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  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Philadelphia removes Mexican citizen wanted in Mexico for rape

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed Raymundo Rojas Bacilio, a citizen of Mexico with a final order of removal, to Mexico on Jan. 25. Rojas is a foreign fugitive wanted by law enforcement authorities in Mexico for rape.

    “The removal of the criminal alien Raymundo Rojas Bacilio, a sexual predator, underscores the critical importance of our enforcement actions. His repeated illegal entries into the United States and his heinous criminal acts posed a significant threat to the safety and security of our communities,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “This removal demonstrates that we will relentlessly pursue and remove those who endanger the American public.”

    The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Rojas near Nogales, Arizona on Jan. 6, 2012, for entering the United States without admission or parole by an immigration official. The Border Patrol served him with a notice and order of expedited removal, charging inadmissibility, and removed him from the to Mexico.

    Border Patrol agents arrested Rojas near Nogales, Arizona, on Jan. 12, 2012, for entering the U.S. without admission by an immigration official. Once again, the Border Patrol served him with a notice and order of expedited removal charging inadmissibility and removed Rojas to Mexico on Jan. 15, 2012.

    Mexican authorities in Mexico issued an arrest warrant for Rojas for rape on May 31, 2013.

    Rojas again entered the U.S. without admission or parole by an immigration official on an unknown date and at an unknown location.

    The Kings County Supreme Court in Brooklyn, New York convicted Rojas for forceable touching of the intimate parts of another person on Nov. 11, 2024. The court sentenced him to incarceration for 60 days, probation for 6 years, and required him to register as a sex offender.

    ICE arrested Rojas in Corona, New York during a targeted enforcement action on Dec. 17, 2024, and served him a notice of intent to reinstate the prior order of removal. He remained in ICE custody pending removal.

    Members of the public with information can report 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 Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X: @EROPhiladelphia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Native Village of Kipnuk Private Nonprofits Affected by the August Storm

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the Native Village of Kipnuk of the March 3, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe storm and flooding that occurred Aug. 16-18, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Lower Kuskokwim Regional Educational Attendance Area.

    Under this disaster declaration, PNPs that provide services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. 

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster.

    Interest rates can be as low 3.25%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    PNPs are also eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

    For more information and to apply online visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is March 3. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Oct. 1.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Creating a Respect and Equality framework

    Source: Australian Education Union

    04 February 2025

    On average, one Australian woman is killed every week by a partner or former partner. Male perpetrators are also responsible for 95 per cent of violence against men and 94 per cent against women.

    Primary prevention organisation Our Watch aims to stop gendered violence before it starts, by targeting the underlying “cultures of gender inequality, sexism and disrespect” that CEO Patty Kinnersly explains are “prevalent and normalised across our communities – including within our education systems”.

    TAFE “can be part of the change,” Kinnersly says, “by challenging gender stereotypes, such as encouraging more women to take trade roles and more men to take caring roles – and by ensuring educational workplaces are safe and equal for all genders”.

    Our Watch has developed an evidence-based, step-by-step framework for TAFE called Respect and Equality. Between 2019 and 2021, Our Watch refined the framework through pilot partnerships at five VET institutions in Victoria.

    Now the program is rolling out nationwide, driven by new ‘positive-duty’ legislation requiring TAFE to proactively guard against discrimination and violence, rather than responding after it occurs. Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), the ACT’s largest public vocational education provider, was the first TAFE outside Victoria to undertake a Respect and Equality framework partnership.

    The whole-of-institution challenge

    Gender equity is easy for TAFE to endorse in principle, and some institutes already have some relevant policies or staff training programs, but at a whole-of-institution level, it’s harder to generate “real, actionable commitments to making meaningful progress”, says Terra Starbird, CIT’s assistant director of workplace inclusion.

    While developing Respect and Equality, Our Watch had noticed the ad-hoc nature of equity initiatives across TAFE. Different departments might act independently without talking to each other. Or individual staffers might be personally dedicated to creating an equitable working and learning environment but lack the seniority to galvanise wider change. If those people leave, their institutional knowledge and change-making impetus leave with them.

    “Intentionality in this work is so important,” Starbird says, “as it ensures that our efforts are deliberate, tangible, focused, and monitored, while effectively tackling the issues.”

    CIT began its Respect and Equality journey in 2023 with a plan to have an active Gender Equity Action Plan (GEAP) in place by 1 July 2024, as an ACT Public Service requirement. Starbird and her colleagues found Respect and Equality “a natural fit” because its “structured, best-practice approach” allowed CIT to develop a GEAP that was “tailored to our unique vocational education context”.

    Step 1

    Establish a cross-institutional working group

    Respect and Equality simultaneously considers five domains where TAFE can set standards for positive behaviours: as a workplace; among students; in teaching and learning; in industry and community relations; and in communications.

    Over a series of six meetings, Our Watch facilitators help the TAFE induct, train and guide a working group that integrates expertise from senior executives, business operations, HR, marketing and communications, educators and student services. Starbird coordinated CIT’s Gender Equity Working Group alongside her colleague Sam Launt, CIT’s inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) coordinator.

    “Our working group was diverse, with staff from all walks of life and across all domains of CIT,” says Starbird. “It is this diversity of lived experience, expertise, and perspectives that genuinely enriched and made this GEAP something we are all immensely proud of.”

    Kinnersly says a key function of the working group is “getting leadership buy-in”, because real change happens when TAFE leaders are involved as ‘sponsors’ of gender equity from the very beginning.

    But for Starbird, the real value of the cross-institute approach was “ensuring that we contextualised actions for each domain and spoke to the individuals who would be doing the work, rather than applying a top-down or blanket approach”. She calls these people “champions” – those who “drive the work, empower others by showing how it can be contextualised for different settings, and celebrate best practice”.

    She’s particularly proud of liaising with the CIT Student Association (CITSA) to ensure students participated in the working group, and strongly recommends other TAFE institutes do the same from the outset. “Involving students is best practice and widely used in the university sector; however, this is still an emerging practice in the vocational education sector.”

    Step 2

    Self-assessment of current practices

    “The first step of any meaningful change is reflection,” Starbird says. So, in late 2023, the Gender Equity Working Group took an honest look across the institution to understand current attitudes and actions towards gender equity. “This included existing practices, policies, programs, resources, and initiatives.”

    The working group used Our Watch’s self-assessment tool to evaluate the picture they’d assembled. They measured CIT’s equity practices against a series of goals for TAFE, which Our Watch had previously established in partnership with Victorian TAFE institutes during Respect and Equality’s pilot phase.

    This process took approximately six months and overlapped with CIT’s development of its next Reconciliation Action Plan. This encouraged the working group to consider inclusion activities through an intersectional lens, building more valuable cross-institutional connections.

    For Starbird, the self-assessment is a hugely important part of the process – and she would not recommend rushing it: “It will let you know where you are, including where you are excelling and areas for improvement.”

    Crucially, it identified CIT’s quiet achievers: “That some areas and individual staff were undertaking great, industry-leading work in the gender equity space, which was not widely known across CIT.” These champions became role models “to support other people that were earlier on in their gender equity journey”.

    Step 3

    Develop a Gender Equity Action Plan

    The CIT working group spent several co-development sessions drafting its GEAP with the support of Our Watch, beginning by imagining an absolutely aspirational action plan with no restrictions on budget, time or resources. Then the group began to reintroduce practical limitations, balancing CIT’s strategic priorities with the strengths and weaknesses identified during the self-assessment phase.

    They also met with staff in key areas who would be responsible for actually delivering the plan’s proposed actions, “to ensure they were feasible, sustainable, and impactful”.

    This is where the framework’s holistic nature really revealed its worth. “The importance of a whole-of-institute approach and using genuinely consultative co-design methods cannot be overstated and was instrumental in CIT being able to achieve a completed GEAP,” says Starbird.

    The plan takes proactive steps to prevent discrimination in three main ways. It embeds equity into CIT’s policies, resources, structures, and processes. It empowers staff and students to be “everyday allies and champions for gender equity”. And it helps CIT better understand and monitor gender-based inequity, harassment, bullying and violence – and better support staff and students who’ve experienced it.

    Says Starbird: “It is our roadmap for meaningful change that will continue to build as we learn, upskill, and roll up our sleeves to do the work ahead.”

    Step 4

    Implement and monitor the GEAP

    CIT’s GEAP only launched in September 2024, and while it’s still early days for Starbird one unexpected benefit of Respect and Equality has been the increased sense of community and shared purpose it’s fostered among participants – both working group members and those who were consulted during the self-assessment stage.

    “We were able to find other allies in this process, some of whom have since joined the working group. The initiative helped build stronger connections to CIT’s broader strategic goals in the inclusion and equity space,” she says.

    The GEAP forms a benchmark for CIT’s longer-term progress. Starbird says that over the next two years, the changes set out in the plan will be adopted incrementally, “with ongoing reviews to gauge effectiveness and adapt as needed”.

