Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli Visits Monwabisi Senior Club Centre.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
Washington (February 5, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) member of the Science, Commerce, and Transportation Committee, and Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Science, Commerce, and Transportation Committee today released the following statement on the committee’s vote to advance the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, bipartisan and bicameral legislation that would direct federal regulators to require automakers to include AM broadcast radio in their new vehicles at no additional charge.
“Today’s vote to advance the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act broadcasts a clear message to car manufacturers that AM radio is an essential communication tool for millions of Americans across the country. From emergency response to sports, entertainment, and news, AM radio is a lifeline that must be protected. Our bill ensures that no one is cut off from their communities and that AM radio stays a part of our constituents’ daily lives.”
In May 2023, Senators Markey and Cruz led their colleagues in introducing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act passed through the Senate Commerce Committee in July 2023 and passed through the House Energy and Commerce Committee in September 2024.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump to applaud his recent Executive Order to hold the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) accountable for their failed responses to disasters and to advocate for robust reforms.
“I write to commend your recent Executive Order establishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council. The current federal framework for responding to disasters is insufficient, and major reforms are necessary to ensure Americans are best supported in times of need,” Lankford wrote in the letter.
Lankford also introduced four bills to continue to build on President Trump’s work to address FEMA’s failures and inadequacies. The Expediting Hazard Mitigation Assistance Projects Act gives the FEMA Administrator the authority to cut red tape on unnecessary environmental and historic preservation review requirements. The Direct Property Acquisitions Act creates a pilot program for communities to avoid lengthy delays by applying directly for property acquisitions. The Investing in Community Resilience Act with Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) incentivizes communities to create readiness and resilience measures before a disaster. The Stopping Political Discrimination in Disaster Assistance Act will prohibit discrimination based on political affiliation in federal disaster relief. This bill is cosponsored by Senators Roger Marshall, MD (R-KS), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
View the letter here or below.
Dear President Trump:
I write to commend your recent Executive Order establishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council. The current federal framework for responding to disasters is insufficient, and major reforms are necessary to ensure Americans are best supported in times of need. As the Council engages with leaders to discuss potential reforms, I respectfully request that the Council consider the following:
Lastly, it is essential that the Council solicit feedback from leaders with substantial knowledge of disaster recovery efforts. Oklahoma is no stranger to natural disasters, and we are often forced to grapple with the ensuing wreckage and trauma. Despite these challenges, Oklahomans have consistently risen above the fray to help one another in recovery. Given our experience with natural disasters, I respectfully request that the Council solicit feedback from emergency management leaders in Oklahoma.
In God We Trust,
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) to introduce the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, legislation allowing veterans who received their Purple Heart after their service to transfer their educational benefits to one or more of their dependents
“I’m proud to support policies that honor the promises made to the brave men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform,” said Boozman. “Ensuring that veterans, and especially Purple Heart recipients, are able to access the benefits they have earned for themselves and their families is a duty that Congress should always prioritize.”
“Purple Heart veterans have made tremendous sacrifices to defend our freedoms, and we as a nation should do everything we can to support them and their families when they return—that includes ensuring all Purple Heart veterans have the full benefits they have earned,” said Murray. “As the daughter of a Purple Heart Veteran, this is personal to me—and I’m grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me in this effort.”
“Purple Heart recipients are heroes who honorably served our country at great costs, and this oversight that prevents servicemembers who received this distinguished award after their service from transferring their GI bill benefits to their dependents needs to be corrected immediately,” said Tillis. “I am proud to co-introduce this commonsense legislation to close this loophole and ensure every Purple Heart recipient and dependents are able to further their education.”
Specifically, the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act would:
The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Angus King (I-ME), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), John Cornyn (R-TX), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Michael Bennet (D-CO).
Congressmen Mike Levin (D-CA-49) and Greg Murphy (R-NC-03) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act is endorsed by Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
Click here for full text of the legislation.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Rural Hospital Support Act to prevent rural hospital closures by extending and modernizing critical Medicare programs.
“Hospitals are one of the last community pillars still standing in rural America. They not only offer accessible, vital health care but also provide key economic benefits that cannot be replicated. As these institutions continue to face headwinds threatening their viability, we can help sustain them by supporting fair and adequate reimbursement for their services,” Boozman said.
“As a lifelong resident of rural Iowa, I know the importance of having access to health care services close to home. In addition to providing life-saving care, rural hospitals are a source of economic security for many rural communities,” Grassley said. “Our bipartisan bill will ensure the continuity of these vital programs and help keep rural hospitals’ doors open.”
“Rural hospitals provide essential care to patients in rural communities, including to folks who rely on Medicare and Medicaid. In Vermont, rural hospitals are also job creators and economic drivers. But across the country, rural hospitals are struggling to stay open, and they need a lifeline,” Welch said. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure rural hospitals are reimbursed for resources they need to continue delivering vital care in our rural communities.”
Specifically, the Rural Hospital Support Act would:
The bipartisan legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tina Smith (D-MN), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), John Fetterman (D-PA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Gary Peters (D-MI).
The Rural Hospital Support Act has garnered support from stakeholders including the Alliance for Rural Hospital Access, the American Hospital Association and the National Rural Health Association.
Background
Rural hospitals provide critical care for patients, many of whom rely on Medicare and Medicaid. These hospitals also serve as economic anchors – accounting for around 14 percent of total employment in rural areas.
The MDH and LVH programs have supported rural communities for decades. The programs were last extended as part of the Continuing Resolution on December 20, 2024, and would expire on March 31, 2025, without congressional action. The Rural Hospital Support Act does not change other rural hospital Medicare programs including critical access hospitals (CAH), rural referral centers (RRC), Rural Community Hospital Demonstration or the new voluntary rural emergency hospitals (REH). Each of these rural programs offer unique flexibilities to ensure health care services are accessible in rural America.
Find bill text here.
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –
Dear customers,
On February 8, 2025, scheduled maintenance will be carried out on the Moscow Exchange OTC OTC reporting service. Please note that the maintenance will affect all protocols. During the maintenance, we recommend that you refrain from reporting OTC transactions on this day.
All transactions entered on February 8 from 00:00 to 23:59 will be considered test transactions, including those sent through the personal account.
Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is account to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect the Position of Mil-Sosi or Its Clients.
HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: Central Bank of Russia –
Bank of Russia updated the calculation procedure capital adequacy ratio (CAD) for professional participants in the securities market in order to minimize risks to their financial stability.
