of the month from 10am-11am.

    Canberra Zoo and Aquarium

    A visit to Canberra Zoo and Aquarium is about so much more than just seeing animals and sea creatures.

    There are 2.6km of walking trails, complete with an Adventure Trail with interactive activities for kids.

    When it comes to playing, AdventureLand is the star of the show. It’s the Zoo’s playground space for children aged 2-12.

    There are 55 activities available for children, including:

    • cubby houses
    • a tree house
    • animal sculptures and structures.

    There’s even a toddler-specific area that’s close to the toilet block and baby change room.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: North China braces for gale-force winds

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Gale-force winds are sweeping across northern China and are expected to persist through Sunday, prompting authorities to implement measures to ensure public safety.
    Raging winds have already lashed regions including Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Beijing and Ningxia, driven by a powerful cold vortex moving southeast from Mongolia.
    The National Meteorological Center (NMC) said in an updated forecast that from 8 p.m. Friday to 8 p.m. Saturday, winds of up to force 13 (37.0-41.4 m/s) on the national wind scale will hit parts of Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Hebei and Beijing.
    At 5 p.m. Friday, strong winds of 23.3 meters per second struck Yanqing District on the outskirts of Beijing, while scattered showers have already occurred and are expected to continue across most areas of the municipality by this evening, according to the Beijing Meteorological Service.
    The strongest winds will hit on Saturday, with temperature highs dropping to 14 degrees Celsius — a 13-degree-Celsius decrease in temperature within a 24-hour period, the service said.
    On Friday afternoon, gusts reaching a maximum force of level 13 hit northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, causing severe sandstorms that are expected to impair visibility, according to the region’s meteorological authorities.
    In northeast China’s Liaoning Province, temperatures are expected to drop by as much as 12 degrees Celsius by Saturday. Over the weekend, some areas of the province will experience moderate rain turning to sleet, followed by heavy snowfall and blizzards, with extreme blizzards anticipated in certain mountainous areas, according to the provincial meteorological service.
    NMC also issued alerts for strong gales, snowstorms, sandstorms and rainstorms on Friday, which are expected to impact northern regions and parts of central China.
    The meteorological center has advised the public in affected regions to stay indoors and avoid lingering under tall buildings, billboards, temporary structures and trees when outdoors.
    In response, multiple tourist sites in regions including Beijing and Ningxia have announced temporary closures. High winds have also led to the postponement or cancellation of some performances in Tianjin, as well as the suspension of ferry services.
    Farmers in Liaoning have been advised to spray antifreeze agents to prevent frost damage to their fruit and to reinforce their greenhouses. The province also recommends conducting thorough inspections and maintenance of infrastructure, such as power lines and communication cables, to prevent damage or short circuits caused by severe weather conditions.
    Beijing’s transportation authorities announced the suspension of certain bus routes passing through mountainous areas and some elevated rail services on Saturday.
    Over 14 train services in Beijing and surrounding areas will be temporarily suspended on Friday and Saturday to ensure safe operation, according to the China Railway Beijing Group Co., Ltd.
    The Beijing Capital International Airport has also warned that the strong winds may disrupt normal operations, potentially leading to flight delays or cancellations.
    The Chinese capital has postponed several sporting events, including marathons and football matches scheduled for the weekend, while residents are advised to avoid nonessential travel.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kweisi Mfume Pays Tribute to Dr. Michael Zollicoffer with Congressional Record Statement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    BALTIMORE – This week, Congressman Kweisi Mfume honored Baltimore Doctor, Michael L. Zollicoffer, M.D., and his selfless work, at the national level by inserting into the Congressional Record a written statement detailing his impact on the community. When a Member of Congress pays tribute to a constituent in this manner, it becomes part of the official, permanent record of the United States Congress, and part of history.    

    For decades, Dr. Z, as he’s known to most of his patients, has cared for patients at his urgent care facility, Life Care Plus, in an area of Baltimore City that struggles with poor health outcomes and poverty. Beyond his willingness to practice in an underserved area, Dr. Z is admired by many for never turning away a patient due to their insurance status or because they don’t have enough money.   

    However, in October of 2024, it was Dr. Z who was diagnosed with renal and colorectal cancer, and, due to paperwork issues with Medicare, he was facing the possibility of being unable to pay for his needed medical treatment.  

    Upon learning of Dr. Z’s health status, the Baltimore community quickly came together and launched a GoFundMe campaign to help. As of 12:00 p.m., on April 10, 2025, the campaign had raised $271,260 to support Dr. Z’s medical expenses. 

    Months removed from his diagnosis, Dr. Zollicoffer finished a month of treatment and his Medicare issue has been resolved.  

    “Mister Speaker, you would be hard-pressed to find another individual with as much passion for healing and love for his community as Dr. Michael Zollicoffer. For his kindness, his selflessness, and his God-given abilities, Dr. Z has been a pillar of the Baltimore community for decades. His cancer prognoses are positive and, God willing, he’ll be practicing in our City for years to come,” wrote Congressman Mfume.  

    After each day that Congress is in session, the proceedings are printed in the Congressional Record. Full text of Congressman Mfume’s Congressional Record Statement can be viewed below.  

    HONORING A HERO FOCUSED ON GIVING BACK: DR. MICHAEL L. ZOLLICOFFER, M.D.
    ______

    HON. KWEISI MFUME

    of Maryland

    in the House of Representatives

    Monday, April 7, 2025 

    Mister Speaker, I rise today to commemorate a beloved native son of Baltimore, Dr. Michael L. Zollicoffer, M.D.. Dr. Z, as he’s known to most of his patients, is a physician of boundless compassion and enthusiasm, and he has spent more than 35 years breaking down barriers to healthcare for all Baltimoreans, regardless of their ability to pay. His clinic has been a ray of hope for the under and uninsured, and his selfless commitment to healing has had major impacts on the wellbeing of his community. 

    Dr. Michael Zollicoffer is the son of trailblazing pediatrician Dr. Lawrence Zollicoffer, co-founder of Garwyn Medical Center, one of Baltimore’s first Black-owned multi-specialty medical centers. Dr. Z followed in his father’s footsteps by attending the University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine located in Chapel Hill; the school that his father helped integrate. While at UNC, Dr. Z was honored with the MacNider Award, a prize given to sophomores with humility, good character, and impeccable personal integrity.

    Dr. Z earned his Doctor of Medicine from UNC in 1985 and returned to his hometown to finish his medical training. He completed his residency in pediatrics at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore in 1988 and remained in Baltimore to begin his own practice. He opened his urgent care facility, Life Care Plus, in an area of our City that struggles with poor health outcomes and poverty. 

    In the decades since he opened Life Care Plus, Dr. Z has been a guardian angel to the people of the 21215 ZIP Code. Beyond his willingness to practice in an underserved area, what is so remarkable about Dr. Z is that he will never turn away a patient because they don’t have enough money. A pediatrician by trade, he encourages patients to bring in their grandparents for free check-ups, and he’ll happily give patients his personal cell phone number to call him any time, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.