    One finding during CIT’s self-assessment was that the institute needed to engage with data more meaningfully. So, as part of implementing the plan, CIT will “improve how we collect, monitor, and report on data and use this data to make long-term, sustainable plans, ensuring we provide ongoing professional development to support all staff in this endeavour”.

    For Our Watch CEO Kinnersly, the benefits of the Respect and Equality framework are clear: “It means creating a work environment where staff at CIT feel safe, valued and respected and where we foster respectful learning environments that attract and retain students to address critical skill shortages.”

    As part of the national rollout, Our Watch has created an online community of practice where the TAFE institutes that have participated in Respect and Equality can share insights, challenges and surprises from their common VET context, borrow approaches from each other and build mutual support on what will be a long and bumpy road to equity.

    “No single GEAP is going to ‘fix’ gender equity overnight, nor should you expect to achieve perfection in your first GEAP,” says Starbird. “For anyone who asks when this work will be finished, my reply is this: when we live in a society free from all gender-based violence and discrimination.

    “Until then, we will keep working together to be part of the solution, as this is going to take the contribution of all of us across all sectors of society.”

    Mel Campbell

    This article was originally published in The Australian TAFE Teacher, Spring 2024

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Monetary policy frameworks: lessons learned and challenges ahead

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Several central banks in advanced economies are currently reviewing their monetary policy frameworks. These reviews are timely, since the post-pandemic inflation surge offers important insights to refine frameworks. This experience has shown that inflation risks are considerably more two-sided than previously appreciated and has highlighted the public’s strong aversion to inflation. The inflation surge has also underscored the unpredictable nature of economic developments, emphasising the need for monetary policy to be able to react nimbly. These considerations indicate scope for rebalancing frameworks towards the risks of inflation surges and reducing reliance on policy tools that are difficult to adjust. Crucially, the reviews should adopt a realistic perspective on what monetary policy can achieve and ensure the robustness of frameworks against a wide range of possible economic developments.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What are cooling blankets? Can they really help me sleep?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Grosser, Research Associate, Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, University of South Australia

    EGHStock/Shutterstock

    You wake up exhausted from yet another hot night of tossing and turning, with very little sleep.

    So you might be tempted to buy a “cooling blanket” after reading rave reviews on social media. Or you might have read online articles with taglines such as:

    Stop waking up in a puddle of sweat with our roundup of the best cooling blankets – including a top-rated option from Amazon that ‘actually works’.

    But what are cooling blankets? And can they help you get a restful night?

    We know a cooler bedroom is best

    First, let’s look at why a cooler environment helps us sleep better at night.

    Our body’s internal temperature has a circadian rhythm, meaning it fluctuates throughout the day. A couple of hours before bed, it drops about 0.31°C to help you fall asleep. It will drop about another 2°C across the night to help you stay asleep.

    During sleep, your internal temperature and skin work together to achieve a balance between losing and producing heat. Your skin has sensors that pick-up changes in the environment around you. If it gets too warm, these sensors let your body know, which may cause you to kick-off blankets or bed clothes and wake more often leading to poorer sleep quality.

    Sleep quality is an important component of sleep health ensuring you get the physical, mental and emotional benefits that come from a good night’s sleep.

    The ideal temperature for sleep varies depending on the season and type of bedding you have but falls between 17°C and 28°C. Keeping your sleeping environment within this range will help you to get the best night’s rest.

    So what are cooling blankets?

    Cooling blankets are designed to help regulate your body temperature while you sleep.

    Different technologies and materials are used in their design and construction.

    We’re not talking about hospital-grade cooling blankets that are used to reduce fever and prevent injury to the nervous system. These use gel pads with circulating water, or air-cooling systems, connected to automatic thermostats to monitor someone’s temperature.

    Instead, the type of consumer-grade cooling blankets you might see advertised use a blend of lightweight, breathable materials that draw moisture away from the skin to help you stay cool and dry through the night. They look like regular blankets.

    Common materials include cotton, bamboo, silk or the fibre Lyocell, all of which absorb moisture.

    Manufacturers typically use a thread count of 300-500, creating air pockets that enhance airflow and moisture evaporation.

    Some blankets feature a Q-Max rating, which indicates how cool the fabric feels against your skin. The higher the value, the cooler the fabric feels.

    Others feature phase change materials. These materials were developed by NASA for space suits to keep astronauts comfortable during a spacewalk where temperatures are from roughly -157°C to 121°C. Phase change materials in cooling blankets absorb and hold heat producing a cooling effect.

    Some cooling blankets use NASA technology developed for space suits.
    Summit Art Creations/NASA/Shutterstock

    Do they work?

    If you believe online reviews, yes, cooling blankets can cool you down and help you sleep better in warmer weather or if you get too hot using normal sheets and blankets.

    However, there is little scientific research to see if these consumer-grade products work.

    In a 2021 study exploring sleep quality, 20 participants slept for three nights under two different conditions.

    First, they slept with regular bed sheets in an air-conditioned room with the temperature set to their preference. Then, they used cooling bed sheets in an air-conditioned room where the temperature was set 3°C higher than their preference.

    Participants reported good sleep quality in both conditions but preferred the warmer room with its cooling sheets.

    This may suggest the use of cooling bedding may help provide a more comfortable night’s sleep.

    But everyone’s cooling needs varies depending on things like age, health, body temperature, the space you sleep in, and personal preferences.

    So while these products may work for some people who may be motivated to leave a good review, they may not necessarily work for you.

    Are they worth it?

    There’s a wide variety of cooling blankets available at different prices to suit various budgets. Positive customer reviews might encourage a purchase, especially for individuals experiencing disrupted sleep at night due to heat.

    Yet, these cooling blankets have limited scientific research to show they work and to say if they’re worth it. So it’s up to you.

    Lots of choice, but little scientific evidence to back them.
    Screenshot Google Shopping

    What else can I do if I’m a hot sleeper?

    If a cooling blanket isn’t for you, there are other things you can do to stay cool at night, such as:

    • using air conditioning or a fan

    • placing a damp towel under or over you

    • wearing lightweight or minimal sleepwear and avoiding thick or synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, that can trap heat

    • if you usually share a bed, on hot nights, consider sleeping by yourself to avoid excess body heat from your partner.

    On a final note, if you often struggle with hot, disturbed sleep, you can check in with your health-care provider. They can see if there is a medical explanation for your disturbed sleep and advise what to try next.

    Luana Main will receive funding from the NHMRC to investigate the effects of climate change on an unrelated topic starting later this year.

    Linda Grosser 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. What are cooling blankets? Can they really help me sleep? – https://theconversation.com/what-are-cooling-blankets-can-they-really-help-me-sleep-244158

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso Votes to Confirm Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, released the following statement after voting to confirm Chris Wright, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee to be the Secretary of Energy.

    The Senate confirmed Chris Wright’s nomination by a vote of 59 to 38.

    “Secretary Chris Wright will help usher in the golden age of American energy dominance. He understands that affordable, abundant energy is the source of American strength. Under his leadership, we will use all of our nation’s vast energy resources to lower prices for families and grow our economy. I look forward to working with Secretary Wright and Secretary Doug Burgum to promote energy projects in Wyoming and across the country.”

    Senator Barrasso recently spoke on the Senate floor about Secretary Wright’s nomination.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Progress on the Situation At Our Southern Border

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Background.  On February 1, 2025, I determined that the failure of Mexico to arrest, seize, detain, or otherwise intercept Mexican drug trafficking organizations, other drug and human traffickers, criminals at large, and illicit drugs constitutes an unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in substantial part outside the United States, to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.  To address that threat, I invoked my authority under section 1702(a)(1)(B) of IEEPA to impose ad valorem tariffs on articles that are products of Mexico.

         Sec. 2.  Immediate Steps.  Pursuant to section 3 of my Executive Order of February 1, 2025, titled “Imposing Duties to Address the Situation at Our Southern Border” (“the Executive Order of February 1, 2025”), I have determined that the Government of Mexico has taken immediate steps designed to alleviate the illegal migration and illicit drug crisis through cooperative actions.  Further time is needed, however, to assess whether these steps constitute sufficient action to alleviate the crisis and resolve the unusual and extraordinary threat beyond our southern border.

         Sec. 3.  Pause.  (a)  In recognition of the steps taken by the Government of Mexico, and in order to assess whether the threat described in section 1 of this order has abated, the additional 25 percent ad valorem rate of duty shall be paused and will not take effect until March 4, 2025, at 12:01 am eastern time. Accordingly, sections 2(a), sections 2(d), and section 2(e) of the Executive Order of February 1, 2025, are amended by striking the term “February 4, 2025,” where it appears in those sections and inserting in lieu thereof the term “March, 4, 2025.”  The exceptions set forth in section 2(a) of the Executive Order of February 1, 2025, related to covered goods loaded onto a vessel at a port of entry or in transit on the final mode of transport prior to entry into the United States are, hereby, withdrawn.

