FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON OR AFTER 16 OCTOBER 2024
Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye
MP for Radin Mas
Question No. 6207
To ask the Minister for Health (a) whether there are any subsidised eye-related screenings under the Healthier SG programme; (b) if so, what are the available screenings and the amount of the associated subsidies; and c) if not, whether the Ministry has any plans to introduce subsidised eye-related screenings given the prevalence of eye-related issues among the elderly.
1 There are different types of eye screening.
2 For seniors, subsidised screening for visual acuity is available under Project Silver Screen (PSS), a community functional assessment programme. This does not require a visit to the doctor. Eligible seniors pay a nominal fee when they attend the first PSS session, i.e., $0 for Pioneer Generation (PG) card holders, $2 for Community Health Assistance Scheme (CHAS) Blue/Orange and Merdeka Generation (MG) card holders, and $5 for all other Singapore citizens.
3 For individuals with diabetes, diabetic retinal photography (DRP) is subsidised at polyclinics. Patients can receive subsidised DRP screenings at various participating GP clinics based on their CHAS, PG and MG card status. DRP is currently also included under a Healthier SG care protocol for chronic disease management.
The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, today concluded a 2-day visit to Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates. The visit focused on Canada’s humanitarian assistance in the region and was an opportunity for the Minister to see and hear first-hand from humanitarian partners, how assistance is being delivered to vulnerable civilians in Lebanon, Gaza, and the West Bank.
October 18, 2024 – Ottawa, Canada – Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, today concluded a 2-day visit to Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates. The visit focused on Canada’s humanitarian assistance in the region and was an opportunity for the Minister to see and hear first-hand from humanitarian partners, how assistance is being delivered to vulnerable civilians in Lebanon, Gaza, and the West Bank.
The Minister re-emphasized the need for Canadians to leave Lebanon and met with partners in the region who have been assisting over 1,200 Canadians and permanent residents to leave Lebanon to safety. Canada has also helped citizens of partnering countries leave Lebanon over the past several weeks. While in Istanbul on Thursday, Minister Hussen met with the Consuls General of these countries and with airport authorities and staff at the Consulate General of Canada, to thank them for their tremendous contribution in helping with these efforts.
On Friday, Minister Hussen travelled to Dubai Humanitarian – the world’s largest centre for the distribution of humanitarian relief items – where he saw some of Canada’s humanitarian relief stockpile and toured the warehouses of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Canada has donated 5,000 blankets and 1,000 hygiene kits to support impacted people in Lebanon through the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. He also met with humanitarian partners to discuss their work in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, as well as shared concerns over humanitarian access and the distribution of assistance.
Canada reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire and for a political solution to the conflict through diplomatic efforts. The increasingly dire humanitarian situation is unacceptable. In particular, the risk of famine persists across the whole Gaza Strip due to the decrease of aid allowed into Gaza. An increase in humanitarian aid is desperately needed to end this suffering.
“The humanitarian situation in the Middle East is catastrophic and unsustainable, with widespread displacement in Lebanon and the risk of famine in Gaza. Canada continues to actively pursue all avenues with our partners on the ground to alleviate the suffering of those most impacted by this humanitarian crisis. We call for the rapid, safe, and unimpeded access of humanitarian relief in accordance with international humanitarian law.”
– Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California
FRESNO, Calif.– Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, was awarded the “Friend of the Farm Bureau” award for the 118th Congress by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).
“It is an honor to receive the Friend of the Farm Bureau award for my unwavering commitment to our nation’s agricultural industry, the backbone of this economy. We have made significant strides in implementing policies that empower farmers and drive economic growth here at home and nationally. I will continue to champion the needs of our farmers, ranchers, dairymen, and women as we work to get a robust, bipartisan Farm Bill done.” said Rep. Jim Costa.
“The American Farm Bureau’s Friend of Farm Bureau Award honors members of Congress with a strong record of supporting the nation’s farmers and ranchers. Congressman Costa was selected by AFBF for this term due to his leadership on the House Agriculture Committee and his efforts to address key challenges facing the agricultural community.” said Ryan Jacobsen, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Fresno County Farm Bureau.
BACKGROUND The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) awards the Friend of Farm Bureau award to members of Congress who elevate the needs of farmers, ranchers, dairymen, and women in the United States Congress as demonstrated by their voting records. Awardees are nominated by their respective state Farm Bureaus and approved by the National Board of Directors.
Costa serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. He also serves as co-chair of the Congressional Agricultural Trade Caucus and Specialty Crops Caucus.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
Summary
Company Announcement Date:
FDA Publish Date:
Product Type:
Food & Beverages Foodborne Illness
Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description
Salmonella
Company Name:
Church Brothers, LLC
Brand Name:
Brand Name(s)
Multiple brand names
Product Description:
Product Description
Green Onions
Company Announcement
Salinas, CA, October 18, 2024 (For Distribution) – Church Brothers, LLC (“Church Brothers Farms”) is voluntarily recalling 1271 cases of green onions because of the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
Distribution was limited to a small number of retail and foodservice customers in Canada and USA (Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia). Church Brothers Farms has notified these customers and is working with them to ensure rapid compliance with the recall.
Canada
Brand
Item Description
Lot Code
Imperial Fresh
Green Onion Iceless 4x2lb Reg
CB272378
USA
Brand
Item Description
Lot Code
Container Type and Lot code location
Church Brothers
Green Onions Iceless 4x2lb Reg Church Brothers Mexico
CB272378
Clear bag, product code located in front of the bag.
Trader Joe’s
Green Onion Iceless 24x6oz Reg Trader Joe’s Mexico
CB272378, Pack Date 092524
Brand retail bag with pack date label on back of bag
Imperial Fresh
Green Onion Iceless 4x2lb Reg
CB272378
Clear bag, product code located in front of the bag
This recall is the result of a single product sample collected by Canadian Food Inspection Agency that indicated the presence of Salmonella. The Company promptly reported this issue to Food & Drug Administration. To the knowledge of Church Brothers Farms, no illnesses have occurred or been reported to date.
Only those products that are named in this announcement are being recalled. No other products are affected by the recall.
In the event customers or consumers have the recalled product in their refrigerators, they should be discarded and not consumed.
Consumers with questions or concerns may contact Church Brothers Farms Consumer Hotline 1-877-590-0428 8:00am to 4:00pm PST Consumer Email: consumerinfo@churchbrothers.com.
Oct. 18, 2024 Release Number 20241018-02 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, Fla. (Oct. 18, 2024) – In the past week, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed 20 one-way attack uncrewed aerial systems (OWAUAS) and Land Attack Cruise Missiles (LACMs) in the CENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR). These Iranian-supplied weapons, launched episodically by the Houthis and Iranian-Aligned Militia Groups (IAMGs) over several days during the week, posed a significant risk to United States, allies, and partner forces, as well as civilians in the region and beyond. The drones and missiles were downed by a combination of U.S. Air Force and U.S Navy assets deployed to the region.
No U.S. service members were injured in these actions. U.S. and coalition forces remain at a high level of readiness, postured to defend U.S. interests and those of our allies and partners in the region.
Here’s a general timeline of CENTCOM operational activities during the past week:
· As previously released, CENTCOM forces conducted a series of airstrikes Oct. 11 against multiple known ISIS camps in Syria, resulting in at least 35 ISIS operatives killed, to include several ISIS leaders. The strikes will disrupt the ability of ISIS to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against the United States, its allies and partners, and civilians. Battle damage assessments are still underway and do not indicate civilian casualties. U.S. and partner forces continue to execute these critical operations that contribute to the enduring defeat of terrorist organizations in the CENTCOM AOR and the support of regional stability.
On Oct. 13, at the direction of the President, the Secretary of Defense authorized the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and associated crew of U.S. military personnel to Israel to help bolster Israel’s air defenses following Iran’s unprecedented attacks against Israel on April 13 and again on Oct. 1. The THAAD battery is now integrated into the regional air defense architecture.
Separately, during the past week, CENTCOM forces conducted a successful strike against a Houthi Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) launcher and its associated radar that presented a threat to U.S. and coalition aircraft. Additionally, CENTCOM forces conducted strikes against multiple UAS Ground Control Stations (GCS) used to direct Houthi OWAUAS targeting of U.S. and coalition forces against international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. For operations security reasons, we won’t discuss specific dates or locations of these self-defense strikes.
U.S. and coalition forces assigned to Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) twice came under rocket attacks from IAMGs. In both instances, the rockets were successfully intercepted. No U.S. service members were injured in either incident.
Finally, on the evening of Oct. 16 EDT, CENTCOM forces conducted multiple airstrikes on numerous Iran-backed Houthi weapons storage facilities within Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen that contained various advanced conventional weapons used to target military and civilian vessels navigating international waters throughout the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. CENTCOM forces targeted the Houthi’s hardened underground facilities housing missiles, weapons components, and other munitions used to target military and civilian vessels throughout the region. U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets, including U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit long-range stealth bombers, were part of the operation.
###
Editor’s Note: This U.S. Central Command Weekly Update replaces the previous daily updates released by the command regarding significant operational activities within the CENTCOM area of responsibility.
Headline: Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s Awards in the National Capital Region, October 22
Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s Awards in the National Capital Region, October 22 felicia.brown
On October 22, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas hosts the third awards ceremony in the National Capital Region to present the DHS Secretary’s Awards to employees for their outstanding contributions and recognize workforce achievements.
Headline: DHS Veteran Career Fair – Marine Corps Base Quantico
DHS Veteran Career Fair – Marine Corps Base Quantico ricqui.riggs
Meet representatives from DHS and explore career opportunities in law enforcement, immigration and travel security, prevention and response, cybersecurity analysis, and mission support. This event is free and open to all transitioning active duty and former service members.
Participating Components and Offices
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Federal Protective Service (FPS)
Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer (OCHCO)
Office of the Chief Procurement Officer (OCPO)
Office of the Inspector General (OIG)
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
United States Secret Service (USSS)
U.S. Coast Guard – Civilian (USCG)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Event Details
Event Date: November 22, 2024 at 10:00 AM ET to 2:00 PM ET
Registration: The event is free and open to all transitioning, active duty, and former service members. Please register to attend.
Location: The Clubs at Quantico & Crossroads Event Center, 3017 Russell Road, Quantico, VA 22134
OAK BROOK, Ill., Oct. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (NYSE: THS) is voluntarily recalling certain frozen waffle products listed below due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recalled products were distributed throughout the United States and Canada and packed in various formats under the brand names listed below.
There have been no confirmed reports of illness linked to the recalled products to date. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.
This issue was discovered through routine testing at the manufacturing facility.
Consumers should check their freezers for any of the products listed above and dispose of them or return the recalled product to the place of purchase for credit. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 800-596-2903, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (CST).
This recall is being carried out with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (U.S. FDA) and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
Images from the new Karratha weather radar are now live on the Bureau of Meteorology’s website and the BOM Weather app.
The new radar was built to replace a temporary radar in Dampier, which was put in place to replace the previous Dampier radar after it was severely damaged by Cyclone Damien in February 2020.
The Karratha radar will provide better image resolution, better visibility of weather systems and less image interference than the temporary radar at Dampier.
It will provide higher quality images during intense rain and storms and improve the image resolution between rain and hail. The new radar will have some areas of overlapping coverage with the Learmonth and Port Hedland radars.
Bureau of Meteorology WA Manager James Ashley said the new dual-polarised Doppler radar is an important tool for observing rainfall and wind conditions in real time across large areas, including approaching tropical cyclones.
“The new Karratha weather radar will benefit communities, emergency services and local industry across parts of the Pilbara region, Dampier Archipelago and surrounding areas,” Mr Ashley said.
“The upgraded radar will eventually replace the temporary Dampier radar.
“The temporary Dampier radar will remain in place for up to 6 months, to ensure continuous radar coverage while the Bureau completes monitoring and optimisation of the new Karratha radar.”
Mr Ashley said construction of the Karratha radar required specialist equipment to reach the new site.
“A self-propelled modular transporter, essentially a giant remote-controlled truck, was needed to get the tower segments to the top of the radar site,” he said.
Radars collect data to feed into the Bureau’s models and forecasts to deliver better rainfall and flood warnings, estimates of accumulated rainfall and stored soil moisture, short-term forecasts of rainfall and severe weather, hail location and strength of wind changes.
The Karratha radar is one part of the Bureau’s comprehensive weather observation network of more than 11,000 assets including satellites, upper atmosphere monitoring, automatic weather stations, ocean buoys and flood warning networks.
Together these enable industry to make better decisions when preparing for severe weather, help farming businesses make timely decisions, such as movement of stock, chemical and fertiliser application, sowing and harvesting, and increase the accuracy of forecasts every year.
The Karratha radar upgrade is part of the Bureau’s ongoing work to enhance and improve the Australian radar and observation network.
Geneva, Switzerland. Friday 18 October 2024 – As the 149th IPU Assembly concluded this week, the IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians reported on its latest caseload detailing severe human rights violations faced by hundreds of MPs worldwide.
The most common violations include attacks on freedom of expression, suspension or loss of parliamentary mandate, threats, intimidation, torture, arbitrary arrest and enforced disappearance.
The IPU’s Governing Council approved several decisions presented by the Committee President, Ms. Millie Odhiambo of Kenya, urging the relevant authorities to disclose information and end the abuses.
Key cases highlighted by the Committee include:
Democratic Republic of the Congo: 18 opposition MPs face alleged violations of their political rights following the December 2023 general elections. The Committee also reported on the death of Mr. Chérubin Okende and the imprisonment of Mr. Jean Marc Kabund for criticizing the Head of State.
Guinea-Bissau: The Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Domingos Simões Pereira, was prevented from attending the 149th IPU Assembly. He and other MPs face violations, including arbitrary invalidation of mandates and restrictions on freedom of expression and movement.
Nicaragua: Delegates at the 149th IPU Assembly heard a passionate plea from Ms. Tininiska Rivera Bryan, the daughter of the missing opposition MP Mr. Brooklyn Rivera Bryan, a Miskitu indigenous leader.
She called for parliamentary solidarity and urged MPs at the Assembly to pressure the Nicaraguan authorities to find her father.
The Committee also reported on another opposition MP, Ms. Nancy Elizabeth Henríquez James who is in prison. There is concern over Ms. Henríquez’s detention and lack of medical treatment.
Pakistan: Opposition leader Mr. Imran Khan and his colleagues face ill-treatment and arbitrary detention. The Committee calls for their immediate release and respect for their rights.
Thailand: Following the dissolution of the Move Forward Party, several MPs lost their political rights for attempting to amend a lèse majesté law. The Committee calls for a review of relevant laws to align with international standards.
Tunisia: Ms. Abir Moussi and several MPs face detention and prosecution for expressing opposition to the President. The Committee calls for their release and for authorities to facilitate a mission to Tunisia.
Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela: The caseload involves 135 opposition parliamentarians elected in 2015, who face alleged politically motivated persecution, criminal proceedings, arrest warrants and harassment.
The Committee also strongly condemned the fact that Ms. María Corina Machado was prevented from standing as a candidate in the presidential elections held on 28 July 2024.
Background
The IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians is the only international complaints mechanism with the specific mandate to defend the human rights of persecuted parliamentarians around the world. Its work includes mobilizing the international parliamentary community to support threatened MPs, lobbying national authorities, visiting MPs in danger and sending trial observers.
The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. It was founded in 1889 as the first multilateral political organization in the world, encouraging cooperation and dialogue between all nations. Today, the IPU comprises 181 national Member Parliaments and 15 regional parliamentary bodies. It promotes peace, democracy and sustainable development. It helps parliaments become stronger, younger, greener, more innovative and gender-balanced. It also defends the human rights of parliamentarians through a dedicated committee made up of MPs from around the world.
The Coast Guard Cutter returned 12 migrants to the Dominican Republic between Thursday and Friday, following the interdiction of an irregular, unlawful migration voyage near Puerto Rico. The cutter Paul Clark crew returned 10 of the migrants to a Dominican Republic Navy vessel, Thursday, while the Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier crew repatriated the two remaining migrants from the group to Punta Juanillo, Dominican Republic, Friday afternoon. The interdiction occurred Wednesday night, after the crew of a Customs and Border Protection multi-role enforcement aircraft sighted a grossly overloaded makeshift vessel, approximately 62 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. The cutter Paul Clark arrived on-scene and launched the cutter’s over-the-horizon small boat crew which successfully stopped the suspect vessel. The cutter crew and embarked all 12 migrants consisting of eight men, two women and two unaccompanied minors, who claimed to be Dominican Republic nationals.
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As Russia continues to deepen its economic ties with BRICS+ countries, new opportunities are emerging for businesses to tap into one of the most promising markets
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 18, 2024 – Industry Growth in Russia Projected to Surge by 30% in the Next 5 Years Expanded Market to Generate Over $250 Billion in Building, Design, and Construction Sectors
ITE Group (https://ITE.Group), the premier B2B exhibition organiser in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), is forecasting a surge in business opportunities for BRICS+ nations, with industry growth in Russia projected to increase by over 30% by 2030. This rapid expansion is expected to generate more than $250 billion across key building, design, and construction sectors.
As Russia continues to deepen its economic ties with BRICS+ countries, new opportunities are emerging for businesses to tap into one of the most promising markets. ITE Group’s role in hosting large-scale exhibitions, including MosBuild, has been instrumental in driving this development. These platforms provide BRICS+ companies with direct access to Russia’s evolving industrial landscape, fostering international trade and collaboration.
Over the 2022-23 period, ITE Group recorded an impressive 36% increase in visitor numbers year-on-year, with attendees from over 100 countries, reflecting the growing interest and confidence from across the region. This surge in attendance highlights the expanding reach of ITE Group’s exhibitions, which continue to attract both established industry players and new entrants seeking to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities within BRICS+ countries.
“BRICS+ Nations are carving out larger roles in the Russian market through greater collaboration and trade. Our exhibitions are pivotal in facilitating these vital business connections,” said Dmitry Zavgorodniy, CEO of ITE Group.
“By hosting 26 events each year, we ensure that businesses from all industries have the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and thrive. With over 500, 000 visitors per year, we’re excited for the future. We are proud to be pivotal in driving economic growth and fostering meaningful connections among BRICS+ countries.”
ITE Group serves multiple industries including Building & Interior Design, Chemicals & Pharmaceutical Production, Food & Agriculture, Commercial & Urban Transport and IT & Technology sectors. In September 2024, Crocus Expo hosted one of ITE Group’s flagship events, World Food Moscow, where F&B manufacturers, service providers, and industry innovators come together from retail giants to wholesale distributors.
“Our experience at the World Food Forum was nothing short of extraordinary. Exhibiting at this prestigious event opened the door to unparalleled international networking opportunities, connecting us with industry leaders and innovators from around the globe. The exposure and connections we’ve gained have been instrumental in our plans to expand into new markets. We are excited about the future and confident that the relationships and insights developed here will propel our business to new heights.” Yaseem Saif, Development and Foreign Markets Manager, Bawabt Liwa Group
In 2025, MosBuild, one of ITE’s headline shows will take place, celebrating its 30th anniversary. The show is expected to surpass all previous records with an estimated 60,000 visitors and 1,400 exhibitors from over 20 countries.
“Last year’s MosBuild was an exceptional experience for our business. The event exceeded our expectations, providing us with invaluable connections and opportunities that directly contributed to our growth. The organisation, the quality of attendees, and the networking possibilities were top-class. The quality of the visitors we met was very high and through the show, we expect them to have a lasting impact on our business. We’re already looking forward to 2025, excited to meet even more potential clients and continue building on the success we’ve enjoyed.” Fabio Venezia, Export Manager, Cemom
With a robust portfolio of exhibitions spanning various sectors, ITE Group remains at the forefront of facilitating business growth and international partnerships. The group’s ongoing efforts to create high-impact, industry-specific events are expected to enhance the competitive landscape further, driving sustained economic development well into the next decade.
ITE in Numbers:
Over 500,000+ visitors per year 1,700+ regional and international media in attendance Over 2 million business contacts in our database 10,000+ exhibitors per year
ITE Group Sectors: Building & Interior Design, Food & Agriculture, Transport & Logistics, Water Supply & HVAC, Chemicals & Pharmaceutical, Travel & Hospitality, Welding & Hardware, Commercial & Urban Transport, IT & Technology, Warehousing Solutions, Woodworking, Consumer Goods, Laboratory Equipment, Dairy Manufacturing, Electronics & Components, Mining, Printing & Packaging. About ITE Group: ITE Group is Russia’s leading B2B exhibition organiser, renowned for its commitment to fostering international trade and business development. With a robust portfolio of 26 high-profile events annually, ITE Group also creates bespoke Digital Connect platforms for all major events helping to drive economic growth and collaboration. Established in 1991, ITE Group has organised Russia and CIS’s largest industry exhibitions for over three decades, providing transformative platforms for essential dialogue between businesses and government, ensuring substantial outcomes.
Event Calendar: For more information on our events and to view the full calendar, please visit http://apo-opa.co/4f9up9e
Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
Las Vegas, Nev. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto joined Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and more than a dozen of their Senate colleagues in calling on President Joe Biden to designate Temporary Protected Status for Guatemalan nationals living in the U.S.
“We write to urgently request that your administration provide temporary humanitarian protections for Guatemalan nationals living in the United States by either designating the country for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or authorizing Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Guatemalan nationals,” the senators wrote. “Guatemala presently faces significant and overlapping natural disasters leading to food insecurity, corruption, and violence that impede the ability of Guatemalan nationals currently in the United States to return home safely at this time.”
“Guatemala has long experienced significant environmental disasters, which have worsened food insecurity and displaced a sizable amount of the population,” they added. “Despite the efforts underway under the new administration, a sober assessment of conditions in the country today would support the conclusion that Guatemala is unable to adequately handle the return of the significant number of nationals currently in the United States.”
Established by the U.S. Congress through the Immigration Act of 1990, TPS is a temporary, renewable program that provides relief from removal and access to work permits for eligible foreign nationals who are unable to return safely to their home countries due to natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other extraordinary conditions. Over 400,000 people with TPS are currently living in communities across the United States—including about 6,300 TPS holders in Nevada—where they contribute billions of dollars every year in taxes.
Full text of the letter is available HERE.
The first and only Latina Senator, Senator Cortez Masto has consistently supported immigrant communities in Nevada, calling on the administration to take action to protect TPS holders and other immigrants, as well as leading commonsense legislation to fix our broken immigration system. She has worked to pass meaningful immigration reform that balances critical border security measures with a path to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS holders, and essential workers, and she’s pushed legislation to allow Dreamers and TPS holders to work in Congress.
Tacoma –A 52-year-old Olympia, Washington man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 11 years in prison for a series of arsons and a shooting spree in 2018 that damaged or destroyed several Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Halls, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Mikey Diamond Starrett, aka Michael Jason Layes, pleaded guilty in May 2024 to four counts of damage to religious property and one count of using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. At today’s sentencing hearing, Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo said, “There are significant and troubling facts…. Terrorizing a group of individuals because of their religious beliefs.”
“Mr. Starrett’s attacks irrevocably destroyed the sense of safety and peace that a house of worship is supposed to provide, and caused severe, permanent harm to the Jehovah’s Witness community in Washington,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “These were not crimes against buildings, but a series of attacks against a community and a faith.”
“The defendant in this case committed four attacks on Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Halls, causing fear and anguish to its members,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The freedom to practice the religion we choose, without discrimination or violence, is a fundamental civil right in our nation and a hallmark of our democracy from its very inception. Violence based on religious prejudice has no place in our society. The Justice Department will continue to prosecute those who target and harm houses of worship.”
According to records in the case, Starrett set fire to Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Halls on three occasions. On March 19, 2018, he set fire to the Kingdom Halls in Tumwater and Olympia, Washington. On July 3, 2018, Starrett returned to the Olympia Kingdom Hall and burned it down completely. In a fourth attack on May 15, 2018, Starrett used an assault-style rifle to shoot rounds into another Kingdom Hall in Yelm, Washington. Starrett’s attacks caused more than $700,000 in damage to these Kingdom Halls. Starrett admitted in his plea agreement that he defaced, damaged, and destroyed the Kingdom Halls because of the properties religious character.
After an extensive investigation, Starrett was arrested in September 2021 and has been in federal custody since then.
“ATF and our law enforcement partners spent many thousands, if not tens of thousands, of hours investigating these attacks and ensuring that the right person was identified,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “His guilty plea is a validation of the hard work put in by all the law enforcement involved in the investigation, and this sentence is appropriate for his egregious actions. We are all committed to defending the right of people to practice their religion, and investigating when someone acts to deprive them of that right, in this case through acts of arson and use of a firearm during, and in relation to, a crime of violence.”
Prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo that Starrett “committed several violent, premeditated attacks using fire or a dangerous weapon. His attacks were brazen and show that he believed he could engage in extensive criminal conduct without consequence. Starrett’s disregard for the safety of the Kingdom Halls, its congregants, first responders, and the surrounding area, which is vulnerable to devastating wildfires, underscores the danger that he poses to the public.”
At the sentencing hearing, a spokesman for the Jehovah’s Witness community read a series of statements that had been submitted by community members. They wrote of the fear and anxiety the attack engendered writing: “I wondered if the arsonist would strike again with people inside; any new face at the meeting made me worry: and …the gunshots and bomb left, were clear threats, we worried someone would come to a meeting with a gun.”
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division, the FBI, the Tumwater, Washington Police Department, and the Olympia, Washington Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonas Lerman of the Western District of Washington and Trial Attorney Matthew Tannenbaum of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on October 10, 2024, BRIAN WARD (“WARD”), age 30, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). Sentencing is set for January 2, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe.
WARD faces up to fifteen (15) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court documents, on January 7,2024, WARD was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department following a physical altercation between WARD and another man in the 300 block of Bourbon Street. During the altercation, WARD produced a firearm he possessed and shot at the man. After WARD’s arrest, his firearm, a Taurus Model PTl40 G2, .40 caliber pistol, was recovered near the tire of a van where WARD had hidden it. Also, law enforcement recovered a spent .40-caliber shell casing from the scene. It was later determined to be a match to the gun recovered. The incident was additionally recorded by RealTime Crime Cameras in the area.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.
Victims Shot During Early Morning Attack in Northeast D.C.
WASHINGTON – Matthew Walker, 25, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today, to 50 years in prison for shooting two men, killing one, at a temporary labor agency in Northeast Washington D.C. on February 14, 2019, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A. Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Walker was convicted at trial in January 2024 in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
In addition to the 50-year prison term, Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo also ordered Walker to serve five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 5:45 a.m. on February 14, 2019, Walker walked into Trojan Labor, a temporary labor agency in Northeast Washington D.C. Once inside, Walker ran directly to the agency’s dispatch office, where he repeatedly shot David Remen, one of the agency’s workers and Michael Hardy, the manager of the agency. Walker then fled away from the scene and discarded his clothing, mask, and firearm nearby. Mr. Remen died on scene. Mr. Hardy died in 2022. DNA evidence from the clothing, mask and firearm, as well as ballistic, video, and other evidence linked the defendant to the shooting.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Prava Palacharla who investigated and indicted the case, Deputy Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharon Donavan for providing forensic DNA expertise, Paralegal Specialist Grazy Rivera, Victim/Witness Advocate Karina Hernandez, Supervisory IT Specialist Leif Hickling, and IT Specialist Charlie Bruce.
Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Seidel and Alec Levy, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Lameek Everette and a Fellow Bloods Member Killed Two Long Island Residents During a Robbery
Earlier today at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, Lameek Everette, also known as “La,” a member of the Bloods Street gang, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gary R. Brown, to 40 years’ imprisonment. On November 27, 2017, Everette was convicted of racketeering, including predicate acts of murder, robbery and attempted robbery. Those charges stemmed from his participation in the September 2, 2016 murders of David Arzu and Janelle Curella, who were each shot by Everette during a robbery as the victims walked to the Long Island Rail Road train station in Bayshore, New York.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Robert Waring, Acting Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), announced the sentence.
“What started out as a robbery, turned into a double murder with the defendant pulling the trigger over and over to kill his victims simply because they resisted a holdup. Today the defendant faced a reckoning for the devastating harm he has caused,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “Gang members’ violent choices will not go unpunished in our district. The substantial sentence handed down today provides some measure of justice following the defendant’s senseless murder of a young man and woman whose families still grieve for the loss of their loved ones. I hope it will also deter others from joining gangs and committing brutal crimes that terrorize our community.”
“Lameek Everette’s blatant disregard for human life was clear not only by the execution of two young victims in cold blood, but also by his decision to spend the remainder of his night at a local club,” stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Walker. “While no amount of time or justice can bring back David Arzu and Janelle Curella, preventing future violence is of the utmost priority for HSI New York. We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue violent street gangs and bring them to justice for the greater good of our Long Island community.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy stated, “Lameek Everette personally appraised the lives of two innocent victims to be less than the potential value of their belongings. His callous actions demonstrate the senseless gang violence that can target random civilians. May today’s sentencing reflect the FBI’s unwavering commitment to eradicate all gang members threatening the welfare of our communities.”
“Gang violence has no place in Suffolk County, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable dangerous individuals like Everette whose plan for robbery escalated to murder,” stated Acting SCPD Commissioner Waring. “I hope today’s sentence brings some sense of closure to the victims’ family and serves as a reminder we will pursue justice for all victims.”
At approximately 9:30 p.m. on September 2, 2016, David Arzu, Janelle Curella and two friends were walking towards the Bay Shore train station. Unbeknownst to them, Everette and a fellow Bloods member had devised a plan to rob them at gunpoint, and were lying in wait for them. When Everette and his coconspirator spied Arzu, Curella and their friends, they approached the group, brandished firearms and demanded the victims’ money and valuables. Arzu resisted, and a struggle ensued. When Curella attempted to come to Arzu’s assistance, Everette shot and killed her. Everette then shot Arzu multiple times, killing him. Everette later posted pictures of himself of Facebook, flashing hand signals that signified his affiliation with the Bloods and wearing a necklace he had stolen from Arzu when he murdered him.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of a renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Misorek and Anthony Bagnuola are in charge of the prosecution.
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Casey Medina, 33, of Rochester, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with attempted kidnapping, distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography, cyberstalking, and aiding and abetting. The charges carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that in May 2024, the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office was contacted by a 31-year-old female (victim), who reported that she had been receiving text messages from unknown numbers that included photographs depicting her face superimposed on various pornographic images made to appear as if she had been engaging in sexual acts. In addition, the victim reported being threatened by the unknown numbers, including being kidnapped, raped, sexually abused and/or killed. In August 2024, the victim indicated to investigators that the text messages in May occurred over the course of approximately 26 days, and, after short break, continued sporadically through June and July 2024. The victim stated that the messages were becoming very concerning, and she had no idea who they were coming from.
Also in August 2024, law enforcement received a tip from an individual that he had communicated with another individual with username “crcdal” via social media. The other individual, later identified as Medina, was looking for someone to help to harass the victim. Medina provided the individual with the victim’s personal information, including her place of employment, home address, personal cell phone number, and a variety of photos. The individual provided law enforcement with several screenshots of communications with Medina, which included discussions of abducting, drugging, and raping the victim. An undercover law enforcement officer then began communicating with Media online, during which they also discussed abducting, drugging, and raping the victim.
On August 22, 2024, Medina was an Avon Police Department trainee, and was arrested by the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office at the Rural Police Training Academy in Livingston County on multiple state charges. Investigators executed a search warrant on Medina’s cell phone and recovered the communications discussing the abduction, drugging, and raping of the victim as well as images and videos of child pornography that Medina shared online.
The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Tobias Shelley, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
NORFOLK, Va. – A Woodford man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, on April 7, 2023, Theodore William Cathers, 49, uploaded four files of CSAM depicting prepubescent and pubescent children in sexually explicit behavior. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) forwarded a report of the uploaded material to the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD).
On June 27, 2023, VBPD obtained a search warrant for an online storage account belonging to Cathers and recovered approximately 2,900 CSAM files, including images of pre-pubescent children and depictions of bondage and sadomasochism. A large portion of the CSAM files were collage images of prepubescent and pubescent children, partially or completely nude, engaged in sexually explicit acts.
Cathers is a registered sex offender after having been convicted of two counts of Taking Indecent Liberties with Children Under the Age of 15. In 2012, Cathers was discovered naked in the bedroom of two children aged eleven and seven years old. The eleven-year-old informed law enforcement that Cathers came into their bedroom and got into her bed with her. A short time later, Cathers got into the seven-year-old’s bed and removed all his clothing. Cathers was convicted in 2013 and sentenced to 10 years in prison with 10 years suspended.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph L. Kosky prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-17.
WASHINGTON— A North Carolina man was sentenced to prison today after he previously pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Curtis Davis, 45, of Snow Hill, North Carolina, was sentenced to 24 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, the first six months of which to be served on home detention, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta. Davis previously pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers on June 10, 2024.
According to court documents, at about 3:00 p.m., on Jan.6, 2021, Davis entered the U.S. Capitol building via the East Rotunda doors and made his way into the Rotunda, where law enforcement officers were attempting to disperse a crowd of rioters. Inside the Rotunda, while pressed against a line of police officers, Davis forcibly attacked a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer and attempted to grab ahold of the officer’s baton.
At about 3:09 p.m., court documents say that Davis punched an MPD officer in the face shield and refused law enforcement orders to leave the building. A short while later, Davis punched another MPD officer in the head and forcibly pulled away a riot shield from another. Davis then used the shield to press against the backs of a line of rioters in an attempt to resist the efforts of police.
Davis was then expelled from the Rotunda but later returned to the East Rotunda doors. Here, Davis, along with other rioters, attempted to push their way through a line of police officers into the Rotunda. Davis then made his way to the front of the line of rioters and punched a riot shield held by an officer three times.
Court documents say that later that night, Davis filmed a group of police officers with his cell phone camera before turning it around, filming his fist, and stating, “Them knuckles right there, from one of those m—f— faces at the Capitol.”
The FBI arrested Davis on Dec. 8, 2023, in Snow Hill.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting this case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina provided valuable assistance.
The FBI’s Charlotte and Washington Field Offices investigated this case. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 45 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,532 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Terrance Michael Ciszek a/k/a DrMonster, 34, of Buffalo, NY, with possession of unauthorized access devices with intent to defraud and making a false statement to an agency of the United States, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the cases, stated that since August 2018, the FBI has been investigating an illicit online marketplace known as Genesis Market, whose operators compile stolen data, such as computer and mobile device identifiers, email addresses, usernames, and passwords, from malware-infected computers around the globe and package it for sale on the market. Purchases made through Genesis Market are conducted using virtual currency, such as bitcoin.
According to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, between March 16 and July 29, 2020, Ciszek, a Buffalo Police Detective, purchased 11 packages on Genesis Market that included 194 stolen account credentials. Investigators also determined that Ciszek had bitcoin wallet addresses associated with UniCC, a dark web carding website. Carding websites are illicit marketplaces and/or forums used to share stolen credit card data and discuss techniques for obtaining credit card data, validating it, and using it for criminal activity. On April 15, 2020, Ciszek recorded a video explaining to others how he anonymized his identity on the internet when purchasing stolen credit cards, and described his use of UniCC. In the video, he stated, among other things, “And then I usually get my credit cards from UniCC, which is an amazing place if you guys don’t have it.
On April 4, 2023, Ciszek is accused of making false statements to the FBI, claiming that he had not purchased stolen credentials from the internet, and further stating that his nephew may have been responsible for the online purchase of stolen credentials.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for the sexual exploitation of a child.
Ricky Lane Bowers, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 17 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Bowers to 20 years of supervised release following incarceration.
On July 25, 2023, Bowers pleaded guilty to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Bowers admitted that he had been in contact with a man who was arrested in Texas, who had sent Bowers images and videos of child sexual abuse. Bowers also admitted that he had taken pornographic photos of a child victim and sent them to the man in Texas.
Investigators seized Bowers’s cell phone that he used to communicate with the Texas defendant. Forensic examiners found files of child pornography on the cell phone, as well as evidence of images and videos of the child victim whom Bowers used to produce child pornography.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Southwest Missouri Cybercrimes Task Force.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit http://www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) Jordan Harvey, Avi Panth, and Anthony Mozzi will lead the Office’s efforts in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming Nov. 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Harvey, Panth, and Mozzi have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Eastern District of Virginia, and in that capacity are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Aber. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
“The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” said U.S. Attorney Aber. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. To respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs/DEOs Harvey, Panth, and Mozzi will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.”
Contact information for the DEOs is as follows:
Northern Virginia – Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Harvey, 703-299-3700
Tidewater region – Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Mozzi, 757-441-6331
Central Capitol region – Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi Panth, 804-819-5400
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The FBI field offices in the Eastern District of Virginia can be reached by the public at:
Washington Field Office – 202-278-2000
Richmond Field Office 804-261-1044
Norfolk Field Office – 757-455-0100
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC, by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
“Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate,” said U.S. Attorney Aber. “It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Oct. 18 — The Chinese economy gained a firm footing in the third quarter (Q3) of this year in the face of mounting challenges at home and abroad, and authorities believe the country will remain on a steady course to achieve its full-year targets.
China’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew 4.8 percent year on year to around 94.97 trillion yuan (about 13.33 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first three quarters of this year, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Friday. In Q3, the economy expanded 4.6 percent from a year ago and went up 0.9 percent on a quarterly basis.
Despite a complicated external environment and emerging challenges at home, the Chinese economy has posted generally stable performance, Sheng Laiyun, deputy head of the NBS, told a press conference Friday.
In a breakdown, industrial output climbed 5.8 percent compared to the first nine months of the previous year, as robust increases were seen in equipment and high-tech manufacturing industries. The service sector reported continued recovery with a 4.7-percent increase in added value.
Consumption maintained an upward trend during the period with retail sales of consumer goods up 3.3 percent from a year ago. Fixed-asset investment rose 3.4 percent, spurred by vibrant capital influx into high-tech industries.
The job market was stable as the surveyed urban unemployment rate on average stood at 5.1 percent in the first three quarters, down from 5.3 percent a year ago. The nominal growth of per capita disposable incomes of urban and rural residents came in at 5.2 percent.
Job seekers talk with recruiting representatives at a job fair in Haikou, capital of south China’s Hainan Province, July 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
STABLE TREND UNCHANGED
According to the NBS data, the third quarter’s growth was slightly down from 4.7 percent in the second quarter and 5.3 percent in the first. Despite this dip, authorities noted that the overall stability of the economy has remained intact.
“Fluctuations of the GDP growth are modest changes around the expected target,” said Sheng. He cited a string of favorable conditions, including stable employment and inflation levels, forecast-beating foreign trade, and ample foreign exchange reserves recently rebounding to 3.3 trillion U.S. dollars.
Meanwhile, high-quality development made headway, particularly in innovation and green transformation. Investment in the high-tech sector has seen rapid growth, while green industries, including electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products, maintained double-digit increases. Production and consumption in wind, nuclear and photovoltaic power expanded steadily.
Powered by innovation and green upgrades, industrial performance emerged as a key strength, contributing nearly 40 percent of the GDP in the first three quarters.
This photo taken on Aug. 14, 2024 shows the new energy vehicles production line of a smart factory of Seres Group in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality. [Photo/Xinhua]
Analysts believe that the positive signs were particularly evident last month as many indicators showed improvement.
Increases in industrial output and fixed-asset investment ended several months of decline, and a recent survey revealed increased optimism among businesses. Stock trading volumes in the Shanghai and Shenzhen markets surged by over 30 percent last month. The real estate market also warmed up, with a narrowing decline in sales volume and value.
The positive momentum was further bolstered by a key meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee in late September, where a package of incremental policies significantly enhanced market confidence and vitality, Sheng said.
STRONG STIMULUS
Chinese policymakers have introduced a series of measures aimed at beefing up the economy in response to looming challenges.
These efforts, including a program of large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-ins of consumer goods, supportive real estate policies and the issuance of ultra-long special treasury bonds and local government special bonds, have helped boost domestic demand and strengthen the economic impetus.
The central government has since late September unveiled what experts consider a package of milestone macroeconomic measures, which focused on enhancing counter-cyclical adjustments, expanding effective domestic demand, supporting business operation, promoting the recovery of the property market, and invigorating capital markets.
People buy fruit at a supermarket in Kaifeng, central China’s Henan Province, Sept. 15, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Tian Xuan, president of the National Institute of Finance, Tsinghua University, emphasized the timeliness and precision of these measures, stating they played a crucial role in boosting confidence among market participants amid economic headwinds.
The policies are showing positive effects, Sheng said, urging local governments to promptly take corresponding measures to maximize the potential of these policies and further solidify the economic recovery trend.
Goldman Sachs earlier this month lifted its forecasts on China’s economic growth for this year from 4.7 percent to 4.9 percent on the grounds of the recent pro-growth measures.
BRIGHTENED PROSPECTS
China’s economy is expected to continue its recovery in the fourth quarter, following signs of stabilization observed in September, according to Sheng. “We are confident in achieving our annual targets,” he said. China set a target of economic growth at around 5 percent for this year.
The 4.8-percent growth rate in the first three quarters came as a hard-won result achieved amid increasing external pressures and ongoing internal structural adjustments, Sheng said, noting that this growth highlights the economy’s strong resilience and potential and lays a solid foundation for future recovery.
An economic rebound in the fourth quarter is of “high probability,” Sheng said, citing encouraging changes in early October including power use, production material prices, and the consumption during the week-long National Day holiday.
An aerial drone photo shows a train for China-Europe freight service pulling out of Tongjiang North Railway Port in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Aug. 9, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The official also expressed optimism over the much-watched real estate market thanks to the fresh round of favorable policies. He referenced recent market statistics showing a significant increase in property transactions during the first week of October, when new home sales more than doubled and second-hand home sales tripled.
However, Sheng acknowledged that the external environment has become more complex, and that economic recovery needs to be further consolidated.
More efforts will be made to strengthen the coordination of existing and incremental policies and push for the swift and effective policy implementation in a bid to achieve the full-year economic and social development targets, Sheng added.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
2024 China Int’l Consumer Electronics Exposition kicks off in Qingdao
Updated: October 19, 2024 08:22
People visit the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. The expo kicked off here on Friday. [Photo/Xinhua]People visit the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]People visit the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A man plays a virtual motor racing game during the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]People visit the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]People visit the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]A woman tries a pair of AR glasses during the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]People visit the 2024 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
A visitor tries bamboo products on a forum on green industry cooperation in Brussels, Belgium, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
BRUSSELS, Oct. 18 — A forum on green industry cooperation between China, the European Union (EU), and Africa has underscored opportunities for technological collaboration and sustainable practices, particularly the use of bamboo as an alternative to plastic.
The forum, co-hosted on Thursday by the Chinese Mission to the EU and the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization, focused on fostering joint efforts to promote ecological sustainability.
In his address, Cai Run, head of the Chinese Mission to the EU, highlighted China’s progress in green and low-carbon development, citing improvements in the country’s energy structure and an increase in forest coverage. Cai positioned China as a production hub, Europe as a consumer market, and Africa as a resource developer, emphasizing the potential for collaboration across these regions.
Erik Solheim, co-chair of the Europe-Asia Center, noted that China accounts for two-thirds of new green energy projects globally and holds 60 percent of green energy technologies, including solar, wind, and electric vehicle batteries. Solheim, who previously served as under-secretary-general of the United Nations (UN), also emphasized the potential of bamboo as a sustainable alternative to plastic, which could be instrumental in reducing global plastic waste.
Former EU Transport Commissioner Violeta Bulc commended China’s commitment to bamboo research and innovation.
“China’s collaboration with African countries has led to the creation of the China-Africa Bamboo Center,” Bulc remarked, emphasizing the potential for joint efforts to promote global green development.
McArios Akanbeanab Akabong, acting head of Mission at the Embassy of Ghana in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the EU, highlighted China’s support in establishing a National Bamboo and Rattan Centre in Ghana, facilitating technological transfers that have significantly advanced the bamboo industry in the country.
Michael Braungart, a professor of sustainable development at Leuphana University in Germany, pointed to bamboo’s potential for air purification and its ability to mitigate microplastic pollution, encouraging further collaboration between Europe and China in environmental protection and economic development.
The “Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic” initiative, launched by China in collaboration with the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization, aims to reduce plastic pollution and promote ecological preservation.
This photo shows bamboo products displayed during a forum on green industry cooperation in Brussels, Belgium, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]People try bamboo products on a forum on green industry cooperation in Brussels, Belgium, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The Government of Canada is renewing relationships between the Crown and First Nations by addressing Canada’s failure to provide First Nations with the agricultural provisions promised under Treaties 5, 6, and 10.
October 18, 2024 — Treaty 5, Treaty 6, and Treaty 10 Territories — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
The Government of Canada is renewing relationships between the Crown and First Nations by addressing Canada’s failure to provide First Nations with the agricultural provisions promised under Treaties 5, 6, and 10.
Through these Treaties, Canada promised ploughs, seeds for important crops, livestock such as cows and bulls, and other farming necessities. These agricultural benefits were meant to facilitate the economic transition, and as a result of Canada’s failure to fulfil Treaty promises, these First Nations did not have the equipment needed to support their members.
Over the past several days, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, met with Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Buffalo River Dene Nation, Cumberland House Cree Nation, Enoch Cree Nation, Heart Lake First Nation, Kehewin Cree Nation, and Sturgeon Lake First Nation to acknowledge the settlements of their Agricultural Benefits specific claims, otherwise known as Cows and Plows claims.
Minister Anandasangaree was also able to visit with community leaders from Frog Lake First Nation and Lac La Ronge Indian Band to discuss the progress of their Agricultural Benefits specific claims under the expedited framework process.
Once fully settled, these claims will represent almost $1.4 billion in combined compensation to these First Nations under an expedited resolution strategy for agricultural benefit claims. Under this framework, Canada has provided a total of $1,937,805,226 to First Nations in the western provinces since May 2023.
The socio-economic gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples in Canada are the result of decades of colonial policies, which often led to the denial and dispossession of land and resources. Honouring Canada’s legal obligations and properly compensating Indigenous Peoples for what was unlawfully taken or withheld from them is fundamental to advancing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in order to rebuild trust with Indigenous communities.
The successful resolution of specific claims is a key step in Canada’s reconciliation with First Nations—one that acknowledges and addresses the wrongs of the past and helps to build a better future. These settlements represent Canada’s commitment to addressing historical wrongs for the past, current and future generations of the affected Nations.
Quotes
“It’s important to acknowledge what the Agricultural Benefits settlements represent. Treaty has always been a way of living together with respect. In the past, Canada has failed to honour that spirit and intent and treated us as an obstacle to its own goals. We acknowledge that Canada has taken an important step today toward making amends for its past failures. This is a step in the right direction, and we hope that Canada can continue to take positive action toward fulfilling the promises made to our Nations a century and a half ago.”
Chief Cody Thomas Grand Chief of the Confederacy of Treaty No. 6 First Nations, and Chief of Enoch Cree Nation
“This settlement recognizes the original promises made under Treaty No. 6 in 1877 and acknowledges the inadequate agricultural benefits that were provided to our people. It is a victory for our Nation and a testament to the determination of those who first established these rights. Through close work with our people and effective negotiations with the ministry, this settlement marks a significant step forward, ensuring that these long-standing commitments are finally addressed for the benefit of future generations.”
Chief Tony Alexis Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation
“This is an emotional day for our Nation. For generations, our community has carried the weight of broken promises—promises that could have helped us grow and prosper. We watched our land, our families, and our traditions suffer, waiting for justice that seemed so far away. But today, I stand here, proud and grateful, knowing that our ancestors’ sacrifices were not in vain. This settlement is a symbol of justice, dignity, and renewal for our people. It’s a chance to rebuild trust and provide hope for future generations. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Minister Anandasangaree for his support, and we remain dedicated to the ongoing journey of healing, reconciliation, and ensuring that our Treaty rights are fully honoured and respected.”
Chief Christine Longjohn Sturgeon Lake First Nation
“Too many of our young people still suffer from a lack of hope and opportunity that leads them into poor academic achievement, substance abuse, lateral violence, over-incarceration, and worse. We are addressing these and other issues as best we can.
The Cows and Plows compensation was distributed to help all members alive today to make big plans and explore their dreams, dig themselves out of a hole and pay off debt, or just make it easier to meet daily needs. For a good example, some members have pooled their money and bought homes.”
Chief Rene Chaboyer Cumberland House Cree Nation
“Working in partnership with First Nations, Canada has resolved over 720 specific claims since 1973. From April 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024, 18 claims were settled for $1.1 billion in compensation. I’m grateful for the partnership of Treaty 5, 6, and 10 First Nations to expedite our work and resolve these outstanding treaty violations, as they have waited too long already for justice.”
The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
“Today’s announcement is reconciliation in action for these communities. Once fully settled, the $1.4 billion in compensation is a further step in rebuilding trust between Canada and Indigenous communities.”
The Honourable Randy Boissonnault Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages
Quick facts
Treaty 5, also known as the Winnipeg Treaty, was signed in 1875–76 by the federal government, Ojibwe peoples and the Swampy Cree of Lake Winnipeg. Treaty 5 covers much of present-day central and northern Manitoba, as well as portions of Saskatchewan and Ontario.
Treaty 6 is an agreement between the Crown and the Plains and Woods Cree, Assiniboine, and other band governments at Fort Carlton and Fort Pitt, representing most of the central area of the current provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta. Treaty 6 signings began on 18 August 1876 and ran until 9 September 1876.
Treaty 10 was established beginning 19 August 1906 between King Edward VII and various First Nation band governments in current northern Saskatchewan and a portion of current eastern Alberta, covering nearly 220,000 square kilometres
Associated links
Contacts
For more information, media may contact:
Bahoz Dara Aziz Director, Communications and Issues Management Office of the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations bahoz.daraaziz@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353October 18, 2024
Cotton to Mayorkas: Granting TPS to Lebanese National Endangers Americans
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today wrote a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging him to rescind his decision to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Lebanese nationals currently in the United States. Senator Cotton warns Mayorkas that these unvetted Lebanese nationals pose a grave risk to our national security and to the safety of our citizens.
In part, Senator Cotton wrote:
“We have seen a dramatic increase in unvetted illegal immigrants as a result of your open-border policies. Under the Biden-Harris administration, Border Patrol has encountered thousands of illegal immigrants from countries with deep ties to terrorism, including Lebanon. In fact, Border Patrol agents apprehended a Lebanese man at the southern border earlier this year who said he belonged to Hezbollah and came to America to build a bomb.”
Full text of the letter may be found here and below.
October 18, 2024
The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas SecretaryDepartment of Homeland Security Washington, D.C. 20528
Dear Secretary Mayorkas:
I write regarding your dangerous decision to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Lebanese nationals currently in the United States. The presence of these Lebanese nationals in the United States regardless of whether they lawfully entered poses a grave risk to our national security.
We have seen a dramatic increase in unvetted illegal immigrants as a result of your open-border policies. Under the Biden-Harris administration, Border Patrol has encountered thousands of illegal immigrants from countries with deep ties to terrorism, including Lebanon. In fact, Border Patrol agents apprehended a Lebonese man at the southern border earlier this year who said he belonged to Hezbollah and came to America to build a bomb.
Your department estimates that granting TPS status will protect 11,000 Lebanese nationals from deportation, which undoubtedly includes many Hezbollah terrorists. This reckless policy endangers the safety of our citizens.
I urge you to rescind this decision before it goes into effect. For Lebanese nationals who have a legal basis to be present in the United States and who can credibly claim a risk to their lives if they return to Lebanon, your department could evaluate asylum requests on a case-by-case basis. This policy would be a far more sensible and safer course of action than a blanket TPS grant to all Lebanese nationals.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Tom Cotton
United States Senator
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), members of the Senate Committee on Finance, introduced the bipartisan Child Care for American Families Act to strengthen the employer-provided child care credit and expand support for small and rural businesses:
“Many families across Tennessee and America are struggling to find reliable and affordable child care, and we need to incentivize businesses to invest in child-care services for their employees,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Child Care for American Families Act would help alleviate the financial burden of child-care costs by expanding and modernizing the Employer-Provided Child Care Tax Credit.”
“Child care costs are rising nationwide, and countless families lack access to affordable, high-quality child care. This makes things that much harder for working parents, strains families’ budgets, and adds undue stress for families with young children,” said Senator Bennet. “The Child Care for American Families Act will help increase our country’s child care supply and reduce the number of Americans in child care deserts.”
BACKGROUND
According to the Tennessee Department of Human Services, 48 percent of Tennessee residents live in a child care desert, with disproportionate impacts felt by rural and low-income communities.
The Bipartisan Policy Center found that 31.7 percent of children below the age of six with working parents do not have access to child care, and in rural communities, that number arises to 35.1 percent.
THE CHILD CARE FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES ACT:
Expands the employer-provided child care credit to cover a greater percentage of child care expenses, equal to:
60% for businesses in eligible rural and low-income areas, up to a maximum of $1.2 million annually;
50% for small businesses, up to a maximum of $1 million annually; and
40% for all other businesses, up to a maximum of $800,000 annually.
Directs the U.S. Department of the Treasury to issue guidance on multi-employer facilities.
ENDORSEMENTS
The Child Care for American Families Act is endorsed by Save the Children, Colorado Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC), Kindercare, and Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC).
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter demanding transparency from U.S. Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken on the Department’s use of taxpayer dollars to pay the salaries of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) employees instead of promoting U.S. security overseas.
Last month, reporting revealed top DEI officials at the Biden-Harris State Department make nearly $200,000 each year – nearly double the pay of average State Department employees.
The State Department Goes to Extreme Lengths to Prioritize Diversity Over Competence
“I write with concern regarding the State Department’s use of hundreds of thousands of taxpayer funds to pay the salaries of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) employees. The State Department’s apparent willingness to go to extreme lengths to prioritize diversity over competence in formulating a workforce for the agency, whose stated mission, in part, is to ‘protect and promote U.S. security,’ is demonstrated by the hefty salaries of top DEI officials. According to financial disclosures, the position of Chief Diversity and Inclusion officer received an annual salary of $194,510, and the State Department’s Special Representative for Racial Justice and Equity receives $191,000 per year. Conversely, the base salary of the average State Department employee is just $97,000.”
As Iran, China, and Russia Wage War on Democracy, the State Department’s DEI Agenda Is Offensive and Irresponsible
“As you know, the current geopolitical landscape is dangerously volatile, and the United States is entangled in multiple diplomatic conflicts worldwide. Israel, one of our closest allies, is fighting an existential war against Iran’s proxy terrorist groups on several fronts, Communist China continues to threaten Taiwan’s sovereignty and bully nations in the Indo-Pacific into subservience, and Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine has now resulted in at least one million casualties on both sides. During this capricious period, it imprudent and offensive for your agency to allocate hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to support a DEI agenda that does not support, but in fact undermines, America’s interests abroad. The American people deserve transparency over the use of their tax dollars to advance a divisive ideological agenda, particularly when it comes at the expense of protecting and promoting U.S. security overseas.”