    Dr. Z’s spirit of generosity has turned his clinic into a family home, and many of the people he treated as children now bring their own kids to the clinic. His incredible value to his community has been repeatedly recognized, with Dr. Z receiving awards like the UNC Harvey E. Beech Outstanding Alumni Award and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s Community Leadership Award. 

    The love that the people of Baltimore hold for Dr. Z was most clearly shown in recent months, as Dr. Z is now dealing with health struggles of his own. He was recently diagnosed with renal and colorectal cancer, and due to insurance issues, he was facing the possibility of being unable to pay his medical bills. When his patients heard, they leapt into action to create a GoFundMe which has raised more than $250,000 from over 3,000 individual donors. As further proof of his virtue, Dr. Z made clear that every penny that he doesn’t need for his treatment, will go directly into his clinic. 

    Mister Speaker, you would be hard-pressed to find another individual with as much passion for healing and love for his community as Dr. Michael Zollicoffer. For his kindness, his selflessness, and his God-given abilities, Dr. Z has been a pillar of the Baltimore community for decades. His cancer prognoses are positive and, God willing, he’ll be practicing in our City for years to come. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Supreme Court Ruling, Mfume, Colleagues Demand Trump White House Immediately Return Maryland Man Deported in ‘Error’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06) and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Trump Administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant the administration deported in ‘error’ to a Salvadoran mega-prison where he remains:

    “The Trump Administration admitted that the deportation of Mr. Abrego Garcia, which had no legal basis, was done in ‘administrative error,’ and a federal district judge ordered them to return him to the United States by midnight this Monday. Rather than bring back the man they admitted they wrongfully deported without Due Process, the Trump Administration amazingly placed on leave the Justice Department attorney who argued the case simply for telling the truth about the Administration’s ‘administrative error.’ 

    “In a big victory for the rule of law and Due Process, the Supreme Court has just ruled that the Administration must facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court is effectively on the side of the vast majority of Americans and the civilized world who reject this lapse into lawlessness and insist that Mr. Abrego Garcia be returned to his family in the U.S. immediately. 

    “The Administration must now act swiftly to ensure that Mr. Abrego Garcia, who was grabbed off the streets of Maryland, shackled, and flown to a Salvadoran mega-prison, is brought back home safely to his loved ones and without any further delay.

    “During the first Trump Administration in 2019, Kilmar won withholding of removal, a legal status that specifically prohibits his removal to El Salvador. He was granted this status after the administration accused him, without any evidence, of gang membership and tried to deport him. A judge found instead that he had credibly proven his fear of persecution by a gang in El Salvador and that he posed no threat to public safety.

    “The Trump Administration admits it made an ‘error’ deporting Mr. Abrego Garcia. Contrary to what administration officials say, President Trump has both the duty and the power to bring this man back to Maryland to his American wife and child. 

    “We say to the president that, if you have the means to sweep someone off the street in America and deport him to a torturer’s prison in El Salvador, where we are paying their government as our junior partner for this dubious service, then you certainly have or you can find the means to bring him back. This should be easy since the El Salvadoran government is acting as our agent in the affair as part of this shocking agreement with the Trump Administration.”

    “If Trump is allowed to get away with this thorough destruction of Due Process in Mr. Abrego Garcia’s case, he will believe that his administration can sweep anyone—citizen or noncitizen—off the street and ship them to a prison in an authoritarian state and escape judicial review. A whole lot rests on the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, Spanish leaders pledge to enhance ties, safeguard free trade

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, capital of China, April 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez met in Beijing on Friday, pledging to build stronger ties and calling for safeguarding the international trade order.

    MUTUAL SUPPORT, TRUST, RESPECT

    China stands ready to work with Spain to build a more strategically resilient and dynamic comprehensive strategic partnership, Xi told Sanchez.

    Noting that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain, Xi said China will work with Spain to enhance the well-being of the two peoples, inject impetus into China-EU relations, and make greater contributions to promoting world peace, stability and development.

    He called on the two sides to continue to consolidate the political foundation of mutual support, trust and respect each other, and support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns, especially in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    Xi said China’s consumption upgrade for 1.4 billion people and industrial transformation potential will provide strong momentum for the world economy, adding that China is willing to make good use of the mutually beneficial and complementary cooperation advantages with Spain, give full play to the roles of economic, trade, and sci-tech cooperation mechanisms, and tap the potential of cooperation in new energy, high-tech manufacturing, smart cities and other fields, so as to achieve more mutually beneficial cooperation outcomes.

    The two countries should continue their traditional friendship, and expand student exchanges to engage more young people in carrying forward the friendship, he added.

    Noting that both China and Spain are positive forces supporting multilateralism, openness and cooperation, Xi said the two countries should promote the building of a fair and equitable global governance system, safeguard world peace and security, and promote common development and prosperity.

    Sanchez said that over the past 20 years since establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership, Spain and China have maintained mutual respect and friendly cooperation, and bilateral relations have developed steadily.

    Spain attaches great importance to its relations with China, unswervingly adheres to the one-China policy, and is willing to maintain high-level exchanges with China and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and exchanges in various fields to push bilateral relations to a new level, Sanchez said.

    Xi said China always views the EU as a vital pole in a multipolar world and explicitly supports the EU’s unity, development and growth, calling on both sides to adhere to partnership, openness and cooperation.

    China is ready to work with the EU to jointly celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and advance the China-EU relationship toward strategic stability and mutual success to better benefit the two peoples and the international community, Xi said.

    Noting that China is an important partner of the EU, Sanchez said Spain always supports the stable development of EU-China relations.

    NO WINNER IN TARIFF WAR

    “There is no winner in a tariff war, and going against the world will only result in self-isolation,” Xi said.

    Xi said China’s development over the past seven decades is a result of self-reliance and hard work, not favors from others. China does not flinch from any unjust suppression.

    He added that no matter how the external world changes, China will remain confident and focused on running its own affairs well.

    Noting that China and the EU are both major economies in the world and firm supporters of economic globalization and free trade, Xi said the two sides have formed a close relationship of economic symbiosis, with their combined economic output exceeding one-third of the world’s total.

    He called on China and the EU to fulfill their international responsibilities, work together to safeguard economic globalization and the international trade environment, and jointly reject unilateral and bullying actions.

    By doing so, they will not only safeguard their own legitimate rights and interests, but also help maintain fairness and justice within the international community and uphold international rules and order, Xi said.

    Noting the EU is committed to open and free trade, upholds multilateralism and opposes unilateral tariff hikes, Sanchez said there is no winner in a trade war.

    Facing the complex and challenging international situation, Spain and the EU are willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China to maintain the international trade order, cope with challenges including climate change and poverty, and safeguard the common interests of the international community, he said.