         (b)  During this pause, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, shall continue to assess the situation at our southern border, as provided in section 3 of the Executive Order of February 1, 2025.

         (c)  If the illegal migration and illicit drug crises worsen, and if the Government of Mexico fails to take sufficient steps to alleviate these crises, the President shall take necessary steps to address the situation, including by immediate implementation of the tariffs described in the Executive Order of February 1, 2025. 

         Sec. 4.  Severability.  If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

         Sec. 5.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
         (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
         (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        February 3, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Orders Plan for a United States Sovereign Wealth Fund

    Source: The White House

    DELIVERING A PLAN TO CREATE A UNITED STATES SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order calling for the creation of a Sovereign Wealth Fund.

    • The Executive Order directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce to deliver a plan within 90 days for the creation of a sovereign wealth fund.
      • The Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce will work closely with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy to develop the plan.
      • The Order directs the Secretary to include in the plan recommendations for funding mechanisms, investment strategies, fund structure, and a governance model.

    ENSURING LONG-TERM ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS AND FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY: The creation of a sovereign wealth fund for the United States will help maximize the stewardship of our national wealth.

    • Sovereign wealth funds exist around the world as mechanisms to amplify the financial return to a nation’s assets and leverage those returns for strategic benefit and goals.
      • The United States can leverage such returns to promote fiscal sustainability, lessen the burden of taxes on American families and small businesses, establish long-term economic security, and promote U.S. economic and strategic leadership internationally.
    • The United States already holds a vast sum of highly valued assets that can be invested through a sovereign wealth fund for greater long-term wealth generation.
      • The Federal government directly holds $5.7 trillion in assets. Indirectly, including through natural resource reserves, the Federal government holds a far larger sum of asset value.

    PURSUING NATIONAL ENDEAVORS AND MAGNIFYING ECONOMIC GROWTH: President Trump has called for the creation of a sovereign wealth fund “to invest in great national endeavors for the benefit of all of the American people.”

    • President Trump’s economic policies—including the pursuit of fair and balanced trade, national energy dominance, and tax and regulatory relief to spur robust economic growth—will result in greater wealth and revenue streams that a sovereign wealth fund can maximize the potential of.
    • Sovereign wealth funds are maintained by a diverse array of countries leveraging equally varied classes of national assets. President Trump has called for a sovereign wealth fund to ensure the United States can lead the way in long-term wealth generation.
      • The United Kingdom recently announced their own plans to pursue development of such a fund.
      • In addition to countries around the world maintaining their own funds, 23 states within our own country maintain their own funds that control in total $332 billion in assets.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Response to U.S. tariff delay: Premier Smith

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement on U.S. Tariff Pause

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    NOTE: The following is a statement from Premier Tim Houston.

    For now, we can all take a breath.

    We are relieved there will be a pause on tariffs imposed on Canada. President Trump’s tax would have had a very real, immediate negative impact, and I appreciate the dozens of Nova Scotians who shared their personal stories and concerns with me over the last few days.

    Because of the pause, our retaliatory measures will not take effect.

    I want to thank Prime Minister Trudeau for his leadership.

    Canadians watched in real time as President Trump’s desired goals continued to shift. This was not an easy time for our country or our people.

    The threat of tariffs does remain, and I reaffirm my commitment that as things unfold over the next weeks, Nova Scotia stands in solidarity with our provincial and territorial colleagues.

    We are stronger as a nation when we stand together.

    I remain committed to Team Canada and to the people of Nova Scotia. We will be ready to respond if needed, but I believe that the strength of our longtime friendship with the United States will ultimately prevail. It has survived wars, recessions and pandemics – I believe it can also ultimately survive President Trump.

    As always, I am committed to you and your family. Your interests guide my actions.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Search for missing man, Cook Strait

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A search is ongoing for a man reported missing on a jetski yesterday.

    The man left the Tasman District yesterday morning set for Plimmerton, north of Wellington, but did not arrive as expected.

    Police and SAR teams have been conducting a water search with the assistance of Coastguard and RCCNZ.

    A jetski was located near Cooks Rock in the Cook Strait yesterday evening, believed to be the one belonging to the missing man.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Agencies Support Super Bowl LIX Security

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Agencies Support Super Bowl LIX Security

    lass=”text-align-center”>Continuing a 20+ Year Partnership, More Than 690 DHS Employees Work to Protect Estimated 73,000 Fans Attending the Big Game 
    WASHINGTON – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem traveled to New Orleans this week to observe DHS security operations for Super Bowl LIX. More than 690 employees representing 12 DHS agencies are in New Orleans, providing air security resources; venue, cyber, and infrastructure security assessments; chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives detection technologies; intelligence analysis and threat assessments; intellectual property enforcement; and real-time situational awareness reporting as part of a 20-year partnership with the National Football League and state and local law enforcement.
    “Around 100,000 people will be celebrating the Super Bowl in and around the Superdome in New Orleans this weekend,” said Secretary Noem. “We will give law enforcement every resource they need to ensure a safe event. Thank you to our partners, Governor Landry, Mayor Cantrell and the New Orleans Police Department. If you see something, say something!”
    “Since day one, we have stood steadfast in our mission: to protect what matters most,” said Eric DeLaune, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Special Agent in Charge and lead federal coordinator for Super Bowl LIX. “From securing critical infrastructure to providing real-time threat analysis, we are committed to safeguarding our communities. With over 690 DHS personnel deployed, we bring cutting-edge security resources and technologies to ensure every aspect of this event is protected.” 
    DHS has assessed this year’s Super Bowl as a Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) Level 1 event. For more information, visit the SEAR Fact Sheet webpage. Although no specific, credible threats related to this year’s game have been identified, the U.S. remains in a heightened threat environment, as evidenced by the recent terror attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day.
    DHS security efforts for Super Bowl LIX include the following:

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP): Air and Marine Operations (AMO) will enforce temporary flight restrictions around Caesars Superdome, providing “eye in the sky” intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance flight operations in and around key venues, including the Superdome, airport, Bourbon Street and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Additionally, CBP will provide video surveillance capabilities and non-intrusive inspections by scanning the cargo entering the stadium for contraband such as narcotics, weapons, and explosives. CBP will also work to intercept counterfeit NFL merchandise such as NFL jerseys, championship rings, T-shirts, caps and all sorts of souvenirs and memorabilia, which are often used to fund criminal organizations.
    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI): An HSI Special Response Team is standing by to provide interior stadium tactical support, and HSI’s special agents will support will also CBP, local law enforcement agencies, and other private partners in identifying an investigating any flea markets, retail outlets, street vendors and online marketplaces selling counterfeit goods during the week leading up to the Super Bowl to protect consumers, who are expected to spend over $16.5 billion nationwide. HSI will also oversee the coordination of DHS assets with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure essential public safety measures and resources are in the right place, at the right time. 
    Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): On Super Bowl Sunday, CISA will also deploy advisors and emergency communications coordinators to support local law enforcement, emergency responders, and private partners in New Orleans. Ahead of the event, the agency conducted physical and cybersecurity vulnerability assessments, planning exercises, and bomb safety workshops with state and local partners. 
    Office of Intelligence &Analysis (I&A): I&A worked with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assess the threat landscape leading up to the Super Bowl, including sharing timely and actionable information and intelligence with their state and local partners.
    Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office (CWMD): CWMD provided surge support from its Mobile Detection Deployment Program and its BioWatch program in coordination with the City of New Orleans.
    U.S. Coast Guard (USCG): USCG Pacific Strike Team is supporting the Mobile Detection Deployment Program to bolster DHS’s ability to detect and interdict chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, and Canine Explosive Detection teams will support the safety and security of the event.
    Transportation Security Administration (TSA): A TSA Supervisory Federal Air Marshal will staff the Fusion Watch Center during the event, and will use its National Deployment Force to increase the number of transportation security officers working at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to screen the increased number of departing passengers after the Super Bowl. TSA’s explosive detection canines and Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) teams will also work during Super Bowl week events at key venues.
    Science & Technology Directorate (S&T): S&T will deploy easy-to assemble, expandable security barriers that can be installed quickly to provide critical asset protection and intrusion prevention.
    Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): FEMA will help keep fans safe by providing communication tools for state and local responders.
    DHS Blue Campaign: This public awareness campaign is disseminating digital and out-of-home advertising in the New Orleans area to raise human trafficking awareness among visitors, local residents, and those working in industries, such as hotels, hospitality, and transportation, where frontline employees are more likely to be in a position to identify and report human trafficking. The campaign’s Blue Lightning Initiative is also partnering with Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to raise awareness and train staff to recognize and report human trafficking.

