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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £15 million food surplus fund now open for applications

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Food redistribution charities can submit applications for grants starting at £20,000

    Food redistribution charities can now submit applications for a new £15 million Government scheme, which is helping to ensure surplus food is delivered to those who need it.  

    Every year, an estimated 330,000 tonnes of edible food is either wasted or repurposed as animal feed before leaving farm gates. This food should be going onto the nation’s plates, but charities often lack the resources to salvage it and provide it to the most vulnerable. 

    The new Tackling Food Surplus at the Farm Gate scheme will strengthen links between farms and charities to help solve the problem of food surplus on farms, with grants starting from £20,000 to help organisations fight hunger in communities.  

    From today (Friday 7 February), applicants can submit bids outlining how they intend to form relationships with farmers to access any surplus food, and how they would seek to increase their capacity to redistribute this food to communities.  

    The funding can go towards purchasing new packaging and labelling equipment and vehicles to move goods from farms to a redistribution organisation, as well as new equipment, like fridges or freezers, to safely store food and ensure it lasts longer.  

    The fund is open to food redistribution charities and any groups with an interest are encouraged to apply. 

    Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said:

    Nobody wants to see good food go to waste – especially farmers who work hard to put food on our nation’s tables. This fund will help charities work more closely with farmers to create new ways to get fresh produce to the people who need it most. 

    I encourage our brilliant, dedicated redistribution charities and non-profits to apply for this funding to ensure more British fruit and veg gets to those who need it most.

    In a joint statement, the CEOs of The Bread and Butter Thing, City Harvest, FareShare, The Felix Project and Co-Chairs of The Xcess Group said:

    As leaders of the surplus food redistribution sector and following years of campaigning, we are delighted to welcome the launch of this fund ahead of British growing season. 

    It presents an opportunity to make a profound impact by empowering local charities and community organisations. These groups are the backbone of British society, and we are proud to support them. 

    By working across the charitable redistribution sector, we can help ensure that this scheme is implemented efficiently through our joint capacity, delivers tangible value to taxpayers, and helps millions of meals reach as many people as possible at a time of considerable need. 

    Applications can be submitted online until 11:55am on 13 March 2025.  

    There is more to come as the Government moves to ensure the throwaway society is ended for good.  

    A new Circular Economy Taskforce, comprising members from industry, academia, and civil society across the UK, has been set up. They will lead on the development of a Circular Economy Strategy for England, which will outline how individual sectors can contribute to ambitions in this area.   

    This is alongside continued support for the Courtauld Commitment 2030, managed by environmental NGO WRAP, which looks to deliver a more sustainable supply chain and reduce food waste in the home – tackling food waste and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water usage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Return of 35 Malaysian Chevening scholars concludes year-long Chevening 40th anniversary celebrations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    35 Malaysians have returned home after completing their post-graduate studies in the UK under the Chevening Awards Programme.

    Acting Deputy British High Commissioner Tom Shepherd with the 35 returning Malaysian Chevening scholars

    This cohort saw 34 scholars completing their Master’s degree and one scholar completing an Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies fellowship programme. They are the 40th batch of Malaysian Chevening alumni since the establishment of the scholarship programme in 1983, and their return also marks the conclusion of the year-long 40th anniversary of the Chevening Awards

    Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Tom Shepherd, hosted a reception today to welcome home the 2023/24 cohort of scholars. In congratulating the returning scholars, Sheperd said:

    The UK’s commitment to education and fostering global talent remains steadfast and the Chevening Programme is a great example of this. Strengthening the bond between the UK and Malaysia, these alumni have returned not only equipped with invaluable knowledge and skills but empowered to make a real difference in Malaysia, contributing to its continued growth and prosperity.

    The Chevening Award is the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded and administered by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. This is complemented by generous sponsorships by Malaysian corporate partners including Yayasan Khazanah, CIMB Foundation and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation. British universities are also providing additional funding in support of the Chevening programme. 

    Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah, KGB, AO, Founder and Chairman of the Sunway Group and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation said:

    The Chevening Scholarships Scheme has recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary and has, over the years, nurtured key talent in many countries in the world. The Scholarships have become a byword for excellence, prestige, loyalty and satisfaction. It has been JCF’s pleasure to support a Chevening Scholarship since 2018, and we look forward to doing so for many years in the future. This is a flagship programme in our links with the United Kingdom, which have seen us partner with Oxford, Cambridge, Lancaster, and the Royal College of Physicians.

    Norhidayah Aslah, Head of Scholarship, Yayasan Hasanah, said:

    Yayasan Khazanah is proud to support and celebrate the return of our Chevening scholars, who have gained invaluable global perspectives and expertise. Their experiences and insights will contribute significantly to Malaysia’s growth and development. We look forward to seeing them apply their knowledge, drive positive change, and make a lasting impact in their respective fields.

    Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Foundation said:

    CIMB Foundation is deeply committed to uplifting communities and driving positive societal impact through education, a core impact area that aligns with Chevening Scholarship. By investing in learning and development, we empower outstanding individuals with the expertise and leadership skills needed to drive meaningful change.

    The returning batch of Malaysian Chevening scholars from the 2023/24 academic year have graduated from disciplines such as Medical Ultrasound, Film Aesthetics, and Conservation and International Wildlife Trade. They attended prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford, King’s College London and London School of Economics.

    Scholar Mandeep Singh who got a Masters in Anthropology and Development from London School of Economics and Political Science said:

    I am glad I made my voice count during my year in the LSE. While I got to contribute to various intellectual debates concerning the Global South, I did not lose sight of the everyday challenges which left economic growth precarious for the many. Through my postgraduate studies, I have urged anthropologists to play an active role in making development policies fair and just. I hope to work with public and social sectors to make this a case in Malaysia.

    Scholar Nur Ezzah, who attended SOAS, University of London and obtained a Master’s in Human Rights, Conflict and Justice, said:

    My Masters provided me with an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding human rights issues and equipped me with the tools to critically analyse policies and legislation through a human rights lens. My current role allows me to advocate for marginalised communities, ensuring that human rights principles are integrated into policies and legislation, fostering social justice and equality. My most memorable experience during my Chevening year was attending the Hay Festival of Literature and Arts in Hay-On-Wye, where I met some of my favourite authors and camped under the stars in that charming book town.

    Malaysia is the second largest recipient of Chevening awards in ASEAN and the 35 returning scholars are now part of the 2,000-strong Chevening Alumni in Malaysia.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s railway passenger trips exceed 300M during ongoing Spring Festival travel rush

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s railways have handled over 300 million passenger trips during the ongoing 40-day Spring Festival travel rush, the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (China Railway) said on Friday.
    As of Thursday, the country’s railway passenger trips during this period had reached 310 million, according to China Railway.
    Railway passenger trips on Thursday alone totaled 15.14 million, data revealed.
    Railway departments across the country have allocated transportation capacity scientifically, strengthened travel services, and ensured that passengers have safe, orderly and comfortable journeys.
    Chinese authorities expect an unprecedented 9 billion inter-regional trips during this year’s Spring Festival travel rush.
    This travel surge, the world’s largest annual human migration, kicked off on Jan. 14 and will continue through Feb. 22 this year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets ROK National Assembly speaker

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday met with National Assembly Speaker of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Woo Won-shik in Harbin, capital city of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province.

    Woo is here to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Harbin to host Asian Winter Games for second time after 29 years

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

    HARBIN, Feb. 7 — With the opening ceremony of the ninth Asian Winter Games to be staged on Friday night, Harbin is embracing the event for a second time after having hosted the third edition of the Games 29 years ago.

    The opening ceremony will be held at the Harbin International Conference, Exhibition and Sports Center, as well as a branch venue at the Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world’s largest ice-and-snow theme park.

    In February 1996, the third Asian Winter Games took place in Harbin with a participation of over 450 athletes. Hosts China topped the medal tally with 15 gold, seven silver, and 15 bronze medals.

    The upcoming Asian Winter Games has been long-awaited since Harbin won the bid for the Games in July 2023. Over 1,200 athletes from 34 countries and regions across Asia will compete, making this edition the largest in terms of participating delegations and athletes.

    “Harbin did a great job after taking the Games two years ago. The organizers prepared the facilities here and all the Games’ requirements in a very short time and in a very professional way,” said Husain Al Musallam, director general of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).

    54-year-old Wang Lehui, who worked as an ice maintenance staff member at both the 3rd and 9th Asian Winter Games, was impressed with the city’s development in the intervening years. “In the past 29 years, infrastructure and facilities have improved significantly, and the development of winter sports has reached new heights. Harbin has become a renowned modern city with a growing global reputation,” he said.

    At Harbin 2025, teams including Cambodia and Saudi Arabia will make history by making their Asian Winter Games debuts. In 2029, Saudi Arabia’s Trojena will host the next edition of the Games, marking the first Asian Winter Games to be held in west Asia.

    Yu Zaiqing, an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, noted, “I am delighted to see more athletes competing in the Asian Winter Games. Southeast Asian and west Asian countries and regions tried their best to cultivate winter sports athletes despite unfavorable climate factors, showing their passion for winter sports.”

    The 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games represents the latest international comprehensive winter sports event held in China since the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, and also serves as a valuable training opportunity for athletes ahead of the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

    Since Beijing 2022, China has continued to expand on the achievement of engaging 300 million people in winter sports, and boosting the country’s ice-snow economy.

    “Beijing 2022 leaves lasting legacies for the development of winter sports, and the Asian Winter Games will also shine on the international stage in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, a cradle of China’s winter sports champions with a profound history,” said Zou Xinxian, a professor at Beijing Sport University.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Full text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at welcoming banquet of opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games

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

    Full text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at welcoming banquet of opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games

    HARBIN, Feb. 7 — Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on Friday hosted a banquet in China’s northeastern city of Harbin to welcome international dignitaries who are here to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games.

    The following is the full text of Xi’s remarks at the banquet:

    Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping

    President of the People’s Republic of China

    At the Welcoming Banquet of the Opening Ceremony

    Of the Ninth Asian Winter Games Harbin

    Harbin, February 7, 2025

    Distinguished Colleagues,

    Your Excellency IOC President Thomas Bach,

    Your Excellency OCA Vice President Timothy Tsun Ting Fok,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Friends,

    As the Chinese people celebrate the Spring Festival, I wish to extend, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, and also in the name of my wife and myself, a warm welcome and festive greetings to all the distinguished guests!

    The cauldron of the Ninth Asian Winter Games will be lit tonight. From the Olympic Winter Games Beijing to the Asian Winter Games Harbin, the passion in China for ice and snow has swept across the nation. It has also invigorated winter sports around the world. The current Asian Winter Games sets a new record in its history in the numbers of participating countries, regions and athletes. I believe that with the joint efforts of the Olympic Council of Asia and delegations from all participating countries and regions, Harbin will present to the world a great sports event that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian and spectacular, thus writing a new, magnificent chapter of ice and snow sports.

    The theme of the Ninth Asian Winter Games — “Dream of Winter, Love among Asia” — embodies the shared aspiration and desire of the Asian people for peace, development and friendship.

    We should uphold our shared dream for tranquility and harmony. Peace is as pure as ice and snow. No matter how the international landscape evolves, we should join hands together to meet all kinds of security challenges and contribute Asian strength to building an equal and orderly multipolar world.

    We should pursue our shared aspiration for prosperity and development. Winter sports are fascinating because they require passion and collaboration. We should work together to promote progress and development, and provide sustained drive for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

    We should fulfill our shared desire for friendship and affinity. Every snowflake is unique, and every civilization is distinctive. Asia is a convergence of the world’s diverse civilizations. We should promote inclusiveness, coexistence and mutual learning, and contribute more to the development and progress of human civilization.

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Friends,

    Harbin, the renowned “Ice City,” is the birthplace of China’s modern winter sports. We feel truly in here that ice and snow are as valuable as gold and silver. The ice and snow culture and economy are becoming a new driving force for the high-quality development of Harbin and a new bond linking the city and the world. We welcome you to explore this hospitable, open and inclusive land of black soil, and to trace the path of Chinese modernization.

    China has just entered the Year of the Snake. Among the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, the snake represents wisdom and agility. The Year of the Snake will surely brim with vigor and vitality. I wish all athletes excellent performance with the agility of the snake. May you all have beautiful and unforgettable memories of ice and snow in Harbin.

    Now, I would like to propose a toast:

    To the great success of the Ninth Asian Winter Games;

    To the dynamic development of the Olympic Movement;

    To the solidarity and friendship of the Asian people; and

    To the health of all the distinguished guests and your families.

    Cheers!

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Commemorative stamp issued by China Post for Asian Winter Games

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

    Commemorative stamp issued by China Post for Asian Winter Games

    Updated: February 7, 2025 19:55 Xinhua
    The image showcases the commemorative stamp issued by China Post on Feb. 7, 2025 for the 9th Asian Winter Games. The stamp set consists of a single stamp with a face value of 1.2 yuan (about 0.16 U.S. dollars). [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “M” Mark status awarded to Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 and Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    “M” Mark status awarded to Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 and Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show
    “M” Mark status awarded to Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 and Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Major Sports Events Committee:      The Major Sports Events Committee (MSEC) has awarded “M” Mark status to the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 (February 9) and the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show (February 14 to 16).           The Chairman of the MSEC, Mr Wilfred Ng, said today (February 7), “The Hong Kong Marathon is the largest annual long-distance running event in Hong Kong. It has been well-received by the public over the years, attracting up to 74 000 participants this year, including internationally renowned elite runners. As for the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, it is a 5-star international jumping competition sanctioned by the Federation Equestrian Internationale. It will be held in Hong Kong for the first time and will feature a world-class horse show, entertainment and a performance. The above two major sports events will stimulate the local economy and enhance Hong Kong’s international image, thereby strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an events capital.”           The “M” Mark System aims to encourage and help local “national sports associations” and private or non-government organisations to organise more major international sports events and nurture them into sustainable undertakings. Sports events meeting the assessment criteria will be considered for “M” Mark status by the MSEC. Funding support will also be provided to some events.           For details of “M” Mark events, please visit www.mevents.org.hk.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 7, 2025Issued at HKT 12:15

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AI-enabled National Consumer Helpline system set up; gives sector-wise analysis of grievances

    Source: Government of India

    AI-enabled National Consumer Helpline system set up; gives sector-wise analysis of grievances

    National Consumer Helpline available as toll-free number “1915” or through web portal

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 11:36AM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant move towards enhancing consumer grievance redressal mechanisms, the Department of Consumer Affairs, under Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, has adopted an AI-enabled National Consumer Helpline (NCH) system that offers sector-wise analysis of grievances.

    This new technology-driven approach is aimed at improving the speed and efficiency of resolving consumer issues, particularly in the education sector.

    As a result of these technological advancements, the number of calls received by NCH has grown more than tenfold, from 12,553 in December 2015 to 1,55,138 in December 2024. This exponential growth reflects the rising confidence of consumers in the helpline. Similarly, the average number of complaints registered per month has surged from 37,062 in 2017 to 1,12,468 in 2024. The monthly average number of grievances registered digitally has increased from 54,893 in the FY 2023-24 to 68,831 in FY 2024-25 (as of December 2024).

    The Department therefore, urges all consumers to utilize the National Consumer Helpline accessible via a toll-free number 1915 or web portal https://consumerhelpline.gov.in/user/signup.php for any grievances related to products or services, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their issues are resolved promptly and effectively.

    The NCH has seen a remarkable reduction in the grievance disposal time. In 2024, the disposal rate of consumer grievances decreased to 48 days, down from 66.26 days in 2023. This reflects a substantial improvement in the resolution time; ensuring consumer’s concerns are addressed promptly.

    A key component of this strategy involves proactively identifying and transitioning companies with the highest number of grievances to ‘convergence partners.’ Once onboarding as a ‘convergence partner’ with NCH, these companies, which have the highest number of unresolved consumer complaints, are required to prioritize swift and effective grievance redressal in collaboration with the NCH. Under its initiative aimed at enhancing consumer welfare and promoting fair trade practices, NCH has successfully surpassed the significant milestone of 1,038 convergence companies to date, up from 263 in 2017.

    This initiative has already yielded promising results, especially in sectors such as education, where faster resolution of consumer complaints has become a priority. With NCH’s AI-driven, sector-specific analysis, these convergence partners can now act more effectively and efficiently in resolving consumer issues, thereby enhancing consumer trust and satisfaction. It is a Win-Win situation for both consumers & companies.

    As a result of this ongoing initiative, many large companies identified with the highest number of consumer grievances have now become official convergence partners of the National Consumer Helpline. Their inclusion is expected to lead to quicker resolutions and a higher disposal rate of consumer grievances, ultimately benefiting millions of consumers across the country.

    The NCH, a vital initiative of Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, has proven to be a cornerstone in the effective and timely redressal of consumer grievances. Operating at the pre-litigation stage, the helpline has made significant strides in resolving consumer complaints across a wide range of sectors, including Broadband & Internet, E-commerce, Consumer Durables, Digital Payment Modes, Petroleum, Banking, healthcare, consumer durables, real estate, and automobiles, etc. without requiring consumers to resort to formal legal proceedings.

    Below are key highlights that demonstrate the significant impact of the NCH in promoting consumer rights and enhancing the grievance redressal mechanism:

    Some of the key success stories includes:

    Broadband & Internet: A consumer from West Bengal encountered difficulties in obtaining a refund from an Internet service provider for services that were not availed. After reaching out to the National Consumer Helpline, the issue was resolved promptly. The provider issued a full refund and rectified the consumer’s account. Additionally, other satisfied consumers shared their positive feedback with the department, commending the efficient and effective resolution of their issues.

    E-Commerce Sector: A consumer from Karnataka raised an issue regarding the refund and return of a defective product received from an online retailer. Following the intervention of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the product was replaced, and a refund was promptly facilitated, enhancing the consumer’s trust in e-commerce platforms. Furthermore, the consumer shared their positive feedback, reflecting their increased trust in NCH 2.0. The review emphasized the effectiveness and reliability of the helpline in resolving issues swiftly and efficiently, further bolstering consumer confidence in the platform’s services.

    Consumer Durables: A citizen from Rajasthan reported a major malfunction in a product he had purchased. Despite his continuous requests, the company had failed to address the issue. With the assistance of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the product was promptly replaced, and the company issued a formal apology. Furthermore, consumers from different states shared their valuable feedback about the NCH team, praising their professionalism and efficiency in resolving grievances.

    Digital Payment Mode: A complaint was raised by a consumer from Delhi who was unable to use his online transaction service, and an amount of Rs. 45,000/- was frozen in his account. After engaging the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the issue was resolved swiftly, with the bank unfreezing the amount and restoring the consumer’s access to their account. Furthermore, other satisfied consumers shared their positive reviews with the department, praising the efficient and timely intervention by NCH in resolving their grievances.

     

    Petroleum: A buyer in Telangana encountered extra charges that exceeded the MRP when receiving a cylinder he had booked. With the intervention of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the issue was swiftly resolved, and the consumer was compensated, safeguarding his rights.  Additionally, consumers from various corners of the nation shared their views regarding the operation of NCH 2.0.

    ****

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2100545) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 (Commencement) Notice gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 (Commencement) Notice gazetted
    Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 (Commencement) Notice gazetted
    ****************************************************************************

         The Government published in the Gazette today (February 7) the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 (Commencement) Notice (Commencement Notice). The new “no case to answer” appeal mechanism under the Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Ordinance 2023 (Amendment Ordinance) will come into operation on April 14, 2025.      The Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2023 was passed by the Legislative Council (LegCo) on July 12, 2023. Sections 4, 7 and 9 of, and Part 2 of the Schedule to, the Amendment Ordinance provide for a “no case to answer” appeal mechanism, which allows the prosecution to appeal against rulings of no case to answer made by the Court of First Instance of the High Court in criminal trials with a jury. The new appeal mechanism has since awaited enactment of the Criminal Procedure (Appeal against Ruling of No Case to Answer) Rules (Rules) before it commences.       The Rules, which set out the relevant procedural matters for the new appeal mechanism to facilitate its smooth operation in practice, were made by the Criminal Procedure Rules Committee under section 9 of the Criminal Procedure Ordinance (Cap. 221) on November 14, 2024. The Rules were approved by the LegCo on January 8, 2025.       With a view to bringing the new appeal mechanism into operation as soon as practicable, the Secretary for Justice, under section 1(3) of the Amendment Ordinance, has appointed April 14, 2025, as the day on which the relevant provisions come into operation. The Rules will come into operation on the same day.      A spokesman for the Department of Justice said, “The new ‘no case to answer’ appeal mechanism addresses the lacuna in the criminal appeal system due to the prosecution’s inability to appeal against erroneous rulings of no case to answer made by judges of the Court of First Instance in jury trials and prevents possible miscarriage of justice.”      The Commencement Notice will be tabled at the LegCo on February 12 for negative vetting.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 7, 2025Issued at HKT 11:35

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4445–4446: Cloudy Days are Here

    Source: NASA

    Earth planning date: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025
    Overnight before planning today, Mars reached a solar longitude of 40 degrees. The solar longitude is how we like to measure where we are in a Mars year. Each year starts at 0 degrees and advances to 360 degrees at the end of the year. For those of us on the Environmental Science (ENV) team, 40 degrees is a special time as it marks the beginning of our annual Aphelion Cloud Belt (ACB) observation campaign. During this time of year, the northern polar ice cap is emerging into the sunlight, causing it to sublimate away and release water vapor into the atmosphere. At the same time, the atmosphere is generally colder, since Mars is near aphelion (its furthest distance from the Sun). 
    Together, these two factors mean that Mars’ atmosphere is a big fan of forming clouds during this part of the year. Gale is right near the southern edge of the ACB, so we’re starting to take more cloud movies to study how the ACB changes during the cloudy season. (Jezero Crater, home to Perseverance, is much closer to the heart of the ACB, so keep an eye on their Raw Images page over the next several months as well.
    The drive from Monday’s plan ended early, after just about 4 meters instead of the 38 meters that had been planned (about 13 feet vs. 125 feet). We initially thought this might have been because our left-front wheel ran into the side of a large rock (see the image above), but after we got our hands on the drive data, it turned out that the steering motor on the right front wheel indicated that a rock was in the way on that side too, so Curiosity stopped the drive to await further instruction from Earth. This is a well-understood issue, so we should be back on the road headed west today.
    The cold weather is still creating power challenges, so we had to carefully prioritize our activities today. Despite the drive fault, we received the good news that it was safe to unstow the arm, so we were able to pack in a full set of MAHLI, APXS, and DRT activities. Before that, though, we start as usual with some remote sensing activities, including ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam observations of “Beacon Hill” (some layered bedrock near the rover) and a ChemCam RMI mosaic of the upper portion of Texoli butte.
    After taking a 3½-hour nap to recharge our batteries, we get into the arm activities. These start off with some MAHLI images of the MAHLI and APXS calibration targets, then continue with MAHLI and APXS observations of “Zuma Canyon.” This is followed by DRT, APXS, and MAHLI activities of some bedrock in our workspace, “Bear Canyon.” Although we then take another short nap, we don’t yet stow the arm as we have a pair of lengthy post-sunset APXS integrations. The arm is finally stowed about an hour and a half before midnight.
    The second sol of this plan begins with some more remote sensing activities, starting with ChemCam LIBS on “Mission Point”. This is followed by a series of Mastcam images of “Crystal Lake” (polygonal fractures in the bedrock), “Stockton Flat” (fine lamination in the bedrock), “Mount Waterman,” and Mission Point. We then finish with some ENV activities, including a Mastcam tau and Navcam line-of-sight to measure dust in the atmosphere and a Navcam cloud movie. This plan ends with a (hopefully!) lengthy drive west and many hours asleep to recharge our batteries as much as possible before planning starts again on Friday. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that REMS, RAD, and DAN continue to diligently monitor the environment throughout this plan.
    Written by Conor Hayes, Graduate Student at York University

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Team Up with County of Los Angeles, Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to Support Communities & Businesses Impacted by Wildfires

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Team Up with County of Los Angeles, Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to Support Communities & Businesses Impacted by Wildfires

    Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Team Up with County of Los Angeles, Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to Support Communities & Businesses Impacted by Wildfires

    Los Angeles, CA – Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Grocery Company are continuing their support for local communities impacted by wildfires through a new partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), and County of Los Angeles. The partnership was developed to provide critical recovery resources for businesses, employees, and residents impacted by the recent wildfires. Resource stations will be set up at Ralphs and Food 4 Less stores in Malibu, Venice, and Pasadena—including the Food 4 Less location closest to the heavily impacted Altadena area, where an estimated 9,400 residential and business structures have been affected.As part of this effort, FEMA and SBA representatives will be stationed at the following store locations to offer direct support between 9AM to 5PM PST until Saturday, February 8, 2025:Food 4 Less: 1329 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104Ralphs: 910 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291Ralphs: 23841 Malibu Rd, Malibu, CA 90265At these locations, FEMA will provide essential information and resources for individuals and families impacted by the fires, while the SBA will assist affected businesses, homeowners and renters with financial guidance and recovery support.​​“We know how overwhelming recovery can be after a disaster, and we want people to know they’re not alone,” said Curtis Brown, Federal Coordinating Officer. “By working with Ralphs and Food 4 Less, we’re bringing support directly to the communities that need it most—making it easier for families and businesses to get the help they need to rebuild and move forward.”This initiative is part of Ralphs and Food 4 Less/Foods Co.’s’ broader commitment to disaster recovery efforts, offering impacted associates and community members a direct link to federal assistance. Our primary role is to serve as a key access point for those seeking support.In addition, Bracken’s Kitchen will be on-site at the Pasadena Food 4 Less throughout the week, continuing their mission to provide free, hot meals to those affected by the fires, offering much-needed nourishment and support to the community*.“As a community-driven organization, we are dedicated to helping our associates, customers, and local businesses recover in the wake of these devastating wildfires,” said Salvador Ramirez, corporate affairs manager at Food 4 Less/ Foods Co. and Ralphs Grocery Company. “By teaming up with FEMA and the SBA, we’re ensuring our stores serve as accessible resource hubs for those in need during this challenging time.”In response to the fires, Food 4 Less/Foods Co., Ralphs Grocery Company, and The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE:KR) have been working to provide essential support, delivering food, water, and supplies to evacuees, firefighters, and first responders. The Kroger Family of Companies is also raising $1 million for disaster relief and recovery, including $500,000 in company matching funds for customer donations to the American Red Cross and Feeding America’s local food banks.*While supplies last.# # #About Food 4 Less/Foods Co.:We are dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. Food 4 Less/Foods Co is more than 9,000 associates serving customers in 121 price-impact, warehouse-format supermarkets under the banners Food 4 Less in Southern California, Illinois and Indiana, and Foods Co in Central and Northern California. From the company’s headquarters in Los Angeles County, Food 4 Less is a recognized leader in community service and giving. The company supports Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative aimed at ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste within our company by the year 2025. Food 4 Less is a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., (NYSE:KR), one of the world’s largest retailers, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more information about Food 4 Less/Foods Co, please visit our websites at www.food4less.com and www.foodsco.com.About Ralphs Grocery Company:Ralphs Grocery Company is dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. We are more than 18,000 associates serving customers in 184 supermarkets across Southern California. From the company’s headquarters in Los Angeles County, Ralphs is a recognized leader in community service and giving. The company supports Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative aimed at ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste within our company by the year 2025. Ralphs is a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., (NYSE:KR), one of the world’s largest retailers, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more about Ralphs, please visit our website at www.ralphs.com.
    brandi.richard…
    Fri, 02/07/2025 – 00:00

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel Releases 2024 Annual Report

    Source: NASA

    The Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP), an advisory committee that reports to NASA and Congress, issued its 2024 annual report Thursday examining the agency’s safety performance, accomplishments, and challenges during the past year.
    The report highlights 2024 activities and observations on NASA’s work, including:

    strategic vision and agency governance
    Moon to Mars management
    future of U.S. presence in low Earth orbit
    health and medical risks in human space exploration

    “Over the past year, NASA has continued to make meaningful progress toward meeting the intent of the broad-ranging recommendations the panel has made over the last several years,” said retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Susan J. Helms, chair of ASAP. “We believe that the agency’s careful attention to vision, strategy, governance, and program management is vital to the safe execution of NASA’s complex and critical national mission.”
    This year’s report reflects the panel’s continued focus on NASA’s strategies for risk management and safety culture in an environment of growing space commercialization. Specifically, the panel cites its 2021 recommendations for NASA on preparing for future challenges in a changing landscape, including the need to evaluate NASA’s approach to safety and technical risk and to evolve its role, responsibilities, and relationships with private sector and international partners.
    Overall, the panel finds NASA is continuing to make progress with respect to the agency’s strategic vision, approach to governance, and integrated program management. The NASA 2040 new agencywide initiative is working to operationalize the agency’s vision and strategic objectives across headquarters and centers. With the establishment of NASA’s Moon to Mars Program Office in 2023, it finds NASA has implemented safety and risk management as a key focus for NASA’s Artemis campaign.
    The 2024 report provides details on the concrete actions the agency should take to fulfill its previous recommendations and spotlights its recommendations for the agency moving ahead. It addresses safety assessments for Moon to Mars and current International Space Station operations, as well as risk-related issues surrounding NASA’s planned transition to commercial low Earth orbit destinations.
    It covers relevant areas of human health and medicine in space and the impact of budget constraints and uncertainty on safety.
    The annual report is based on the panel’s 2024 fact-finding and quarterly public meetings; direct observations of NASA operations and decision-making; discussions with NASA management, employees, and contractors; and the panel members’ experiences.
    Congress established the panel in 1968 to provide advice and make recommendations to the NASA administrator on safety matters after the 1967 Apollo 1 fire claimed the lives of three American astronauts.
    To learn more about the ASAP, and view annual reports, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/asap
    -end-
    Jennifer Dooren / Elizabeth ShawHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600jennifer.m.dooren@nasa.gov / elizabeth.a.shaw@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What You Need To Know About the March 2025 Total Lunar Eclipse

    Source: NASA

    The Moon will pass into Earth’s shadow and appear to turn red on the night of March 13 or early in the morning of March 14, depending on time zone. Here’s what you need to know about the total lunar eclipse.

    [embedded content]
    The March 2025 total lunar eclipse will take place between late night on March 13 and early morning on March 14 across several time zones. In this data visualization, the Moon moves from right to left, passing through Earth’s shadow and leaving in its wake an eclipse diagram with the times (in UTC) at various stages of the eclipse. Credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio

    What is a lunar eclipse?
    A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is within the umbra, it turns red-orange. Lunar eclipses are sometimes called “Blood Moons” because of this phenomenon.

    How can I observe the eclipse?
    You don’t need any special equipment to observe a lunar eclipse, although binoculars or a telescope will enhance the view. A dark environment away from bright lights makes for the best viewing conditions.
    This eclipse will be visible from Earth’s Western Hemisphere.

    What can I expect to observe?

    Milestone:
    What’s happening:

    Penumbral eclipse begins (8:57pm PDT, 11:57pm EDT, 03:57 UTC)
    The Moon enters the Earth’s penumbra, the outer part of the shadow. The Moon begins to dim, but the effect is quite subtle.

    Partial eclipse begins (10:09pm PDT, 1:09am EDT, 05:09 UTC)
    The Moon begins to enter Earth’s umbra and the partial eclipse begins. To the naked eye, as the Moon moves into the umbra, it looks like a bite is being taken out of the lunar disk. The part of the Moon inside the umbra will appear very dark.

    Totality begins (11:26pm PDT, 2:26am EDT, 06:26 UTC)
    The entire Moon is now in the Earth’s umbra. The Moon will turn a coppery-red. Try binoculars or a telescope for a better view. If you want to take a photo, use a camera on a tripod with exposures of at least several seconds.

    Totality ends (12:31am PDT, 3:31am EDT, 07:31 UTC)
    As the Moon exits Earth’s umbra, the red color fades. It will look as if a bite is being taken out of the opposite side of the lunar disk as before.

    Partial eclipse ends (1:47am PDT, 4:47am EDT, 08:47 UTC)
    The whole Moon is in Earth’s penumbra, but again, the dimming is subtle.

    Penumbral eclipse ends (3:00am PDT, 6:00am EDT, 10:00 UTC)
    The eclipse is over.

    [embedded content]
    Data visualization showing a telescopic view of the Moon as the March 2025 total lunar eclipse unfolds. Credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio

    Why does the Moon turn red during a lunar eclipse?
    The same phenomenon that makes our sky blue and our sunsets red causes the Moon to turn reddish-orange during a lunar eclipse. Sunlight appears white, but it actually contains a rainbow of components—and different colors of light have different physical properties. Blue light scatters relatively easily as it passes through Earth’s atmosphere. Reddish light, on the other hand, travels more directly through the air.
    When the Sun is high on a clear day, we see blue light scattered throughout the sky overhead. At sunrise and sunset, when the Sun is near the horizon, incoming sunlight travels a longer, low-angle path through Earth’s atmosphere to observers on the ground. The bluer part of the sunlight scatters away in the distance (where it’s still daytime), and only the yellow-to-red part of the spectrum reaches our eyes.
    During a lunar eclipse, the Moon appears red or orange because any sunlight that’s not blocked by our planet is filtered through a thick slice of Earth’s atmosphere on its way to the lunar surface. It’s as if all the world’s sunrises and sunsets are projected onto the Moon.

    Look to the western sky on the night of the eclipse for a glimpse of planets Jupiter and Mars. The Moon will be in the constellation Leo, under the lion’s hind paw, at the beginning of the eclipse; soon afterward, it will cross into the constellation Virgo. As Earth’s shadow dims the Moon’s glow, constellations may be easier to spot than usual.
    Visit our What’s Up guide for monthly skywatching tips, and find lunar observing recommendations for each day of the year in our Daily Moon Guide.

    Writers: Caela Barry, Ernie Wright, and Molly Wasser

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Robot Gets a Grip

    Source: NASA

    Blue tentacle-like arms attached to an Astrobee free-flying robot grab onto a “capture cube” in this image from Feb. 4, 2025. The experimental grippers demonstrated autonomous detection and capture techniques that may be used to remove space debris and service satellites in low Earth orbit.
    The Astrobee system was designed and built at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley for use inside the International Space Station. The system consists of three cube-shaped robots (named Bumble, Honey, and Queen), software, and a docking station used for recharging. The robots use electric fans as a propulsion system that allows them to fly freely through the microgravity environment of the station. Cameras and sensors help them to “see” and navigate their surroundings. The robots also carry a perching arm that allows them to grasp station handrails to conserve energy or to grab and hold items.
    Image credit: NASA/Suni Williams

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs executive order to further prepare for future urban firestorms, stepping up already nation-leading strategies

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 6, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order to launch key initiatives to continue adapting to future extreme firestorm events in urban communities and leading the way to build a more resilient state.

    Sacramento, California – Adding to California’s nation-leading fire safety  standards, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed an executive order to further improve community hardening and wildfire mitigation strategies to neighborhood resilience statewide. A copy of the executive order is available here.

    We are living in a new reality of extremes. Believe the science – and your own damn eyes: Mother Nature is changing the way we live and we must continue adapting to those changes. California’s resilience means we will keep updating our standards in the most fire-prone areas.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The executive order issued by Governor Newsom does the following:

    • Directs the State Board of Forestry to accelerate its work to adopt regulations known as “Zone 0,” which will require an ember-resistant zone within 5 feet of structures located in the highest fire severity zones in the state.
    • Tasks the Office of the State Fire Marshal with releasing updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for areas under local government responsibility, adding 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire severity, which will update building and local planning requirements for these communities statewide.
    • Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to work with local, federal and tribal partners on improvements to the Federal resource ordering system for wildfire response. 

    Protecting homes 

    Science has shown that combustible material within the immediate five feet of a structure contributes the greatest risk of embers directly or indirectly igniting the home. “Zone 0” regulations under development for new and existing construction would require an ember-resistant zone within the immediate 5-feet of structures in local area Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Areas, and Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Areas.

    Zone 0 regulations would move forward this year in tandem with financial assistance and relief for homeowners, proposed in the Governor’s January Budget, and to be augmented by the California Conservation Corps supporting work in vulnerable communities and in coordination with local Fire Safe Councils. While it is anticipated that the regulations would apply to new construction upon taking effect, requirements for existing homes would likely be phased in over three years to allow homeowners to prepare and prioritize mitigations and secure financial assistance.

    Research suggests that the cost of building a home with Zone 0 mitigations already incorporated adds little to no cost to building a comparable home without those features. 

    Updating fire hazard severity areas

    To ensure future resiliency against urban firestorms, local government planners and developers will have to factor in wildfire-hardening requirements in building planning, design, and construction within nearly 2.3 million acres of land in areas where local governments are responsible for wildfire prevention and response, known as local responsibility areas.

    The release of updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones for Local Responsibility Area maps would identify new areas where new development is required to adhere to the highest standards of wildfire resilient building codes and land-use planning. These new zones and maps would add approximately 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire hazard severity. Specifically, they would expand current wildfire building resiliency requirements in the High-Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 1.16 million new acres, and they would expand both current wildfire building and local planning resiliency requirements in the Very High- Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 247,000 new acres. 

    The release of these updated zones and maps, which are expected to be released one region at a time beginning in Northern California, would begin a 120-day clock for local government jurisdictions to adopt local ordinances incorporating the State Fire Marshal’s recommendations.

    The release of these Local Responsibility Area maps would follow last year’s release of equivalent updated zones and maps in the State Responsibility Area, and follow months of planning discussions, including consultation with insurance providers who have developed their own models to determine risk, premiums and coverage that are independent of the state’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps.

    Investing in wildfire prevention

    Overall, the state has more than doubled investments in wildfire prevention and landscape resilience efforts, providing more than $2.5 billion in wildfire resilience since 2020, with an additional $1.5 billion from the 2024 Climate Bond to be committed beginning this year for proactive projects that protect communities from wildfire and promote healthy natural landscapes. Of note, since 2021, the State has made strategic investments in at least 61 fuels reduction projects near the Palisades and Eaton fire perimeters through projects treated over 14,500 acres.

    The Newsom Administration has invested $2 billion to support CAL FIRE operations, a 47% increase since 2018, which has helped build CAL FIRE from 5,829 positions to 10,741 in that same period, and the Administration is now implementing shorter workweeks for state firefighters to prioritize firefighter well-being while adding 2,400 additional state firefighters to CAL FIRE’s ranks over the next five years. 

    Augmenting technological advancements and pre-deployment opportunities 

    The Newsom Administration has also overseen the expansion of California’s aerial firefighting fleet, including the addition of more than 16 helicopters with several equipped for night operations, expanded five helitack bases, and assumed ownership of seven C-130 air tankers, making it the largest fleet of its kind globally. 

    California is also leveraging AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker, has deployed the Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS) to provide real-time mapping of wildfires, and has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to use satellites for wildfire detection and invested in LiDAR technology to create detailed 3D maps of high-risk areas, helping firefighters better understand and navigate complex terrains. 

    In anticipation of severe fire weather conditions in early January 2025, Cal OES approved the prepositioning of 65 fire engines, as well as more than 120 additional firefighting resources and personnel in Los Angeles, Orange, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, and CAL FIRE moved firefighting resources to Southern California including 45 additional engines and six hand crews to the region. 

    During the wildfires, California was able to mobilize more than 16,000 personnel including firefighters, National Guard servicemembers, California Highway Patrol officers and transportation teams to support the response to the Los Angeles firestorms, and more than 2,000 firefighting apparatus composed of engines, aircraft, dozers and water tenders to aid in putting out the fires. 

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    gun-violence-San Diego Guns Package 2.18.22_2

    What they’re saying: 

    • Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, original author of the Mental Health Services Act: “Twenty years ago, I never could have dreamed that we would have the strong leadership we have today, committing billions and making courageous policy changes that question the conventional wisdom on mental health. Now, with the passage of Proposition 1. California is delivering on decades old promises to help people living with brain-based illnesses, to live better lives, to live independently and to live with dignity in our communities. This is a historic moment and the hard work is ahead of us.“
    • Senator Susan Eggman (D-Stockton), author of Senate Bill 326: “Today marks a day of hope for thousands of Californians who are struggling with mental illness – many of whom are living unhoused. I am tremendously grateful to my fellow Californian’s for passing this important measure.  And I am very appreciative of this Governor’s leadership to transform our behavioral health care system!”
    • Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), author of Assembly Bill 531: “This started as an audacious proposal to address the root cause of homelessness and today, Californians can be proud to know that they did the right thing by passing Proposition 1. Now, it’s time for all of us to get to work, and make sure these reforms are implemented and that we see results.”

    Bigger picture: Transforming the Mental Health Services Act into the Behavioral Health Services Act and building more community mental health treatment sites and supportive housing is the last main pillar of Governor Newsom’s Mental Health Movement – pulling together significant recent reforms like 988 crisis line, CalHOPE, CARE Court, conservatorship reform, CalAIM behavioral health expansion (including mobile crisis care and telehealth), Medi-Cal expansion to all low-income Californians, Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (including expanding services in schools and on-line), Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative, Veterans Mental Health Initiative, Behavioral Health Community Infrastructure Program, Behavioral Health Bridge Housing, Health Care Workforce for All and more.

    More details on next step here

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom meets with bipartisan U.S. House and U.S. Senate leaders on disaster relief for LA firestorm survivors

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 6, 2025

    What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their homes and livelihoods have the support they need to rebuild and recover.

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom continued his efforts to secure critical federal disaster aid to support survivors of last month’s firestorms in the Los Angeles area. On Capitol Hill, Governor Newsom met with members from both sides of the aisle in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.

    Supporting Americans in their time of need is what this country has always done, and in California’s time of need we are seeking the same support and commitment we have provided others. This will take all of us, and I am committed, as I always have been, to working with everyone and anyone to see that Californians have the support and resources they need to recover and rebuild.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    In the morning, Governor Newsom met with Representative Tom Cole (R), Chair of the House Appropriations Committee. The House Appropriations Committee plays a crucial role in disaster aid by determining the level of funding allocated for disaster response, recovery, and preparedness.

    In the afternoon, Governor Newsom met with New York Senator Chuck Schumer (D), Senate Minority Leader.

    Today’s meetings build on a successful day on Capitol Hill and at the White House, where Governor Newsom had a lengthy and very productive meeting with President Donald Trump as well as more than 10 Republicans and Democrats in Congress — including bipartisan meetings with California’s Congressional Delegation.

    The Governor continues to take action to support the survivors across Southern California — cutting red tape, providing key relief, and ensuring bolstered support for those in need.

    Stay up to date on the Governor’s actions here.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom has taken unprecedented action to cut red tape and remove regulatory barriers to help Los Angeles recover and rebuild quickly – including by suspending CEQA and Coastal Act permitting requirements. LOS ANGELES — In response…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – Non-Resident Fishing Licenses Expected to Generate $1 Million Annually, Feb. 6, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – Non-Resident Fishing Licenses Expected to Generate $1 Million Annually, Feb. 6, 2025

    Posted on Feb 6, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ʻOIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DAWN CHANG

    CHAIR

     

    NON-RESIDENT FISHING LICENSES EXPECTED TO GENERATE $1 MILLION ANNUALLY

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Feb. 6, 2025

    HONOLULU – Hawai‘i is joining other ocean states and now requires a license for recreational ocean fishing for non-Hawai‘i residents.

    Revenues from license sales will be used exclusively to support fishing in the state. An anticipated $1 million each year will be used to fund fish aggregation devices (FADs), artificial reefs, stock enhancement and other fish restoration projects conducted by the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR).

    In June 2021, the Hawai‘i State Legislature passed Act into law, requiring nonresidents of Hawaiʻi to obtain recreational marine fishing licenses. The law was codified at Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) §188-72. The DLNR subsequently adopted rules to implement the law, Hawai‘i Administrative Rules (HAR) § 13- 74-11, which took effect on May 2, 2024.

    Licenses cost $20 for one day and $40 for seven days. Annual licenses are available for $70. Nonresident youth under age 15 can fish without licenses, as can active-duty military personnel and their families.

    # # #

     

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

    HD video – Kewalo Basin Harbor (June 3, 2021):

    Photographs – Kewalo Basin, O‘ahu charter fishing vessels (June 3, 2021):

    Get licenses at the DLNR/DAR website:

    Website screen shots:

     

    Media contact:

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    Phone: 808-587-0396

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/NIGERIA – Catholic priest kidnapped.

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – A Catholic priest was kidnapped yesterday morning, February 6. He is Fr. Cornellus Manzak Damulak, who studies at Veritas University in Abuja, the federal capital. According to the diocese of Shendam, to which the priest belongs, “Fr. Damulak was kidnapped in the early hours of February 6 from his home in Zuma 2, Bwari Area Council of the capital district.””We call on all believers in Christ and all people of good will to pray for his speedy and safe release from the hands of his kidnappers. We entrust our brother, Fr. Cornelius Manzak Damulak, to the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother, and all the saints, to give him strength and bring him back to us,” the diocese concluded.The diocese of Shendam is a suffragan of the diocese of Jos, in Plateau State (central Nigeria). The Bwari region, where the priest was kidnapped, is one of the regions most affected by kidnappings. Many residents of the area, especially farmers, were kidnapped and large sums of money were demanded for their release.The way in which the priest was kidnapped, namely by bandits who attacked him in his home, is not new either. At the end of January, an entire family was kidnapped by bandits armed with Kalashnikovs who entered their home in Chikakore, a town on the outskirts of Kubwa (also in the Bwari region), about 30 kilometers from the center of Abuja. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 7/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/COLOMBIA – Bishops on the serious crisis in the country: “We must not let ourselves be deprived of hope”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 7 February 2025

    CEC

    Bogota (Agenzia Fides) – “We are seriously concerned about the requests for help and the needs of the populations and communities that are seriously affected,” write the Colombian Bishops gathered in Bogota for the Plenary Assembly.”It is urgent to pay special attention to migrants, displaced persons, returnees, victims of the increasing violence in the country’s rural areas.” The Colombian Bishops are referring to the region of Catatumbo, where violence has been raging for some time, plunging the region into the most serious crisis since 2002 (see Fides, 30/1/2025).During the Plenary Assembly, which began on February 3, the Bishops’ Conference drew attention to the President of the Republic, Gustavo Petro, after a controversial cabinet meeting broadcast live on national television. “The country is in a serious crisis,” warned the bishops, calling for “effective responses” to the “profound, urgent and painful problems that afflict the nation.””We declare our solidarity with Catatumbo and other regions of the country,” they declared.”In addition, the problem remains latent, not only of deported migrants, but also of those displaced and expelled due to the violence in the regions,” the bishops said. They therefore strongly appealed to the national government and all state institutions to work in a coordinated manner and focus on the good of the nation, “in order to realize the united and peaceful country that we all long for.””Today more than ever, let us not lose hope, but let us concentrate our efforts and support the initiatives that are being carried out in the communities,” the bishops said. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 7/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc: Managers’ Transactions (Thorsrud)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, managers’ transactions, 7 February 2025 at 1:30 pm EET

    Sampo plc: Managers’ Transactions (Thorsrud)

    Sampo plc (business code 0142213-3) has received the following notification under Article 19 of the Market Abuse Regulation.

    ____________________________________________

    Person subject to the notification requirement
    Name: Morten Thorsrud
    Position: Other senior manager
    Issuer: Sampo plc

    LEI: 743700UF3RL386WIDA22
    Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
    Reference number: 95304/4/6
    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2025-02-07
    Venue: NASDAQ HELSINKI LTD (XHEL)
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI4000552500
    Nature of transaction: ACQUISITION

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 5,050 Unit price: 41.08 EUR

    Aggregated transactions (1):
    Volume: 5,050 Volume weighted average price: 41.08 EUR
    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2025-02-07
    Venue: NASDAQ HELSINKI LTD (XHEL)
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI4000552500
    Nature of transaction: ACQUISITION

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 2,450 Unit price: 41.1323 EUR

    Aggregated transactions (1):
    Volume: 2,450 Volume weighted average price: 41.1323 EUR
    ____________________________________________

    In total, all reported above are 7,500 shares.

    SAMPO PLC

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    FIN-FSA
    The principal media
    www.sampo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Auction result of Treasury Bonds – RIKB 27 0415 – RIKB 42 0217

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Series  RIKB 27 0415 RIKB 42 0217
    Settlement Date  02/12/2025 02/12/2025
    Total Amount Allocated (MM)  6,736 3,995
    All Bids Awarded At (Price / Yield)  100.650 / 7.640 79.650 / 6.510
    Total Number of Bids Received  31 18
    Total Amount of All Bids Received (MM)  8,486 4,795
    Total Number of Successful Bids  26 14
    Number of Bids Allocated in Full  26 14
    Lowest Price / Highest Yield Allocated  100.650 / 7.640 79.650 / 6.510
    Highest Price / Lowest Yield Allocated  100.830 / 7.550 80.000 / 6.470
    Lowest Price / Highest Yield Allocated in Full  100.650 / 7.640 79.650 / 6.510
    Weighted Average of Successful Bids (Price/Yield)  100.742 / 7.590 79.811 / 6.500
    Best Bid (Price / Yield)  100.830 / 7.550 80.000 / 6.470
    Worst Bid (Price / Yield)  100.550 / 7.690 79.200 / 6.570
    Weighted Average of All Bids Received (Price / Yield)  100.716 / 7.610 79.758 / 6.500
    Percentage Partial Allocation (Approximate)  100.00 % 100.00 %
    Bid to Cover Ratio  1.26 1.20

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hyperscale Data Announces 19.2 Bitcoin Mined in January 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperscale Data, Inc. (NYSE American: GPUS), a diversified holding company (“Hyperscale Data” or the “Company”), today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Sentinum, Inc. (“Sentinum”) mined approximately 19.2 Bitcoin in the month of January 2025, which were mined at the Company’s data center in Michigan (the “Data Center”). The January monthly mining run rate of approximately $1.9 million in Bitcoin mining revenue is based upon a current Bitcoin price of approximately $97,000.

    Milton “Todd” Ault III, Executive Chairman of Hyperscale Data, stated, “We are transitioning to becoming a provider of high-performance computing (“HPC”) services powering AI solutions, which we believe holds greater promise in the foreseeable future, and we expect the transition will be completed at the end of September 2025. In the meantime, we remain confident in our mining operations and maintain our medium-term view on Bitcoin as an appreciating asset that supports the Company’s overall capital allocation strategy. We also expect to bring Bitcoin mining machines back online at our Montana location by the end of March, which will bolster our mining activities. Assuming Bitcoin maintains its current price of approximately $97,000, and that the Company has fully transitioned the Data Center’s existing power capacity of 30MW from self-mining of Bitcoin to HPC services in September of this year, we anticipate generating approximately $20 million in Bitcoin mining revenue in 2025. If our transition to HPC services is delayed, then we would realize additional revenue from our Bitcoin operations.”

    Hyperscale Data notes that all estimates and other projections are subject to the volatility in Bitcoin market price, the fluctuation in the mining difficulty level, the ability to build out and provide the necessary power for miners, and other factors that may impact the results of Bitcoin mining production or operations.

    For more information on Hyperscale Data and its subsidiaries, Hyperscale Data recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read Hyperscale Data’s public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at hyperscaledata.com or available at www.sec.gov.

    About Hyperscale Data, Inc.

    Hyperscale Data is transitioning from a diversified holding company pursuing growth by acquiring undervalued businesses and disruptive technologies with a global impact to becoming solely an owner and operator of data centers to support high performance computing services. Through its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries and strategic investments, Hyperscale Data owns and operates a data center at which it mines digital assets and offers colocation and hosting services for the emerging artificial intelligence ecosystems and other industries. It also provides, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Ault Capital Group, Inc., mission-critical products that support a diverse range of industries, including an artificial intelligence software platform, social gaming platform, equipment rental services, defense/aerospace, industrial, automotive, medical/biopharma and hotel operations. In addition, Hyperscale Data is actively engaged in private credit and structured finance through a licensed lending subsidiary. Hyperscale Data’s headquarters are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 240, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors. More information, including potential risk factors, that could affect the Company’s business and financial results are included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, the Company’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. All filings are available at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at www.hyperscaledata.com.

    Hyperscale Data Investor Contact:
    IR@hyperscaledata.com or 1-888-753-2235

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Prairie Operating Co. Announces Public Offering of Common Stock

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Texas, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prairie Operating Co. (“Prairie” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: PROP), an independent oil and gas company focused on the acquisition and development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, announced today that it has commenced an underwritten public offering of $200 million of shares of its common stock, par value $0.01 (“common stock”). The Company expects to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an aggregate value of $30 million of additional shares of the Company’s common stock.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund a portion of the purchase price for the Company’s proposed acquisition of certain oil and gas assets from Bayswater Exploration and Production and certain of its affiliates (the “Bayswater Acquisition”). The Company intends to use the remaining net proceeds from the offering, including any net proceeds from the underwriters’ exercise of their option to purchase additional shares, for other general corporate purposes, which may include advancing the Company’s development and drilling program, repayment of existing indebtedness or financing other potential acquisition opportunities.

    Citigroup is acting as lead book-running manager for the offering. KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., MUFG Securities Americas Inc., Piper Sandler & Co., and Truist Securities, Inc. are also acting as joint book-running managers. Fifth Third Securities, Inc., Clear Street LLC, First Citizens Capital Securities, LLC, Johnson Rice & Company L.L.C., and Pickering Energy Partners are acting as co-managers.

    The offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3, including a base prospectus, which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and became effective on December 20, 2024. The preliminary prospectus supplement, and accompanying base prospectus, relating to the offering, and a final prospectus supplement, when available, will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement, and accompanying base prospectus, relating to the offering, and the final prospectus supplement, when available, may be obtained by sending a request to: Citigroup, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, New York 11717, telephone: 1-800-831-9146; KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., Attn: Equity Syndicate, 127 Public Square, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH 44114, telephone: 1-800-859-1783; MUFG Securities Americas Inc., Attention: Equity Capital Markets, 1221 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, New York 10020, telephone: 212-405-7440, email: ECM@us.sc.mufg.jp; Piper Sandler & Co., Attention: Prospectus Department, 800 Nicollet Mall, J12S03, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402, by telephone at (800) 747-3924, or by email at prospectus@psc.com; Truist Securities, Inc., Attention: Prospectus Department, 3333 Peachtree Road NE, 9th floor, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, by telephone at (800) 685-4786, or by email at TruistSecurities.prospectus@Truist.com; or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the shares of common stock or any other securities, nor shall there be any sale of such shares of common stock or any other securities, in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    About Prairie

    Houston-based Prairie Operating Co. is an independent oil and gas company focused on the acquisition and development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. The Company’s assets and operations are concentrated in the oil and liquids-rich regions of the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, with a primary focus on the Niobrara and Codell formations. The Company is committed to the responsible development of its oil and natural gas resources and is focused on maximizing returns through consistent growth, capital discipline, and sustainable cash flow generation.

    For more information, visit www.prairieopco.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this press release, regarding our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated reserves, revenues and income or losses, projected costs and capital expenditures, prospects, acquisition opportunities, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release and the documents incorporated by reference herein, the words “plan,” “may,” “endeavor,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “forecast” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are (or were when made) based on current expectations and assumptions about future events and are (or were when made) based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements in this press release may include, for example, statements about: the Company’s ability to successfully finance and consummate the Bayswater Acquisition, including the risk that the Company may fail to complete the Bayswater Acquisition on the terms and timing currently contemplated or at all, fail to enter into the New Credit Agreement on expected terms and/or fail to realize the expected benefits of the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s financial performance following the Bayswater Acquisition; this public offering, the timing thereof and the use of proceeds therefrom; estimates of the Company’s oil, natural gas and NGLs reserves; drilling prospects, inventories, projects and programs; estimates of future oil and natural gas production from our oil and gas assets, including estimates of any increases or decreases in production; the availability and adequacy of cash flow to meet the Company’s requirements; financial strategy, liquidity and capital required for the Company’s development program and other capital expenditures; the availability of additional capital for the Company’s operations; changes in the Company’s business and growth strategy, including the Company’s ability to successfully operate and expand its business; the Company’s integration of acquisitions, including the Bayswater Acquisition; changes or developments in applicable laws or regulations, including with respect to taxes; and actions taken or not taken by third-parties, including the Company’s contractors and competitors. When considering forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements described under the heading “Risk Factors” in the prospectus supplement, the accompanying base prospectus, the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as amended, our Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our other filings with the SEC, all of which can be accessed on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company’s control. These risks include, but are not limited to: the Company’s and Bayswater’s ability to satisfy the conditions of the Bayswater Acquisition in a timely manner or at all, including the Company’s ability to successfully finance the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Bayswater Acquisition, which may be affected by, among other things, competition and the Company’s ability to grow and manage growth profitably following the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s ability to fund its development and drilling plan; the possibility that the Company may be unable to achieve expected cash flow, production levels, drilling, operational efficiencies and other anticipated benefits within the expected time-frames, or at all, and to successfully integrate the Bayswater Assets, and/or any other assets or operations the Company has acquired or may acquire in the future with those of the Company; the Company’s integration of the Bayswater Assets with those of the Company may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; the Company’s operating costs, customer loss and business disruption may be greater than expected following the Bayswater Acquisition or the public announcements of the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s ability to grow its operations, and to fund such operations, on the anticipated timeline or at all; uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and projecting future rates of production and the amount and timing of development expenditures; commodity price and cost volatility and inflation; the ability to maintain necessary permits and approvals to develop our assets; safety and environmental requirements that may subject the Company to unanticipated liabilities; changes in the regulations governing our business and operations, including the businesses and operations we have acquired or may acquire in the future, such as, but not limited to, those pertaining to the environment, our drilling program and the pricing of our future production; the Company’s success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, the Company’s officers, key employees or directors; general economic, financial, legal, political, and business conditions and changes in domestic and foreign markets; the risks related to the growth of the Company’s business; the effects of competition on the Company’s future business; and other factors detailed under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Prospectus Supplement and, accompanying base prospectus related to the offering and the periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Reserve engineering is a process of estimating underground accumulations of oil, natural gas and NGLs that cannot be measured in an exact way. The accuracy of any reserve estimate depends on the quality of available data, the interpretation of such data and price and cost assumptions made by reserve engineers. In addition, the results of drilling, testing and production activities may justify upward or downward revisions of estimates that were made previously. If significant, such revisions would change the schedule of any further production and development drilling. Accordingly, reserve estimates may differ significantly from the quantities of oil, natural gas and NGLs that are ultimately recovered. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described herein or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results and plans could differ materially from those express in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, in this press release, are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that the Company or persons acting on the Company’s behalf may issue.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Wobbe Ploegsma
    info@prairieopco.com
    832.274.3449

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: USA: Trump’s sanctions on ICC are ‘vindictive and aggressive’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    ‘The sanctions constitute another betrayal of our common humanity’ – Agnès Callamard

    In response to the executive order announced by President Trump imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “This reckless action sends the message that Israel is above the law and the universal principles of international justice. It suggests that President Trump endorses the Israeli government’s crimes and is embracing impunity. 

    “This executive order is vindictive. It is aggressive. It is a brutal step that seeks to undermine and destroy what the international community has painstakingly constructed over decades, if not centuries: global rules that are applicable to everyone and aim to deliver justice for all. The sanctions constitute another betrayal of our common humanity. 

    “The United States is ready to punish an institution that ensures the individuals most responsible for committing atrocities cannot escape justice. No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.

    “At an historic moment when we are witnessing a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and the global rule of law coming under threat from multiple fronts, institutions like the Court are needed more than ever to advance human rights protections, prevent future atrocities and secure justice for victims.

    “This attack against the ICC seeks to damage the Court’s independent pursuit of international justice. The sanctions issued will harm accountability, a crucial ingredient to global and long-term security. They will embolden perpetrators, present and future. They will negatively impact the interests of all victims globally and those who look to the Court for justice in all the countries where it’s conducting investigations, including Darfur, Libya, the Philippines, Palestine, Ukraine and Venezuela.

    “The ICC performs a vital role by investigating crimes under international law, often committed by the most powerful individuals, in situations where – without its involvement – the perpetrators would benefit from perpetual impunity.

    “The sanctions are also an affront to 125 member states who have collectively resolved that the Court must be able to effectively pursue justice – which means it must be able to undertake independent judicial functions, such as issuing arrest warrants, for example, against Benjamin Netanyahu or Vladimir Putin. 

    “Governments around the world and regional organisations must do everything in their power to mitigate and block the effect of President Trump’s sanctions. Through collective and concerted actions, ICC member states can protect the Court and its staff. Urgent action is needed, like never before.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: USA: Sanctions against International Criminal Court betray international justice system 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to the executive order announced today by President Trump imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “This reckless action sends the message that Israel is above the law and the universal principles of international justice. It suggests that President Trump endorses the Israeli government’s crimes and is embracing impunity.  

    “Today’s executive order is vindictive. It is aggressive. It is a brutal step that seeks to undermine and destroy what the international community has painstakingly constructed over decades, if not centuries: global rules that are applicable to everyone and aim to deliver justice for all. The sanctions constitute another betrayal of our common humanity.  

    “The United States is ready to punish an institution that ensures the individuals most responsible for committing atrocities cannot escape justice. No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.”

    “At an historic moment when we are witnessing a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and the global rule of law coming under threat from multiple fronts, institutions like the Court are needed more than ever to advance human rights protections, prevent future atrocities and secure justice for victims.

    No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    “This attack against the ICC seeks to damage the Court’s independent pursuit of international justice. The sanctions issued will harm accountability, a crucial ingredient to global and long-term security. They will embolden perpetrators, present and future. They will negatively impact the interests of all victims globally and those who look to the Court for justice in all the countries where it’s conducting investigations, including Darfur, Libya, the Philippines, Palestine, Ukraine and Venezuela.

    “The ICC performs a vital role by investigating crimes under international law, often committed by the most powerful individuals, in situations where – without its involvement – the perpetrators would benefit from perpetual impunity. The sanctions are also an affront to 125 member states who have collectively resolved that the Court must be able to effectively pursue justice – which means it must be able to undertake independent judicial functions, such as issuing arrest warrants, for example, against Benjamin Netanyahu or Vladimir Putin.  

    “Governments around the world and regional organizations must do everything in their power to mitigate and block the effect of President Trump’s sanctions. Through collective and concerted actions, ICC member states can protect the Court and its staff. Urgent action is needed, like never before.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: We Do Not Part by Han Kang: a haunting story which forces the reader to remember a horrific incident in Korea’s past that it tried to erase

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Hyunseon Lee, Professorial Research Associate at Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures, and Centre for Creative Industries, Media and Screen Studies, SOAS, University of London

    Jeju inhabitants awaiting execution in late 1948 wikimedia, CC BY

    We Do Not Part is the latest book by Korean writer Han Kang, who won the Nobel prize in literature in 2024. The book begins in fragments that ebb between dark dream, waking nightmare and memories of how the book’s protagonist Kyungha got to this terrible way of living.

    Even for those who do not know much about Korean history, it is fairly clear that something awful has changed Kyungha. When she closes her eyes images of women clutching children, black tree trunks jutting like limbs from the earth and so much snow flood into her mind.

    This experience has sapped all life from Kyungha and she is, when we meet her, simply waiting for death. That is, until her friend Inseon injures herself and asks Kyungha to travel to her home on the island of Jeju, south of mainland Korea, to look after her beloved pet bird, Ama.

    When she gets there, a violent snowstorm leaves her trapped in Inseon’s compound. Here, she stumbles upon the investigation into her friend’s family and its connection to the Jeju 4.3 massacre in the 1940s.

    In the early morning of April 3 1948, 359 members of the South Korean Workers’ Party and partisans carried out attacks on 12 police facilities and the homes of conservative leaders. They killed 12 people, including family members, before fleeing to the Halla Mountains. The term “Jeju 4.3” came from the date the incident is considered by many to have begun, even though it officially lasted from March 1 1947 to September 21 1954.

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

    What followed was a massive counterinsurgency operation by the South Korean government (with US backing) to exterminate communists and their sympathisers on the island. While officially numbers are still not known, it is believed that more than 30,000 Jeju people (10% of Jeju’s population at the time), including women and children, were killed.

    In We Do Not Part, we find out that Inseon’s mother, who died several years earlier, was a survivor of Jeju 4.3. Han Kang’s impressive approach to presenting the memories of Jeju 4.3 is multi-layered, subtle, fragmentary and contains a high degree of sensitivity as she recounts the massacre from the perspective of Inseon and her mother.

    Inseon is part of a what the Holocaust and cultural memory scholar Marianne Hirsch termed the “postmemory generation”. She is the child of a survivor who has inherited a “catastrophic [history] not through direct recollection but through haunting postmemories”.

    Inseon has absorbed the stories of her mother as her own. For instance, in one of the first extracts of Inseon’s memories she speaks of her mother and her sister finding their family dead in the snow.

    I remember her. The girl roaming the schoolyard, searching well into the evening. A child of 13 clinging to her 17-year-old sister as if her sister wasn’t a child herself, hanging on by a sleeve, too scared to see but unable to look away.

    However, Inseon doesn’t remember. She wasn’t there. But, as Hirsch writes of the postmemory generation, such distinct “memories” are mediated by “imaginative investments, projections and creations”.

    Han Kang’s skilful use of Inseon’s postmemory carefully gives voice to the feelings of Inseon’s mother. Han Kang does this through presenting these in fragments that recount first Inseon’s investigative work, and then Inseon’s mother’s research into the family’s losses. These are inserted in passages of recounted conversations, writing and descriptions of photographs and films.

    These pieces are scattered amid Kyungha’s time in the dreamlike and snow buried compound. The intermingling of past and present, dream and reality, art and life creates an almost hallucinatory quality where the edges blur as Kyungha inherits Inseon’s memories – which she inherited from her mother. In each transference, these stories become new.

    This retelling and remembering is important. The 1947 to 1949 uprising is considered by some historians, particularly the American historian Bruce Cummings, as the precursor to the Korean civil war, which left the country divided into North and South. However, for almost 50 years, the very existence of the massacre was officially censored and repressed.

    It was only in 2000s that the incident was recognised and the National Committee for Investigation of the Truth about the Jeju 4.3 Incident was established. In 2003, then-president Roh Moo-hyun apologised for the deaths of the innocents and the state repression against the survivors, who had been severely stigmatised as enemies of the state and branded “red insurgents” (pokto).

    Hang Kang’s novel makes it clear that Jeju 4.3 is not simply an issue of the past, but one of the present that persists and lives on in the lives of all who it has touched. Inseon was born the only daughter of a mother who witnessed the massacre and a father who survived, not only on Jeju, but also afterwards on the Korean mainland. This parentage means she cannot forget nor repress it, it constantly intrudes into her life.

    Han Kang urges the public to bear witness, the reader does so through Kyungha. As she delves into the history through memory and official documents, we too do the same. In this act of reading we remember and name the tragedy.

    Ultimately, this becomes an act of commemoration of the victims whose spirits still seem unable to leave this life as they remain on the island in the form of wind, birds, trees, snow and sea. We see, as Kyungha sees, Jeju 4.3 has left too much pain and too many scars on the souls for them to forget and leave.

    We Do Not Part is captivating, moving and from sentence to sentence Han Kang’s sensitive approach to Jeju 4.3 makes us reflect on why we still need to remember and commemorate this tragedy and the many others that still go ignored.

    Hyunseon Lee does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. We Do Not Part by Han Kang: a haunting story which forces the reader to remember a horrific incident in Korea’s past that it tried to erase – https://theconversation.com/we-do-not-part-by-han-kang-a-haunting-story-which-forces-the-reader-to-remember-a-horrific-incident-in-koreas-past-that-it-tried-to-erase-249200

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New deal for agriculture

    Source: Scottish Government

    Flexible grants to drive efficiency, support nature and climate friendly farming.

    Farmers and crofters will benefit from £20 million additional capital support this year and £26 million next year, First Minister John Swinney has confirmed.

    Speaking at the NFU Scotland annual conference he outlined how at least £14 million of the funding will deliver a Future Farming Investment Scheme, providing flexible capital grants.

    Other significant announcements included:

    • an additional £7 million in 2025 through the Agri-environment climate scheme (AECS) to undertake activities supporting nature, climate and biodiversity alongside food production
    • hosting a new entrant’s summit bringing key individuals together to find solutions to attract more people into farming
    • a three year programme of national land Lidar laser scanning to accurately map terrain
    • committing £75,000 to RSABI (founded as the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution) to provide mental health support for farmers and crofters
    • further details of how the routemap to implementing a new framework of agriculture support will work
    • a commitment to delivering ultra-high frequency (UHF) electronic identification for cows to improve traceability

    Mr Swinney said:

    “I want to see a farming sector that is equipped and ready to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the future. That is why at least £14 million will be delivered through our Future Farming Investment Scheme.

    “We will work at pace to consult with industry to ensure the capital grant scheme guidance and priorities work for a range of businesses and that the application processes are simple and straightforward. They will not be prescriptive, as long as the funds are used to drive efficiency or support nature and climate friendly farming your bid will be valid and could receive support.

    “A flourishing Scotland means a flourishing rural Scotland. And for rural Scotland to thrive, farming must thrive. I look forward to working with the industry – building on the constructive working relationships we have with NFU Scotland to show that this government is committed to continuing to support our nation’s farmers.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New affordable homes given the green light 

    Source: City of Salford

    Plans for the construction of 25 affordable homes across two locations in the city that will provide much needed supported accommodation for young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness have been approved at Salford City Council’s Planning and Transportation Regulatory Panel (Thursday 6 February).

    The first development coming to Bridgewater Street, Little Hulton will comprise of three two-bedroomed and four three-bedroomed family houses, which have a traditional terrace layout with off street parking and secure rear gardens. 

    The site will also feature eight one-bedroom apartments for young people, aged 18 to 25, who are, or at risk of becoming homeless. 

    The new affordable housing will be owned and managed by Dérive, Salford City Council’s wholly-owned housing company.

    Councillor Tracy Kelly, Statutory Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty at Salford City Council, said: “Affordable supported accommodation is such an important stepping-stone for helping people get back on their feet and is a vital step between homelessness and getting their lives back on track”.

    “The work we’re doing to provide truly affordable homes is crucial. The new, spacious low energy apartments will help tackle youth homelessness and the under provision of young persons supported accommodation in the city.

    “These homes will support a pathway out of homelessness into settled accommodation, and all the benefits that settled accommodation brings to improving life chances of young people, access to employment and education opportunities and improving health and wellbeing.”

    The second development approved at today’s meeting was Tully Street South, in Higher Broughton which will house a new development for young people who are, or at risk of becoming homeless. The ten self-contained apartments will feature single occupancy bedrooms, together with a bathroom, living/kitchen/dining area and storage spaces.

    Tully Street South’s development will also be owned and managed by Dérive and will be delivered under the Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP), a Government led scheme that aims to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping.

    These developments are part of our commitment to increasing the number of good quality, affordable homes, with support for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. 

    Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “The approval of both these affordable homes developments is a significant step forward in our plans to provide the affordable and social homes which local people need and deserve. 

    “There is real need for schemes such as these in our city, with over 5,000 households on the city’s housing register and over 6,000 homeless presentations made to the council in 2023-24. It’s vital we continue to work to provide truly affordable housing in our city.

    “Housing is so important for the wellbeing of everyone. Without a stable, secure, affordable place to live everything else suffers, from health to education to employment prospects. It is due to this appreciation of the holistic benefits of good housing that we have put so much energy and resources into Dérive, our wholly owned development company and developments such as Bridgewater Street and Tully Street South.”

    Read more about the proposals.

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    Date published
    Friday 7 February 2025

    Press and media enquiries

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Charges to be introduced at on-street parking bays in St Albans and Harpenden, and a brand new Access Permit for older residents using the Council’s car parks

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    Charges are to be introduced at some limited waiting on-street parking bays in St Albans and Harpenden following an extensive public consultation.

    St Albans City and District Council’s original proposals have been modified in response to feedback from residents, Councillors, businesses and community groups.

    One aim of the proposals is to encourage active travel, such as cycling and walking, where possible, rather than car use, to improve the local environment.

    Other aims are to ensure a greater turnover of premium parking places and improve enforcement by enabling new methods such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition.

    Four new disabled bays are also being created to provide improved parking facilities for motorists with Blue Badges in Harpenden’s town centre. 

    The charges will affect an additional 243 bays in Harpenden and an additional 70 in St Albans, and are due to come into effect on Monday 17 February.

    Motorists will have several payment options, including contactless via pay and display machines, with new equipment to be installed at key locations; the mobile phone app PayByPhone; and, soon after implementation, and cash or chip and pin at PayPoint outlets.

    The decision to introduce charges required a Traffic Regulation Order authorised by the Council’s Strategic Director for Community and Place Delivery in consultation with Councillor Helen Campbell, Lead for Parking.

    Cllr Campbell said:

    I fully understand some people will be disappointed at being charged for a service they have been getting for free.

    In making the decision, we analysed the responses to the consultations and engaged with stakeholders such as ward Councillors and Harpenden Town Council.

    We listened to the feedback and we made some significant changes as a result, such as changing the start of the controlled hours to 9am in Harpenden to help parents dropping off for school, and meeting requests for a longer free period of 30 mins. In addition, we will also be improving access to Harpenden town centre for Blue Badge holders.

    Cllr Campbell added:

    The charges are benchmarked against other local authorities, with many towns of a similar size to Harpenden having long had charges for on-street bays. As with other parking charges, we will monitor the impact of the changes and review if necessary.

    The charges will:

    • Apply from 9am to 6pm in Harpenden and, reflecting local conditions, 8.30am to 6.30pm in St Albans, both Monday to Saturday, with no charge outside these hours.

    • Allow for a 30-minutes free period once a day.

    • Be £1.25 for 30 minutes, so the charge for a one-hour stay will be £1.25 while the two-hour cost will be £3.75, both including the free period.

    • Cover a maximum stay of two hours with no return for two hours.

    Charges will not be considered at bays in York Road, St Albans, as originally proposed, until a wider review of parking in the area takes place.

    Five limited waiting bays in Leyton Green, Harpenden, will be converted into resident parking bays for the benefit of local households.

    Revenue from charges will go towards the Council’s on-street car parking services budget, which is currently running at a deficit, and towards greater levels of parking enforcement.

    Cllr Campbell added:

    The Secretary of State is clear that parking services should be self-sufficient, funded by fees and charges, instead of subsidised by other Council services as is the case at the moment. The revenue generated will help reduce the on-street parking service deficit, which is in the interest of all Council taxpayers as it will ensure we can better protect some of our other services. 

    Should any surplus income arise from on-street car parking, it would have to be kept in a ring-fenced budget and only be invested in parking, highways and environmental improvements.

    ACCESS PERMIT

    Alongside these changes to the way on street parking operates, the Council has also approved a brand new Access Permit to help older people who may have difficulties with digital applications. This pass will be made available for purchase from Monday 10 February and will cover all the District Council car parks. 

    The pass will cost £190 a year and be valid for one visit a day for up to three hours.

    To be eligible for the pass, a person would need to be a resident of the District and aged 70 or over.

    Media contact:  John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727- 819533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

     

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