    The two sides also exchanged views over the Ukraine crisis.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Preservation meets progress: China’s geoparks gain world recognition

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, April 11 — Two geological wonders from China have been designated UNESCO Global Geoparks, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration announced on Friday. With these additions, China now boasts 49 UNESCO-recognized geoparks, more than any other country in the world.

    The geoparks, one named Kanbula in northwest China’s Qinghai Province, a high-altitude marvel and the other a prehistoric “dinosaur kingdom” named Yunyang in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, exemplify China’s commitment to harmonizing geological conservation with cultural and ecological sustainability.

    Nestled on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the Kanbula National Geopark spans roughly 3,149 square kilometers with striking fiery-red Danxia landforms, towering jagged peaks, hidden caves and emerald lakes. Beyond its visual splendor, the park’s true value lies beneath the surface, serving as a premier location for geoscientific research and public science education.

    Culturally, Kanbula is the heartland of Tibetan Regong arts and Huangnan Tibetan opera, both UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritages.

    In recent years, Qinghai forestry and grassland authorities have boosted geoscience education through new museums and public programs to protect geological heritage.

    “At Kanbula geopark, we learned geology beyond textbooks through hands-on specimen collection and observation,” said a student on a research trip.

    Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, home to Kanbula, will leverage the UNESCO Global Geopark status to boost eco-tourism, creating a new Qinghai cultural landmark while balancing ecological, social and economic benefits, according to the local government.

    In stark contrast to Kanbula’s highland grandeur, Yunyang Geopark in Chongqing’s Three Gorges region unveils a prehistoric saga. The 2014 discovery of dinosaur fossils by a local youth initiated years of excavation that uncovered the world’s largest Jurassic fossil wall, measuring 150 meters in length and 6 to 10 meters in height.

    Covering approximately 1,124 square kilometers, Yunyang Geopark is renowned for its rich dinosaur fossils and dramatic karst landforms. The fossils found here are of global scientific importance, as they contribute valuable insights into the evolutionary history of dinosaurs during the Middle Jurassic period, particularly in its early phase.

    With the ongoing development of dinosaur-themed popular science bases and animation parks, Yunyang is bringing dinosaur culture to life through innovative integration of scientific preservation and cultural tourism, using VR and AR to immerse visitors in its 165-million-year-old heritage.

    Local officials said that Yunyang will enhance its nature reserves system focusing on national parks, nature reserves and supplementary nature parks. This initiative aims to enhance geological conservation and ecological restoration, and further raise public awareness of protecting natural resources and the environment.

    For decades, China has been actively working to protect its geological heritage and natural landscapes and develop protection and utilization models that integrate local characteristics. These efforts have garnered international recognition for the country.

    Currently, there are 229 UNESCO Global Geoparks worldwide. The designations align with China’s vision of achieving a “modernization of harmony between humanity and nature,” and both geoparks embody UNESCO’s mandate to foster protection, education and sustainable development.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Cornyn Factchecks Democrat Hysteria Over Deporting Criminals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) fact-checked the media and liberal Democrats’ hysteria over the Trump administration’s efforts to secure the homeland by reversing the Biden administration’s reckless border policies and deporting criminal migrants here illegally. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “There’s been a lot of wailing and gnashing of teeth in the mainstream media about President Trump’s commonsense immigration enforcement agenda.” 

    “This isn’t rocket science. This isn’t partisan warfare.”

    “In order to keep the American people safe, we need to keep criminals and gangs off our streets, and that’s exactly what the Trump administration is doing.”

    “Of these arrests that have been made under Secretary Noem, nearly half of them have been convicted criminals… one third of them have pending criminal charges.”

    “I can’t imagine anyone would be anything except relieved that the Trump administration has prioritized removing these gang members from our country.”

    “Refusing to arrest and lock up criminals who never should have been in the country in the first place will go down in history as one of the biggest mistakes the Biden administration and Democrats have ever made.”

    “The Trump administration by contrast… is part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australia’s first publicly run residential eating disorder centre complete

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Receiving specialist care in a place that feels like home helps people with eating disorders apply their skills once they are ready to leave.

    In brief:

    • Canberra’s brand-new Eating Disorders Residential Treatment Centre in Coombs is complete.
    • Appointments will begin the week commencing 26 August 2024.
    • The centre is Australia’s first publicly run 24/7 residential eating disorder centre.

    The new Eating Disorders Residential Treatment Centre in Coombs is now complete.

    It is Australia’s first publicly run 24/7 residential eating disorder centre. This is a brand-new service for the ACT region.

    Appointments will begin the week commencing 26 August.

    Residential treatments will begin in the coming weeks.

    The importance of residential care

    Receiving specialist care in a place that feels like home helps people apply their skills once they are ready to leave the service.

    “We believe residential treatment, with 24/7 specialist eating disorder care in a home-like environment, is an essential option for successful recovery for many within the stepped system of care for eating disorders, and we’re excited to see more treatment options expanding across Australia for the more than 1.1 million Australians directly impacted each year,” Butterfly Foundation CEO Dr Jim Hungerford said.

    Eating disorders can have significant impacts on the physical, psychological, and social-emotional wellbeing of all affected.

    As such, the centre provides therapeutic services that include:

    • specialist treatment
    • intensive nutritional treatment
    • psychological treatment.

    Consulting with stakeholders

    The centre’s completion is an important milestone for those with, or caring for someone with, an eating disorder.

    The ACT Government worked with various stakeholders to finalise its design.

    These include clinicians, non-government organisations, people with lived experience of eating disorders, families, carers and the wider Canberra community.

    “Eating Disorders Families Australia (EDFA) looks forward to families and carers being active participants in the vital role of the Residential Treatment Facility and to continue providing our counselling, education and support services to the broader Canberra community,” ACT Director at EDFA David Quilty said.

    National charity The Butterfly Foundation also shared insights. It runs the Wandi Nerida residential recovery centre for eating disorders in QLD.

    The Australian Government has supported the establishment of the Coombs centre.

    It will complement other eating disorder services in the region, including the Eating Disorders Clinical Hub and the early intervention service.

    Getting help for eating disorders

    If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing an eating disorder or body image concerns, contact the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 or find support services at Butterfly.

    You can also refer yourself, or someone else to the Eating Disorders Clinical Hub for support and assessment.

    The centre is located at Madgwick Street Coombs in the Molonglo Valley.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New youth foyer to help tackle homelessness

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The foyer will support young people to finish their studies with a secure roof over their heads.

    In brief:

    • A new youth foyer will be built at CIT Woden.
    • The foyer will feature accommodation for students aged between 16 and 24 at risk of homelessness.
    • A service provider will run the foyer and offer culturally appropriate supports, like mentoring and cooking lessons.

    A new youth foyer will be built at the CIT Woden campus to help young students at risk of homelessness.

    Young people are on the frontline of the housing affordability crisis. The new foyer will provide a home close to study for those who are unable to live with family but want to finish their education.

    As well as students who are already enrolled in education, those who are not but are ready to start can move into the foyer.

    It will offer studio and single-parent family apartments for 20 students aged between 16 and 24.

    It is due to be finished in 2025 and is the second in Canberra.

    In the coming months, the ACT Government will appoint a service provider to run the foyer.

    The provider will also deliver a range of culturally appropriate supports.

    These are expected to include:

    • mentoring and coaching
    • life skills development such as budgeting, cooking and healthy eating
    • support to engage with the local community.

    The foyer integrates housing, education, future employment and life skills support, all under one roof.

    The 2024–25 Budget allocated funding for the foyer’s service provision.

    The Federal Government has also contributed, included in the overall funding of the CIT Woden Campus project.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Government business support helps fulfill fashion dream

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Kai’s design has been a way of connecting with his Japanese heritage.

    In brief:

    • Kai McKenzie changed careers from electrician to international fashion designer.
    • Despite early success, he is keen to take his business to the next level.
    • Advice from Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS) has helped him plan his next steps.

    Kai McKenzie had just finished his final exam to become a qualified electrician, after four years as an apprentice. But, after being let go from his full-time electrician role late last year due to company downsizing, he decided to follow his love for fashion and create a Japanese-inspired fashion label which sold out its first public release in just five days.

    Connecting with heritage through fashion

    Born in Australia to a Japanese mother and Australian father, Kai said his fashion label, Minami Studios is an homage to his mother’s heritage and her maiden name.

    “I don’t know if it’s a common feeling that Australians born into two different cultures experience, but I felt a void and a lack of connection to my Japanese heritage,” he said. “This has been my way of connecting with it.”

    With a trip planned to Japan late last year, he started out by creating five Japanese-inspired pieces of clothing for the trip. He documented the process on his Instagram account and has now amassed 74,000 followers, both English and Japanese speaking.

    “I started posting in Japanese and now 10-15 per cent of my audience is based in Japan,” he said. “I posted really consistently until something resonated,” he said.

    Free CBASS business support

    Although Kai has found a great way forward with Instagram and socials, he said he was totally lost when it came to running a business.

    That’s when he turned to the Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS), an ACT Government-funded program that supports Canberra businesses of all sizes and stages.

    The service is delivered by Anna and Candice at Lighthouse Innovation who have over 30 years of business experience. They provide advice from setting up to closing a business and everything in between.

    Kai heard about CBASS from a family friend. He called that day to make an appointment and met with Anna and Candice two days later.

    “It was so reassuring to meet with them,” he said. “There is so much you need to do to set-up a business, and honestly I was lost.”

    “They really helped me streamline things and map out timelines for all my plans. It felt really overwhelming, but they gave me some things to focus on, which I have, and they’ve worked out really well.”

    CBASS offers up to four hours of free advice to business owners, tailored to their business needs.

    Looking to the future

    When asked what was next, Kai said he’s working on getting some more training to improve his technical skills and launching his first full collection.

    “I had my first public release of a piece just this August,” he said. “It was the Tome (pronounced Tohmeh) pant in black and Khaki. I sold out in five days, and it blew me away! I’m working on making all of those now for my customers, and progressing with the launch of my first full collection, which should be ready for release in early 2025.”

    Kai said he recommends anyone thinking of starting a business head to see Candice and Anna at CBASS.

    “Go and see them,” he said, “It’s been such a reassuring process.”

    To find out more visit the CBASS website.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Unveils Plan to Reform Federal Home Loan Bank System, Increase the Supply of Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) unveiled the Federal Home Loan Banks’ Mission Activities Act, her plan to reform the Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks). This legislation would help ensure the FHLBanks are re-focused on their mission “to support housing finance and community development.”
    “When Congress created the Federal Home Loan Banks in 1932, the mission was simple: help families across the United States afford a home,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “However, in the more than ninety years since, the Federal Home Loan Banks have strayed from their mission. I’ve spent years pushing them to do more to support affordable housing in our communities, and I’m proud to present this next step to make them work for every American.”
    The 11 regional FHLBanks provide financing for more than 6,000 credit unions, banks, community development financial institutions, insurance companies and state housing finance agencies. These funds are meant to allow these organizations to invest more to meet the needs of their communities.
    The Federal Home Loan Banks’ Mission Activities Act would re-focus the FHLBanks on their mission requirements by:
    Requiring the FHLBank system to contribute 30 percent or a minimum of $200 million of its net earnings to its Affordable Home Program and other voluntary programs that meet community needs.
    Enabling small credit unions and community development financial institutions to pledge non-housing loans as collateral and join a Federal Home Loan Bank if they only provide small business, agricultural or community economic development loans.
    Tying FHLBanks Presidents’ compensation to how well the Banks are meeting their mission of supporting affordable housing and community development.
    Read the full bill text here.
    Throughout her time representing Nevada, Senator Cortez Masto has made reforming the Federal Home Loan Banks a cornerstone of her work. In 2021, Cortez Masto introduced the Federal Home Loan Banks’ Mission Implementation Act, which included elements of this proposal. In Congress, Senator Cortez Masto has also highlighted the fact that Nevada has been treated unfairly by the system, and she has sought additional investment in Nevada by the FHLBank of San Francisco resulting in the first-in-the nation targeted Affordable Housing Program for the state.
    Following a 2022 letter Senator Cortez Masto sent to FHFA Director Sandra Thompson, the FHFA announced a review of the Federal Home Loan Bank system. In her letter, the Senator called for a review of the FHLBanks and requested that that review consult stakeholders and outside experts to ensure the FHLBanks responsibly used their federal funding. She also asked that the review consider how FHLBanks can better support affordable housing, rural and tribal communities, income inequality, infrastructure investments, and climate resilience. In late 2023, the FHFA released a comprehensive report calling for mission-focused reform of the FHLBanks.
    Last year, Cortez Masto – alongside Senators Warren (D-Mass.), Wyden (D-Ore.), Smith (D-Minn.), Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sanders (I-Vt.) and Fetterman (D-Pa.) – sent letters to each of the 11 Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks) urging them to contribute at least 20% of their net income to affordable housing and other critical community grant programs. Earlier this year, the Senator secured a $10 million investment from the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco into the Nevada Housing Division’s (NHD) single-family bond program.
    Senator Cortez Masto is the Ranking Member of the Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection Subcommittee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: First 100 Days

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Q: What was on the front burner during the first 100 days of the 119th Congress?

    A:  Congress hit the ground running on January 3 when it opened for business. After committee assignments were adopted, I resumed the helm of the Senate Judiciary Committee and leadership position as Senate President pro tempore. The to-do list on the Senate agenda was shaped by the mandate of the November presidential election. Americans voted for border security, safer streets, lower cost of living and a stronger economy. Processing the nominees to serve on the president’s cabinet was among the top priorities of the first 100 days in Congress. The Senate has the constitutional authority of “advise and consent” in our system of checks and balances. Nominees for the federal judiciary and senior-level positions throughout the executive branch undergo a rigorous background check and vetting process to examine their credentials and qualifications to uphold the public trust. I chaired confirmation hearings for Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, as well as other top leaders for the Department of Justice. During the previous administration, I exposed the weaponization of our government  that created a two-tiered system of justice. I’m committed to help restore public trust in our institutions of government and that includes robust oversight to hold government and wrongdoers accountable.

    The pace by which the Senate processed cabinet nominations underscores the commitment to get the election mandate in motion. In 18 days, the Senate confirmed 13 cabinet officials, reflecting support to get the president’s team in place to implement his agenda. At the top of the list was border security. Since day one of the 47th president’s second term in office, the Trump administration has kept its promise to enforce our nation’s immigration laws and restore U.S. sovereignty at our borders. Compared to the Biden administration, nationwide border encounters dropped drastically. As the president said at his joint address to Congress in March, “all we really needed was a new president.” What’s more, the first piece of legislation Congress sent to the president’s desk was the Laken Riley Act, a bipartisan bill that included Sarah’s Law, named after an Iowan killed by an illegal immigrant driving drunk. I’m also pleased the Senate approved my bipartisan bill called the HALT Fentanyl Act that would permanently schedule deadly fentanyl-related substances created by the cartels to skirt U.S. law. This bill would give law enforcement the tools it needs to keep deadly fentanyl off our streets. Republicans have swiftly delivered on our promise to restore law and order and make America’s streets safer.

    Q: What else does Congress have to show for its work in the first 100 days?

    A:  For starters, I’m glad the Senate has resumed a five-day work schedule, after a long hiatus in recent years, and continued in legislative session for 10 consecutive weeks starting in January. That’s what Iowans expect elected representatives to be doing. That’s how the schedule operated when I first came to the Senate. Many times, I urged then-Senate Majority Leader Schumer to keep the Senate in session five days a week, instead of the sleepy schedule he led during the Biden administration. That light work schedule was a disservice to the American people and contributed to year-end, massive spending packages. Congress must return to regular order and legislate 12 annual appropriations bills in their respective committees. This allows members of Congress to more closely scrutinize every line of spending and offer amendments. Americans deserve better than crisis-to-crisis legislating. As a taxpayer watchdog, I’ve continued to lead efforts to root out Pentagon mismanagement and wasteful spending across the federal government, such as tackling improper Supplemental Security Income payments, continuing my oversight of the EPA, and demanding answers about alleged fraudulent Medicare billing practices.  I also published a committee report of my investigative findings shining light on the full scope of the Obama-Biden State Department’s pervasive obstruction of FBI law enforcement efforts before, during and after the Iran Nuclear Deal negotiations. 

    In addition, the Senate Judiciary Committee has convened 15 hearings in the first 100 days. Among the policies we’ve examined include the Freedom of Information Act; children’s safety in the digital era; legislative solutions to fix universal injunctions; and, the rise in antisemitism in America. I also steered six bipartisan bills through the committee to rein in anticompetitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry to help lower drug prices. When the Senate’s not in session, I return home to Iowa every chance I get to keep in touch with my constituents. In March, I kicked off my 45th annual 99 county meetings, holding a dozen question-and-answer sessions with Iowans. Looking ahead, Congress has a full plate of unfinished business to digest in the coming months, including passing a five-year farm bill,  extending rural hospital support programs and telehealth, preventing the largest tax hike in U.S. history and funding the government through a timely and transparent process. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Kim Urge Trump Administration to Investigate Fatal Shooting of New Jersey Teen in the West Bank

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) sent a letter to President Trump urging his administration to seek answers and conduct a U.S.-led investigation into the fatal shooting of Amer Rabee, a 14-year-old New Jerseyan. Two other American citizens were also injured in the incident, including 14-year-old Ayoub Ijbara and 15-year-old Abdulrahman Shihada. Ayoub Ijbara was born in New Jersey and is reported to be in critical condition.

    “As New Jersey’s Senators, we are calling for a thorough and transparent accounting of the facts and circumstances around Amer Rabee’s death and the actions of Israeli security forces. We appreciate the difficult and dynamic nature of the situation, but also underscore our expectation that such an inquiry is possible and should be pursued when an American has died. As a result, we urge your administration to conduct a timely, independent and transparent investigation into Amer Rabee’s death as well as Ayoub Ijbara and Abdulrahman Shihada’s injuries,” the Senators wrote.

    The lawmakers expressed that many of their constituents in New Jersey have connections to Turmus Ayya, a town in the West Bank with a large Palestinian American community, and have been personally impacted by this devastating event and the rise in violence in the West Bank that has occurred in recent years.   

    “We urge your administration to raise this case at the highest levels during meetings with counterparts in the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority and press for full cooperation with a U.S.-led investigation. Furthermore, we urge the State Department to quickly dispatch embassy officials to visit the Rabee and Ijbara families and ensure that they have all support they need during this difficult time, including urgent medical support for Ayoub,” the Senators continued.

    “As we continue the work of keeping Americans safe, here at home and around the world, the U.S. must do all it can to seek answers and accountability when Americans are injured or killed,” the Senators concluded.

    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Colleagues Call on Small Business Administration to Mitigate Damage from Trump Tariffs to Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), a member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, joined colleagues in a letter demanding that U.S. Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler take immediate action to address the impacts of Trump’s reckless tariff policies on small businesses. In Nevada, 99 percent of all businesses are small businesses, and tariffs are threatening their ability to stay afloat.
    “The situation is dire. From mom-and-pop restaurants unable to afford basic supplies like cooking oil to small manufacturers and high-tech startups struggling to afford the raw materials needed for innovation, small businesses across all sectors are facing the same crippling reality,” wrote the Senators. “As these costs rise, consumer confidence continues to plummet, and the economy stagnates. A survey by Small Business for America’s Future found that 71 percent of small businesses will need to increase prices to survive, but with consumer confidence at its lowest since the pandemic, many owners know their customers cannot afford higher prices. The tariffs, therefore, are not only increasing costs, but also are undermining the very demand from customers that small businesses rely on.”
    “Failure to act will not only jeopardize the livelihoods of small business owners but may also lead to long-term financial hardship for the 60 million workers employed by small business – especially those working paycheck to paycheck who cannot afford to be laid off or have jobs delayed or denied,” the Senators’ letter continued. “We urge you to take swift action to ameliorate the damage being inflicted on small businesses by the President’s tariff policies, combined with the chaos of cuts to federal services and investments that small businesses rely on. As a representative of millions of entrepreneurs who are on the brink of disaster and the voice of small businesses in the administration, you have an obligation to fight for their survival… America’s small businesses—and the workers they employ—are counting on you to take action before it is too late.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against President Trump’s reckless tariffs and the destructive impacts they’re having on Nevada’s economy. Earlier this week, Rosen led a letter demanding that Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and President Donald Trump immediately reverse course on the sweeping tariffs that are devastating small businesses in Nevada and across the nation. Senator Rosen also recently took to the Senate floor to oppose President Trump’s tariffs and highlight a letter she received from a small business owner in Reno outlining the devastating impact these tariffs will have on his business. Senator Rosen also helped pass a Congressional resolution to reverse President Trump’s devastating tariffs on virtually all Canadian goods that have raised prices for families and hurt Nevada’s businesses and economy. Senator Rosen also sent a letter urging the Trump Administration to reverse course on imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico to prevent housing prices from rising even further.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Establish Chesapeake National Recreation Area

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), alongside their Maryland colleagues Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-MD), renewed their efforts to create a unified Chesapeake National Recreation Area (CNRA). The CNRA Act proposes to unite a series of voluntarily contributed park areas and iconic Bay properties under the operation of the National Park Service (NPS) in order to spur more federal resources for environmental conservation, celebrate the Chesapeake’s diverse cultural and economic history, foster sustainable and equitable access to the Bay, and support responsible economic growth in the region.

    The legislation was first introduced in July 2023. An amended version of this legislation was approved in a bipartisan, unanimous vote by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in November 2024, followed the next month by its unanimous passage on the Senate Floor. As there was insufficient time to advance the legislation in the House of Representatives before the end of the previous Congress, the senators have reintroduced the legislation to establish the CNRA in the 119th Congress.

    “The Chesapeake Bay is at the cultural heart of so many Virginia communities, and serves as an economic driver for the Commonwealth as a whole. The creation of the Chesapeake National Recreation Area will not only help to preserve the rich history of the bay, but will ensure that it can be restored and protected for years to come,” said Warner.

    “The Chesapeake Bay is deeply embedded in the history, ecology, and economy of Virginia and the entire region,” said Kaine. “Creating the Chesapeake National Recreation Area will help ensure that people can cherish the beauty of the Bay for generations to come.”

    “The Chesapeake Bay is a natural and national treasure. Creating a unified CNRA will unlock more resources for its restoration, generate more prosperity for those whose livelihoods depend on it, and spotlight its unique story – encouraging greater public access to and enjoyment of everything the Bay has to offer. We built great momentum for the CNRA over the past two years, securing unanimous bipartisan approval by a key Committee and passing it on the Floor of the U.S. Senate. We will continue to build on this progress toward our goal of making our vision for the CNRA a reality, and bringing greater national recognition to the Bay we all cherish,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “It is past time that we officially establish the Chesapeake National Recreation Area. We know the Chesapeake Bay is the heart of Maryland but it is so much more — rich with history and wildlife, an economic driver for our state, and the home to our beloved blue crab. We must ensure the Chesapeake Bay receives the recognition and resources it needs so that we can enjoy this national treasure for years to come. Passing this legislation is a step forward,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

    The CNRA will increase responsible public access to the Chesapeake Bay and strengthen the culture of stewardship across the region. Additionally, the CNRA will highlight the stories that often go untold – those of Indigenous peoples; free and enslaved Blacks; the role the Bay played in the earliest days of the Virginia and Maryland Colonies; its importance to the region’s economy; and the story of watermen and -women who are essential to the economic success and health of the Bay region.

    The first historic sites of regional importance proposed to be in the CNRA network include the North Beach of Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia and the Burtis House, Whitehall, and Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse in Annapolis, Maryland. The CNRA will also utilize a collection of partnerships with states, localities, nonprofit organizations, and private entities to support public access to and restoration of nationally significant historic, cultural, or recreational Bay resources.

    This designation will not impose any additional regulations on recreation, fishing, or other business activities in Chesapeake Bay waters, and the National Park Service’s authority will not supersede state authority on these matters.

    Text of the legislation can be viewed here.

    More details about this initiative can be viewed here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Pressley Slams Trump for Attempts to Attack Smithsonian Museums, Affirms Black History is American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    “Black brilliance exists in every corner of this nation – from the stage, to the court, to the classroom, to the halls of Congress.”

    “I want every single person – certainly every single child – who calls this nation home to walk into our Smithsonian museums, including our beautiful Blacksonian, and see our collective history, accurate history, on display.”

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the House floor, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) slammed Trump’s Executive Order attacking Smithsonian museums – namely the National Museum of African American History and Culture, or Blacksonian – and his blatant attempt to erase Black history. In her remarks, Rep. Pressley affirms Black history is American history, and our nation’s museums should uphold these truths.

    A full transcript of the Congresswoman’s remarks, as delivered, is available below and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Slams Trump for Attacking Smithsonian Museums, Affirms Black History is American History
    U.S. House of Representatives
    April 9, 2025

    Mr. Chair,

    I rise today in vigorous opposition to occupant Trump’s hostile attacks – hostile and insecure attacks – on Black history. 

    Black history is American history.

    Dictators try to shutter museums, censor history, and white wash the truth. But we know the truth.

    We hold these truths to be self evident:

    That centuries of bondage and enslavement brutalized black bodies and tore apart Black families;

    That Black women have been the mothers of movements;

    That Black folks have endured redlining and pay disparities;

    And yet still we rise.

    Black brilliance exists in every corner of this nation – from the stage, to the court, to the classroom, to the halls of Congress.

    I want every single person – certainly every single child – who calls this nation home to walk into our Smithsonian museums, including our beautiful Blacksonian, and see our collective history, accurate history, on display.

    I want them to see themselves in our struggles and our triumphs. 

    I want them to be inspired by the lyrics of Etta, and the speeches of Malcolm, and the leadership of Fannie Lou.

    It is through studying our history that we learn how to overcome the systems of oppression, the whims of petulant men thirsty for power, and the will of dictators.

    My blackness is beautiful and Black history is American history.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Kippax Fair upgrade to support growing West Belconnen

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The upgrades will help transform the Kippax Fair precinct into an inviting area for the whole community.

    In brief:

    • Kippax Fair shopping centre will be extensively upgraded.
    • There will be new housing, new shops and services, a park and more.
    • The ACT Government is working with the centre’s owners.

    Kippax Fair shopping centre in West Belconnen will receive an extensive upgrade.

    The ACT Government will work with the centre’s owners and invest in the upgrades. These will include:

    • an expanded shopping centre
    • more housing, including affordable and public housing
    • community spaces, including a park and playground.

    An expanded centre

    The project will add new shops, places to eat and parking to the area.

    A larger Woolworths and a brand-new Coles supermarket are proposed.

    Work will be delivered in two stages. The first will be expansion of the east precinct, towards Moyes Crescent.

    Once complete, upgrades to the existing shopping centre will start.

    These will comprise more commercial and retail stores, indoor and outdoor dining venues and additional parking.

    “We are excited to get on with finally turning our vision into reality, revitalising the Kippax Group Centre with new and modern full-line supermarkets, speciality shops, food and dining options, under-cover parking, housing options, and parks and public facilities,” Kippax Fair owner Philip Christodoulou said.

    More housing

    The project will see about 180 new homes built over the two stages of work.

    Among these will be at least 24 affordable and public housing dwellings.

    The new housing will incorporate ‘shop top’ housing, where homes are built above retail or business premises.

    Community spaces

    The project includes a proposed area for a community centre, with space for local groups to use.

    There will also be a new 6,000m2 park with barbecue facilities and a playground.

    West Belconnen is a growing region and better access to high quality shops and services is important.

    The upgrades will help transform the Kippax Fair precinct into an inviting area for the whole community.

    Next steps

    The plan and investment follow an extensive expression of interest process for Kippax Fair’s redevelopment.

    This project is still subject to the development application process. The DA is expected to be publicly notified by mid-2025.

    This will include more opportunities for the community to have a say on the final design.

    More details will become available in the coming months.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Whitlam townhouses to build public housing numbers

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The new housing development will include a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes, suitable for a range of households.

    In brief:

    • Another 25 public housing townhouses will be built in Whitlam.
    • They will be built through the Housing ACT Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program.
    • There will be a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes.

    There will be another 25 new townhouses built in Whitlam through the Housing ACT Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program.

    The program builds new public housing in the ACT, and this development is one of its largest.

    It will include a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes. This variety makes the development suitable for a range of household types – from families through to single households.

    The townhouses will be built by Supply Nation accredited builder Projex Building Group.

    They will all be Class C adaptable, which means they are suitable for people with a disability and allow people to age in place.

    They can also be easily modified over time, should the needs of tenant change.

    Providing more homes will have a significant impact on public housing waitlists.

    As of 30 June 2024, 614 homes have been built and 176 homes purchased under the Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program.

    A further 482 homes are currently under construction, being designed, awaiting development application approvals or in a procurement process to secure builders.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Water pumped from River Mersey could heat thousands of Liverpool homes

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Water pumped from the River Mersey could one day be heating thousands of homes and business in Liverpool, thanks to new energy plans drawn up by the City Council.

    Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet will decide at a meeting on Tuesday 15 April whether to approve plans for the Advanced Zoning programme (AZP) which could see less reliance on gas to heat property helping to drive down costs and carbon emissions. 

    If the AZP is fully built it has the potential to help Liverpool in its net zero ambitions by generating savings of up to 72,000 tonnes of CO2 every year. This is the equivalent to the annual emissions of around 21,000 homes.

    Heat networks, also known as district heating, provide heat from a central source to multiple buildings through a network of underground pipes. The heat sources identified in Liverpool include not only the river but also the wastewater treatment plant at Sandon Dock next to Everton Football Club’s new stadium.

    This technology has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and lower heating costs for residents and businesses.

    The City Council report identifies key areas in Liverpool where heat network deployment could be most effective, taking into account factors such as building density, heat demand, and potential heat sources.

    The largest zone that could be built is in Liverpool City Centre. It encompasses a large area of heat demand, from the retail hub in the centre to the Knowledge Quarter and towards Anfield. This heating zone alone would include about 340 buildings in the city.

    The Speke and Garston areas could also benefit from the creation of their own heat network, using heat generated from Garston docks and industrial centre in Halewood, such as Jaguar Land Rover.

    These plans pave the way for further investment and development of sustainable heating infrastructure in the city.

    The publication of this report is a crucial step in the Liverpool City Council’s broader strategy to decarbonize heat, which currently accounts for a substantial portion of the city’s carbon emissions.

    Liverpool City Council will now be encouraging developers and investors to build heat network projects in Liverpool.

    The Council is aiming to accelerate the delivery and construction of heat network zones, develop best practice guidance and provide project development support services.

    Earlier this year Liverpool City Council announced a plan to connect its head office at the Cunard Building at the Pier Head to the Mersey Heat District Heat Network, a system by Peel NRE who are part of the Peel Group.

    Liverpool City Region Combined Authority are also looking at harnessing the power of the River Mersey to generate electricity. With its huge tidal range, a tidal power scheme on the Mersey could produce enough clean, green electricity to power every home in the city region for more than a hundred years, while also creating thousands of jobs.

    Cllr Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “The River Mersey made Liverpool, it has been the source of our success for centuries. It has helped shape who we are as a city, defining our identity and culture which in turn has had a unique global impact.

    “The history of the city and the river have always been intertwined, and so for it to be a resource that can shape our future is only fitting.

    “Now, in the 21st century the river could become a crucial element in how we source energy for our homes and businesses. From fuelling our economy, the river could be the answer for the energy challenge we need to reach net zero.

    “These plans confirm Liverpool’s potential to lead the way in adopting new heat network technology and reaching our net zero targets.

    “The AZP could also see a huge improvement in air quality in the city, improving the lives of thousands of residents who currently suffer respiratory ailments.

    “Not only could there be a massive reduction in carbon emissions, but it would make a huge contribution in reducing people’s energy costs. Increasing residents’ disposable income will help the Liverpool economy to thrive. And this would be a supply of heat that would not be affected by global politics.

    “Using our resources and technology more efficiently than the way homes and businesses are currently heated will benefit us economically and environmentally. This is a win-win.

    “By embracing these greener heating solutions, we can make significant strides towards our climate goals while also providing more affordable and reliable heat to our communities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan Recognizes Fairbanks Philanthropist Jay Ramras as “Alaskan of the Week”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    04.11.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) recognized Fairbanks native Jay Ramras on the Senate floor yesterday. For decades, Jay has invested in his community through the preservation of historical landmarks and support for his fellow Alaskans, volunteering his time and resources to charitable causes, and fostering a thriving Jewish community in the Last Frontier. Jay was recognized as part of Sen. Sullivan’s series, “Alaskan of the Week.”

    Click here or the image above to watch Sen. Sullivan’s speech.

    Tribute to Jay Ramras

    Mr. President, it is Thursday here in the U.S. Senate, and it is time for a great tradition—I think one of the greatest traditions in the history of the U.S. Senate. It is called ‘‘The Alaskan of the Week’’ speech, which I try to give most Thursdays. It has been a while. For the pages, this is the highlight of the week. Even our friends in the media like this speech because it usually signals the end of the work week, but not right now. You saw the minority leader’s objection without any explanation on why on confirming the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, so we might be here for a lot longer.

    So I wanted to highlight what is going on in Alaska, as I usually do during my ‘‘Alaskan of the Week’’ speech and just give a snapshot of what is happening back home.

    It is still pretty cold, still have a fair amount of snow. Anchorage just got a bunch of snow that lasted a couple of days. The 53rd Iditarod just concluded in Nome with a stunning first-time win by Alaskan Jessie Holmes and his 10- dog sled team.

    The Iron Dog Race, that is a snow machine race, longest, toughest snow machine race in the world, was won by—that is done in kind of tandem— Robby Schachle and Bradley George, their second victory of the Iron Dog snow machine race.

    Things are starting to thaw, as I mentioned. It is beginning of the summer tourism season, right around the corner. The first cruise ship will dock in Southeast Alaska in less than 2 weeks, and thousands of tourists from all over the world will come to our great State.

    Anyone watching in the Gallery, we would love to have you. Come to Alaska.

    For many of these tourists, this is going to be the trip of a lifetime. For Alaskans, this is where we live every day. And our Alaskan of the Week does something that is very unusual: He is beloved by Alaskans and tourists—not an easy task—and this person is my friend Jay Ramras.

    Like many Alaskans, Jay is a jack-of-all-trades. He owns restaurants and beautiful hotels. He has had a successful political career. He is a prolific philanthropist. He loves history. And more importantly, he loves Alaska and especially his great hometown of Fairbanks—by the way, my wife’s hometown.

    Now, I love to talk about our Alaskan of the Week. There are so many. We have talked about hundreds over the course of many years here on the Senate floor.

    Senate floor. Jay was born in Fairbanks in 1964. His father Dan moved to Fairbanks from Brooklyn, NY, in 1948. And as Jay says: There has been a Ramras in Interior Alaska going on 80 years.

    And Jay’s entrepreneurial resume, which is legendary in Alaska, began in 1986 at the tender age of 22 years old when he started a chicken wing restaurant, expanding his business footprint to other eateries across Fairbanks and, eventually, purchasing the iconic Fairbanks landmark called Pike’s Landing.

    For anyone going to Fairbanks, you have got to stay at Pike’s Landing.

    It was this purchase that led Jay to uncovering some really incredible chapters of Alaskan history—as I said, Jay is a real history buff—and he credits this to his bachelor of arts degree in American history, but it all started with Pike’s.

    So let’s talk about Pike’s. Pike’s Landing was established after World War II when Lloyd Pike claimed land along the Chena River—the Chena River runs right through Fairbanks— under the Homestead Act.

    In 1959—by the way, the same year Alaska became the 49th State—Pike opened the original Pike’s Landing. Throughout the years, Pike’s Landing cemented itself as a landmark in the Fairbanks community.

    When Jay purchased Pike’s Landing in 2000, he found himself wondering about the history of the property and the man who established the landmark location of Pike’s. The original owner had sort of disappeared from history. So Jay asked around, collecting oral histories from Fairbanks old-timers who had seen the growth of Pike’s Landing over the decades.

    Jay found that Pike’s Landing had long faced congestion at the boat launch due to its prime location right there, as I said, on the Chena River. That was a problem Lloyd Pike solved by building a public launch to clear up some of the demand in terms of getting boats on the river.

    The original boat launch was washed away when the Chena River flooded— huge flood by the way—in 1968. But decades later, Jay found himself building another boat launch, unknowingly, right at the same spot. As he said: If I hadn’t already been born, I would have believed in reincarnation. I would have thought I had been reincarnated as Lloyd Pike because he put his boat launch right where Lloyd Pike lived. Since then, Jay has been working with Fairbanks North Star Borough Historic Preservation Commission to put Pike’s Landing on the National Register of Historic Places. I have no doubt that is going to happen. ‘‘It was so important to me that we rescue Lloyd Pike from obscurity,’’ Jay said.

    But this wasn’t the only historical figure that Jay has connected himself and the community of Fairbanks to. As Jay was in the process of building an aviation-themed extension of his hotel, he felt it needed a real airplane mounted in front to honor the lodge’s proximity to the Fairbanks International Airport. While searching, he stumbled on a refurbished Cessna 140 on Craigslist. After purchasing this plane, Jay discovered it had been owned by none other than Noel Wien.

    The Presiding Officer is a pilot. Maybe he knows who Noel Wien is. For those who don’t, Noel Wien is considered the father of Alaska aviation—the first pilot to successfully fly from Anchorage to Fairbanks in 1924. Wien went on to found Wien Airlines, a commercial airline that operated in Alaska for nearly 60 years.

    As the Presiding Officer knows, these were some intrepid pilots. That was 100 years ago he did that first flight—open-air cockpit, really cold.

    Jay’s interest in history, once again, piqued, and he dug into that period and discovered some great photographs of Noel Wien, Wien Airlines, and had a great celebration last year in July of 2024, celebrating the 100th anniversary of that historic flight in Alaska. Really, that was a historic flight for America. My wife Julie and I were there. Senator MURKOWSKI was there. Our Governor was there. By the way, the Wien family was there, including Leslie Wien Hajdukovich, my former regional director. It was a great classic Jay Ramras event. Hundreds of people came out to celebrate a huge moment in Alaska history, Alaska aviation history—I would say, American aviation history.

    In addition to preserving this incredible chapter in Fairbanks’ history, Jay has invested in Fairbanks’ future. Let me tell you about a few of his other endeavors. Each summer, Jay hosts the Yukon 800 boat race, the longest, toughest, roughest speedboat race in the world. It starts at Pike’s, up to the Chena, gets out on the mighty Yukon— huge race.

    Just as I mentioned, he just recently hosted the fourth Iditarod start at Pike’s. Normally, the Iditarod starts down in Anchorage. That is the toughest, longest, greatest race in the world, the Iditarod. It occasionally starts in Fairbanks, but it did this year at Pike’s. And as I mentioned, he regularly sponsors the Iron Dog snow machine race that, yes, is the toughest, longest, roughest snow machine race in the world.

    he world. Jay also had a successful political career, serving three terms in the Alaska House of Representatives. And he is a great philanthropist in Fairbanks—a key player in Fairbanks Food Bank and doing so many other things in terms of philanthropy.

    On top of all this, Jay says his greatest legacy, he believes, will be something he recently did—which I think is just fantastic—the creation of a new synagogue in Fairbanks, the northernmost Chabad in the United States.

    It began with a call from Rabbi Greenberg in Anchorage. He is a great friend of mine, one of the leaders of our Jewish community throughout the State. He asked Jay if he could host a young orthodox rabbi and his wife for a short visit. Of course, Jay, a very generous man, agreed. ‘‘I think it would be around a two-week summer stay.’’ Then they came again for a second visit, this time in January when it is 45 below zero in Fairbanks. It gets really cold in Fairbanks. And they still returned.

    The young couple, Rabbi Heshy Wolf and his wife Chani have now chosen to make Fairbanks their permanent home.

    Jay, generous as ever, purchased a small church with his own money. The previous congregation at the church had outgrown the place. They refurbished it, transforming it into the Fairbanks Jewish Center. The original congregation stayed on rent-free until they found a new home, a new church. Just a few weeks ago, five rabbis gathered in Fairbanks for the first time in over 120 years and hosted this new synagogue, the northernmost synagogue, I believe, in America, in Fairbanks.

    Jay, thank you. What a life of accomplishment. What a legacy, not just for Fairbanks, but for all of Alaska. For every different community—sports community, Jewish community, historical community—you have done it all. And now, Jay, you have been awarded one of the most prestigious awards anyone can achieve in their life, Alaskan of the Week.

    MIL OSI USA News –