The new version specifies the procedure for calculating the broker’s credit risk in relation to clients for whom the risk coverage standard has been violated when making margin transactions. It is prohibited to accept securities issued by the debtor itself and assets of companies affiliated with it as collateral. It is also permitted to use the broker’s ratings to reduce the credit risk rates in relation to the debt of companies associated with the broker, but on the condition that the debtor’s assessment of its own (independent) creditworthiness indicates its financial stability.
In addition, the document provides for the calculation of the risk on digital rights acquired and issued by a professional participant. An alternative calculation of the amount of market risk on option agreements has appeared (similar to the regulation of credit institutions). Measures are being introduced to discourage large open currency positions among professional participants. The rules for determining the values of credit risk rates in relation to counterparties and clients are also simplified.
The regulation comes into force on October 1, 2025.
Preview photo: Jsnow my wolrd / Shutterstock / Fotodom
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is account to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect the Position of Mil-Sosi or Its Clients.
HTTPS: //VVV.KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23346
Source: United Nations 4
By Vibhu Mishra
As South Sudan enters a so-called “extended transitional period” this month, the UN’s top envoy to the country has warned that the clock is ticking to accomplish the commitments under a key 2018 peace accord, ahead of a new deadline set for February 2027.
Signed in 2018 to end years of conflict, the Revitalized Peace Agreement, initially set a three-year timeline for elections and the formation of a democratic government. The transition has been extended four times, with key political, security, and governance benchmarks remaining unfulfilled.
Under the latest extension, announced by the authorities in September last year, general elections are scheduled to take place in December 2026.
Briefing ambassadors at the Security Council on Wednesday, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan Nicolas Haysom stressed that while the country’s citizens have been patient, they expect progress.
“There is a strong desire for the leaders to focus on the benchmarks set out in the peace agreement – without further delay.”
With progress stalling in several critical areas, Mr. Haysom urged South Sudan’s leaders to accelerate security sector reform, electoral preparations, and reform of the constitution and judicial processes.
“The clock is already ticking on the extended transitional period. Decision-makers need to tackle several issues simultaneously and immediately,” he emphasised.
Despite some achievements, major gaps persist – especially oncerning elections scheduled for December 2026.
While a framework for security sector management and a national community violence reduction strategy have been adopted, critical conditions remain unmet – including the full deployment of unified security forces, voter education, and a code of conduct between political parties and other stakeholders.
“We have not yet seen the previously promised harmonized workplan with an operational timetable for elections,” Mr. Haysom said, adding that delays in government funding and decision-making are further impeding progress.
Communal violence remains a major driver of insecurity, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including women and children.
Recent clashes between armed groups in Western Equatoria, along with widespread reports of illegal checkpoints, highlight the fragility of the security environment, Mr. Haysom noted.
At the same time, the war between rival militaries in in neighbouring Sudan is having spillover effects in South Sudan, including violent unrest in Juba following reports of South Sudanese nationals being executed in Sudan’s Wad Madani region.
UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General briefing the Security Council on the situation in South Sudan.
More than one million Sudanese refugees have fled into South Sudan during the reporting period, joining an already staggering 9.3 million people in need of humanitarian assistance.
The country’s economic crisis is also worsening, with inflation soaring to 107 percent and food prices doubling, while government employees have not been paid for 10 months.
Health conditions are also deteriorating, with over 23,000 reported cholera cases exacerbated by last year’s floods. The disease continues to spread, particularly in remote areas with limited healthcare access.
The 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan aims to reach 5.4 million people with life-saving assistance and protection, but funding remains a critical challenge. The UN is appealing for $1.7 billion to meet urgent needs this year.
Mr. Haysom, who also leads the UN peacekeeping mission in the country, UNMISS, briefed on logistical challenges faced after the Government requested the mission vacate part of its headquarters within 45 days.
He described the demand as imposing “significant costs” and logistical hurdles that UNMISS is not currently equipped to manage.
Restrictions on peacekeeper movement in some areas also continue to limit the mission’s ability to provide security and humanitarian support.
Concluding his briefing, Mr. Haysom reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to standing “shoulder-to-shoulder” with the people of South Sudan on their path to stabilisation and democratisation.
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Police investigating an assault in Wainuiomata last night are asking for the public’s help, after a man was left seriously injured.
About 10pm, Police were called to a car park on The Strand after a report of people fighting.
Those involved have left the scene in two vehicles before Police arrived.
A short time later, emergency services have received another call for service to Riverside Drive, stating a man had been injured and required medical assistance.
He was located in his vehicle with serious injuries, which are believed to have been sustained in the altercation at The Strand.
He was transported to hospital, where he remains in a serious condition.
Police are now working to establish the full circumstances of what has occurred and to locate those responsible for the man’s injuries.
We are asking anyone who may have witnessed this incident, or who has information about those involved, to please get in touch and share what you know.
You can do so by calling 105 and quoting reference number 250205/0193.
You can also share information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: US Congressional Budget Office
The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.
At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.
CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of February 10, 2025, include
Source: US State of New York
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of a new webpage and interactive tracking tool to help document progress toward New York State’s goal to plant 25 million trees by 2033. Hosted by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and developed in cooperation with the Office of Information Technology Services, the webpage and Tree Tracker allow State agencies, organizations, private entities, and individuals to report the location and number of trees planted into the tracking tool, measuring progress in the statewide effort.
“New York is taking decisive action to protect our environment and strengthen communities’ ability to withstand severe weather,” Governor Hochul said. “Our progress toward the 25 Million Tree goal is a testament to the power of community-driven action, and the new Tree Tracker will make it easier for New Yorkers to track our progress, share updates and contribute to a healthier environment for the future.”
Trees planted in 2024 and on count toward the statewide total. Every entry records the number and location of trees planted. Entries can also include additional information such as planting date(s), tree species, and tree size. The webpage displays an interactive map of planting projects across New York State, and tallies trees planted by region, county, and municipality for visitors to track planting across the state as the initiative progresses toward the 25 million tree goal.
In addition to linking to the Tree Tracker, the 25 Million Trees webpage provides information on how to plant trees, how to care for them to aid their survival, and where to go for more technical assistance.
Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Working with the New Yorkers we serve, the 25 Million Tree Goal is helping to address our sustained efforts to protect communities and natural resources across the state. Every tree planted is a step toward a healthier, greener New York. The Tree Tracker will empower New Yorkers to share their stories with us as our partners in this historic effort, which will have a lasting impact on the environment.”
The Nature Conservancy’s New York Executive Director Bill Ulfelder said, “The Nature Conservancy is pleased to see New York State unveil new tools to document progress towards New York’s goal to plant 25 million trees by 2033. Achieving this goal would help New York meet its carbon reduction goals while protecting clean drinking water, restoring wildlife habitat, and reducing the risks of extreme heatwaves, which can be fatal in neighborhoods without trees.”
Governor Hochul launched the 25 Million Trees Initiative in her 2024 State of the State address, allocating $32 million in Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act Funds to modernize the State’s tree nursery and harness technology to track forestation efforts in New York and $15 million in the Executive Budget to support resilient reforestation projects. The Initiative is invigorating statewide tree planting efforts, sending an unmistakable market signal to private nurseries, and growing the state’s vital forest products industry. The Initiative advances the climate equity and reforestation goals outlined in New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act and contributes to New York’s broader efforts to reduce the pollution contributing to climate change.
The 25 Million Trees Initiative also highlights funding opportunities for afforestation and reforestation projects in New York State. Private landowners had access to $4.5 million for projects expanding and restoring forests through the Establishing Large Forests (ELF) Grant Program, and $15 million is currently available to municipalities, not-for-profits, and State agencies to create forested natural areas servicing urban communities through the Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant Program until March, 12, 2025.
New York’s 25 Million Trees Initiative also contributes in part to the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers’ call for planting 250 million trees around the Great Lakes region by 2033.
Source: US State of California Governor
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 to the unprecedented disaster caused by the recent firestorms in Los Angeles, Governor Newsom has taken significant executive action to remove red tape and suspend regulatory barriers, from suspending permitting requirements to fast-tracking cleanup efforts.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Governor Newsom has launched historic recovery and rebuilding efforts, cutting red tape and suspending regulations to help make the recovery process faster than ever before. Moving proactively to remove barriers that would prevent a quick recovery, Governor Newsom began issuing orders and suspending regulations related to rebuilding in the days immediately after the firestorms began.
✂️ Suspending permitting requirements. Governor Newsom waived permitting requirements based on the California Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act on January 12.
🏠 Creating more temporary housing, faster. To help provide necessary shelter for those immediately impacted by the firestorms, the Governor issued an executive order on January 16 to streamline the construction and occupancy of accessory dwelling units, increase availability of trailers and other temporary housing, and suspend fees for mobile home parks.
⚠️Fast-tracking clean-up and recovery. With an eye toward recovery, On January 12, the Governor directed fast action on debris removal work and mitigating the potential for mudslides and flooding in areas burned. Three days later, he signed an executive order to allow expert federal hazmat crews to start cleaning up properties as a key step in getting people back to their properties safely.
📝 Tax and mortgage relief for disaster victims and businesses. On January 11, California postponed the individual tax filing deadline to October 15 for Los Angeles County taxpayers. Additionally, the state extended the January 31, 2025, sales and use tax filing deadline for Los Angeles County taxpayers until April 30 — providing critical tax relief for businesses. Governor Newsom suspended penalties and interest on late property tax payments for a year, effectively extending the state property tax deadline. The Governor also worked with state– and federally-chartered banks that have committed to providing mortgage relief for survivors in certain zip codes.
✔️ Waiving licensing fees for small businesses. The Governor issued an executive order on January 29 to support small businesses and workers, by providing relief to help businesses recover quickly by deferring annual licensing fees and waiving other requirements that may impose barriers to recovery.
❤️ Making it easier for survivors to quickly get help. The Governor fast-tracked more relief for survivors on January 27 by waiving or suspending regulations that could make it more difficult for survivors to access important services, such as child care, education, rental housing, health care, and tax relief.
View all the actions Governor Newsom has taken in response to Los Angeles firestorms
For those Californians impacted by the firestorms in Los Angeles, there are resources available.Californians can go to CA.gov/LAfires – a hub for information and resources from state, local and federal government.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses from wildfires in Los Angeles County can apply for disaster assistance:
If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
Source: South Australia Police
Police are investigating after shot were fired at Glen Osmond earlier this morning.
Just after midnight on Thursday 6 February, police were called to Elinor Terrace at Glen Osmond after reports of shots being fired.
On arrive police located damage to a glass balustrade from the first-floor balcony and visible holes in the façade of the building.
No one was physically injured as a result of the shots being fired.
Anyone with information about the shooting or any suspicious vehicles or activity in the area can report it anonymously to police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Jenny Espinal Tejada, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joshua D. Wolson to 18 months in prison, $1,841,402 in restitution, and forfeiture of the proceeds of her offenses, for defrauding the U.S. government.
The defendant was charged in July of last year by superseding indictment and pleaded guilty in October to one count of wire fraud and one count of defrauding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”).
Espinal Tejada admitted that she used her small corner grocery store in Philadelphia to redeem SNAP benefits, even though she knew the store had not been approved to participate in SNAP as a merchant. She gained access to the program by misappropriating merchant identification numbers that had been assigned to stores that participated in the program legitimately. By using the misappropriated numbers, she was able to work around the rules of SNAP, and she further abused the program by trading benefits for cash in her store.
“Espinal Tejada sought to profit illicitly from the SNAP program, diverting nearly $2 million of the USDA’s money,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “On behalf of the folks who rely on these resources every day — and the taxpayers who fund the programs — we and our partners will continue to prosecute abuses like this and ensure that those who commit them are held appropriately accountable.”
“SNAP was created to provide food and nutrition to those who truly need this assistance,” said Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG). “This joint investigation identified those who sought to profit from SNAP through illegal schemes. We are thankful to our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners and will continue to dedicate investigative resources in order to protect the integrity of these programs and bring those who commit fraud to justice.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Abrams.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BOSTON – An El Salvadoran man living in Chelsea, Mass. was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for unlawful reentry.
Benancio Martinez-Diaz, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to four months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Martinez-Diaz will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In October 2024, Martinez-Diaz pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry. In July 2024, Martinez-Diaz was indicted by a federal grand jury in this case.
Between 2006 and 2014, Martinez-Diaz was deported/removed from the United States on five separate occasions. He was most recently removed on or about May 30, 2014. On or about Oct. 8, 2023, Martinez-Diaz was arrested on state charges and Immigration and Customs Enforcement was notified and a detainer was lodged.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Chelsea Police Chief Keith Houghton made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that Madison Carrig, 30, of Whitehall, New York, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court in Burlington to four months of imprisonment following her guilty plea to charges of access device fraud. Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss ordered that Carrig pay restitution in the amount of $141,000 and serve three years of supervised release following completion of her prison term. The court ordered Carrig to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on March 18 to begin serving her sentence.
Last July, the United States Attorney filed an information charging Carrig with two counts of access device fraud. Carrig pleaded guilty to the information this past August. According to the information, beginning in September 2022 and continuing until February 2023, Carrig was employed as the office manager of two automobile dealerships located in central Vermont. In that capacity, Carrig supervised all accounting activities at both dealerships. Among other things, she had authority to sign checks, initiate wire transfers and make deposits to the dealerships’ bank account. She also possessed a company credit card and was authorized to use the credit card to make business-related purchases. Between February 2023 and November 27, 2023, Carrig was employed as the controller of a third Vermont automobile dealership, in Rutland. She had authority to sign checks, initiate wire transfers and make deposits to the dealership’s bank account. She also possessed a company credit card and was authorized to use the credit card to make business-related purchases.
In the course of her employment, Carrig defrauded the three dealerships of approximately $140,000. She did this by embezzling cash receipts received from customers of the dealerships. She also misused company credit cards to purchase goods and services for her own use and benefit.
This case was investigated by the Vermont State Police.
Carrig is represented by Natasha Sen, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ERIC CHARLES FULLER (“FULLER”), age 54, from Springfield, Missouri, pled guilty on February 4, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg Gerard Guidry, to interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(b).
According to court documents, on or about December 7, 2023, law enforcement personnel, operating undercover online and pretending to be a twenty-nine-year-old mother with a twelve-year-old daughter, met FULLER on a social network and messaging application. Over approximately the next month, on numerous occasions, FULLER discussed his interest in engaging in various sexual acts with the “mother” and daughter.” These discussions culminated in FULLER making arrangements to travel from his residence in Springfield, Missouri, to the New Orleans, Louisiana area to engage in sexual contact, individually and collectively, with the ”mother” and “daughter.” During his conversations, FULLER described the contact he anticipated as “highly taboo,” “highly illegal,” “risky,” “not the worst way to be,” and “a way to have a happier life.” FULLER drove from Springfield, Missouri on about January 11, 2024, and arrived at a predetermined location in Mandeville, Louisiana, on January 12, 2024, in order to engage in sexual conduct with the individual FULLER believed to be a twelve-year-old female.
FULLER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years. FULLER also faces at least five (5) years, and up to a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. FULLER may also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing before Judge Guidry has been scheduled for May 13, 2025.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blockmate Ventures Inc (TSX.V: MATE) (OTCQB: MATEF) (FSE: 8MH1) (“Blockmate” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its subsidiary, Hivello Holdings Ltd has partnered with Neova, a decentralised storage platform, to expand Hivello’s decentralised storage capability, making storage more accessible and profitable for all.
Below is the press release from Hivello:
Hivello + Neova: a Strategic Partnership to Advance Decentralized Infrastructure
LONDON and AMSTERDAM, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hivello, the all-in-one decentralized infrastructure manager, and Neova, a leader in decentralized data storage protocols, are excited to announce a strategic partnership to accelerate the adoption and innovation of decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN).
Hivello and Neova are coming together to explore how their unique strengths can advance decentralized infrastructure and expand the adoption of Web3 technologies. Hivello simplifies running decentralized nodes by aggregating and managing them across multiple protocols, making it easy for non-technical users to contribute to DePIN networks. Neova, on the other hand, is a decentralized storage protocol built on IPFS, offering secure and privacy-first data storage & management through a network of peer-to-peer and master nodes.
Hivello and Neova are exploring several areas of collaboration. These include the possibility of Hivello becoming a node distributor for Neova’s decentralized storage network, as well as integrating Neova’s protocol into Hivello’s platform to enhance user accessibility. Hivello also plans to test Neova’s nodes on its testnet in preparation for the mainnet launch. Additionally, both companies collaborate on co-marketing efforts to promote decentralized infrastructure solutions.
“Neova is pioneering decentralized storage solutions that align with our mission to simplify decentralized infrastructure for everyone,” said Domenic Carosa, Co-Founder & Chairman of Hivello. “Together, we can bridge the gap between innovative protocols and everyday users, opening up new opportunities for collaboration, scalability, and growth in the Web3 space.”
Quentin Clement, CEO of Neova, added: “Hivello’s user-centric approach to decentralized node management is the kind of innovation needed to grow the DePIN ecosystem. This partnership allows us to explore new ways to expand our decentralized storage network while bringing greater accessibility and efficiency to our users. The possibilities here are exciting.”
About Neova
Neova is a decentralized storage protocol that prioritizes privacy, security, and scalability. By leveraging Avail’s Data Availability (DA) Layer, Neova ensures robust on-chain verification and seamless data integrity. Unlike conventional storage solutions, Neova enhances data persistence and censorship resistance with a custom IPFS through a hybrid architecture of peer-to-peer networks and master nodes. Its ecosystem includes solutions such as Neova Drive and electronic signature tools, designed to empower users with true data ownership and frictionless accessibility.
About Hivello
Hivello is an aggregator of DePIN projects that allows any user to participate in a variety of DePIN networks with just a few clicks. This eliminates the technical hurdles that many users face when trying to join these networks, and allows users to generate an extra source of income by mobilizing their idle computers. We aim to create a simple app that allows users to contribute their computer resources with no technical knowledge required.
About Blockmate Ventures Inc.
Blockmate Ventures is a venture creator focussing on building fast growing technology businesses relating to cutting edge sectors such as blockchain, AI and renewable energy. Working with prospective founders, projects in incubation can benefit from the Blockmate ecosystem that offers tech, services, integrations and advice to accelerate the incubation of projects towards monetization. Recent projects include Hivello (download the free passive income app at www.hivello.com) and Sunified, digitising solar energy.
The leadership team at Blockmate Ventures have successfully founded successful tech companies from the Dotcom era through to the social media era. Learn more about being a Blockmate at: www.blockmate.com.
Blockmate welcomes investors to join the Company’s mailing list for the latest updates and industry research by subscribing at https://www.blockmate.com/subscribe.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Justin Rosenberg, CEO
Blockmate Ventures Inc
justin@blockmate.com
(+1-580-262-6130)
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release
Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on the assumptions, expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Raindrop disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In 2025, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) collected information on fatal and non-fatal occupational electrical injuries from every available source. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) provide raw data that ESFI reviews and analyzes as it is released to identify electrical safety trends. ESFI quantifies, synthesizes, and publishes the information from these reports in visual form to its website. The most recent data set covers the 13 years from 2011 through 2023.
“As the leading authority on electrical safety, ESFI’s compilation and analysis of this data illustrates the occupations most at-risk from electrical injury and death as well as identifies the main causes,” said ESFI Executive Director, Jennifer LeFevre. “Our attention to the qualitative data, including detailed incident narratives for over one thousand workplace fatalities, helps guide ESFI’s work in targeting those who would most benefit from electrical safety education. Using this research to shape our programs allows us to create messaging that assists employees in making safe choices and provide guidance for creating a safer work environment. We encourage everyone to utilize ESFI’s free-to-share resources to elevate the safety of your workplace and prevent avoidable workplace injuries and fatalities.”
Contact with or exposure to electricity continues to be one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and injuries in the United States. Between 2011 and 2023, there was a total of 1,940 workplace fatalities involving electricity, according to the BLS. During this period, 74% of fatalities occurred in non-electrically related occupations. The key data points are as follows:
Workplace Fatalities and Injuries: 2011 – 2023 (OSHA)
Occupations with the Most Electrical Fatalities (OSHA)
Electrical Fatality Rates per 100,000 Workers (BLS)
ESFI partners with industry leaders, including those comprising its Board of Directors, to develop key resources and consistent electrical safety messages. By addressing evolving and emerging electrical safety needs in the workplace and then deploying effective electrical safety materials and programs based on those needs, electrical injuries and fatalities can decrease through proper education of the workforce.
“Most of the electrical fatalities that occurred in the workplace were from accidental contact with electricity,” said Daniel Majano, ESFI Program Director who compiled the data. “It is important to always be aware of your surroundings when at a job site. Whether it’s to always look up to spot overhead power lines or knowing what might be energized around your job site, it is imperative to know all the possible contact points of electricity around you.” Majano added, “Also always know when to say when and make sure you’re trained and aware of any electrical hazards. Over 74% of the workplace electrical fatalities that occurred between 2011 and 2023 were in non-electrical occupations that may have not received electrical safety training.”
ABOUT ESFI
The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is the trusted voice for electrical safety. The mission of ESFI is to prevent electrically related injuries, deaths, and fires. ESFI’s work saves lives and property through public education and outreach. For free safety materials that you can share throughout your community, visit esfi.org.
Contact:
Evan Jones
Electrical Safety Foundation International
703.841.3247
evan.jones@esfi.org
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0abbc325-661e-4266-869b-fa5a79ef428a
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
ONTARIO, Calif., Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CVB Financial Corp. (NASDAQ: CVBF), the holding company for Citizens Business Bank (the “Bank”), has been recognized by Forbes in their 16thannual America’s Best Banks list. This recognition marks the ninth time in the past decade that the Bank has earned a place on Forbes’ prestigious list of the best banks in the nation.
“We are honored to receive recognition once again for our strong financial performance,” said David Brager, President and Chief Executive Officer of CVB Financial Corp. and Citizens Business Bank. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication and talent of our associates, as well as the enduring relationships we have developed with our customers.”
As one of the top performing financial services companies in the nation, CVBF and the Bank regularly receive industry accolades for their financial strength and community outreach efforts. In 2024, CVBF was ranked by S&P Global Market Intelligence as one of the Top 50 Public Banks, and also named as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women by Newsweek. The Bank maintained its Five-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial, its designation as a “Super Premier” Performing Bank by The Findley Reports and CVBF’s BBB+ rating from Fitch Ratings. The Bank previously received top honors from Forbes as the overall number one “Best Bank in America” for four of the past ten years, namely, in 2023, 2021, 2020 and 2016.
In establishing its rankings, Forbes looked at ten metrics related to credit quality, growth, and profitability for all 100 of the largest publicly traded banks and thrifts in asset size in the nation.
Corporate Overview
CVB Financial Corp. (“CVBF”) is the holding company for Citizens Business Bank. CVBF is one of the 10 largest bank holding companies headquartered in California with greater than $15 billion in total assets. Citizens Business Bank is consistently recognized as one of the top performing banks in the nation and offers a wide array of banking, lending and investing services with more than 60 banking centers and three trust office locations serving California.
Shares of CVB Financial Corp. common stock are listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “CVBF”. For investor information on CVB Financial Corp., visit our Citizens Business Bank website at www.cbbank.com and click on the “Investors” tab.
Contact:
David A. Brager
President and Chief
Executive Officer
(909) 980-4030
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhauli conducts a site visit to Swift Skills Academy
PYEI Jobs Boost implementing partners
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Published: February 05, 2025
Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 55-44, E. Scott Turner to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):
“Scott Turner has the business and personal acumen to serve him well as head of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He overcame early childhood adversity to become a successful professional football player, state legislator, businessman and politician. He has the pedigree of someone who knows what it takes to achieve the American Dream. Mr. Turner has committed to lift up the stories of forgotten Americans, ensuring every citizen, regardless of creed or background, will have the same access to strong communities and quality, affordable housing. He has promised to focus on maximizing resources, putting successful policies at the forefront, not simply spending more to achieve less. I congratulate Scott Turner on his confirmation.”
Source: US State of Oregon
hen Joni Kabana first saw the Spray General Store in Spray, Oregon, the roof was in disrepair, a tree was threatening the building from the back and it was filled with stuff the owner was storing. The whole building was in rough shape.
But Kabana felt a calling to do something with the old beloved store.
“My intuition just said, ‘Let’s do it.’ Sometimes I just go with my gut with what I’m supposed to do,” she said.
That was 12 years ago. Three years ago, she bought the building. She removed the threatening tree and put on a new roof. At first, she thought the building would be a good place for her photography and writing studio. But it soon morphed into a community center. The Spray General Store now offers the community of Spray – and its 159 residents – and others, a place to visit, a place to create art, play music, take classes and hold meetings – a place to gather and get to know each other. Kabana acts as the event and building manager.
Throughout the years when the building needed something she applied for grants and asked for donations. As you can imagine, an old building has its needs. One of the store’s needs was for a heater that would heat the kitchen and bathroom.
Recently Kabana applied for a Resilience Hubs and Networks Grant from the Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM). The funding came from Oregon Legislature through House Bill 3409 passed in 2023. The grant allocated $10 million to develop Resilience Hubs throughout Oregon.
The Spray General Store was one of the grant’s recipients, receiving $26,300. There were more than 700 applicants for this grant money. More than 87 different groups from throughout the state were awarded a grant. $2 million was set aside to provide to each of the Nine Tribes of Oregon $222,222.
“What impressed me was I had chance to visit Spray. I talked to neighbors, and they all worked together. There had been a big forest fire in Spray. When I went to visit, I opened the doors and there were air filters, water for people. It was a perfect example of what a resilience hub is,” Ed Flick, OREM Director, said.
“When they told me I got our grant, and they told me we could have heat I got really choked up. I got really emotional. Rarely do we get funding for building issues. That bathroom and kitchen are really freezing. We would hear people scream when they went into the bathroom. Getting heat in the kitchen and bathroom is going to be a game changer for us,” Kabana said.
Being able to use the kitchen and bathroom in the winter months means the store can hold more community events through off seasons when area businesses are struggling. Being used in the winter can bring more people to town who will use places like the motel, the grocery store and the gas station.
Some of the grant money will also be used to install electricity in the storage building in the back. That’s where they store blacksmithing and ceramic material used in their classes and also wood and tools.
“Now if you need a tool or something you go in there and there is no light. You better go in during the day,” Kabana said.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to upgrade the heating and provide operational costs to keep the General Store functioning year-round. If the need arises, this will be a place the people of Spray can go to seek shelter, water and other resources.” Jenn Bosch, OREM Grants Program Administrator, said.
Here is what the grant will fund: heat repaired/installed in the kitchen and bathroom; operational costs such as internet, electric, water; outreach; window purchase and installation; and partial costs of an electrical panel in the barn.
Kabana also wants to bring in a mobile BBQ food cart. There is no restaurant in Spray. And the other two restaurants about an hour’s drive away just closed. She wants to let people have a really good restaurant experience. She hopes to partner the food cart with an event like a float on the nearby John Day River, or an open mic night for musicians.
Learn more about the Resilience Hubs and Networks Grant: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/emergency-management/Pages/resilience-grants.aspx
Source: US State of California
Warns Children’s Hospital Los Angeles of potential violations of state anti-discrimination laws
OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today reminded California hospitals and federally-funded healthcare providers of their ongoing obligation under California anti-discrimination law to provide gender affirming care amid confusion resulting from President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directive on freezing or pausing federal funding and his executive order on gender affirming care. Attorney General Bonta also issued a letter putting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles on notice of its obligations under state anti-discrimination law, following reports that the hospital is pausing the initiation of hormonal therapies for all gender affirming care patients under the age of 19 and gender-affirming surgeries on minors.
“California supports the rights of transgender youth to live their lives as their authentic selves,” said Attorney General Bonta. “We will not let the President turn back the clock or deter us from upholding California values. I understand that the President’s executive order on gender affirming care has created some confusion. Let me be clear: California law has not changed, and hospitals and clinics have a legal obligation to provide equal access to healthcare services.”
The California Department of Justice is aware of concerns about gender-affirming care being impacted by recent federal government actions attempting to restrict federal funds to recipients of federal grants, including the availability of federal financial assistance regarding the provision of gender affirming care to minors.
On January 28, 2025, Attorney General Bonta, along with 22 other state attorneys general, filed suit in federal district court to halt the federal government’s illegal efforts to freeze such federal funding. The court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on January 31, 2025, prohibiting federal agencies from taking any action that would “pause, freeze, block, cancel or terminate” such funding. As a result of the TRO won by Attorney General Bonta and 22 other state attorneys general, federal agencies must continue to comply with existing grants, awards, and obligations, except as authorized by law.
In a notice sent to federal agencies and filed with the court on Monday, the U.S. Department of Justice (U.S. DOJ) indicated its intent to comply with the court order and affirmed that the TRO blocking the illegal funding freeze applied to all federal funding awards or obligations, including those made to recipients such as hospitals, and federally funded healthcare providers. The U.S. DOJ stated that federal agencies “cannot pause, freeze, impede, block, cancel, or terminate any awards or obligations on the basis of the OMB memo, or on the basis of the President’s recently issued Executive Orders.” As such, the recent executive order pertaining to gender-affirming care for minors does not provide federal agencies with any basis to threaten or revoke federal funding from hospitals and federally funded healthcare providers.
Furthermore, California law, including the Unruh Civil Rights Act, Civil Code section 51 and Government Code section 11135, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Electing to refuse services to a class of individuals based on their protected status, such as withholding services from transgender individuals based on their gender identity or their diagnosis of gender dysphoria, while offering such services to cisgender individuals, is discrimination. California families seeking gender-affirming care, and the doctors and staff who provide it, are protected under state laws.
RESOURCES
California has a number of resources for transgender youth and the broader LGBTQ+ community:
If you believe your rights are being violated as part of the enforcement of the President’s executive order, you can file a complaint with the California Attorney General’s Office here or with the California Civil Rights Department here.
A copy of the letter to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is available here.
Source: South Australia Police
Police are currently at the scene of a crash at Brimbago.
Just after 11pm last night (Wednesday 5 February), police and emergency services were called to the Dukes Highway after reports of a truck having crashed into a tree.
The Dukes Highway at Brimbago is currently closed in both directions.
All traffic is being directed along Emu Flat Road and Ngarkat Highway to travel between Keith and Bordertown.
Please avoid the area if possible.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
The FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force continues to assist the Philadelphia Police Department with the search for Justin Smith, a convicted felon, wanted for his alleged involvement in the murder of his pregnant 21-year-old girlfriend.
She disappeared on March 30, 2021, and her body was found on April 5, 2021. He is alleged to have shot her in the head multiple times, causing her death and the death of her unborn child.
On April 9, 2021, Smith was charged with murder and related offenses in the 1st Judicial District in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, and a state warrant was issued for his arrest.
On August 10, 2023, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Smith in the United States District Court, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, after he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Justin Smith is known to have connections to Greensboro, North Carolina, and New Castle, Delaware. After fleeing Philadelphia in 2021, he was seen in the Little Haiti neighborhood of Miami, Florida, and in Atlanta, Georgia.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to Smith’s location and arrest.
Anyone with information on Smith’s whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 215-418-4000 or tips.fbi.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
Link to poster: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/murders/justin-smith
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, in an effort to protect taxpayers and federal workers and uphold the law, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), the House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member, along with U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and U.S. Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD), the Ranking Members of both the Senate and House Financial Services and General Government Subcommittees, sent a letter to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) pointing out that the Trump Administration’s so-called buyout program is “deceptive,” “legally dubious,” would “undermine” a host of vital government services people rely on, and “should be rescinded immediately.”
“Federal workers take an oath to defend the Constitution and to work on behalf of the American people. OPM’s legally dubious and intentionally misleading offer is a disservice to these dedicated men and women, and it should be retracted immediately,” the four lawmakers wrote to the acting head of OPM.
The Trump Administration’s proposal, which gave federal workers just a few days to consider the offer before a February 6 deadline to accept the terms alleging to pay them through September of 2025, incurs a multi-billion dollar cost on behalf of the federal government that has not been authorized or appropriated by Congress. If implemented, it would negatively impact taxpayers, who would be paying workers not to provide the public with critical services.
“If federal workers are enticed or coerced to accept this ‘offer,’ the services that average Americans rely on will be undermined,”the lawmakers wrote.“Federal employees inspect nursing homes to give families and caregivers peace of mind. They stem the supply of fentanyl and illegal contraband at our nation’s ports of entry. They approve patent applications to bolster American innovation. They ensure that seniors can access Social Security benefits that they have worked their entire lives to earn, and they work to provide health care service to our nation’s veterans.”
The appropriators asked a series of specific questions about OPM’s compliance with the Privacy Act, OPM’s legal authority to extend this offer, and whether paying people not to work through September 30 violates the Anti-Deficiency Act, a law that prevents the federal government from promising or spending money in excess of what Congress has made available. Congress has funded the government only through mid-March, not through the end of the fiscal year, which runs through September.
Specifically, the letter asks OPM:
Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:
February 5, 2025
Mr. Charles Ezell
Acting Director
U.S. Office of Personnel Management
1900 E St NW
Washington, DC 20415
Dear Mr. Ezell,
On January 28, 2025, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent a so-called “Fork in the Road” email to more than two million federal employees offering the opportunity to take “deferred resignation” by February 6, 2025.[1] Additional documents published by the agency, including a “Frequently Asked Questions” webpage that is updated on an almost daily basis, as well as further communications regarding collective bargaining agreements, have caused confusion and concern among the federal workforce. There is at best, questionable legal authority for the Administration to offer this type of program to federal workers, and it is not contemplated in appropriations law. It should be rescinded immediately.
OPM’s deceptive “offer” has been orchestrated by Elon Musk, a billionaire with significant business interests with the federal government who has used his influence to force out federal officials – including the former FAA Administrator – who have worked to ensure that his companies follow the law.
If federal workers are enticed or coerced to accept this “offer”, the services that average Americans rely on will be undermined. Federal employees inspect nursing homes to give families and caregivers peace of mind. They stem the supply of fentanyl and illegal contraband at our nation’s ports of entry. They approve patent applications to bolster American innovation. They ensure that seniors can access Social Security benefits that they have worked their entire lives to earn, and they work to provide health care service to our nation’s veterans.
All of these services and more are at risk. In light of OPM’s recent communications to federal employees, we write to request answers no later than February 7th to the following questions:
Federal workers take an oath to defend the Constitution and to work on behalf of the American people. OPM’s legally dubious and intentionally misleading offer is a disservice to these dedicated men and women, and it should be retracted immediately. Pending that, we ask for a response to these questions by Friday, February 7, 2025.
Sincerely,
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led a virtual press conference highlighting how President Trump’s ongoing, illegal funding freeze is hurting people and organizations across Washington state—forcing them to make impossible choices, costing jobs, and putting critical projects and hundreds of millions of dollars for everything from infrastructure improvements to culvert removal at risk. Joining Senator Murray for the press call were King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay, Washington State Department of Ecology Director Casey Sixkiller, and Joel Ryan, Executive Director of the Washington State Association of Head Start and ECEAP.
“People need to understand the Trump administration is still holding up billions of dollars, under Trump’s illegal Day One Executive Orders. We’re talking about funding Congress passed into law—funding that is owed to communities in Washington state and across the country,” Senator Murray said on this morning’s press call, outlining some of the ways President Trump’s ongoing illegal funding freeze from his Day One Executive Orders is putting critical projects and jobs in Washington state at risk:
“Make no mistake: the chaos is not over. There are still billions of dollars being illegally held up—and so many jobs in Washington state that are on the line I am going to continue fighting this and pressing the administration every way I can to get them to end these illegal funding freezes,” Murray concluded. “I’m going to continue doing everything I can as Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee to stand up and hold this administration to account, so we can get the money Congress passed into law flowing again to folks back home in Washington state.”
“This is money that should be flowing into our communities, creating jobs, protecting public health, and improving the environment. Instead, it is being delayed at the expense of the people who need it most,” said Casey Sixkiller, director of the Washington State Department of Ecology.
“King County is already grappling with a $150 million budget shortfall, putting essential services at risk. A freeze in federal funding would make this crisis even worse, threatening vital programs like healthcare, housing support, transportation, and services for veterans and seniors. For the people who depend on these services every day, these cuts aren’t just numbers—they’re lifelines that keep our community safe, healthy, and connected. Without immediate action and support, many of our most vulnerable neighbors will face even greater hardship,” said King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay.
“This past week and half have been chaotic and disruptive roller coaster ride for Head Start programs here in Washington State. The half day shutdown caused by the Trump Administration caused confusion and nearly led to thousands of children and families losing access to childcare. Yesterday we continued to receive reports that Head Start programs were struggling to access their federal grant dollars with one program as of today still unable to gain access. Across the country there remains over 40+ Head Start programs impacting more than 20,000 children dealing with this ‘rolling blackout’ putting very low income children and families at risk of losing services,” said Joel Ryan, Executive Director of the Washington State Association of Head Start and ECEAP.
TIMELINE OF EVENTS
January 20th: Within his first hours in office, President Trump signed a number of executive orders that illegally block funding that was signed into law to rebuild America’s infrastructure, lower families’ energy costs, create new, good-paying jobs, strengthen our national security, and more.
January 27th: Trump expanded his funding freeze dramatically when the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a sweeping, illegal memo directing a near-blanket freeze on virtually all federal funding, with carveouts for Social Security, Medicare, and “assistance provided directly to individuals.” Senator Murray immediately wrote a letter to OMB alongside House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) raising alarms about the sweeping directive and calling the acting director to restore funding, as the law requires.
January 28th: Senator Murray joined millions of Americans in decrying the chaos and pain President Trump’s freeze caused—as reports poured in from across the country about how it risked shuttering Head Start programs, cutting off disaster relief, jeopardizing cancer research, and much more. The White House, in trying to clarify the scope of the memo, instead created more chaos, confusion, and headaches for the American people.
January 29th: Senator Murray again slammed Trump’s devastating freeze cutting off funding families count on—noting that even programs the administration said were back online were, in fact, still shuttered, and she called on Trump to stop withholding funding. Then, facing nationwide backlash, President Trump had his OMB revoke its memo. But President Trump vowed to keep his freeze of hundreds of billions of dollars in funding tied up by his executive orders in place—and his aides continued their vows to block more funding signed into law.
RIGHT NOW: President Trump continues to hold up vast swaths of funding implicated by his illegal executive orders—and chaos and confusion pervade over whether funding implicated by his now-rescinded OMB memo has been fully restored.
His executive orders direct agencies to, among other things, halt disbursement of funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, foreign development assistance, and virtually any funding his administration deems “woke.”
President Trump’s ongoing freeze is holding up funding Congress delivered—often on a bipartisan basis—to:
President Trump must rescind his executive orders—and stop blocking funding the American people are counting on. His failure to do so will:
A fact sheet on the issue of impoundment—Trump’s unconstitutional scheme to withhold federal funding headed to communities across America—is HERE.
Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered on today’s press call, are below and video is HERE:
“Thank you everyone for joining us today. Last week, we saw a level of chaos and recklessness from the Trump administration that’s truly unlike anything I have seen in my lifetime, when the administration moved to brazenly and illegally freeze federal grants across government and across the country.
“The panic and the confusion were widespread. Because there was a long, long, list of programs President Trump tried to put on the chopping block.
“Then, less than 48 hours later, in the face of intense public backlash and outrage from people all over the country—they admitted they were disastrously wrong and revoked the OMB memo.
“But it’s really important that this fight is far from over. Not only is there still significant confusion—funding that was supposed to be turned back ‘on’ that is still not, it’s still locked up—but, just as importantly, people need to understand the Trump administration is still holding up billions of dollars, under Trump’s illegal Day One Executive Orders.
“We’re talking about funding that Congress passed into law—funding that is owed to communities in Washington state and across the country.
“Now, the harm they are causing with these funding freezes is hard to overstate, because this has never been done before.
“And we’ve been working around the clock to figure out exactly what all of this means, and who is affected—because they have been far from clear.
“But today I want to give you all a sense of what folks across our state have told me about what Trump’s ongoing, illegal funding freezes have meant for them.
“The Washington State Department of Transportation has told me that Trump is blocking money to repair electric chargers, to install heavy duty chargers for trucks, to make critical repairs to bridges in order to protect the safety of millions of drivers, and to install new chargers along major roads like I-90, US-97, US-2, US-195, and US-395.
“Trump is still holding up road projects that make streets safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers—a safe streets project in Richland, critical safety barriers in Spokane are just a few of the examples.
“Trump’s illegal freeze is, as we speak, blocking wildlife preservation work all over our state, and critical culvert replacement projects to help save our salmon.
“There are port projects right now on hold across Washington state, including for electrical infrastructure, and shore power for vessels. Absolutely essential electric transmission and distribution projects are on hold and in jeopardy.
“And there are many other projects, organizations, and people—who are being harmed right now by the President’s reckless funding freeze.
“Medical researchers in Washington state who are worried that their work will somehow be considered ‘woke,’ when in reality, it’s actually pretty darn important we understand the roots of health disparities—things like why the maternal death rate is so much higher for Black and Native American women.
“Trump’s executive orders also froze lifesaving foreign assistance for people all around the globe.
“And world class organizations in our state, in Washington state, have told me they may have to lay people off this week—hundreds of people—because of Trump’s illegal funding freezes.
“It is just completely unclear when, or if these projects are going to get the funds they are counting on, and owed, from the bills Congress passed into law long before Trump came into office.
“So, make no mistake: the chaos is not over. There are still billions of dollars being illegally held up—and many jobs in Washington state are now on the line.
“I am going to continue fighting this and pressing the administration every way I can to make them end these illegal funding freezes.
“Democrats will speak out, we will challenge Trump’s illegal actions in the courts, we will demand accountability, and we will put the pressure on the administration and on our Republican colleagues.
“But we also need our Republican colleagues to say ‘enough.’ We need them to join us.
“Now, we learned something extremely important last week: that when the American people–all across our state, all across the country–speak out with one voice, and when regular people stand up, it makes a difference.
“So this fight is far from over—and I’m going to continue doing everything I can as Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee to stand up and hold this administration to account, so we can get the money Congress—by both parties, Republicans and Democrats–passed into law flowing again to folks back home in Washington state.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) yesterday met with the leadership and members of the Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities (FIICU), which represents 53 private non-profit colleges across Illinois. During their meeting, Durbin and Duckworth spoke about what the federal funding freeze would mean for universities who rely on federal grants to conduct critical research, as well as how the Trump Administration’s agenda could impact student aid programs, including Pell Grants and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
“One of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation is an education. But for many Americans, financial constraints are a barrier to earning a college degree or a professional certification,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth and I had meaningful conversations with higher education leaders about ensuring that education remains accessible during a turbulent Trump Administration that is threatening federal programs students rely on.”
“From Carbondale to Chicago, Illinois has some of the best schools in the country,” said Duckworth. “I enjoyed meeting with the presidents of so many Illinois colleges and universities. Senator Durbin and I will keep working to support our postsecondary schools at the federal level so that every Illinoisan—regardless of their income, race or zip-code—has access to higher education.”
A photo of the meeting with ICCTA is available here.
Universities represented at the meeting included:
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Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
DALLAS — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan national wanted for murder in his home country when officers arrested Dennis Alexander Valenzuela, 37, Jan. 31 at his home in Fort Worth, Texas.
“Our officers pursue criminal aliens who attempt to hide in the shadows of our communities daily,” said acting ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office Director Joshua Johnson. “The apprehension and pending removal of this individual underscores our dedication to upholding the laws of our country and safeguarding our communities.”
Valenzuela entered the United States at or near Hidalgo, Texas on June 16, 2021, without an immigration inspection, admission, or parole by an immigration officer. U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered Valenzuela on that same date, and served him a Notice to Appear, pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Valenzuela will be housed at the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas pending removal proceedings.
Members of the public can report immigration crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety on X, @ERODallas.