    DHS reminds the public that “If You See Something, Say Something®” is more than a slogan. It is a call to action to report suspicious terrorism-related activity. Follow DHS’s security efforts on X: @DHSgov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Approves Additional $1.3 Million for Emergency Work Following Florida’s Hurricanes

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Approves Additional $1.3 Million for Emergency Work Following Florida’s Hurricanes

    FEMA Approves Additional $1.3 Million for Emergency Work Following Florida’s Hurricanes

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has approved an additional $1.3 million to reimburse Florida communities for emergency work after Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Debby. This includes: $935,244 for Marion County for debris removal (Milton).$118,386 for Hernando County Sheriff’s Office for Emergency Protective Measures (Milton).$45,745 for Hernando County Sheriff’s Office for Emergency Protective Measures (Helene).$4,374 for Talquin Electric Cooperative, Inc. for Emergency Protective Measures (Debby).$3,208 Dixie District School Board for debris removal (Debby).$7,698 for the City of Newberry for debris removal (Debby).$25,551 for the City of Newberry for Emergency Protective Measures (Debby).$7,377 for the Unity Church of Sarasota, Inc. for Emergency Protective Measures (Debby).$170,095 for St. Johns County for Emergency Protective Measures (Debby).To date, FEMA Public Assistance has provided $1.04 billion for Hurricane Milton, $416.1 million for Hurricane Helene and $112.6 million for Hurricane Debby. The money reimburses the state, local governments and certain nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures and debris removal. FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
    despina.pappas
    Mon, 02/03/2025 – 22:04

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Combustor Facilities

    Source: NASA

    Combustion studies are conducted in this two-test position facility specifically in support of the NOx-reduction research for the High Speed Research program and the Advanced Subsonic Technology program. CE-5B-1 is large enough to test sector arrangements of injector elements to include interactions of the elements and single larger elements. The facility receives filtered combustion air from the 450-psig system. The air is heated in a 1,100°F non-vitiated heater at flows up to 20 lb/s, which can be valved to either test stand. The airflow passes through the test section, is water spray quenched, and is then discharged to the altitude exhaust system or the atmospheric exhaust system. The facility preheater consists of a heat exchanger fired by four J-47 burner cans using natural gas for a fuel and the 40-psig combustion air. The research hardware uses ASTM Jet-A, JP-5, or JP-8 as a fuel. 
    CE-5B-1 Special Features
    In addition to inlet and exit rakes and standard instrumentation, water-cooled gas sampling rakes are in the downstream section. Particulate measurements are taken at the exit of the combustion section. Optical accessibility of the combustor section allows never-before-possible nonintrusive laser-based diagnostics of the reacting and non-reacting flowfield. These include such techniques as planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) imaging, Planar Mie scattering, Phase/Doppler particle analysis (PDPA), focused Schlieren imaging, and light sheet photography. Both rigs share the gas analysis, particulate analysis, and diagnostics equipment. 
    CE-5B Facility Capabilities (typical of both rigs)

    Parameter
    Operating Value

    Inlet Air Supply Pressure
    450 psig

    Inlet Air Temperature
    100°F, preheated to 350-1,350°F

    Inlet Airflow Stand 1 Stand 2 
    20 lb/s (available) 0.5 to 12.0 pps 0.5 to 5.0 pps

    Exhaust
    Atm or 20-26 in. Hg

    Rig Pressure Without Windows Stand 1 Stand 2
    275 psig 400 psig

    Rig Pressure With Windows Stand 1 Stand 2
    250 psig 275 psig

    Rig Fuel (JP-8) Flow
    7 gpm @ 400-900 psig (three legs per stand)

    Window Cooling GN2 (4 legs)
    0.125 to 0.5 pps (each leg) 

    Cooling Water
    150 gpm @ 460 psig 250 gpm @ 395 psig 50 gpm @ 350 psig 15 gpm @ 55 psig

    CE-5B-1 System Instrumentation

    System
    Number and Type

    ESP
    96 Ports of + 500 PSID Barometric Ref

    Escort
    240 Channels 154 Available to the Customer

    Thermocouples
    156 Type K 24 Type B 12 Type W 524 Type R

    Gas Analyzers
    HC – 1,000 ppm 1% & 5% CO – 2,000 ppm 5% CO2 – 5%, 10%, 20% O2 – 25% NO – 100 ppm, 1,000 ppm 1% NOx –

    Laser
    PLIF, Raman

    CE-5B-2 is one of the two test stands in the CE-5B facility. It can be configured to study lean-premixed-prevaporized (LPP) and lean-direct-injection (LDI) concepts for developing a low-NOx combustor for high-speed research and advanced subsonic applications. The non-windowed combustion flame tube can use a 3-inch square cross section or a 3-inch-diameter round section and has six ports available for gas sampling probes. The windowed combustion flame tube takes advantage of the flat walls on a 3-inch square cross section to install optical windows for non-intrusive measurements. Tests are conducted with combustion air inlet pressure ranging from 10 to 15 atmospheres with preheater and exhaust conditions described for CE-5B-1. 
    CE-5B-2 Special Features 
    The same laser-based non-intrusive diagnostics of reacting and non-reacting flowfields described for test position CE-5B-1 are available to this test section. A typical data acquisition system is used for both test positions in CE-5B. In addition, most of the optical diagnostic instruments have their own data acquisition systems.
    CE-5B Facility Capabilities (typical of both rigs)

    Parameter
    Operating Value

    Inlet Air Supply Pressure
    450 psig

    Inlet Air Temperature
    100°F, preheated to 350-1,350°F

    Inlet Airflow Stand 1 Stand 2 
    20 lb/s (available) 0.5 to 12.0 pps 0.5 to 5.0 pps

    Exhaust
    Atm or 20-26 in. Hg

    Rig Pressure Without Windows Stand 1 Stand 2
    275 psig 400 psig

    Rig Pressure With Windows Stand 1 Stand 2
    250 psig 275 psig

    Rig Fuel (JP-8) Flow
    7 gpm @ 400-900 psig (three legs per stand)

    Window Cooling GN2 (4 legs)
    0.125 to 0.5 pps (each leg) 

    Cooling Water
    150 gpm @ 460 psig 250 gpm @ 395 psig 50 gpm @ 350 psig 15 gpm @ 55 psig

    CE-5B-2 System Instrumentation

    System
    Number and Type

    ESP
    96 Ports of + 500 PSID Barometric Ref

    Escort
    240 Channels 154 Available to the Customer

    Thermocouples
    148 Type K 24 Type B 48 Type R

    Gas Analyzers
    HC – 1,000 ppm 1% & 5% CO – 2,000 ppm 5% CO2 – 5%, 10%, 20% O2 – 25% NO – 100 ppm, 1,000 ppm 1% NOx –

    Laser
    PLIF, Raman

    Test Cell CE-13 Combustion and Dynamics Facility (CDF) is used to investigate ways to reduce NOx and particulate emissions from air-breathing aircraft engines. This low-pressure (1-5 atm) facility is used to study fuel-air injection schemes and how they affect fluid mixing, emissions, dynamics, and flame stability. Jet-A fuel is the primary fuel, but candidate alternate jet fuels and their effects are also studied. Standard measurements consist of major species and dynamic pressures. Some optical measurements available are high-speed video, standard and time-resolved 2D PIV, planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF), and chemiluminescence imaging.

    CE-13C Special Features
    Research hardware is designed to flow vertically downwards. Preheated air is fed to the inlet air stream conditioner and then to the fuel injector. Fuel at room temperature is fed separately to the injector. The mixed hot air and fuel mixture moves to the combustor where combustion can be observed via customized windows. The products of combustion flow through an emission sampling ring and choke nozzle/straight outlet pipe. The fuel system consists of a 25-gallon fuel tank, a pump, and a GN2 purge. A separate laser room operates various class 3B and 4 lasers (UV, Vis, NIR) to characterize fuel injection, combustor flow, and measure combustion species.
    CE-13C Facility Capabilities

    Parameter
    Operating Value

    Inlet Air Pressure
    Ambient to 75-psia

    Inlet Air Temperature
    Ambient to 1,000°F

    Inlet Airflow
    0.0 – 1.0 pps

    Jet Fuel Supply
    CKT 1 6.9-140 pph @ 1,000-psig CKT 2 1 – 13.1 pph @ 1,000-psig 

    Exhaust
    Atmospheric

    Peripheral H2O Cooling
    54-gpm @ 100-pisg

    Quench Cooling
    11-gpm @ 500-psig

    CE-13C System Instrumentation

    System
    Number and Type

    Labview
    64 voltage/current channels 32 temperature channels 10 voltage/current channels available to the customer 30 temperature channels available to customer

    Optical and Laser
    PLIF, Raman, PIV, droplet sizing, chemiluminescence, temperature, time-resolved imaging

    Gas Analyzers
    CO – 1,000 ppm, 5,000 ppm CO2 – 5%, 15% O2 – 25% NO – 100 ppm, 1,000 ppm NOx – 100 ppm, 1,000 ppm HC –  100 ppm, 1,000 ppm 

    The SE-5 High-Pressure Combustion Diagnostics (HPCD) laboratory is a gas- and liquid-fueled high-pressure flame tube facility with single-element fuel injection burners and emission sampling ports for advanced diagnostics development and national standard calibrations. The facility provides large-aperture optical access to the primary reaction zone (flame holding) through four UV-grade fused silica optical windows (44-mm-thick by 85-mm clear apertures located around the periphery) enabling non-intrusive optical diagnostics such as laser Raman spectroscopy or high-speed imaging to measure chemical species and temperature. The HPCD rig can operate at sustained pressures up to 30 atm (or 60 atm with limited flow rate) with a variety of gaseous fuels, liquid jet fuels, and oxidizers, including hydrogen, methane, oxygen-argon, and pure oxygen. The innovative microtube array burner or micro-radial-entry counter-swirl (MRX) burner is mounted inside the air-cooled high-temperature liner casing within the rig. The burner was designed to provide a uniform combustion product zone downstream of the flame for calibrating the laser diagnostic system. The facility is also used for bench-mark tests of emission gas and particulate matters (PM) sampling. The data from the HPCD rig enables the validation of numerical codes such as powered by advanced CFD that simulate gas turbine combustors. All aspects of the facility operation, including startup, shutdown, and automatic safety shutdowns, are controlled and monitored via an icon-based touch-screen software system and a most-updated programmable logic controller (PLC) in conjunction with a precision DEWETRON data acquisition system. The HPCD rig can also provide a pressure vessel for prototype thermal or combustion hardware of a customer’s choice.
    SE-5 Special Features
    The facility is unique because it is the only continuous-flow, hydrogen-capable 60-atm rig in the world with optical access. It will provide researchers with new insights into flame conditions that simulate the environment inside the ultra-high pressure-ratio combustion chambers of tomorrow’s advanced aircraft engines.
    SE-5 Facility Capabilities

    Parameter
    Operating Value

    Cooling Capacity
    4,000,000 BTU/hr

    Equivalence Ratio Variance
    0.2 (fuel very lean) – 4 (fuel rich)

    Fuel Flow Rate
    Limited by cooling capacity, e.g., 2 GPH of n-heptane

    Operating Pressure
    30 atm nominal, 60 atm max

    Cooling Airflow
    0.25 lbm/s max

    Quenching Airflow
    0.20 lbm/s max 

    SE-5 System Instrumentation and Diagnostics

    System
    Number and Type

    Pressure Transducers and Thermocouples
    Custom

    DEWETRON DAQ
    Custom

    Emission Gas Sampling (Exhaust)
    NO, NOx, SOx, O2, CO, CO2

    Particulates Sampling (Exhaust)
    Mass (TSI), counter (TSI), In-line sensor (GRC in-house)

    Laser Raman Spectroscopy (In Flame)
    Custom

    In-situ Soot Detection
    Extinction measurements

    The Particulate Aerosol Laboratory (PAL) studies aerosols at simulated upper atmospheric conditions with altitudes up to 55,000 feet at -135°F. Altitude chamber environment and burner settings are individually controlled, creating a multitude of test parameters and a dynamic testing environment. The PAL facility is designed around a small-scale jet exhaust nozzle and altitude chamber and takes full advantage of its reduced size for screening of various alternative fuels, additives, and other combustion concepts. This makes PAL the ideal facility for validating the advancement of such research to the next phase. 
    Combustion fuel operation capabilities include alternative fuel additive mixing in real-time mode with switching between a baseline fuel and an alternative fuel while maintaining a continuous combustion flame. Heated bypass air is available with optional external burner and associated piping heating up to 1,000°F. Additionally, PAL is enhancing its cloud simulation capability with real-time atmospheric water vapor content readings and on-demand direct liquid injector vaporizers for high purity 100% fluid vaporization.

    SE-11 Special Features 
    Particulate emission sample extraction taking at burner rear section. Chamber equipped with windows and fused silica lenses providing optical access for non-intrusive optical diagnostic Mie scattering and color video imaging. Particulate size and number density measurements are accomplished with absorption measurements and forward, back, and side scattering. Video capability of both burner flame and altitude chamber contrails. Optical measurement plane location relative to the chamber nozzle exit is adjustable.
    SE-11 Facility Capabilities

    Parameter
    Operating Value

    Burner Fuel Flow Rate
    .2 – 9.9 ml/min various liquid fuels

    Burner Air
    -Filtered and dried -Downstream heated or non-heated bypass air available to ≤1,000°F

    Burner EGT
    ≤1,000° F

    Particle Sizing Range
    2.5-1,000 nm

    Particle Size Distribution Concentration Range
    10-107 particles/cm³

    Aerosol Particle Size Range
    .75-10 nm

    Gas Composition Analyzer
    CO – CO₂ – O₂

    Optic Light Source
    300W Xenon Lamp

    Optic Video
    -32-bit Color -16-bit Monochrome, -Frame rate: 15fps

    Optic Detectors
    Selection of Various Spectrometers and Photodiodes

    NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland provides ground test facilities to industry, government, and academia. If you are considering testing in one of our facilities or would like further information about a specific facility or capability, please let us know.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Awards Contract for Airborne Science Flight Services Support

    Source: NASA

    NASA has awarded Dynamic Aviation Group Inc. of Bridgewater, Virginia, the Commercial Aviation Services contract to support the agency’s Airborne Science Program. The program provides aircraft and technology to further science and advance the use of Earth observing satellite data, making NASA data about our home planet and innovations accessible to all.
    This is an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity firm-fixed-price contract with a maximum potential value of $13.5 million. The period of performance began Friday, Jan. 31, and continues through Jan. 30, 2030. 
    Under this contract, the company will provide ground and flight crews and services using modified commercial aircraft, including a Beechcraft King Air B200 and Beechcraft King Air A90. Work will include mechanical and electrical engineering services for instrument integration and de-integration, flight planning and real-time tracking, project execution, as well as technical feasibility assessments and cost estimation. Aircraft modifications may include instrumented nosecones, viewing ports, inlets, computing systems, and satellite communications capabilities. 
    This work is essential for NASA to conduct airborne science missions, develop and validate earth system models, and support satellite payload calibration. NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley will administer the agency-wide contract on behalf of the Airborne Science Program in the Earth Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
    To learn more about NASA and agency programs, visit:

    Home Page

    -end-
    Rachel HooverAmes Research Center, Silicon Valley, Calif.650-604-4789rachel.hoover@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Presses Forward Search for VIPER Moon Rover Partner

    Source: NASA

    To advance plans of securing a public/private partnership and land and operate NASA’s VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover) mission on the Moon in collaboration with industry the agency announced Monday it is seeking U.S. proposals. As part of the agency’s Artemis campaign, instruments on VIPER will demonstrate U.S. industry’s ability to search for ice on the lunar surface and collect science data.
    The Announcement for Partnership Proposal contains proposal instructions and evaluation criteria for a new Lunar Volatiles Science Partnership. Responses are due Thursday, Feb. 20. After evaluating submissions, any selections by the agency will require respondents to submit a second, more detailed, proposal. NASA is expected to make a decision on the VIPER mission this summer.
    “Moving forward with a VIPER partnership offers NASA a unique opportunity to engage with the private sector,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator in the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Such a partnership provides the opportunity for NASA to collect VIPER science that could tell us more about water on the Moon, while advancing commercial lunar landing capabilities and resource prospecting possibilities.”
    This new announcement comes after NASA issued a Request for Information on Aug. 9, 2024, to seek interest from American companies and institutions in conducting a mission using the agency’s VIPER Moon rover after the program was canceled in July 2024.
    Any partnership would work under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement. This type of partnership allows both NASA and an industry partner to contribute services, technology, and hardware to the collaboration.
    As part of an agreement, NASA would contribute the existing VIPER rover as-is. Potential partners would need to arrange for the integration and successful landing of the rover on the Moon, conduct a science/exploration campaign, and disseminate VIPER-generated science data. The partner may not disassemble the rover and use its instruments or parts separately from the VIPER mission. NASA’s selection approach will favor proposals that enable data from the mission’s science instruments to be shared openly with anyone who wishes to use it.
    “Being selected for the VIPER partnership would benefit any company interested in advancing their lunar landing and surface operations capabilities,” said Joel Kearns, deputy associate administrator for exploration in the Science Mission Directorate. “This solicitation seeks proposals that clearly describe what is needed to successfully land and operate the rover, and invites industry to propose their own complementary science goals and approaches. NASA is looking forward to partnering with U.S. industry to meet the challenges of performing volatiles science in the lunar environment.”
    The Moon is a cornerstone for solar system science and exoplanet studies. In addition to helping inform where ice exists on the Moon for potential future astronauts, understanding our nearest neighbor helps us understand how it has evolved and what processes shaped its surface. 
    To learn more about NASA’s lunar science, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/moon
    -end-
    Karen FoxHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100karen.fox@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Extends Application Deadline for North Carolinians Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Extends Application Deadline for North Carolinians Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    FEMA Extends Application Deadline for North Carolinians Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    HICKORY, N.C. – At the request of the state of North Carolina, Tropical Storm Helene survivors now have until March 8, 2025, to apply for assistance with FEMA.With the extended deadline, FEMA still strongly urges survivors to apply as soon as possible. After the deadline of March 8, you may still submit documents, update your contact information and stay in contact with FEMA regarding your application, but you must apply before the deadline.FEMA assistance may include funds for temporary housing such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of a primary home, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items.Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Forsyth, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lee, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Nash, Polk, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians with uninsured losses from Tropical Storm Helene may apply for FEMA assistance.There are several ways to apply:  Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.   Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and midnight. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
    joseph.arbid
    Mon, 02/03/2025 – 20:49

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Station Science Top News: Jan. 31, 2025

    Source: NASA

    Seeds survive space

    Researchers found that plant seeds exposed to space germinated at the same rate as those kept on the ground. This finding shows that plant seeds can remain viable during long-term space travel and plants could be used for food and other uses on future missions.
    Materials International Space Station Experiment-14 exposed a variety of materials to space, including 11 types of plant seeds. The work also evaluated the performance of a new sample containment canister as a method of exposing biological samples to space while protecting their vigor.
    Examining mechanisms of immune issues in space

    Using genetic analyses, researchers identified molecular mechanisms that cause changes in mitochondrial and immune system function seen during spaceflight. The findings provide insight into how the human body adapts in space and could guide countermeasures for protecting immune function on future missions.
    International Space Station Medical Monitoring collects a variety of health data from crew members before, after, and at regular intervals during spaceflight. Evaluations fall into broad categories of medical, occupational, physical fitness, nutrition, and psychological or behavioral and include blood tests. Mitochondria are cell organelles that produce energy.
    Reducing vision changes in space

    Microgravity can cause changes in eye structure and function. Researchers found that artificial gravity may reduce these changes and could serve as a countermeasure to protect the vision of crew members on future missions.
    Previous studies provide evidence that artificial gravity may protect against or mitigate negative effects of microgravity. An investigation from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) in collaboration with NASA’s Human Research and Space Biology Programs, Mouse Habitat Unit-8 looked at the long-term effects of spaceflight on gene expression patterns in mammals. More research is needed to identify the effects of other spaceflight stressors and determine what level and duration of gravitational force is needed to prevent or reduce damage to the retina or optic nerve.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stacking Artemis II

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s iconic “worm” insignia stands out in this photo taken on Jan. 24, 2025, as engineers and technicians prepared to lift the left center center booster segment for the agency’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket. The boosters will help support the remaining rocket components and the Orion spacecraft during final assembly of the Artemis II Moon rocket and provide more than 75 percent of the total SLS thrust during liftoff from Launch Complex 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
    Get more Artemis II news.
    Image credit: NASA/Frank Michaux

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Leads All Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats IN Letters Demanding Answers From FBI, DOJ Nominees, Acting Attorney General, And Acting FBI Director On Trump Administration Forcing Out DOJ And FBI Officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    February 03, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today led all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in letters to President Trump’s nominee to be the Attorney General of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Pam Bondi; nominee to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kash Patel; nominee to be Deputy Attorney General, Todd Blanche; as well as the Acting Attorney General,  James McHenry; and Acting FBI Director, Brian Driscoll, about the removal or reassignment across DOJ and FBI of career law enforcement officials. Last week, the Trump Administration reportedly purged dozens of DOJ and FBI officials involved in prosecuting Donald Trump and the January 6 rioters and is now threatening additional action against thousands of employees across the country who worked on investigations related to the attack on the Capitol.

    In addition to Durbin, the letters were signed by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).

    The Senators wrote, “We have grave concerns about the removal or reassignment across the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of senior career civil servants who have served honorably under multiple administrations, regardless of the President’s party. The removals and reassignments from their positions of a significant number of experienced, nonpartisan Department officials with invaluable national security expertise without any comparable replacements one day into the second Trump Administration presents an alarming threat to national security. As many as 20 senior Department officials were reassigned or removed, including the veteran career deputy assistant attorneys general in the Department’s National Security Division.”

    The Senators continued, “Our alarm has only grown in the past two weeks as this purge of experienced career prosecutors and agents has expanded to include the removal or forced retirement of all six Executive Assistant Directors (EADs), including the EADs who oversee the National Security Branch, Intelligence Branch, and the Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch; as well as the Assistant Directors and the Special Agents in Charge of at least four major field offices. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove ordered these actions in a January 31, 2025 memo, stating, ‘I do not believe the current leadership of the Justice Department can trust these FBI employees to assist in implementing the President’s agenda faithfully.’ Similarly, more than a dozen senior Department prosecutors were fired after receiving memos from Acting Attorney General McHenry stating: ‘Given your significant role in prosecuting the President, I do not believe that the leadership of the Department can trust you to assist in implementing the President’s agenda faithfully.’ Retaliating against these career public servants who were simply doing the work assigned to them is outrageous and unacceptable.”

    Over the weekend, thousands of FBI personnel across the country were asked to complete a questionnaire by today, Monday, February 3, at 3pm. The survey asks for their job title, whether they worked on a case related to the January 6th attack on the Capitol, “if they were involved in the arrest of a Jan. 6 suspect, if they testified at a trial, if they interviewed witnesses, if they conducted surveillance on suspects and more.” It has also been reported that the Acting FBI Director is being advised by an advisory committee comprised of partisan political operators, including an Elon Musk affiliate. This is a stark departure from the longstanding tradition that the FBI Director is the only political appointee in the Bureau.

    “As America faces a heightened threat landscape, these shocking removals and reassignments deprive DOJ and the FBI of experienced, senior leadership and decades of experience fighting violent crime, espionage, and terrorism. As the FBI Agents Association stated in response to reports about the removal of FBI officials: ‘Dismissing potentially hundreds of Agents would severely weaken the Bureau’s ability to protect the country from national security and criminal threats and will ultimately risk setting up the Bureau and its new leadership for failure,’” the Senators wrote. “Moreover, the firing of dozens of federal prosecutors and hundreds of agents will cripple FBI field offices and U.S. Attorney’s offices across the country. We can only assume these decisions are intended to prevent the Department from investigating national security and public corruption, while also serving as political retribution against the President’s perceived enemies and stoking fear among the dedicated and talented workforce in our nation’s premier law enforcement agency.”

    In the letter, the Senators state that the Senate Judiciary Committee has a constitutional obligation to perform oversight over the Department and its components, and to provide advice and consent on the nominations of officers to lead it. To that end, they request various information to be returned to the Committee in response to the removal of FBI and DOJ officials. They also request answers from these individuals about their involvement.

    The full letter to AG nominee Pam Bondi can be found here.

    The full letter to FBI Director nominee Kash Patel can be found here.

    The full letter to Deputy AG nominee Todd Blanche can be found here.

    The full letter to Acting AG McHenry and Acting FBI Director Driscoll can be found here.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government plan fails on growing public housing stock

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party says the Government is giving up on growing the country’s public housing stock, despite overwhelming evidence that we need more affordable houses to solve the housing crisis.

    “The Government has given up on the housing crisis, using the review into Kāinga Ora to push their privatisation agenda,” says the Green Party spokesperson for Housing Tamatha Paul.

    “Public housing is as essential as public healthcare and public education. Housing is a human right that this Government is denying our communities from accessing. 

    “The housing crisis in Aotearoa is getting worse and worse. Instead of making excuses to allow poverty and homelessness to skyrocket, the Government needs to back Kāinga Ora to build at scale and at pace. 

    “This Government is deliberately stripping Kāinga Ora to the bare bones, playing straight into the hands of wealthy landlords looking to exploit housing insecurity for private profit. We cannot rely on the private market to solve our problems, we have seen it entrench poverty and homelessness across generations. 

    “The last Government sold just 276 state houses over six years, but increased public housing supply by over 7,000 homes. With this new direction, Bishop will sell 900 per year. That’s not just opening the door to privatisation, it’s welcoming it in with open arms. 

    “In the past, our country’s leaders made a conscious decision to house everybody and grow public housing stock at scale. We can make that decision again and we must resist the sale of public housing at all costs because it will have consequences for generations to come.

    “Public housing is a crucial part of ensuring we don’t have gentrified, segregated communities, and that our neighbourhoods reflect the make-up of our wider society, culturally and economically.

    “Housing is a public good that provides the basis for a stable home for whanau, so that no one is left behind. The Government should be building thousands of new homes,” says Tamatha Paul.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Still no commitment to build more public houses

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Despite being confronted every day with people in genuine need being stopped from accessing emergency housing – National still won’t commit to building more public houses. 

    “Chris Bishop is full of it. It is completely heartless and out of touch of him to be comfortable with people sleeping in cars and tents, while he stands up and boasts about saving money,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. 

    “It’s simple, build more public houses so that people have somewhere to live. Housing is the bare minimum that a person needs to live, and to help turn their life around.  

    “Chris Bishop has already instructed Kāinga Ora to build fewer houses each year in his letter of expectation, leading to a net loss of houses in Auckland next year, and cut $1.5 billion from building and maintenance costs in last year’s budget.  

    “If the best that he can come up with is the number of overall homes won’t go backwards, then it shows their priority is cutting spending, not housing people.

    “He says a lot of words about how the private sector will step in, yet figures out today from Statistics New Zealand shows overall building consents for new homes are down nearly 10% for 2024. 

    “Chris Bishop completely missed out the words that matter – a commitment to building more public houses,” Kieran McAnulty said.  

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Hot, dry conditions prompt fire restrictions in Southland

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has placed Southland District into a restricted fire season from 8am, Tuesday 4 February until further notice.
    A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need a permit authorised by Fire and Emergency, which they can apply for at checkitsalright.nz .
    Southland District Manager Julian Tohiariki says a combination of above-average temperatures, moderately strong winds and reduced rainfall has contributed to increased fire risk in the area.
    “These conditions make it too easy for fires to get started and get out of control,” he says.
    “The wildfire on Tiwai Peninsula last week showed just how quickly fire can spread through dry vegetation, and the devastating impact it can have on our environment and wildlife.
    “We have a lot of very dry and flammable vegetation out there in the district at the moment, so we need to restrict how and when outdoor fires are lit.
    “If you’re thinking about starting any kind of open-air fire, you must go to checkitsalright.nz first to find out if you can do that in your location, and what restrictions apply.
    “It’s important we take all the steps we can to reduce the fire risk to our safety, property and environment this summer.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Have your say – three Porirua City consultations open for submission

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Freedom Camping Bylaw 2025
    Porirua City Council is reviewing the way it manages freedom camping. Under the proposed bylaw, freedom camping on reserves would still be managed under the Reserves Act, but freedom camping on other Council land would be managed under the Freedom Camping Act 2011.
    The proposed bylaw would give Council officers the ability to issue on-the-spot fines. We hope this will reduce the number of people not complying with our freedom camping rules. There are six proposed sites where freedom camping in a self-contained motor vehicle is permitted, with restrictions. Submissions close 10 February.
    Keeping of Animals Bylaw 2025
    Updated rules are being proposed if you keep cats, poultry, bees or other animals in Porirua, and we want to hear what the community thinks. The Keeping of Animals Bylaw is a general bylaw that has rules around all domestic animals, apart from dogs, which are covered by the Dog Control Bylaw.
    It’s proposed to strengthen the bylaw by putting in stronger provisions to prevent noise and mess nuisance by animals and clearer enforcement rules. This includes new rules for cats (requiring owners to desex, microchip and register their cat), new rules for beekeepers and proposed changes for keeping stock in the city centre and suburban areas. Submissions close 10 February.
    Local Alcohol Policy
    Feedback is sought to help shape the sale and supply of alcohol in Porirua. We are proposing to introduce priority areas in suburbs where alcohol-related harm is more common, which could then have conditions applied to manage alcohol sale and supply.
    The hours that alcohol can be sold in both off-licence premises (that sell alcohol to drink elsewhere) and on-licence premises (where alcohol is sold to drink at that venue) is also being consulted on, with options proposed for feedback. Submissions close 7 March.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Elections 2025 – are you Porirua Proud?

    Source: Porirua City Council

    It’s an election year, and we’re asking people in Porirua to show how much they care about their city. This year you’ll decide who represents you around the Council table. There will also be a poll on whether the city should keep its Māori ward.
    There are three phases to an election year – enrol, stand, and vote.
    Council’s Manager Democratic Services, Jack Marshall, says while the election is just over eight months away, now is a great time to find out more. You can check you’re enrolled and, if you’re interested, start thinking about standing for Council. You can find out online anytime whether you’re enrolled for the general or Māori roll.
    “We’ll be out and about at events across our city (including Waitangi Day), helping people to show how ‘Porirua Proud’ they are. Come have a chat about enrolling, standing, or how voting works,” Jack says.
    “Our mayor and councillors make key decisions on how the city is run and these decisions impact our lives every day.
    “Council is responsible for delivering essential services and infrastructure like roading, rubbish, recycling, the landfill, three waters, animal control, planning and building consents, as well as things like parks, reserves, sports fields and events that help make Porirua the great place it is.
    “If you’ve ever thought about being mayor or a councillor, now’s the time to start thinking about standing. Come help ensure the Council reflects our diverse and vibrant city.”
    Local elections are by postal vote, with voting closing on 11 October. Porirua has a mayor, and 10 councillors, which includes one councillor for the Parirua Māori Ward.
    A key decision to be made this election by voters is whether the city should keep its Māori ward.
    “There are big decisions to be made for our city’s future. Make sure your voice is heard – either by voting or by standing,” Jack says.
    Check you’re enrolled at vote.nz or call the Electoral Commission on 0800 36 76 56.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua set to host another massive Waitangi Day event

    Source: Porirua City Council

    You can expect another awesome Waitangi Day event in Porirua.
    Waitangi Day at Te Rauparaha Park on Thursday 6 February, runs from midday to 5pm and will feature live music performances from homegrown talent PERE and Kings.
    Also hitting the stage will be Swiss, The Voice Australia’s Roland Williams, Ella Monnery and Hoseah Partsch, and Leisure Tomlins.
    Don’t miss cultural performances by Mana Whenua me te Kāhui Kuratea, and visiting Canadian Indigenous group the Kumugwe Cultural Society.
    The fun continues inside Te Rauparaha Arena and Pātaka Art + Museum, with lots of free activities for tamariki and art and history to discover.
    Visitors will also have the chance to check out the many stalls set up on Te Rauparaha Park, as well as choosing from a range of tasty kai options from food trucks located along Norrie St.
    The popular free waka tours are also returning for the day, giving people the chance to paddle around Te-Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour, thanks to Toa Waka Ama.
    “Last year we welcomed more than 30,000 people into our city centre for Waitangi Day, with many coming from outside of Porirua,” says Porirua Mayor Anita Baker.
    “The range of musicians, performers, activities, stalls and kai on offer means there will be something for everyone.”
    Last year the event was named Best Arts, Culture or Heritage Event at the NZEA Event Awards.
    This year’s event has a zero waste kaupapa, so remember to pack your keep cups for inu (drinks) and kai (food), and is smoke and vape free.
    There are plenty of ways to get to Te Rauparaha Park for Waitangi Day – walk, scoot or bike to the city centre if coming from nearby.
    As it’s a public holiday Council parking is free in the city, although there will be fewer available parks due to event road closures. Visitors are encouraged to catch the train to Porirua city and make the five-minute walk around the waterfront to the action. Some mobility parking spaces will be available at Te Rauparaha Arena.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Home consents up in Otago in 2024, down in all other regions – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: December 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Home consents up in Otago in 2024, down in all other regions – 4 February 2025 – There were 33,600 new homes consented in Aotearoa New Zealand in the year ended December 2024, down 9.8 percent compared with the year ended December 2023, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “Otago was the only region with an increase in the number of new homes consented in 2024,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

    The five regions with the highest number of new homes consented in the year ended December 2024 were:

    • Auckland with 13,939 (down 10 percent compared with the year ended December 2023)
    • Canterbury with 6,544 (down 6.0 percent)
    • Waikato with 2,755 (down 22 percent)
    • Otago with 2,338 (up 19 percent)
    • Wellington with 1,833 (down 24 percent).

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union: While Tariffs Pause, U.S. and Canadian Workers Should Have Seat at Table

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2025 – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice President, issued the following statement following a pause of proposed U.S.-Canadian tariffs.

    “As the largest aerospace and defense labor union in the United States and Canada, the IAM Union is relieved that destructive tariffs between our two allied countries are being paused. A new path forward—one that doesn’t put U.S. and Canadian workers in a needless cycle of worrying about job loss due to tariff threats between allies—is possible. This moment offers the perfect opportunity for workers and unions from both countries to be a part of the solution moving forward. 

    “For decades, we have seen millions of good-paying, high-skilled U.S. and Canadian jobs outsourced to countries with little to no labor rights. Thanks to bad trade deals, tens of thousands of good IAM Union aerospace and defense jobs have become low-wage jobs in Mexico, while China has used forced technology offsets to create its own aerospace industry. This race-to-the-bottom model is being replicated by other bad actors across the globe – and it’s hurting all workers, as well as our shared national security. 

    “We have a chance right now to pull all stakeholders – government, business and labor – together to forge a real, comprehensive strategy to protect and grow critical manufacturing here in the United States and Canada. Workers on the both sides of the border deserve to drive policy conversations about their livelihoods, not be pawns in a larger political discussion.”  

    The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @MachinistsUnion

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund Provides Unaudited Balance Sheet Information and Announces Its Net Asset Value and Asset Coverage Ratios as of January 31, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (the “Company”) (NYSE: KYN) today provided a summary unaudited statement of assets and liabilities and announced its net asset value and asset coverage ratios under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) as of January 31, 2025.

    As of January 31, 2025, the Company’s net assets were $2.4 billion, and its net asset value per share was $14.46. As of January 31, 2025, the Company’s asset coverage ratio under the 1940 Act with respect to senior securities representing indebtedness was 623% and the Company’s asset coverage ratio under the 1940 Act with respect to total leverage (debt and preferred stock) was 476%.

     STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
    JANUARY 31, 2025   // (UNAUDITED)    		      
           
        (in millions)      
    Investments   $ 3,450.6        
    Cash and cash equivalents     1.8        
    Accrued income     9.9        
    Current tax asset, net     6.4        
    Other assets     0.4        
    Total assets     3,469.1        
               
    Credit facility     87.0        
    Notes     409.7        
    Unamortized notes issuance costs     (2.7 )      
    Preferred stock     153.6        
    Unamortized preferred stock issuance costs     (1.3 )      
    Total leverage     646.3        
               
    Payable for securities purchased     18.8        
    Other liabilities     16.3        
    Deferred tax liability, net     342.8        
    Total liabilities     377.9        
               
    Net assets   $ 2,444.9        
               

    The Company had 169,126,038 common shares outstanding as of January 31, 2025.

    Long-term investments were comprised of Midstream Energy Companies (94%), Utility Companies (4%) and Other (2%).  

    The Company’s ten largest holdings by issuer at January 31, 2025 were:

          Amount
    (in millions)*    		   % Long Term
    Investments
    1. Energy Transfer LP (Midstream Energy Company)   $390.7   11.3 %
    2. Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (Midstream Energy Company)     338.2   9.8 %
    3. The Williams Companies, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)     327.6   9.5 %
    4. MPLX LP (Midstream Energy Company)     320.4   9.3 %
    5. Cheniere Energy, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)               256.3   7.4 %
    6. Targa Resources Corp. (Midstream Energy Company)     208.8   6.1 %
    7. Kinder Morgan, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)     207.3   6.0 %
    8. ONEOK, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)     183.1   5.3 %
    9. TC Energy Corporation (Midstream Energy Company)     155.6   4.5 %
    10. Western Midstream Partners, LP (Midstream Energy Company)     151.2   4.4 %
                   
    * Includes ownership of common and preferred units.            
                   

    Portfolio holdings are subject to change without notice. The mention of specific securities is not a recommendation or solicitation for any person to buy, sell or hold any particular security. You can obtain a complete listing of holdings by viewing the Company’s most recent quarterly or annual report.

    Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (NYSE: KYN) is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, whose common stock is traded on the NYSE. The Company’s investment objective is to provide a high after-tax total return with an emphasis on making cash distributions to stockholders. KYN intends to achieve this objective by investing at least 80% of its total assets in securities of Energy Infrastructure Companies. See Glossary of Key Terms in the Company’s most recent quarterly report for a description of these investment categories and the meaning of capitalized terms.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer or sale is not permitted. Nothing contained in this press release is intended to recommend any investment policy or investment strategy or consider any investor’s specific objectives or circumstances. Before investing, please consult with your investment, tax, or legal adviser regarding your individual circumstances.

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This communication contains statements reflecting assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions, or beliefs about future events. These and other statements not relating strictly to historical or current facts constitute forward-looking statements as defined under the U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties. These risks include but are not limited to changes in economic and political conditions; regulatory and legal changes; energy industry risk; leverage risk; valuation risk; interest rate risk; tax risk; and other risks discussed in detail in the Company’s filings with the SEC, available at www.kaynefunds.com or www.sec.gov. Actual events could differ materially from these statements or our present expectations or projections. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Kayne Anderson undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made herein. There is no assurance that the Company’s investment objectives will be attained.

    Contact investor relations at 877-657-3863 or cef@kayneanderson.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Unwritten rules: why claims of a missing ‘fourth article’ of the Treaty don’t stack up

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Moon, Professor of History, Auckland University of Technology

    I sign this Treaty with my hand, but with the mana of my ancestors.

    So said Hōne Heke, the first rangatira (chief) to sign the Treaty of Waitangi. To emphasise the gravity of this sentiment, he then mentioned two of his predecessors by name: Kaharau and Kauteawha.

    It would be difficult to imagine a statement that could invest more mana in the Treaty than this. And Heke was not alone in his view of the agreement.

    Many other rangatira similarly regarded the Treaty as a kawenata (covenant) of utmost importance, including some going as far as putting a representation of their tā moko (facial tattoo) on the document.

    How each rangatira interpreted the Treaty’s provisions remains open to speculation. But what they committed themselves to abiding by was the text of the agreement (either the English version, or in the case of most signatories, the translation in te reo Māori).

    That text was comprised of a preamble, followed by three operative articles. Some rangatira read it, some had it read to them. But as far as all the parties were concerned, that was the entirety of the Treaty.

    In the 1990s, however, suggestions began to surface about a mysterious “fourth article” guaranteeing religious protections. It was not part of the text, but supposedly a verbal promise that amounted to a provision of the agreement.

    The idea has gained sufficient traction for supporters to petition parliament late last year to recognise the fourth article, just as debate about the Treaty Principles Bill was heating up. But it is a claim that needs to be treated with caution and scrutiny.

    Religious protections

    Prior to the first signing of the Treaty – at Waitangi – the Anglican missionary Henry Williams had observed that some Catholic rangatira were reluctant to commit to the agreement.

    The Catholic Bishop, Jean-Baptiste Pompallier, had queried British motives and insisted Catholic rangatira should receive specific protection from the Crown. Williams then read out a hastily-prepared statement to clarify the issue:

    The Governor wishes you to understand that all the Maories (sic) who shall join the Church of England, who shall join the Wesleyans, who shall join the Pikopo or Church of Rome, and those who retain their Maori practices, shall have the protection of the British Government.

    Bishop Jean-Baptiste Pompallier.
    Wikimedia Commons

    Williams noted that this statement “was received in silence. No observation was made upon it; the Maories, and others, being at perfect loss to understand what it could mean.”

    And there the matter ought to have ended: a peripheral detail in a momentous day. But this minor episode was disinterred from its historical obscurity in 1995 at a meeting of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference.

    The clerics announced that a “fourth article was added to the Maori text of the Treaty signed at Waitangi, at the request of Bishop Jean Baptiste […] This article guaranteed religious freedom for all in the new nation, including Maori.”

    Some Anglicans soon endorsed this position. The “fourth article” thus entered the bloodstream of Treaty discourse and began to circulate freely.

    Missing evidence

    There are several objections to the claim of a fourth article of the Treaty.

    Firstly, if it was regarded as a part of the Treaty at the signing on February 6 1840, then we would expect to see both contemporaneous confirmation of this, and subsequent evidence that is consistent with it.

    Yet, these categories of evidence are largely absent. Indeed, mention of a “fourth article” before the 1990s does not exist.

    The sentiment of the fourth article is also absent from the instructions for the Treaty issued by Lord Normanby, British Secretary of State for the Colonies, in 1839.

    Indeed, far from the Crown wishing to guarantee freedom of cultural or religious beliefs, Normanby made it explicit that only those Māori customs the British regarded as acceptable would be protected:

    [The] savage practices of human sacrifice and cannibalism must be promptly and decisively interdicted; such atrocities, under whatever plea of religion they may take place, are not to be tolerated in any part of the dominions of the British Crown.

    Therefore, as far as one party to the Treaty was concerned, the idea of the fourth article was never in contention. What was explicitly promised to all people was the protection of the British government, and not the protection of all customs held by Māori.

    Treaties are written

    As every other contemporaneous source confirms, no rangatira sought this fourth article, and around 90% of rangatira who signed the Treaty (in places other than Waitangi) did not have this so-called fourth article read to them (and so could not have consented to it).

    William Hobson, first Governor of New Zealand.
    Wikimedia Commons

    Nor was it included in the text of copies of the agreement that were subsequently circulated around the country, and neither Hobson nor Pompallier suggested it was an “article” as such.

    International law requires that treaties be in a written form. This certainly has been the convention as far as European treaties are concerned, extending back several centuries.

    It makes any suggestion Hobson admitted an oral article extremely problematic. Likewise, New Zealand’s domestic law also specifies the Treaty contains only three articles.

    Furthermore, if spoken commitments have the status of an article, then what about other verbal commitments made at some of the Treaty signings? Singling out one statement as a presumed article is inconsistent. Either the principle of all verbal commitments in such a setting constitute articles of the Treaty, or none does.

    Previous attempts to insert the fourth article into the country’s constitutional framework have gone nowhere. And in the absence of more persuasive historical evidence, it’s likely to stay that way.

    As the late Kingi Tūheitia succinctly put it: “The Treaty is written. That’s it.”

    Paul Moon 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. Unwritten rules: why claims of a missing ‘fourth article’ of the Treaty don’t stack up – https://theconversation.com/unwritten-rules-why-claims-of-a-missing-fourth-article-of-the-treaty-dont-stack-up-248539

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –