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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Markey, Cruz Secure 60 Cosponsors for Bipartisan Legislation to Protect AM Radio

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (April 1, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today celebrated their AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act securing a filibuster-proof 60 cosponsors in the Senate. This bipartisan and bicameral legislation would direct federal regulators to require automakers to include AM broadcast radio in their new vehicles at no additional charge.

    “With the addition of a 60th cosponsor, our AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act hit a key milestone, demonstrating the broad, bipartisan support for this commonsense bill. From emergency response to sports, entertainment, and news, AM radio is a lifeline for tens of millions of Americans. We are proud to fight for this legislation and ensure that AM radio can continue to play an important role in our constituents’ lives.”

    Senate cosponsors of the AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act include Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.),  Jim Justice (R-W.V.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Dave McCormick (R-Penn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

    In May 2023, Senators Markey and Cruz led their colleagues in introducing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act and reintroduced the legislation in January 2025. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act passed through the Senate Commerce Committee in February 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to report on regenerative agricultural practices in the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A report published by the British Ecological Society looks at regenerative agricultural practices in the UK.

    Prof Neil Ward, Professor of Rural & Regional Development, School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, said:

    “The press release is an accurate reflection of the main findings in the report. This is a good report.  It has been produced by a large group of independent scientific experts and is based on a review of the state of the scientific evidence. It includes insights from interviews with eleven farmers and one independent agronomist.

    “It comes from an ecological perspective.  It has less to say about the economics of farming systems change, and the implications of farming systems change for greenhouse gas emissions and the prospects of the UK achieving net zero (despite the fact that agricultural practices will be important in the net zero transition).

    “Regenerative agriculture is becoming increasingly popular as an idea among farmers and pressure groups.  However, it remains loosely defined. This report provides some welcome new material to help improve the clarity of discussions around regenerative agriculture. One revealing comment is that regenerative agriculture is a direction of travel rather than an end-state.

    “The report suggests that minimising the exposure of bare soil is an important principle in reducing the detrimental environmental impacts of contemporary farming.

    “It also sees increasing diversity in crops grown as a central measure in reducing harmful environmental impacts.

    “What the report does not do is shed light on the scale of the contribution regenerative agriculture could make to reducing net greenhouse gas emissions. Agriculture is currently accounts for about 11% of UK GHG emissions, but as we decarbonise electricity generation and road transport, so the proportion of emissions that come from agriculture is expected to grow significantly in the coming decades.

    “Changes to farming practice through regenerative agriculture, though welcome, will not be enough on their own to bring agriculture into line with the UK’s carbon budget and its net zero goal.  That will require a significant change in what is produced and consumed. For example, the Climate Change Committee’s Seventh Carbon Budget, published in late February, suggested a 38% reduction in the number of sheep and cattle reared in the UK.

    “This report helps sharpen and develop the working definition of regenerative agriculture, which has been open to broad interpretation. The model of farming it espouses is necessary to address UK farming’s biodiversity crisis, but not sufficient to adequately address the climate crisis too.  That would require larger-scale change in the types of crops and animals produced.”

     

    Dr Emma Burnett, Agriculture and Sustainability Researcher, Fielden Whisky and Honorary Research Associate, TABLE, University of Oxford, said:

    “This report provides a good overview of regenerative agriculture, including both academic and practical perspectives. It captures the potential benefits and concerns, including regen ag’s appeal to a wide audience, the appetite from farmers to engage in regen ag, the potential for ‘no harm done’ on-farm changes, and the very real concerns about corporate capture and greenwashing.

    “The report adds to the growing body of literature that treats regen ag as a serious player in sustainable food and farming. It highlights both the beneficial elements of regen ag, as well as areas where more data is required, or where the data conflicts with assumptions. The report takes a nuanced view of regen ag, identifying that although a whole systems approach may deliver the best outcomes, farmers can sometimes only engage in a subset of practices. It identifies objectives that farmers are likely to engage through regen ag, like reducing tillage or incorporating understories and cover cropping, and highlights whether those practices have evidence of payoff over time. It also provides policy recommendations for a range of actors, including national governments, the private sector, and third-party certification schemes.”

    Prof John Quinton, Professor of Soil Science, Lancaster University, said:

    “The report suggests that the evidence for minimising soil disturbance on regenerative outcomes is weak. This seems to have been based largely on its controversial role as a potential tool in sequestering carbon, which has been shown to be soil and climate dependent i.e. success depends on where are you in the world are and what soil you have. However, it is very clear that minimising soil disturbances an excellent way of reducing soil erosion by water and an even better way of stopping the movement on soils on hillslopes caused by tillage, which can lead to damaging thinning of soils, reducing water supply to crops during droughts, the later point being completely missed in the report.  Where they work,  reduced tillage systems are a great way to conserve the soil and the report is perhaps overly pessimistic about their potential.

    “Residue management does not get mentioned in the report at all, which is an oversight given the important role that residue can play in protecting the soil surface, enhancing soil structure and reducing erosion. It also reduces water losses in times of drought which has been shown to help reduce air temperatures.  There is also evidence showing benefits for carbon sequestration and soil biology.

    “It is good to see the prominence given to maintaining a live vegetation cover through the winter. We have known for many years that vegetation protects the soil surface from rainfall, and the roughness it produces slows runoff controlling erosion and lowering the risk of muddy floods. We need to learn more about the relative benefits to soil functioning of returning more organic matter from both the above and belowground plant biomass to the soil,  and how plant diversity impacts on this in different environments.”

    ‘Regenerative Agriculture in the UK – An ecological perspecitve’ was published by the British Ecological Society at 00:01 Wednesday April 2 2025.

    Declared interests:

    Prof Neil Ward “I am funded by UKRI to co-lead a large network of 3,000 researchers and practitioners working on the UK agri-food system and net zero (https://www.agrifood4netzero.net/).   I do not have any conflicts of interest and have not worked with any of the authors of the report.”

    Prof John Quinton “I have worked and published on soil erosion and its control for the last 30 years.  In the 1990s directly on the impact of reduced tillage on carbon, nutrient losses, and soil erosion.  I have worked on the impact of tillage on soil redistribution, water availability and crop yield and have had a series of PhD students working on plant diversity on cover crops. My work has been funded by the EU, Defra, NERC, BBSRC, EPSRC.  In the late 90s early 00s I did some research on cover crops for Syngenta.”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Annual number of home consents down 7.4 percent – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: February 2025

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Annual number of home consents down 7.4 percent – 2 April 2025 – There were 33,595 new homes consented in Aotearoa New Zealand in the year ended February 2025, down 7.4 percent compared with the year ended February 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “The annual number of new homes consented has been plateauing for nine months now,” economic indicators spokesperson Michelle Feyen said.

    “Although the annual number of multi-unit homes consented decreased for the second year in a row, the number of stand-alone houses saw a slight increase compared with the year ending in February 2024,” Feyen said.

    In the year ended February 2025, there were 17,743 multi-unit homes consented, down 15 percent compared with the year ended February 2024. There were 15,852 stand-alone houses consented, up 2.3 percent over the same period.

    Files:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Homes England and Octopus Real Estate launch £150m Greener Homes Alliance phase 2

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Homes England and Octopus Real Estate launch £150m Greener Homes Alliance phase 2

    The renewed alliance will reinforce a responsibility to support small and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders, while encouraging greener building practices.

    Octopus Real Estate supported by Homes England

    Homes England has joined with Octopus Real Estate, part of Octopus Investments and a leading specialist real estate investor and lender, to create the Greener Homes Alliance 2.

    The alliance will commit £150 million of funding, £42 million of which will be provided by the Agency’s Home Building Fund. This will provide small and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders with further loan finance enabling even more high-quality, energy efficient homes to be built across England.

    The first phase of the alliance launched in 2021, as part of broader efforts to expand the supply of finance available to SMEs, and funded over 550 much needed, new sustainable homes across the country. More than 40% of the homes built during phase one achieved an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A, and 100% secured a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) score higher than 86, significantly higher than the UK average EPC rating of D and SAP score of 67.

    Phase one of the Greener Homes Alliance made a significant impact, with 20 loans completed totalling £150million – an average loan size to SME developers of £7.5 million.

    Phase two of the Greener Homes Alliance will seek to support the creation of more sustainable homes by introducing ten new criteria, four of which must be met for developers to benefit from a 1.25% discount on their interest rate. If six or more criteria are met, developers will be eligible for a 2% discount.

    The new criteria for phase two will include the use of mixed methods of construction (MMC) in the fabric of buildings and a real living wage paid to workers on site. It will also encourage borrowers to support the Lighthouse Charity, a leader in mental health within the construction industry.

    To qualify for funding from the alliance in the first place, all schemes must deliver specific key performance indicators as a minimum. Developers must ensure that all homes built are fossil fuel free and have an average SAP score of 85 or above.

    Marcus Ralling, Chief Investment Officer at Homes England said:

    Small and medium housebuilders play a vital and essential role in driving the delivery of much needed, new and sustainable homes.

    This extended Alliance is an excellent example of how we are working with partners like Octopus Real Estate to support the SME housebuilders that are crucial to building a diverse and resilient housing sector.

    Andy Scott, Co-Head of Debt, Octopus Real Estate, added:

    We are extremely proud of the impact our Greener Homes Alliance initiative has had when it comes to supporting developers looking to make greener decisions for their projects, and we’ve spent a lot of time working out the new criteria with Homes England to make sure the next phase is as impactful as possible.

    At Octopus, our mission is to reimagine real estate through the delivery of high-quality, sustainable places for people to live that are fit for the future and address societal needs such as fuel poverty. Working with esteemed government agencies to enact real change for the developers who have the expertise and capability to deliver such homes is a huge part of this.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) tells you how energy efficient a property is, giving a property an energy efficiency rating from A (best) to G (worst) that is valid for 10 years. An EPC contains information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs and steps to improve a property’s energy efficiency.

    The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for the energy rating of dwellings) is the methodology currently used by the government to estimate the energy performance of homes. A SAP score provides a rating between 1 and 100, this range is then divided into categories A (best) to G (worst).

    The new criteria introduced for phase two will include:

    • An average SAP score of 92+ (EPC A)

    • More than 90% of waste from the site avoids landfill

    • Biodiversity Net Gain of over 20%

    • More than 50% of new homes will be Zero Bills ready

    • Regeneration of a brownfield site

    • Potable water usage reduced to less than 110L per person per day

    • Use of Mixed Methods of Construction (MMC) in the fabric of the building

    • The Real Living Wage must be paid to all workers on site

    • The borrower to support Lighthouse Charity, a leader in mental health within the construction industry

    • More than 25% of units to be affordable built on-site, or in line with local social housing plans

    All schemes must also deliver the following KPIs as a minimum:

    • All homes to be fossil fuel free

    • Every scheme to have average SAP score of 85+

    About Homes England 

    We are the government’s housing and regeneration Agency, and we’re here to drive the creation of more affordable, quality homes and thriving places so that everyone has a place to live and grow.  

    We make this happen by working in partnership with thousands of organisations of all sizes, using our powers, expertise, land, capital and influence to bring investment to communities and get more quality homes built. 

    Learn more about us: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/homes-england/about

    Press Office Contact Details 

    Email: media@homesengland.gov.uk 

    Phone: 0207 874 8262 

    About Octopus Real Estate

    Octopus Real Estate, part of Octopus Investments, is a specialist real estate investor and lender delivering quality, sustainable places to live for every stage of life. Through our role as an investor, lender, and landlord, we fund the entire lifecycle of real estate ─ reimagining its future.

    We have more than £3.7bn in real estate assets and secured lending, working with our partners to deliver greener homes for people to buy or rent, increase the supply of genuinely affordable housing, and build communities that meet the aspirations of elderly people. We also transform underused land and properties that require regeneration and redevelopment.

    We believe that real, lasting change can only be achieved if businesses invest in the right way. We work with people who share our values and take our responsibilities to the communities we serve seriously. Together, we’re harnessing change to build a better tomorrow.

    About Lighthouse

    The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity is the only charity that provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to the construction community and their families.

    Our mission is to ensure that our construction community can easily access the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support they need and to develop healthy and sustainable futures for this generation and the next.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major reforms to environmental regulation to boost growth and protect nature

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Major reforms to environmental regulation to boost growth and protect nature

    Government reforms will streamline and modernise regulation to unlock growth, deliver 1.5 million homes and do more for nature under the Plan for Change

    A more dynamic, streamlined approach to environmental regulation will drive economic growth and safeguard nature under the Plan for Change, with reforms announced today (Wednesday 2 April) by the Environment Secretary Steve Reed.

    It comes as a new review, commissioned by Steve Reed and led by Dan Corry, finds the current system of environmental regulation is outdated, inconsistent and highly complex – delivering for neither nature nor growth. The review concludes that a “bonfire” of regulations is not the solution; rather, it makes 29 recommendations for streamlining regulation, all of which the government is actively considering.

    Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed said:

    “Nature and the economy have both been in decline for too long. That changes today.

    “As part of the Plan for Change, I am rewiring Defra and its arms-length bodies to boost economic growth and unleash an era of building while also supporting nature to recover.

    “Dan Corry’s essential report gives us a strong set of common-sense recommendations for better regulation that will get Britain building.”

    Nine key measures with the greatest impact for growth and nature recovery will be fast-tracked. Work has already begun on:

    • Lead regulator: A single, lead regulator for major infrastructure projects will end the merry-go-round of developers seeking planning approvals from multiple authorities who often disagree with each other – speeding up approvals and saving businesses millions in time and resource. This could include the recently approved Lower Thames Crossing, as well as future schemes like Heathrow expansion. Pilot projects trialling the approach will begin this year.

    • Revamping environmental guidance: Rapidly reviewing the existing catalogue of compliance guidance, including on protecting bats, will identify opportunities to remove duplication, ambiguity, or inconsistency.

    • Streamlined permits and guidance: Speeding up work to update the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 will allow regulators to make more sensible, risk-based decisions on which activities should be exempt from environmental permits, in some cases removing them altogether for low-risk and temporary projects. This will slash red tape for businesses, putting an end to delays that can slow down the decisions needed to get spades in the ground.

    • Planning permit portal: Defra will convene the environmental regulators to set out the work required to upgrade their digital systems for planning advice, including a single planning portal for all agencies. This will speed up planning applications, while building trust and transparency into the process.

    • New Defra Infrastructure Board: This will accelerate the delivery of major infrastructure projects by facilitating greater collaboration and stronger oversight within Defra and its arm’s-length bodies – unblocking barriers to development at an early stage.

    • More autonomy: Trusted nature groups will benefit from new freedoms to carry out conservation and restoration work without needing to apply for multiple permissions at every step of a project. A pilot collaboration between Natural England and the National Trust will allow Europe’s largest conservation charity to cut down on the high volume of applications for consents, permits and licences they must currently submit. This will eliminate bureaucratic hurdles, bringing their ambitious nature recovery programmes to life at scale, more quickly and easily than ever before.

    • Green finance boost: A new industry-funded Nature Market Accelerator will bring much needed coherence to nature markets, boosting investment into our natural habitats and driving growth. This will give businesses greater confidence to invest, unlocking a range of environmental benefits – from improved biodiversity to better water quality.

    • Strategic policy statements for regulators: Clearer guidance and measurable objectives for all Defra’s regulators, starting with Natural England and the Environment Agency, will drive performance improvements and focus delivery on government priorities. Progress will be closely monitored and reported on publicly – increasing transparency and accountability so the public can be confident that regulators are supporting, not blocking, development and nature restoration.

    • Rolling regulatory reform: A continuous programme of reform will be established to pinpoint rapid actions, quick wins, and longer-term areas for improvements to regulation.

    Economist and former charity leader Dan Corry, who led the review, said:

    “Our current system for environmental regulation lets down both nature and growth; we must focus on good outcomes and nature enhancement, not on rigidly preserving everything at any cost.

    “This review clearly shows that simply scrapping regulations isn’t the answer – instead, we need modern, streamlined regulation that is easier for everyone to use. While short-term trade-offs may be needed, these reforms will ultimately deliver a win-win for both nature and economic growth in the longer run.”

    Currently, nature groups, developers and farmers are forced to navigate and comply with a complex patchwork of over 3,500 regulations – many of which are out of date and duplicative – as well as multiple overlapping regulators, all while shelling out vast sums in legal costs. This rigid and archaic approach not only stunts growth but impedes large-scale nature recovery, holds up the delivery of homes and infrastructure and creates an unnecessary financial and administrative burden.

    This government will no longer accept this as the status quo; regulators and regulation must work for the people of Britain, not get in the way of progress. Reforms will streamline and modernise the regulatory process to reduce bureaucracy and focus on outcomes at scale, rather than delays and paperwork. Measures which require spend will be considered in the context of the Spending Review; those requiring legislative changes will be reviewed in the round as part of the government’s wider legislative priorities. Further engagement with environmental groups, homebuilders, and a range of organisations across society where necessary will take place to ensure that any changes ensure development, growth, and nature restoration work hand-in-hand.

    Today’s announcement is the latest step in Environment Secretary Steve Reed’s drive, under the Plan for Change, to reform and rewire Defra and its arm’s-length bodies to unleash economic growth and protect the environment.

    Planning reforms and a new Nature Restoration Fund will unlock much needed housing delivery and infrastructure whilst supporting nature recovery at scale. It will help developers meet their environmental obligations more efficiently, making it easier to build vital infrastructure like wind farms, railways, and roads, gigafactories and data centres.

    More widely, in recognition of nature’s decline in Britain, this Government has launched a rapid review to deliver on our legally binding environment targets, including halting the decline of species by 2030.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace bringing free drinking water nitrate testing to Ashburton District this weekend

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace Aotearoa will be offering its free drinking water testing service in Ashburton and Methven this Friday and Sunday. This is the first time the organisation’s water testing programme has returned to the Ashburton area since 2023, when 77% of samples had elevated levels of nitrate.
    Greenpeace campaigner Will Appelbe says, “Everybody, no matter where they live, should know the water coming out of their tap is safe to drink. But for 20% of the country, especially those living in rural areas, that’s not always the case.
    “Canterbury is a hotspot of freshwater contamination in Aotearoa. Many communities are drinking water that is contaminated with elevated levels of nitrate, which can pose health risks.”
    A growing body of research shows that nitrate levels in drinking water well below the current legal limits – as low as 1 mg/L NO3-N – can increase the risk of bowel cancer. Last year, drinking water samples from Oxford and Darfield tested at or above 5 mg/L of nitrate, the level which has been associated with an increased risk of pre-term birth. The current maximum allowable value, which was set in the 1950s, is 11.3 mg/L.
    “We’re particularly concerned about households on private bores. Previous testing events have found samples with levels as high as 25 mg/L of nitrate contamination in people’s drinking water. These people are often unaware that the water coming out of their kitchen tap is unsafe.”
    “I have lived in Canterbury my whole life and seen how the land has been transformed in just a few decades. There are simply too many cows, and it has contaminated the groundwater that Canterbury communities rely on for drinking water.”
    “The long-term solution is to phase out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser and move to more sustainable farming practices. As the regulator, Environment Canterbury must take leadership on this. And if they’re unwilling, impacted communities can vote to make a difference later this year at the local elections.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Annual number of home consents down 7.4 percent – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: February 2025

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Annual number of home consents down 7.4 percent – 2 April 2025 – There were 33,595 new homes consented in Aotearoa New Zealand in the year ended February 2025, down 7.4 percent compared with the year ended February 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “The annual number of new homes consented has been plateauing for nine months now,” economic indicators spokesperson Michelle Feyen said.

    “Although the annual number of multi-unit homes consented decreased for the second year in a row, the number of stand-alone houses saw a slight increase compared with the year ending in February 2024,” Feyen said.

    In the year ended February 2025, there were 17,743 multi-unit homes consented, down 15 percent compared with the year ended February 2024. There were 15,852 stand-alone houses consented, up 2.3 percent over the same period.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 2 April 2025 Supporting the Pasifika community with a new partnership initiative Kāinga Ora, Niuvaka Trust, and the Ministry for Social Development (MSD) are supporting the Pasifika community by providing access to employment opportunities, social housing, and financial assistance.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    A safe and culturally appropriate space has now been established at the Niuvaka office in Palmerston North, offering Pasifika families a welcoming and supportive environment to meet with Kāinga Ora and MSD representatives.

    Kāinga Ora Senior Housing Support Manager Lusia says the Pasifika Community Clinics provide a valuable opportunity to connect with Pasifika communities.

    Front row: Talei Samasoni (MSD), Lusia (Kāinga Ora) Back row, from left: Mutsuo Hatakeyama, Sharron Smith, Dana Kunaiti, Waimarama Albert, Metaio Malama (Niuvaka Trust)

    “Niuvaka referred one of their clients to me who had been in hospital for several months after having his leg amputated. Before this, he had been living in a private rental, but his landlord was unwilling to make the necessary modifications for him to return home. The hospital could no longer keep a bed for him, so he was eventually sent to a rest home to await a modified home. After a couple of months, we were able to house him in an accessible home which he absolutely loves,” says Lusia.

    When an appointment is made with Niuvaka Trust, they provide Kāinga Ora and MSD with a brief overview of the family’s needs before the clinic. This allows both agencies to respond to Pasifika communities more effectively and efficiently.

    “The Pasifika Community Clinics make a huge difference in the level of engagement of our communities,” says Dana Kunaiti, General Manager at Niuvaka Trust. “As a result, we have been able to support people in employment, place them in social housing, and ensure they receive all the necessary benefits and entitlements.”

    “We want to make a real difference for the Pasifika communities we serve and are passionate about advancing aspirations for Tagata Pasifika,” Dana adds. “We are grateful to Kāinga Ora and MSD for recognising the need to do things differently to better meet the needs of our Pasifika communities.”

    Raquel Hudson, MSD Regional Housing Manager – Central, highlights the importance of this collaboration.

    “Partnering with Niuvaka Trust has allowed us to support mutual clients in an environment where they feel comfortable and familiar. Moving away from our service centres and into the community has proven successful, particularly for those who find large office environments challenging. We appreciate Niuvaka welcoming our staff into their space and value our close partnership with Kāinga Ora in achieving these positive outcomes.”

    Page updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Further humanitarian assistance to Myanmar

    Source: Australia’s climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record

    Australia will contribute additional support for the people of Myanmar affected by the devastating earthquake. This support builds on Australia’s initial $2 million contribution to the International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC).

    The natural disaster has caused significant loss of life, injury and extensive damage to homes, businesses and critical infrastructure. The earthquake has already claimed over 2,700 lives, with almost 4,500 reported injured. These numbers are expected to rise as rescuers gain access to remote areas and rubble is cleared. Survivors are in urgent need of food, water or shelter.

    Australia’s additional support will help those impacted by the humanitarian crisis. It includes:

    • $3.5 million to Australian NGOs and their local partners with a focus on food, water and sanitation and emergency health and education, and $500,000 contribution to the Emergency Action Alliance appeal.
    • $3 million for emergency relief supplies and to support the efforts of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management.

    A rapid response team has also been mobilised through Australia Assists, to help coordinate disaster relief efforts on the ground. We are coordinating with international partners on the need for any additional deployments.

    There are credible reports that the regime continues to conduct air strikes in earthquake affected areas, exacerbating the suffering of the people of Myanmar and complicating already difficult relief efforts. We condemn these acts and call on the military regime to immediately cease military operations and allow full humanitarian access to affected areas.

    Australia’s humanitarian support to Myanmar is provided through thoroughly vetted international and local partners. We take proactive steps to ensure our assistance does not legitimise the military regime in Myanmar.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 16 Hours Into Long Speech, Booker Discusses Trump Administration’s Failure to Address National Housing Crisis

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during his long speech, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) delivered floor remarks detailing the state of the housing affordability crisis in the United States and the Trump administration’s complete failure to address rising rent and home prices facing everyday Americans in communities across the country.

    Booker took to the Senate floor beginning at 7pm ET last night with the intention of speaking as long as he is physically able to uplift the stories of Americans who are being harmed by the Trump Administration’s reckless actions, attempts to undermine our institutions, and disregard for the rule of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Nomination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today chaired a hearing examining the nomination of Lieutenant General (ret.) John D. Caine to be the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

    In his opening statement, Chairman Wicker underscored the tremendous responsibility that Lt. Gen. Caine would have if confirmed as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. As the Chinese Communist Party continues an expansive military buildup and the other three members of the Axis of Aggressors – Russia, Iran, and North Korea – continue to band together in opposition to the United States, Chairman Wicker noted that Lt. Gen. Caine will work to give strong and decisive military advice to President Trump.

    Chairman Wicker also praised Caine’s diverse background as a former intelligence community liaison, defense technology innovator, as well as his experience both in the active-duty and national guard components of the Air Force. This track record would serve him exceptionally well as the President’s principal military advisor in a complex threat environment, Chairman Wicker argued.

    As for the proper role of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs within the national defense decision-making complex ecosystem, Chairman Wicker noted that he had utmost confidence in Caine’s ability to remain nonpartisan and retain the trust of President Trump.

    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered below.

    This morning, the committee meets to consider the nomination of retired Lieutenant General Dan Caine for the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

     

    General Caine has a tremendous responsibility before him. I believe President Trump has made an excellent choice in selecting him to meet the challenges, so I thank General Caine for his willingness to serve our country, especially in this hour of need.

     

    We live in the most dangerous national security moment since World War II. An Axis of Aggressors, led by the Chinese Communist Party and Vladimir Putin’s Russia, means us harm. This axis does not want this century to be an American-led century or a freedom-led century. Our adversaries have started two wars against Ukraine and Israel. They threaten to open a third front against Taiwan.

     

    We must restore peace, and we can do that only through strength. Since his nomination was announced, some people have written that General Caine is unqualified. They point out that he has not served as a combatant commander, as a service chief, or as a vice chairman – roles which are contemplated in 10 USC 152.

     

    I would suggest these same people read or reread the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986. Those who read that law and then read General Caine’s resume will see that the architects of that legislation would conclude that their reforms were successful.

     

    The driving force behind Goldwater-Nichols was to inspire and, in some cases, require jointness. So, let’s talk about jointness with regard to Lieutenant General Caine. They believe that when our military services work together, those services are greater than the sum of their parts. General Caine agrees, and his record reflects that.

     

    He began his career as an Air Force fighter pilot in 1992. By the time he was done, General Caine had operated in every domain, and he had developed relationships with every service. That would not have been true 40 years ago. General Caine flew and commanded aircraft, but he’s also worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, having helped in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in the midst of a bird flu outbreak. At the White House, General Caine wrote early homeland security strategies. He deployed and commanded repeatedly to Iraq and Syria, serving within various special operations forces units. He ran our most secretive programs for all military services. General Caine worked extensively as the CIA’s senior military officer, again collaborating with every military service and combatant command.

     

    It’s difficult to imagine a better joint and interagency background for a nominee of this position. Our threat environment is complex, and General Caine understands how the services can work together to meet today’s dangers. We have much work to do, as this committee knows. We need to grow our defense budget. We need to reform the Pentagon’s processes drastically.

     

    If confirmed, General Kaine would play a significant role in providing military advice to the Secretary of Defense and the President of the United States on both of those topics. In particular, the Chairman plays a significant role in the requirements process. I hope he will make a priority to modernize this critical aspect.

     

    The statutory role of the chairman may be limited, but the position is explicitly the voice of the combatant commanders. That voice matters because the commanders are largely absent from our requirements and budgeting processes.

     

    The Chairman can and should also be an advocate for a more agile planning process – one that considers the problems. And I’m going to use two big words here: the problems of simultaneity and protracted warfare – I guess that’s three big words and two big terms. These are technical terms for fairly straightforward facts. First, that our adversaries are likely to act against us in a coordinated fashion – simultaneity.  And secondly, that once that war breaks out it tends to take on a life of its own – protracted warfare.

     

    Lastly, a Chairman is responsible to deliver a serious, honest Chairman’s risk assessment to this committee as soon as possible. I look forward to General Caine’s thoughts on each of these points.

     

    Based on my conversations with the nominee, and based on his actions in uniform, I’m confident that General Caine will give President Trump his best military advice. He will do so without bias, as he’s required to do. He would not consider whether the president may like or dislike that advice that’s exactly what a United States president deserves.

     

    I’m convinced that General Caine sees this role as absolutely nonpartisan. We can argue politics up here on this dais, but I expect General Caine to stay out of it, no matter the subject.

     

    I thank the nominee for his service and for appearing today, and I turn now to my friend and colleague Ranking Member Reed for his opening remarks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Dr. Oz’s Confirmation, Senators Urge Crackdown on Private Medicare Insurers that Scam Patients, Price Gouge Taxpayers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 01, 2025

    Senators call for ending contracts, limiting enrollment for Medicare Advantage insurers that defraud seniors and taxpayers

    “The most effective step the Administration can take in cutting waste, fraud, and abuse in federal health care programs is by reining in the wasteful practices of corporate health insurers in the MA program.” 

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a group of Senate Democrats in writing to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, and Stephanie Carlton, Acting Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), urging them to crackdown on abuses by private insurers in Medicare Advantage (MA) that overcharge taxpayers, raise costs for patients, and create barriers to access care. 

    Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) joined in signing the letter. 

    While the MA program was founded on the premise that private insurers could administer Medicare more cost-efficiently than the federal government, the program has failed to deliver savings in any year since its inception. In fact, in 2024 alone, private insurers in the program overcharged taxpayers by $83 billion relative to Traditional Medicare, while overpayments to private insurers in MA are expected to total $1.2 trillion dollars over the next decade.

    Despite these massive taxpayer overpayments, private insurers in MA routinely slow down and deny medically necessary care for patients that otherwise would be approved under Traditional Medicare. MA patients are also more likely to be given inadequate care due to profit-padding insurance tactics, including early hospital discharges and shorter lengths of stay in care settings like nursing homes. 

    “At a time when Americans are paying nearly $26,000 per family in premiums per year, while the largest US insurer made $23 billion in annual profits, reining in profiteering could not be more important,” wrote the senators. 

    Ahead of CMS finalizing the 2026 Medicare Advantage Rate Notice (2026 Rate Notice), which sets payment rates for insurers in the program, the senators asked CMS to make four key reforms to the Medicare Advantage rules:  

    1. Eliminate waste and abuse from overpayments: CMS should finalize and adopt new rules for how risk adjustment is calculated, which will limit insurers’ misuse of diagnosis codes and save taxpayers $3.4 billion. Additionally, CMS should take the necessary enforcement actions, including restricting future enrollment in plans that engage in fraud and terminating MA plan contracts, to ensure MA organizations report and return overpayments in a timely manner.
    2. Strengthen enforcement against MA insurers that illegally deny care: CMS should conduct strong oversight and enforcement when reviewing and approving MA benefits to ensure they adequately cover patients and do not subject enrollees to inappropriate and unnecessary barriers to care, like incorrect prior authorization determinations. About 50 million prior authorization requests were required by MA insurers in 2023, most commonly for higher cost, urgent services such as chemotherapy, inpatient hospital stays, and skilled nursing facility stays. 
    3. Address additional barriers to care: CMS should develop new regulations to crack down on MA insurer’s use of artificial intelligence programs, which have been used to incorrectly deny life-saving care and dangerously discharge patients early. The senators also pressed CMS to hold MA insurers accountable for using “ghost” networks to restrict care for seniors and people with disabilities. 
    4. Enact reforms to reduce disparities in care: The lawmakers urged lawmakers to take steps to improve disparities in care across race, ethnicity, and ability.

    “These actions are crucial to improve health outcomes and ensure Medicare’s sustainability for future generations,” concluded the senators.

    Senator Warren is a leading voice on reining in abuses in Medicare Advantage and protecting patients:

    • In March 2025, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren pressed Dr. Oz on taxpayer fraud committed by private, for-profit insurers in the Medicare Advantage program. Dr. Oz agreed with Senator Warren that cracking down on private health insurers in Medicare Advantage will “improve the health care of the American people.”
    • In March 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Dr. Mehmet Oz, Trump’s nominee for Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), pressing him on his serious conflicts of interest. Dr. Oz has long been tied to Medicare Advantage insurers, which would benefit if he successfully privatizes Medicare, and which have paid him to encourage his show’s viewers to enroll in private Medicare plans. 
    • In January 2025, in a Fox News Digital op-ed, Senator Elizabeth Warren outlined her recommendations for cutting government waste to make government more efficient and save taxpayers money, including by rooting out corruption by Medicare Advantage insurers. 
    • In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren sent Elon Musk, Chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a letter detailing over 30 proposals that would cut at least $2 trillion of wasteful government spending over the next decade, including by curbing abuse by Medicare Advantage insurers that overcharge taxpayers.
    • In December, 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) urged the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to finalize rules to curb overpayments to private insurers in Medicare Advantage.
    • In December 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren led a group of Congressional Democrats in a letter to Dr. Mehmet Oz, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, raising stark concerns about his advocacy to eliminate Traditional Medicare and his deep financial ties to the private health insurers that would benefit from that move.
    • In June 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Federal Trade Commission, calling out high health care costs due to vertically-integrated insurers, private equity companies, and pharmaceutical companies that are driving health care consolidation. The letter came in response to the three agencies’ March 2024 cross-government inquiry into the impacts of corporate greed in health care, and highlights examples of abusive and anticompetitive behavior by companies in the health care industry.
    • In May 2024, at a hearing of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Warren called out private insurers in Medicare Advantage for accelerating the rural hospital crisis.
    • In March 2024, Senators Warren and Brown led their colleagues in a letter to HHS and CMS that urged the agencies to protect seniors by holding insurance companies accountable for abuses in Medicare Advantage.
    • In January 2024, Senator Warren and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) sent a letter to CMS, urging the agency to take administrative action to curb billions in overpayments to MA insurers.
    • In December 2023, Senators Warren, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to the CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, raising concerns about shortfalls in CMS’s data collection and reporting practices for MA plans, and urging CMS to close data gaps to strengthen oversight of MA plans and improve care for Medicare beneficiaries. 
    • In November 2023, Senators Warren, Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and Blackburn introduced bipartisan legislation to improve transparency of MA plans and ensure these plans are best serving the health care needs of America’s seniors. The Encounter Data Enhancement Act would require Medicare Advantage plans to report important information about how much they are actually paying for patient services and how much patients are responsible for paying out-of-pocket. 
    • In November 2023, at a Senate Finance Committee markup of the Better Mental Health Care, Lower-Cost Drugs, and Extenders Act, Senator Warren highlighted the need to do more to prioritize hearing health for seniors and strengthen transparency in Medicare Advantage, and secured commitments from Senate Finance Committee leadership to prioritize these proposals in future packages. 
    • In October 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren called out giant MA insurers for using deceptive marketing tactics to lure seniors into the wrong plans and drown out competition from smaller insurers that may offer better coverage. Senator Warren called on CMS to act within the fullest extent of its authority to crack down on MA insurers that game the system to overcharge the government and to ensure insurers publish accurate data on patient care and out-of-pocket costs. 
    • In May 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren highlighted the prevalence of ghost networks in Medicare Advantage plans and called for stronger oversight of the program.
    • In March 2023, Senator Warren sounded the alarm on a new analysis by policy experts showing that all Medicare beneficiaries – including those enrolled in Traditional Medicare – are paying higher premiums due to overpayments in MA. She sent a letter to CMS and called on the agency to finalize its proposed rule to ensure payments to MA plans accurately reflect the cost of care. 
    • In March 2023, U.S. Senators Warren and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) sent letters to the top seven MA insurers – Humana, Centene, UnitedHealthcare, CVS/Aetna, Molina, Elevance Health, and Cigna – regarding their questionable claims that CMS’s 2024 proposed Medicare Advantage payment rules would hurt beneficiaries.
    • In March 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren defended CMS’s proposed adjustments to the Calendar Year 2024 MA payment rates, pushing back against giant insurance companies and their lobbyists who are peddling misinformation to protect their billions in profits and scare beneficiaries into opposing the rule. 
    • In April 2022, Senator Warren and Representatives Katie Porter (D-Calif.), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), and Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) led their colleagues in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure highlighting concerns about overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans that line the pockets of big insurance companies.
    • In February 2022, chairing a hearing of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth, Senator Warren delivered remarks about strengthening Medicare and cracking down on pharmaceutical and insurance companies’ corporate greed to pay for expanded coverage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Democratic Senators to Bondi: Appoint Special Counsel to Investigate Signal Chat National Security Breach

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Democratic Senators to Bondi: Appoint Special Counsel to Investigate Signal Chat National Security Breach

    Senators to Attorney General: “These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined 30 Senate Democrats in urging U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to appoint a Special Counsel to investigate whether government officials violated federal criminal laws in connection with a reported security breach involving the commercial messaging app Signal. On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had inadvertently included him in a group Signal chat with several high-ranking national security officials. The group reportedly shared and discussed highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information via the unsecure Signal group chat.

    “In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations,” wrote the Senators. “Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.”

    The Signal group chat, started by Mr. Waltz, included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, and at least 18 other government officials. The group reportedly discussed not only the foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, but also real-time operational details, including the timing of planned attacks, types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and strike outcomes. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude, involving some of the highest-ranking officials in the federal government, constitutes the type of extraordinary circumstance the Special Counsel regulations were designed to address.

    “These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike,” continued the Senators.

    The Senators warned that the use of Signal for such communications may violate federal law. For example, grossly negligent handling national of national defense information can violate the Espionage Act. Additionally, the Federal Records Act requires preservation of certain government communications, and the destruction of such records may constitute a separate criminal offense. Statements made by the officials involved — in testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committees — raise further concerns about possible violations of laws prohibiting false statements, perjury, inducement to perjury, and conspiracy to commit these offenses.

    “During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to ‘an equal, fair system of justice’ if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that ‘no one is above the law.’ As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately,” concluded the Senators.

    The letter was led by U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). In addition to Senator Padilla, Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) also signed the letter.

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken about the Trump Administration’s dangerous mishandling of sensitive and classified information. Last week, he called on Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to resign, citing his staggering incompetence and lack of judgment, carelessly exposing troops to greater danger.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group message chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information was shared and discussed over Signal—an unsecure commercial messaging app. In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations. Given the extraordinary circumstances of this shocking incident and the significant public interests at stake, it is imperative that you immediately appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved violated federal criminal law.

    Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.

    The Signal chat group started by Mr. Waltz included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, among at least 18 other high-ranking government officials. In addition to discussing the sensitive foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, these officials proceeded to discuss key operational information regarding the precise timing of the planned attacks, the types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and the targets and results of the strikes as they occurred. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude involving top senior government officials presents the kind of extraordinary circumstances clearly contemplated by the Special Counsel regulations.

    These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike.

    These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws pertaining to the proper safeguarding and preservation of such information. For example, gross negligence in handling national defense information may violate the Espionage Act. Importantly, other laws, including the Federal Records Act, require the preservation of certain government records. Signal allows users to schedule messages for deletion after certain time periods and Mr. Waltz appears to have set the chat messages to delete initially after one week and then later in the chat changed the setting to delete messages after four weeks. Destruction of government records or property may constitute a violation of various criminal statutes. Subsequent statements to Congress and testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committees by several of the officials involved raise additional concerns about potential violations of federal criminal laws that prohibit making false statements to Congress, committing perjury in testimony to Congress, inducing another person to commit perjury, or conspiring to commit any of the foregoing actions.

    Even prior to his first Administration, President Trump campaigned for the need to prosecute and “lock up” individuals who allegedly “bypass government security” or “sent and received classified information on an insecure server.” Further, as an avowedly loyal and zealous advocate for the President, you echoed these same sentiments prior to your confirmation. Given the extraordinary nature of this security breach by senior Trump Administration officials, the likelihood that these actions needlessly endangered American lives and our nation’s security, the importance of putting our nation’s security before partisan political interests, and the range of federal criminal laws that may have been violated, it is imperative that the Department of Justice conduct a thorough investigation to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether any criminal charges are warranted against any of the government officials involved.

    During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to “an equal, fair system of justice” if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that “no one is above the law.” As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Houchin Introduces Four Bills to Protect Students, Support Families, and Uphold American Values

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (Indiana 09)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) introduced four major legislative proposals aimed at strengthening education, defending American institutions from foreign influence, supporting families in crisis, and improving outcomes for children in foster care. Each bill reflects Houchin’s commitment to promoting transparency, protecting vulnerable populations, and putting American families first.

    “These bills are focused on doing what’s right for the American people—protecting students, supporting families, and strengthening systems we rely on,” said Rep. Houchin. “Whether it’s ensuring taxpayer dollars aren’t funding institutions that break immigration laws or expanding access to end-of-life care for families, these bills are about accountability and common sense.”

    The four bills introduced include:

    • College Employment Accountability Act: Prohibits colleges and universities that hire illegal immigrants from receiving federal student aid or institutional funding. The bill also mandates participation in the E-Verify program and strengthens coordination between federal departments to enforce immigration laws.
    • Safeguarding American Education From Foreign Control Act: Protects American educational institutions by increasing transparency and restrictions on foreign funding. The bill prevents adversarial nations from using financial influence to shape curriculum or policy at U.S. schools and universities.
    • End-of-life Access to Supportive and Essential Care (E.A.S.E.) Act: Improves access to care for patients with terminal illnesses, ensuring families have options and support during end-of-life care.
    • Foster Care Tax Credit: Provides a federal tax credit to families who open their homes to foster children, helping reduce the financial burden and encouraging more Americans to consider becoming foster parents. 

    “These are practical, targeted bills that can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” Houchin added. “I’m proud to lead on these issues and will keep fighting to make Washington work for families in Indiana and across the country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez Appointed to U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    Vasquez to help shape the next generation of Air Force leaders, strengthening national security and New Mexico’s military communities

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) has been appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, where he will play a key role in advising and overseeing the Academy’s operations, curriculum, and policies. Vasquez was recommended for the position by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith.

    “I am honored to serve on the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors,” said Vasquez. “New Mexico is home to critical Air Force installations like Holloman Air Force Base, where we train the next generation of pilots and military leaders. I look forward to ensuring that the Academy provides the best education and training to our future Air Force officers so they are ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.”

    In his role on the Board, Vasquez will provide oversight on matters related to morale, discipline, curriculum, instruction, facilities, and financial affairs at the Academy. His appointment comes at a critical time as the U.S. Air Force continues to adapt to evolving security challenges and new technological advancements in defense.

    New Mexico’s Holloman Air Force Base, Kirtland Air Force Base, and Cannon Air Force Base play vital roles in national security and the state’s economy. Vasquez’s appointment to the Board reinforces his commitment to supporting military families, expanding career opportunities for service members, and ensuring that bases like Holloman continue to thrive.

    “Our military installations are home to thousands of service members and their families,” said Vasquez. “I will make sure that their needs are prioritized and that we continue to invest in the infrastructure, education, and training that make our Air Force the best in the world.”

    The U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors is composed of bipartisan members from Congress, presidential appointees, and military leaders who oversee and advise the Academy’s leadership on key institutional matters.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Training the next crop of fire investigators

    Source:

    Bushfire instructor Brett Wagstaff

    On the eve of the 2024-25 bushfire season, CFA and Forest
    Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) hosted their annual
    multi-agency bushfire investigation course in Castlemaine.

    Participants from CFA, FFMVic, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), Parks Victoria, Victoria Police and Forensic Services learned how to investigate the origin and cause of bushfires.

    The five-day course is designed for new fire investigators and is a mixture of classroom theory and practical training. Heading up the team of bushfire investigation trainers was Brett Wagstaff, a bushfire instructor based in Kangaroo Flat in District 2. 

    “We undertake classroom training. We also back that up by spending time out in the bush, lighting fires, observing burn and char patterns and then investigating those fires,” Brett said. 

    “This year, we chose to have fires in both forest and grass to cater for both FFMVic and CFA, and to ensure that we cover all fuel types.”

    Fire investigation plays a crucial role in fire prevention, and ensuring the presence of a statewide network of skilled fire investigators is an important part of CFA’s function. Accordingly, CFA has committed significant resources, time and effort into the fire investigation training pathway. 

    One of the course participants, Wayne Munro, is a CFA member with close to 40 years of firefighting experience under his belt. He’s a member of Grassdale Fire Brigade in South West Region and also the group officer for Merino.

    “I’ve been on the other end, fighting fires and then in command-and-control structures, and this course is part of my continual learning that CFA offers,” Wayne said. “I want to investigate fires to try to find the causes so that we can stop some of the fires in our area. But I also wanted to hand back some of my knowledge and experience to CFA.”

    Some of the techniques used to detect the path of a fire include staining on rocks, char patterns on trees and orientation of leaves after a fire has passed through. For Wayne, one of the biggest takeaways from the course was changing the way he now looks at fires.

    “I’ve learned to look at fires in reverse and to look at minute things. Traditionally, we’ve always been taught to bring in the bulldozers, add the water, put the fire out and then go home. And now we’re learning to make sure the scene is protected, to get down on our hands and knees and look at the way the grass is burned, how the leaves are burned and watching the trees. It has totally opened my eyes up to a whole new way of looking at fires,” Wayne explained.

    Baxter Fire Brigade’s Kate Sanderson has been a member of CFA for seven years. Although her time at CFA has been relatively short, fire investigation has been one of her long-held ambitions.

    “It’s something I wanted to do for a long, long time and I researched the pathways to get into fire investigation,” Kate said. “I came across CFA and discovered that if I had at least five years’ volunteer experience, I would be considered for training [in fire investigation]. So that’s the reason I joined CFA, and I have loved the experience and have learned so much along the way.”  

    For the practical elements of the course, the participants were divided into small groups to observe active fires in grassland and forest, before returning the following day to investigate these fires. On the final day of the course, they were tasked with investigating another group’s fire scene. The opportunity to observe live fire in real settings is a key feature of the course.

    “It was a great course. To be able to observe a fire in the bush and watch its behaviour was so invaluable,” Kate said. “It is known that terrain and weather affect fire behaviour, but it was so useful to stand back and watch how it burns, rather than from a firefighter’s perspective of putting out a fire as soon as  possible.” 

    Pentland Group Officer and Myrniong Fire Brigade Firefighter Dale Salathiel’s pathway to fire investigation was informed through his role with Victoria Police where he has been exposed to arson investigations, and the challenges of trying to determine fire cause.

    “I’ve just had an interest in this space, with investigations that I do through my job at Victoria Police – things that I’ve seen with arson and the investigative tools that come with that,” Dale said.

    The five-day course is only the first step in the process to becoming a bushfire investigator. After the course, each participant is paired with a mentor and tasked with attending and investigating five scenes over the following 18 months.

    At the time of writing, Dale had already attended four scenes, with his first coming the weekend after the course finished.

    “I finished the course on the Friday and by the weekend I was straight into it. I ended up going to the large fire at Kadnook, the Casterton-Edenhope Road fire, which was a two-day deployment,” Dale said

    Visiting scenes and investigating fire origin and path is just one piece of the fire investigation puzzle. Investigators must spend a significant amount of time preparing written reports after the scene examination is completed. This element was also covered in the course.

    “It’s one thing to travel to the scene and go back home. But it’s the report writing. It’s collating the weather, the lightning data, the witness statements, the maps, and writing up the report so someone who wasn’t at the fire can understand what occurred,” Kate explained.

    As well as the opportunity to learn from experienced trainers and mentors, Kate has found the support from her fellow CFA members on the course to be invaluable.

    “The six of us are staying in touch and telling each other when we’ve been out to scenes, so that’s been really helpful. Our stories and backgrounds are so different; it’s just so exciting to be amongst them,” Kate said.

    Dale added: “I think that the group motivates each other by working off one another, staying in touch and communicating. I think it’s helped us all work together and help bring each other through.”

    For anyone thinking about undertaking the bushfire investigation pathway, Wayne Munro had these words of wisdom.

    “If you’re joining this course just to get a tick on a piece of paper, I’d suggest not doing it. You have to do a lot of training to become accredited. But if you’re interested in fine detail and want to help the community I’d say go for it every day. CFA is great at training fire investigators.

    “If you wish to follow your dream or passion, CFA gives you plenty of opportunities to do it – and I think it’s fantastic.”

    • Wayne Munro (right)
    Submitted by News and Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Fellow Louisianan, Trump VA General Counsel Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today introduced President Trump’s nominee for General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr of New Orleans, Louisiana, during his confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
    “In Louisiana, James is known for his passion for service,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Currently, he serves as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and on the Louisiana Veterans Affairs Commission, where he has been a tireless advocate for Louisiana’s veterans. But this just scratches the surface of his impressive career.”
    “I am confident that James will bring legal excellence, integrity, and a mission-first mindset to the role of General Counsel. And most of all, I know he will put our veterans at the forefront of every decision he makes,” concluded Dr. Cassidy. “He has my full support.”
    Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:
    Thank you, Chairman Moran and Ranking Member Blumenthal.
    Today I have the privilege to introduce Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr for his nomination as General Counsel of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
    I also want to welcome his wife, Jasmine, and their newborn son, James, Jr.
    Secretary Collins will try to say he’s hiring a fellow Georgian, but Louisiana is going to claim James.
    In Louisiana, James is known for his passion for service. And I know he will bring this passion to the VA.
    Currently, he serves as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and on the Louisiana Veterans Affairs Commission, where he has been a tireless advocate for Louisiana’s veterans.  
    But this just scratches the surface of his impressive career.
    James has served in the Marine Corps for nearly 20 years as a defense counsel, a Civil Affairs officer, and was deployed during Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq as a staff officer for Lt. General Paul Funk. 
    It was during his time under General Funk, that James earned the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Service Achievement Medal.
    These accolades can speak for themselves, but having a statement of support from a General doesn’t hurt either.
    In a statement submitted to this committee, General Funk states that James’ “personal leadership contributed to the superb success of our mission. This great Marine officer did what Marines do, he added clarity to chaos, and competence where calamity once prevailed. In a complex operational environment, Lieutenant Colonel Baehr played a key role in shaping how our mission was seen by the outside world. His work reflected not just logistical excellence, but sound judgment and strategic insight.”
    Off the battlefield, James prosecuted violent crime and civil corruption as a federal prosecutor in the Eastern District of Louisiana. He also clerked on the Fifth Circuit and advised President Trump on veterans’ issues as a Special Assistant to the President during his first term.
    While advising the White House, he worked to expand access to health care, improve suicide prevention measures, and better the lives of our veterans.
    These are issues James knows first-hand as a veteran.
    He has received care at the New Orleans VA Medical Center. He’s a husband who used a VA home loan to buy his house. And he’s a father who transferred his GI Bill benefits to his son. 
    We all know that our VA can do more for our veterans. That starts with having strong leadership.
    I am confident that James will bring legal excellence, integrity, and a mission-first mindset to the role of General Counsel.
    And most of all, I know he will put our veterans at the forefront of every decision he makes.
    He has my full support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Pushes for Long-Needed Update to Social Security Income Program for Disabled, Elderly Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act to reform the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which has not been updated in nearly 40 years and currently punishes older and disabled Americans for saving for emergencies and their futures. Cassidy’s legislation would update SSI’s asset limits to ensure disabled and elderly Americans are able to prepare themselves for a financial emergency without putting the benefits they rely on to live at risk. 
    “Outdated rules are making disabled Americans pick between a better job and losing their safety net. That’s wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead, let’s encourage work, help people save, and lift them out of poverty.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) in introducing the legislation.
    “A $2,000 rainy-day fund doesn’t go as far as it did in 1989, but that’s all the savings that people who rely on SSI benefits are allowed,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “We shouldn’t punish people who are working hard, saving their money, and planning for the future. Congress must raise the SSI asset limit to help our seniors and Americans with disabilities.”
    Right now, individuals with a disability or those aged 65 and older are only eligible for Supplemental Security Income if they have under $2,000 in assets. SSI’s marriage penalty restricts married couples to a total of $3,000 in financial resources to remain eligible. A study by JPMorganChase suggests that current asset and income limits on federal benefits for people with disabilities make it harder for them to work a part-time job or save money for an emergency. TheSSI Savings Penalty Elimination Actwould raise the SSI asset limits to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples, and index them to inflation moving forward. The last update to SSI asset limits was passed by Congress in 1984 and went into effect in 1989.
    The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act is supported of more than 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities.
    Cassidy and Cortez Masto were joined by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), Patty Murray (D-WA.), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Rick Scott (R-FL) in cosponsoring the legislation. 
    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trips to the playground and jigsaw puzzles: five surprising ways to help children learn to write

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sinéad McCauley Lambe, Assistant Professor, School of Inclusive and Special Education, Dublin City University

    Rachaphak/Shutterstock

    It’s a milestone that leaves parents beaming with pride: the first time their child shakily writes out their own name. And it’s the start of many more key childhood moments, from Christmas lists to writing their own stories.

    If you’re keen to help your child learn to write, you might think about asking them to try to copy shapes, or trace over the dotted outline of a letter. But there’s a lot more that goes into writing. It requires fine motor skills using the hands – and this can be practised through threading beads, rolling playdough and stacking blocks.

    However, while fine motor skills play a central role in getting children ready to write, it doesn’t end there. Handwriting is a complex developmental process, and preparation for handwriting also involves the development of key gross motor skills, as well as visual-perceptual skills.

    I’m a researcher who works on how children learn to write. Below are five ways to help your child to prepare for handwriting that you might not have considered.

    Take them to the playground

    It might not seem that obvious, but a trip to the playground is perfect preparation for handwriting. All that open space and climbing equipment provide ample opportunities for young children to develop their gross motor skills.

    Gross motor skills involve the body’s large muscles and are needed for balance and stability as well as posture and coordination. Think monkey bars – a fantastic and fun way to develop shoulder stability which allows for greater control of the small motor movements of the hands and fingers.

    Another important element of gross motor skills is what’s known as crossing the midline. The midline is an imaginary line that runs down the centre of a child’s body. It plays a central role when developing hand dominance as children learn to reach across their bodies to write. Can your child hang from the monkey bars with their hands crossed? That’s great practice in crossing the midline.

    And all that open space, interspersed with bulky and busy playground equipment, provides the ideal opportunity for children to develop spatial awareness as they duck and dive, swerving to avoid oncoming obstacles. Spatial awareness plays a key role in letter formation, placement and size, as well as spacing and page alignment.

    Lots of blank space

    Through early mark making and scribbling, children explore a range of movements and shapes. This early stage of mark making is essential in laying the foundations for handwriting development as the child develops a growing awareness of space and their place within it.

    Give children space for mark making.
    AnikaNes/Shutterstock

    Look for large blank spaces in and outside of your home that children can use for mark making and drawing. Forget colouring books, and instead think large sticks of chalk on big open pavements, rolls of paper across open floor space, or large sheets of blank paper on an easel.

    Teach them how to look carefully

    Think about asking a young child to copy a shape, or a letter using their pencil. “Just copy the shape” – it’s simple, isn’t it?

    The problem is, it’s not simple. At all.

    It begins with visual perception – the process whereby the brain extracts and organises information, giving meaning to what we see. This makes a collection of lines into a square, for instance. Visual-motor integration is the ability to be able to coordinate fine motor skills and visual-perceptual skills to produce that letter, shape or number in a legible manner.

    The visual component enables children to discriminate between letter shapes to recognise each letter’s specific characteristics, and to identify their orientation. The motor element allows the child to carry out the necessary sequence of movements to form the letter.

    By exposing young children to lots of opportunities to develop their visual-perceptual skills, you can help to prepare them for handwriting. Think richly illustrated picture books, jigsaw puzzles and Where’s Wally books – these help children sort out the meaning in marks and shapes. Picking out shapes, numbers and letters on the street as you walk to the shop together is a good opportunity, too.

    Shapes before letters

    It might be tempting to pick up a colourful ABC practice book with a neat “wipe clean” whiteboard feature to help your child learn to write. But hold off putting it in your shopping basket for now. Before children are ready to write letters formally, they should first be able to copy nine geometric shapes.

    Pre-writing shapes.
    The Conversation

    The ability to copy geometric forms is recognised in research as an indication of writing readiness in a young child. Formal handwriting training should be delayed until a child can successfully copy a vertical line, a horizontal line, a cross, a circle, a right oblique line, a square, a left oblique line, an oblique cross and a triangle.

    Ditch the broken crayons

    There are few things more frustrating for a young child than fading markers, blunt colouring pencils or a box of broken and bruised crayons. My research has found that the quality of writing materials matters when it comes to motivating the reluctant writer to give it a go.

    Providing children with a variety of novel and fun writing materials leads to increased motivation and enjoyment of writing. These could be brightly coloured felt pens, gel pens, highlighters, magic markers and even scented markers and pencils, and don’t forget the finger paints. The messier the better.

    Sinéad McCauley Lambe is the author of Move Write – A Whole-body Sensorimotor Approach to Handwriting programme.

    Move Write is published by Just Rewards Publications.

    – ref. Trips to the playground and jigsaw puzzles: five surprising ways to help children learn to write – https://theconversation.com/trips-to-the-playground-and-jigsaw-puzzles-five-surprising-ways-to-help-children-learn-to-write-250225

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Barry Lyndon at 50: why Kubrick’s most overlooked masterpiece deserves another viewing

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nathan Abrams, Professor of Film Studies, Bangor University

    Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon, which marks its 50th anniversary this year, struggled at the box office when it was released. It remains one of the director’s most under-appreciated films. Unlike 2001: A Space Odyssey or The Shining, which have been endlessly dissected in books and essays, Barry Lyndon has received relatively little scholarly attention – just a single book.

    Perhaps its cool reception can be traced to its slow, contemplative pacing, its meticulously crafted but emotionally restrained storytelling, or its three-hour runtime. It also arrived at an inopportune moment, in the same year as Jaws, a film that would reshape Hollywood forever.

    Yet, Barry Lyndon deserves a second look, not only as one of Kubrick’s most visually striking films but also as an intensely personal project that offers rare insight into the director himself.

    The film follows the rise and fall of Redmond Barry, an ambitious Irishman who reinvents himself as Barry Lyndon in his pursuit of wealth and status. After fleeing his homeland following a duel, Barry navigates the treacherous world of 18th-century Europe.

    He serves as a soldier, a gambler and ultimately marries into aristocracy. However, his social ascent is marred by personal missteps, betrayals and the cold realities of high society.

    The project was born out of failure. Kubrick had spent years preparing for a grand epic about Napoleon, amassing an enormous archive of research and developing meticulous pre-production plans.

    But no studio was willing to finance the project. Unwilling to abandon his obsession with the late 18th century, he turned instead to The Luck of Barry Lyndon, a lesser-known 1844 novel by William Makepeace Thackeray.

    The Barry Lyndon trailer.

    The choice of Thackeray was in keeping with his taste for English writers like Arthur C. Clarke (2001) and Anthony Burgess (A Clockwork Orange). But this was a leap.

    Those previous writers were contemporaries and, Paths of Glory and Spartacus apart, nearly all of Kubrick’s previous films took place in the recent past, near present, or the future. Now he would try his hand at what would essentially be a costume drama. He would be recreating the past rather than creating the future.

    Some saw Barry Lyndon as a mere consolation prize. The film critic Alexander Walker called it a project “born on the rebound,” while production designer Ken Adam described it as a “dress rehearsal” for Napoleon. But Kubrick’s fascination with the Napoleonic era was evident in the film’s DNA.

    Thackeray himself had been fascinated by the French emperor, incorporating him into his novel, Vanity Fair, and writing The Second Funeral of Napoleon in 1841. Barry Lyndon draws heavily from the same historical themes, exploring the illusions and brutal realities of social ambition.

    What captivated Kubrick about Thackeray was his ability to expose the cruelty beneath the polished facade of aristocratic life. The rigid etiquette of the 18th century – a period described variously as an age of gentility, sensibility and enlightenment – demanded an emotional detachment that fascinated the director.

    Thackeray was, in many ways, a 19th-century sociologist, dissecting the class system, conspicuous consumption and the mercenary nature of marriage. These themes resonated deeply with Kubrick, whose films often explored power structures, status and manipulation.

    An outsider’s perspective

    Some critics have noticed a similarity between Kubrick and his lead character. As an American Jew living in north London, married to a German woman, Kubrick felt one step removed from the society around him, perhaps even somewhat of a social pariah. Ryan O’Neal’s casting as Barry was largely a commercial necessity – Kubrick needed a bankable star – but it also added a personal layer.

    Like Kubrick, O’Neal’s Barry is an outsider, the lone American in a European cast, a social climber forever out of place. The novel’s narrator observes that “those who’ve never been out of their country…” lack a certain perspective. It was something that Kubrick, a Bronx-born autodidact who had taught himself everything from chess to classical music, could surely relate to.

    The battle scene from Barry Lyndon.

    This theme of the outsider striving for greatness runs through much of Kubrick’s work. In 1960, he spoke admiringly of “the outsider who is passionately committed to action against the social order,” whether criminals, maniacs, revolutionaries, or dreamers.

    From Johnny Clay in The Killing, to Colonel Dax in Paths of Glory, and from Spartacus to Alex DeLarge in A Clockwork Orange, Kubrick’s protagonists are often men on the fringes of society. Barry Lyndon fits this mould perfectly, though his ambitions ultimately lead to his downfall.



    Read more:
    Stanley Kubrick redefined: recent research challenges myths to reveal the man behind the legend

    But Barry Lyndon is also, unexpectedly, one of Kubrick’s most emotional films. For all its detachment, it contains what might be his most heartbreaking scene, namely Barry’s devastation at the death of his son. In this moment, the film’s rigid, painterly compositions soften, revealing a rare vulnerability in Kubrick’s work.

    Ultimately, Barry Lyndon was more than a historical exercise. It was a deeply personal film, pursued at great financial and artistic risk. Kubrick created a film that is as much about social mobility and exile as it is about 18th-century Europe. If 2001 is a space odyssey, Barry Lyndon is a spatial odyssey, a film that turns the past into something mesmerising yet achingly real.

    Nathan Abrams receives and has previously received external funding, including government funding, foundation, charity and research council grants for this and similar work.

    – ref. Barry Lyndon at 50: why Kubrick’s most overlooked masterpiece deserves another viewing – https://theconversation.com/barry-lyndon-at-50-why-kubricks-most-overlooked-masterpiece-deserves-another-viewing-248484

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: McClellan, Sykes, Warner Reintroduce Bill to Improve Access to Healthy Foods, Eliminate Food Deserts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Congresswoman Emilia Sykes (OH-13) reintroduced the Healthy Food Access for All Americans Act. This legislation would provide incentives to food providers to expand access to healthy foods in underserved communities and reduce the number of food deserts nationwide. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) reintroduced the Senate companion bill.

    “We all know that hungry children cannot learn and reach their full potential. That’s why it’s so important to have affordable, healthy food close to home,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Unfortunately, too many families in Virginia live in food deserts and struggle to feed their children healthy food. I’m grateful to Rep. Sykes and Sen. Warner for their work to bridge this gap and empower families with the resources they need to grow and thrive.”

    Currently, an estimated 18.8 million Americans live in what the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) classifies as a food desert — not living within a mile of a grocery store in urban communities or 10 miles of a grocery store in rural areas. The lack of healthy food options has devastating effects on the health of communities, leading to higher incidence of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. 

    “No American should be denied access to healthy, nutritious foods simply because of the zip code they live in. The Healthy Food Access for All Americans would encourage food providers to establish grocery stores, food banks, and farmers markets in traditionally underserved communities to help ensure all Americans, no matter where they live, can put fresh, affordable food on the table,” said Congresswoman Sykes. “This commonsense legislation will combat food insecurity in our communities and ensure families and children have the nutritious, healthy food they need to thrive.”

    “Fresh and nutritious foods are a cornerstone of health and wellbeing, but too many families in Virginia and across America live in places where these foods are out of reach,” said Senator Warner. “This legislation will help us fight food deserts by incentivizing grocery stores to come to communities that have the hardest time accessing fresh produce.”

    Specifically, the Healthy Food Access for All Americans Act — which defines a grocery market as a retail sales store with at least 35 percent of its selection (or forecasted selection) dedicated to selling fresh produce, poultry, dairy, and deli items — would encourage investment in food deserts across the country that have a poverty rate of 20 percent or higher, or a median family income of less than 80 percent of the median for the state or metro area.

    It would grant tax credits or grants to food providers who service low-access communities and attain a “Special Access Food Provider” (SAFP) certification through the Treasury Department. Incentives would be awarded based on the following structure:

    • New Store Construction – Companies that construct new grocery stores in a food desert will receive a one time 15 percent tax credit after receiving certification.
    • Retrofitting Existing Structures – Companies that make retrofits to an existing store’s healthy food sections can receive a one time 10 percent tax credit after the repairs certify the store as an SAFP.
    • Food Banks – Certified food banks that build new (permanent) structures in food deserts will be eligible to receive a one time grant for 15 percent of their construction costs.
    • Temporary Access Merchants – Certified temporary access merchants (i.e. mobile markets, farmers markets, and some food banks) that are 501(c)(3)s will receive grants for 10 percent of their annual operating costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH TRUMP’S DESTRUCTIVE TARIFFS SET TO START TOMORROW, THE COST TO UPSTATE NY IS A $7 BILLION GUT PUNCH, WITH $6,000+ IN HIGHER PRICES FOR FAMILIES PER YEAR; SENATOR SAYS WE MUST…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    Tuesday, April 1, 2025
    Contact: Ryan Martin, 202-680-0427
    SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH TRUMP’S DESTRUCTIVE TARIFFS SET TO START TOMORROW, REVEALS THE COST TO UPSTATE NY IS A $7 BILLION GUT PUNCH , WITH $6,000+ IN HIGHER PRICES FOR FAMILIES PER YEAR; SENATOR SAYS WE MUST STOP DAMAGING TRADE WAR WITH ALLIES LIKE CANADA AND PROTECT NY FAMILIES, BUSINESSES & JOBS
    Trump’s Tariffs – Set To Start Tomorrow – Could Raise Prices On New Yorkers As Much As $6,500 For Gas, Groceries, Cars And Everyday Goods – All While Decimating Small Businesses, Killing Good-Paying Jobs, Shrinking 401K’s And Damaging Upstate NY’s Vital Tourism Industry
    Schumer Says Stock Market Is Already Hitting Lowest Point In Years Due To Trump Tariff Chaos, Hurting Upstate Seniors’ Retirements – And Leading To Fears Of A Recession
    Schumer: Trump’s Tariffs Mean Higher Prices, Lower Life Savings And Lost Jobs For Upstate Families
    With President Trump’s “Liberation Day” for his destructive tariffs set to start tomorrow, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today revealed data on the devastating impacts of this unstrategic and damaging tariff war on Upstate New York’s families, small businesses, and jobs – increasing costs for families by up to $6,500 for gas, groceries, cars, and common goods and potentially impacting 150,000+ jobs in directly targeted industries across Upstate New York. The senator said he has gotten calls from farmers, worried workers, and factory owners scrambling in the face of coming tariffs, and said it will be NY businesses, seniors and working- and middle-class class families who will be footing the bill for this tariff war  – in the form of higher prices, a slower economy and shrinking life savings.
    “Tomorrow Trump says he will begin imposing his destructive sweeping tariffs, and if that happens it will be a gut punch to Upstate NY’s economy. Plain and simple, Trump’s tariffs are a tax increase on Upstate New York, a massive new destructive national sales tax for all of America,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump’s tariff war has already created chaos, and the economic uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, hurting seniors’ retirements, cratering consumer confidence, and jeopardizing the jobs of thousands of New Yorkers. If this tariff war continues, it could devastate Upstate NY’s economy in ways we haven’t seen since the height of the pandemic. President Trump has said straight up that he doesn’t care if prices go up – Well, I do. I am all for addressing trade imbalances. In fact, Trump should be spending far more time going after China’s long-standing trade cheating that has robbed upstate NY of jobs for far too long, rather than picking a trade war with Canada that will only cost more NY jobs and drive up prices for everyone.”
    Schumer explained that consumers bear the cost of tariffs, and Trump’s tariff war is expected to increase costs for American families by up to $6,500 according to the latest analysis of his sweeping plans. According to the Yale Budget Lab, this would increase costs for the average American family by up to:
    Schumer added, “Trump’s tariffs are already slowing sales, and tourism from Canada is down, hurting Upstate’s restaurants and Main Streets. No matter which way you slice it, costs are going to sky rocket for consumers. If you’re in Upstate New York, you’ll feel it first, and worse than just about anywhere in the country. We need everyone, especially NY Republicans, to stand up against Trump’s senseless, job-killing, cost-increasing tax on Upstate New Yorkers.”
    Rising costs will force families to reconsider how they spend their money, which is already causing consumer confidence to plummet said Schumer, and NY families and businesses are expected to pay approximately $7.17 billion total due to Trump’s tariffs, including and $568 million on steel and aluminum.
    According to the New York Times, nearly 8 million Americans work in industries targeted by Trump’s tariffs, including approximately 159,400 in Upstate New York. A regional breakdown of jobs in industries directly impacted by tariffs based on the New York Times analysis can be found below, which does not even account for all the related jobs such as the tourism industry that are also being impacted by the damage of this trade war:

    NY Region

    Jobs In Industries Directly Targeted by Tariffs Most At Risk

    Capital Region

    14,400

    Western New York

    30,100

    Rochester-Finger Lakes

    33,200

    Central New York

    16,100

    Hudson Valley

    27,800

    Southern Tier

    17,300

    Mohawk Valley

    10,000

    North Country

    6,100

    UPSTATE NY TOTAL

    155,000

    Canada is New York State’s top importer and exporter, last year importing $20.5 billion of goods from Canada and exporting $17.4 billion. 70% of Canadian imports are used to manufacture American-made products. Every day, $2.5 billion worth of goods cross the United States-Canada border. People across Upstate New York will especially feel the impact of Trump’s tariffs on Canada given the interconnection of Upstate NY’s economy and trade with Canada.

    What Upstate NY Will See

    Impacts

    Increasing costs for businesses in every industry

    $6 billion in lumber and wood products for the U.S. homebuilding industry came from Canada in 2024, exacerbating costs for affordable housing.

    Canadian tourism slowing down, hurting local businesses

    The Canadian government is encouraging Canadians to boycott travel to the United States, according to the New York Times. Maine has been seeing significant cancellations and Upstate New York could be next on the chopping block, which would have devastating impacts especially with the summer tourist season rapidly approaching.
    45% of Quebecois who had planned vacations in the U.S. this year were now canceling those plans, leading to $3 billion in lost revenue for U.S. businesses, according to the Quebec Tourism Industry Alliance.
    Car crossings from Canada through Plattsburgh in the North Country were down 16% from February 2024, according to the Albany Times Union. There is a projected overall 21% reduction in American travel from Canada.

    Higher costs at the grocery store for families and local restaurants

    Canada leads in exports of grain, livestock and meats, poultry, and more, according to CNN. In 2023, the United States imported about $40 billion in agricultural food products from Canada, ranging from baked goods to canola oil, according to Eater.
    70% of maple syrup globally comes from Canada, and more than 60% of maple exports went to the United States which would get more expensive, according to the New York Times.
    The price of beef could rise because Canadian ranchers are afraid of Trump’s tariffs and shrinking cattle herds, according to Reuters. Beef and pork account for nearly $4 billion in Canadian imports, according to Eater.
    The price of groceries could increase by $185 – or approximately 3% – every year, according to Eater.

    Nearly 160,000 Upstate New York jobs in industries targeted by tariffs at risk, plus many more in related industries like tourism

    Over 680,000 New York jobs depend on trade with Canada. Nearly 160,000 jobs in Upstate New York are in industries directly targeted by Trump’s tariffs and at risk, according to the New York Times.
    The U.S. Travel Association warned that even a 10% reduction in Canadian travelers would translate to $2.1 billion in lost spending and jeopardize 140,000 hospitality jobs nationwide, according to Forbes, many of which would be in Upstate NY as one of the most popular close by destinations.

    Higher electricity, heating, and gas bills for our families, small businesses, and manufacturers

    Electricity is a $7 billion commodity market in New York, and the state imports hundreds of millions of dollars of Canadian electricity annually.
    While the amount varies by month and year, the reliable clean power imported from Canadian dams is critical, and a tariff on Canadian electricity imports would likely raise rates for New Yorkers.
    In response to the Schumer-Hochul letter to New York energy regulators on the tariffs, agency staff assert that electricity costs could increase by $42 to $105 million per year, and that:
    Gasoline prices could increase by $26 million per year
    Heating oil costs could increase by $57 million per year
    Diesel costs could increase by $48 million per year
    Propane costs could increase by $16 million per year; and
    Natural gas costs could increase by $4.4 million per year

    Trump has already delayed the start of his tariffs twice, creating uncertainty for families and small businesses and triggering volatility for the American economy. Trump’s tariff uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, hurting Upstate New York seniors’ retirements. According to Bloomberg, the stock market rout has intensified in anticipation of Trump’s next tariff rollout, with concerns about recessions leaving the S&P 500 Index on track for its worst quarter compared to the rest of the world since the 1980s.
    Trump in February declared an emergency on fentanyl, which is how he is justifying tariffs on goods from Canada. Schumer explained that less than 0.2% of fentanyl entering the United States comes from Canada, and instead of helping combat the fentanyl crisis, these tariffs will only harm American families, small businesses, and jobs. Schumer said the Senate will vote on a resolution later today terminating Trump’s national emergency that is justifying his destructive tariffs that would require Republican support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    Legislation defunds federal efforts to interfere in local zoning through Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing and other means  
     
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced the Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act, a bill which denies all federal funding for implementing the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s “Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Final Rule” and any other race or equity-based schemes to altar socioeconomic outcomes at the federal level. The legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ).
    “Every American should be free to choose where to live, and every community should be free to zone its neighborhoods and compete for new residents according to its distinct values,” said Sen. Lee. “I congratulate President Trump and HUD Secretary Scott Turner for ending this egregious Obama-era attempt at social engineering, and my legislation would ban such misguided policies in the future.” 
    “Overreaching housing regulations first imposed by Barack Obama and re-upped by Joe Biden have extorted communities into giving up control of local zoning decisions while driving up the cost of affordable housing,” said Rep. Gosar.“By rejecting intrusive Washington, D.C. mandates, I am proud to support Senator Lee’s efforts to codify into law the recent decision by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to repeal the onerous Obama-Biden rules that have punished neighborhoods for refusing to fall in line with big government’s takeover of our communities.”
    BACKGROUND 
    During the Obama administration, the Department of Housing and Urban Development implemented the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule (AFFH) for the purposes of creating a framework to manufacture “equitable” socioeconomic outcomes from local zoning decisions that would not otherwise occur in a free market without federal government mandates. President Trump repealed the rule in 2020, but HUD under President Biden re-implemented the rule in 2021, forcing President Trump, via HUD Secretary Scott Turner, to terminate the AFFH rule again just a few weeks ago.
    The Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act restricts the use of federal funds to implement AFFH rulemaking in the future and requires federal officials to find ways to restore principles of Federalism:
    • No Federal funds may be used to design, build, maintain, utilize, or provide access to a federal database of geospatial information on community racial disparities or disparities in access to affordable housing.
    • HUD is required to consult with state/local government and public housing agencies to develop recommendations to further the purposes and policies of the Fair Housing Act in ways other than through new federal regulations. This is meant to be a report on the federalism issues within the current public housing regime.
    You can read the one-pager HERE. 
    You can read the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phillips 66 completes acquisition of EPIC NGL

    Source: Phillips

    HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) announced today the completion of its previously announced acquisition of EPIC Y-Grade GP, LLC and EPIC Y-Grade, LP, which own various subsidiaries and long-haul natural gas liquids pipelines, fractionation facilities and distribution systems (“EPIC NGL”) for total cash consideration of approximately $2.2 billion.
    “This transaction strengthens our position as a leading integrated downstream energy provider,” said Don Baldridge, Phillips 66 executive vice president of Midstream & Chemicals. “We are evolving our portfolio and enhancing our ability to provide seamless and efficient delivery of energy products. Phillips 66 will offer producers unparalleled flow assurance, while advancing a strategy that is expected to deliver attractive returns and create long-term value for our shareholders.”
    The EPIC NGL business consists of two fractionators (170 MBD) near Corpus Christi, Texas, approximately 350 miles of purity distribution pipelines and an approximately 885-mile NGL pipeline (175 MBD) linking production supplies in the Delaware, Midland and Eagle Ford basins to fractionation complexes and the Phillips 66 Sweeny Hub.
    The expansion project from 175 MBD to 225 MBD for the NGL pipeline is expected to be completed in the second quarter. A second expansion to increase capacity to 350 MBD has already been sanctioned with completion expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
    The acquired assets connect Permian production to Gulf Coast refiners, petrochemical companies and export markets, and are highly integrated with the Phillips 66 asset base.
    About Phillips 66
    Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.

    Cautionary Statement for the Purposes of the “Safe Harbor” Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 — This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: the possibility that Phillips 66 may not fully realize the expected benefits of the completed transaction; the risk of any unexpected costs or expenses resulting from the completed transaction; changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting our businesses generally as set forth in Phillips 66’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Source: Phillips 66

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Announces More NC Counties to Receive High-Speed Internet

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein Announces More NC Counties to Receive High-Speed Internet

    Governor Josh Stein Announces More NC Counties to Receive High-Speed Internet
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced more than $31 million in Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program projects, which will connect 10,810 households and businesses in 14 counties to high-speed internet. 

    “No matter where you live in the state, you should have access to high-speed internet,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Broadband is critical to providing more economic opportunity to every corner of the state, and I am proud to create a stronger and more connected North Carolina for every person and small business owner.”

    “Thanks to these projects, North Carolinians across the state will be getting high-speed internet access so they can work, access online learning opportunities, participate in telehealth, and build a stronger state economy,” said NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Teena Piccione. “We will continue to announce CAB project awards every two weeks throughout April in order to help connect more homes and businesses.”  

    These projects will be funded by more than $22.1 million from the federal American Rescue Plan, which is awarded by NCDIT, and by nearly $9.6 million from selected broadband providers:

    • Avery: SkyBest Communications, Inc. This award will provide high-speed internet access to 805 homes or businesses (99.38% of the county’s 810 eligible locations).
    • Beaufort: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 414 homes or businesses (92.83% of the county’s 446 eligible locations).
    • Buncombe: Frontier Communications of the Carolinas, LLC. This award will provide high-speed internet access to 132 homes or businesses (6.35% of the county’s 2,079 eligible locations).
    • Cumberland: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 496 homes or businesses (60.71% of the county’s 817 eligible locations).
    • Dare: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 20 homes or businesses (19.61% of the county’s 102 eligible locations).
    • Hyde: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 1,282 homes or businesses (95.25% of the county’s 1,346 eligible locations).
    • Jones: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 79 homes or businesses (49.38% of the county’s 160 eligible locations).
    • Nash: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 5,693 unserved and underserved homes or businesses (86.04% of the county’s 6,646 eligible locations).
    • Pamlico: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 100 homes or businesses (61.35% of the county’s 163 eligible locations).
    • Pasquotank: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 87 homes or businesses (84.47% of the county’s 103 eligible locations).
    • Swain: Zito West Holding, LLC (Zito Media). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 509 homes or businesses (42.74% of the county’s 1,191 eligible locations).
    • Transylvania: Citizens Telephone Company (Comporium Communications). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 473 homes or businesses (31.94% of the county’s 1,481 eligible locations).
    • Wake: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 144 homes or businesses (11.51% of the county’s 1,251 eligible locations).
    • Yancey: French Broad Electric Membership Corporation. This award will provide high-speed internet access to 576 homes or businesses (80.67% of the county’s 714 eligible locations)

    The CAB program’s procurement process creates a partnership between counties and NCDIT to identify areas that need access and solicits proposals from prequalified internet service providers. Awardees must agree to provide high-speed service that reliably meets or exceeds speeds of 100 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload.

    As part of Governor Josh Stein’s initiative to close the digital divide, these CAB program awards will be added in April to NCDIT’s dashboards, which show details and progress on programs funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The awards add to the existing $516 million in Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) grants, as well as previous CAB projects that will connect close to 190,000 North Carolina households and businesses to high-speed internet.

    For more information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity, visit ncbroadband.gov.    

    Apr 1, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Stands With Pennsylvania Hardwoods Companies in Mifflin County to Highlight Commonwealth’s Investments in Agriculture Industry

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 01, 2025 – Reedsville, PA

    Governor Shapiro Stands With Pennsylvania Hardwoods Companies in Mifflin County to Highlight Commonwealth’s Investments in Agriculture Industry

    Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding visited Metzler Forest Products in Mifflin County to highlight how strategic Commonwealth investments – like the Shapiro Administration’s first-in-the-nation Agricultural Innovation Grant Program – are strengthening Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry, creating jobs, and driving economic growth. These investments provide grants, loans, and technical support to farmers and businesses adopting cutting-edge technologies, spurring growth, improving efficiency, and ensuring Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of the industry. During the visit, the Governor and Secretary Redding toured the facility to see how Metzler will use its $550,000 in grant funding – announced in January – to enhance biochar production, improve energy efficiency, and expand its manufacturing capabilities.

    Governor Shapiro’s visit comes amid growing economic uncertainty over new federal tariffs, particularly impacting Pennsylvania’s nation-leading hardwoods industry, which plays a critical role in the Commonwealth’s agriculture and manufacturing sectors. Since taking office, the Governor has placed significant emphasis on supporting and growing Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry – bringing Democrats and Republicans together to invest in new technologies, strengthen supply chains, and drive economic growth for farmers and producers. He remains committed to ensuring Pennsylvania’s farmers have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed. The Commonwealth is home to 50,000 farms, contributing $132 billion to the economy and supporting nearly 600,000 jobs.

    “From day one, my Administration has stood up for Pennsylvania’s farmers and our ag sector – investing in innovation, expanding opportunity, and cutting costs. While the federal government imposes policies that hurt our economy, Pennsylvania is leading the way in driving economic growth – investing in agricultural innovation, supporting our manufacturers, and delivering real results for farmers and their families,” said Governor Shapiro. “Tariffs are taxes, plain and simple. They make it harder for our farmers to do business, weaken their competitiveness in key markets, and trigger retaliatory tariffs on Pennsylvania goods. The last thing Pennsylvanians need is Washington, D.C., raising taxes and driving up costs I will keep working to cut costs, lower taxes, and create more economic opportunity for all Pennsylvanians.”

    Speaker list:
    Nate Metzler, General Manager, Metzler Forest Products
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Stephanie Phillips-Taggart, Executive Director, Keystone Wood Products Association
    Nick Gilson, Founder & CEO, Gilson Snow
    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Mifflin County Commissioner Kevin Kodish

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Presidential Message on National Financial Literacy Month, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The foundation of American economic prosperity is a society empowered with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions to achieve the American Dream.  During National Financial Literacy Month, we commit to providing critical resources for every American, young and old, helping them invest in a brighter, more secure future.
    Financial independence allows each of us the opportunity to diligently save and freely invest in our robust, and rapidly evolving economy.  As part of my recent effort to strengthen American leadership in digital financial technology, my Administration is supporting the responsible growth and use of digital assets, blockchain technology, and related technologies across all sectors of the economy.  The United States is the best, most innovative  in the world, and we want everyone to invest in, and reap the benefits of, expanding our nation’s prosperity.
    Research shows financial literacy leads to greater investments, higher retirement savings, and ultimately more household wealth.  It is essential for fostering a healthy and efficient marketplace.  The Financial Literacy and Education Commission is a body chaired by the Secretary of the Treasury and comprised of the heads of 23 federal agencies and the White House Domestic Policy Council.  The Commission plays a pivotal role in financial literacy by assessing the effectiveness of financial education programs and promoting practices that empower American families.
    Upon taking office, I took immediate action to end the cost-of-living crisis, ordering all federal agencies to untangle the economy from crippling regulatory overreach—delivering long overdue relief to hardworking American families.  Under my leadership, we will continue to strengthen and support American families by eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security while extending the historic tax cuts from my first term.  We are also deregulating and collaborating with employers and local partners to help Americans build more secure and prosperous futures for themselves and their families.
    We will never stop fighting to put more money back in the pockets of our overburdened taxpayers and to end the waste, fraud, and abuse in Government. With enhanced financial literacy, Americans are forging their own economic destinies free from unnecessary government interference.  As President, I will revive the American Dream, turning it from a relic of the past to a promise for the future in our new Golden Age.
    During this National Financial Literacy Month, I urge families, communities, schools, and institutions to commit to bolstering their financial knowledge.  There are amazing resources available to you and your family through the Department of the Treasury’s website that will assist you in making sound financial decisions.  Together, we can all protect each American’s right to economic freedom, securing the promise of prosperity for generations to come.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Illegal Border Crossings Hit New Record Low in March

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Illegal crossings along the southern border reached another new low last month as President Donald J. Trump makes good on his promise to stop the invasion and secure the homeland.
    It’s called the “Trump Effect.”
    In March, Border Patrol encountered just 7,181 illegal immigrants at the southern border.
    Compared to the same month under Biden, that represents a 95% decrease from 2024 (137,473), a 96% decrease from 2023 (163,672), and a 97% decrease from 2022 (211,181).

    The Los Angeles Times reports “migrant crossings have slowed to a near halt” along the California-Mexico border, where Border Patrol agents are making just “30 to 40 arrests per day … down from more than 1,200 per day during the height of migrant arrivals to the region in April.”

    (Source: New York Post)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham, Blumenthal Lead 50 Senators In Introducing Hard-Hitting Russia Sanctions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) led 50 U.S. Senators – evenly divided by party affiliation – to introduce primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.

    These sanctions would be imposed if Russia refuses to engage in good faith negotiations for a lasting peace with Ukraine or initiates another effort, including military invasion, that undermines the sovereignty of Ukraine after peace is negotiated. The legislation also imposes a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.

    “We are pleased to announce that we have received overwhelming bipartisan support for our primary and secondary sanctions legislation against Russia. The sanctions against Russia require tariffs on countries who purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products. They are hard hitting for a reason.

    “The dominating view in the United States Senate is that Russia is the aggressor, and that this horrific war and Putin’s aggression must end now and be deterred in the future.

    “We share President Trump’s frustration with Russia when it comes to obtaining a ceasefire, and support President Trump’s desire to achieve a lasting, just and honorable peace.

    “In 1994, as part of the Budapest Memorandum Ukraine gave up approximately 1,700 nuclear weapons with a promise from the U.S., Russia and United Kingdom that Ukraine’s sovereignty would be honored in the future. This failed to deter Russian aggression. In 2014 and 2015, the Minsk agreements were reached to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but again, it did nothing to deter future aggression. In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine once more, leading to deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and the displacement of millions.

    “It is our hope that in 2025, President Trump and his team will achieve what has eluded the world in the past: ending Russian aggression against Ukraine permanently and ensuring the survivability of a free and democratic Ukraine.

    “These sanctions against Russia are at the ready and will receive overwhelming bipartisan, bicameral support if presented to the Senate and House for a vote.

    “We support an immediate ceasefire to secure a lasting, honorable peace.”

    The sanctions are cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Dick Durbin (D-Illinois), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Angus King (I-Maine), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), John Curtis (R-Utah), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Maryland), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Elissa Slotkin (D-Michigan), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Adam Schiff (D-California), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island).

    Companion legislation is being introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pennsylvania), Mike Quigley (D-Illinois), Joe Wilson (R-South Carolina) and Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: DR Congo: Surging violence as armed groups target civilians in the east, Human Rights Council hears

    Source: United Nations 2

    Human Rights

    Civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with 602 victims of extrajudicial or summary executions in North and South Kivu recorded over just two months, the Human Rights Council heard on Tuesday.

    The grim revelation emerged during a high-level discussion at the UN in Geneva on the human rights situation in DRC.

    ​​The Council – the UN’s foremost human rights forum – also heard updates on allegations of ongoing abuses in South Sudan and the Central African Republic.

    Surging violence

    Despite best efforts, armed groups including the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel forces have made major recent gains – occupying cities such as Goma and Bukavu – causing mass displacement.

    Conflict-related sexual violence “is being committed by all parties,” warned UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Nada Al-Nashif, citing a 270 per cent spike in reported cases since January.

    “Any plans for a sustainable peace must tackle the root causes of the conflict, including the illegal exploitation of the national wealth that lies in natural resources,” she said, also calling for action against hate speech and corruption.

    She underscored the alarming scale of the crisis: nearly 26 million people face food insecurity, and over 7.8 million are now displaced nationwide. In the east – where multiple armed groups have battled national forces and allied militia for years – more than 1.6 million children are out of school.

    Renewed conflict and repression in South Sudan

    Turning to South Sudan, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) Global Operations Division Director, Maarit Kohonen Sheriff, painted a stark picture of escalating violence and political tension.

    She noted a “severe security, human rights and humanitarian crisis,” including deadly attacks in Upper Nile State and aerial bombardments that have displaced civilians and destroyed infrastructure.

    The Council heard that arrests and detentions linked to political affiliations, including members of the leading opposition militia, known as the SPLM-IO, have raised serious concerns, with some detainees held without access to legal representation or external monitoring.

    “The recent house arrest of First Vice President, Riek Machar is alarming,” Ms. Sheriff said, warning of threats to the 2018 power-sharing arrangement under the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

    Despite some progress – including new transitional justice laws and the creation of a human rights defenders’ network in Unity State – civic space remains severely restricted, and documented cases of conflict-related sexual violence have risen by 72 per cent compared to the previous year.

    Urgent funding needs

    Efforts to train prosecutors and police on investigating sexual violence were highlighted as positive, but Ms. Sheriff emphasised the urgent need for funding and international support.

    “Human rights technical cooperation efforts will only bear fruit if the parties in South Sudan recommit to the peace agreement,” she said.

    The international community must continue to support nation-building efforts and help “prevent a relapse into civil war,” she further emphasised.

    Fragile gains in Central African Republic

    The Council also heard updates from the Central African Republic (CAR), with Ms. Sheriff recognising the Government’s progress in adopting policies to promote human rights, including new protections for human rights defenders.

    Nevertheless, she stressed that the situation “remains difficult”, with violations still being committed by all parties to the conflict.

    Ms. Sheriff highlighted atrocities by armed groups such as the Azandé Ani Kpi Gbé militia in Haut-Oubangui, compounded by spillover violence from Sudan

    “An effective decentralisation process is essential for responsible governance,” she told the Council, urging inclusive local elections and more civic participation, especially by women and youth.

    Transparent justice

    Independent Expert Yao Agbetse echoed her call, urging full implementation of national reforms and increased transparency in justice. While noting progress, he warned that rights violations remain widespread, particularly in areas under armed group control.

    CAR’s Justice Minister, Arnaud Djoubaye Abazene, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to extending judicial institutions across the country.

    “The population is thirsty for justice,” he said, citing efforts to expand courts and upcoming local elections as signs of resolve.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –