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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Secure More Than $275 Million to Improve and Expand I-80 Corridor, Reduce Congestion in Northern Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    RENO, NV – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) announced that the Nevada Department of Transportation will receive more than $275 million in federal funding to widen I-80 from Vista Boulevard to USA Parkway between the Reno-Sparks metro area and Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center. The improvements funded by this award include an additional lane in each direction, shoulder widening, bridge reconstruction, new pavement, and intelligent transportation system facilities. Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto advocated specifically for this project, and the funding was made possible thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law they helped pass.
    “I’m proud to have worked across the aisle to secure more than $275 million in federal funding to widen I-80, which will help reduce traffic and support local economic growth,” said Senator Rosen. “This funding was made possible thanks to the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that I helped write and pass. I’ll keep working with Senator Cortez Masto and our bipartisan Congressional delegation to deliver real results for Nevadans.”
    “Interstate 80 is a critical corridor for so many Nevadans—that’s why Senator Rosen and I worked in a bipartisan way to help secure these federal dollars coming to Northern Nevada to ease congestion, drive economic growth, and save lives along the corridor,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This investment is essential for our communities, and it was made possible thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Senator Rosen and I fought to pass. I commend her steady partnership in improving transportation access for hardworking Nevadans, and we’ll keep fighting to deliver the infrastructure investments that Nevada needs.”
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto worked to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create good-paying jobs and upgrade road infrastructure in Nevada. Both Senators have secured funding to improve pedestrian safety, expand clean energy public transit, and modernize and expand critical roadways to shorten commute times and improve driver safety. Last month, they announced $4.7 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance road safety in Northern Nevada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New program to shape future of regional rail infrastructure

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Minns Labor Government has greenlit development of a new strategy that will lay out the pathway to a better regional rail network in NSW for passengers and freight.

    Representing a fresh approach to how rail infrastructure investment is determined, the Regional Network East/West Uplift (RNEW) Program has been established to create a 10-year investment pipeline and strategic plan for rail infrastructure in regional NSW.

    Under the former government, regional rail infrastructure investment was determined on an ad-hoc basis without proper regard for the needs of the regional rail network in its entirety. Industry partners and other major stakeholders were also not always properly consulted, with initiatives like Fixing Country Rail and the Main West Capacity Enhancement Program lacking a holistic, strategic focus and projects often stuck in development limbo for years.

    The RNEW Program will take a fresh look at where regional rail infrastructure investment is needed, while putting proper evidence-based decision making at the forefront of planning work and giving industry, the Government and the public a clear vision for the future of the network.

    Through comprehensive data analysis, research into reliability and future capacity requirements, extensive evaluation of existing assets and wide-ranging consultation — the RNEW Program will ensure the NSW Government better understands, manages, forecasts and delivers upgrades to regional rail network.

    The Program will also have a key focus on opportunities to improve the Country Regional Network (CRN) which includes over 2,300 kilometres of operational rail lines and is vital for transporting 2.7 billion gross tonnes of freight annually and delivering more than 120 passenger services per week.

    Linkages between the broader regional rail network and existing projects such as Inland Rail, the Freight Policy Reform and Regional Level Crossing programs will also be explored by the Program team, with potential efficiency improvements to be identified and considered.

    Once developed, the final investment strategy will complement Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans being developed across the nine regional areas in the state. 

    The RNEW Program team will commence engagement with freight industry, rail operators and users, and local government will begin in 2025, with the final strategy to be delivered in 2026.

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “The NSW Government is committed to providing rail networks across the state that are effective, efficient and reliable for all users – freight and passengers.

    “The RNEW Program will allow us to better understand, manage, forecast, and deliver improvements on the state’s regional rail network, bringing projects under one banner to ensure a holistic and strategic approach.

    “Regional communities have been calling for investment in rail infrastructure in the regions. This program will ensure any investment is made on the basis of robust planning and development to enrich our state.

    “The program will enable the NSW Government to develop a long-term pipeline of infrastructure investment initiatives whilst being flexible and agile enough to address emerging network issues.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minns labor government continues support for regional and community papers

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional NSW

    This Minns Labor Government is continuing work to safeguard the production of local stories across the state with $3 million in grants to be made available to regional and rural newspapers.

    Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty announced the delivery of the Government’s top up of $3 million to make the Regional Media Fund a $6 million commitment since its election, at the 2024 Country Press NSW Conference and Awards of Excellence in Dubbo.

    Regional media plays a vital role in keeping their communities informed and reporting on matters of importance, as well as informing, celebrating and connecting people.

    The first round of the Regional Media Fund, which closed in April 2023, delivered grants to 47 regional outlets to support diversification and expansion into digital content.

    Following consultation with regional media stakeholders, including the Country Press NSW and Australian Community Media, the second round of this program will be improved to better reflect industry needs and ease accessibility for support.

    This new funding will be made available to help support media organisations to meet the production, operational and content gathering costs associated with running a regional and rural media outlet.

    Eligibility and guidelines of the second round will be finalised in the coming weeks in close consultation with industry and stakeholders with grant applications to open before the end of the year.

    This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing work to deliver solutions which will support regional NSW communities to thrive.

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

    “The Minns Labor Government understands the importance of local papers and local stories particularly in regional communities.

    “It is regional and rural papers that help get local issues on the agenda that would otherwise fall through the cracks.

    “We understand complex barriers face these outlets, including the rise of technology. This funding is about providing responsible support which will ease the pressure facing regional media.   

    Country Press NSW President Lucie Peart said:

    “We are pleased that the Minister has announced the Regional Media Fund Round Two. This second round was a key piece of the government’s election commitment.

    “We are grateful that this round will provide further support to regional publishers. Since the first round of the fund, the landscape for regional news businesses has changed; we are challenged by digital platforms and a further decline in newsrooms across the state.

    “This second round of funding will provide a boost to the regional news industry and allow journalists and local newspaper publishers to keep doing what they do best – keeping communities informed and providing vital public interest journalism.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work starts to find NSW’s next new cruise terminal

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Transport

    A panel of cruise and tourism industry experts has been established to work on identifying the preferred location for a potential new cruise terminal in NSW.

    This will allow the NSW Government to determine the best solution to plan for a new terminal so our state can maintain and grow its market share of Australia’s multi-billion dollar cruise industry well into the future.

    A new cruise terminal will provide greater capacity for our cruise industry, which contributed $4.4 billion to the NSW economy in 2023-24 and created more than 13,700 jobs.

    The Cruising Industry Advisory Panel has been convened by NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen and will be chaired by Port Authority CEO Phil Holliday, supported by industry experts including:

    • John McKenna, Port Authority Chief Customer and Commercial Officer
    • Margy Osmond, CEO Tourism and Transport Forum
    • Marika Calfas, NSW Ports
    • Gavin Smith, Vice President and Managing Director in Australia and New Zealand of Royal Caribbean International
    • Peter Little, Interim Leader for P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia
      Jill Abel, CEO, Australian Cruise Association
    • Sarina Bratton, Ponant
    • Joel Katz, Managing Director Cruise Lines International Association Australasia
      Antony Ritch, CEO, TFE Hotels
    • Ben Angell, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Vice President & Managing Director

    While Sydney cruise terminals have not reached capacity for bookings yet, the panel will identify options for a future berthing facility to support the long-term growth of the cruise industry across our state.

    The Panel will also investigate options for increased capacity at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, ensuring the cruise industry remain well supported for growth, as plans progress to investigate options for a potential third cruise terminal.

    This work follows the Minns Government’s announcement that Shore Power at the White Bay Cruise Terminal will be delivered by the end of 2026, so cruise ships can plug into power instead of running their engines while in port.

    Quotes attributable to NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen:

    “The cruise industry in NSW is making a massive contribution to our economy, but it needs certainty so we can all get the benefits from its long-term growth.

    “NSW’s next permanent cruise terminal will be a massive new piece of infrastructure and we have to get it right. That’s why we’ve assembled the best people to find the best location, so we can grow our cruise industry long into the future.”

    Quotes attributable to Tourism and Transport Forum CEO Margy Osmond:

    “It’s fantastic to see the State Government and industry coming together to identify a third cruise terminal, to attract more visitors and boost tourism across NSW. We look forward to working with the Port Authority to deliver a more certain future for the cruise industry and all Australians who love to cruise.

    Increasing capacity will be essential to cater for the growing interest in cruising and support a range of jobs linked to cruise tourism, spanning restaurants, hotels, retailers, travel agents and more.”

    Quotes attributable to Port Authority CEO Captain Philip Holliday:

    “Port Authority is delighted to be leading this cross-industry panel as the next step in determining the right location for a new state-of-the art third cruise terminal in NSW.

    Planning for a third terminal is about keeping NSW in pole position as the capital of cruise and retaining the lion’s share of economic benefits from cruise right here in NSW to support local hospitality and retail businesses, tourism and suppliers.”

    MIL OSI News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President  Biden After Air Force One Arrival | Schönefeld,  Germany

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Berlin Brandenberg International AirportSchönefeld, Germany
    10:13 P.M. CET
    THE PRESIDENT:  It’s a good day for the world.  We got Si- — I called Bibi Netanyahu to congratulate him on getting Sinwar.  He has a lot of blood on his hands — American blood, Israeli blood, and others.
    And I told him that we were really pleased with his actions and, further, that now is the time to move on — move on, move towards a ceasefire in Gaza, make sure that we move in a direction that we’re going to be in a position to make things better for the whole world. 
    It’s time for this war to end and bring these hostages home.  And so, that’s what we’re ready to do.  That’s what we’re going to be — and I’m sending Tony Blinken to Israel — I guess he’s going in five days — four days — four or five days.  Anyway, he’s going.  And I talked with Bibi about that.  We’re going to work out what — what is the day after now, what — how do we secure Gaza and move on. 
    So, thank you very much.
    Q    Do you feel more hopeful, sir, about a ceasefire?
    THE PRESIDENT:  I do.  I do feel more hopeful.
    Q    Do you have a sense of when he will end the war, sir?
    THE PRESIDENT:  Hopefully, he — very soon. 
    10:14 P.M. CET

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on Study Showing Methadone is More Effective Than Other Drugs to Treat Opioid Use Disorder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Senator Markey’s Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act (MOTAA) would expand access to methadone for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD)

    Washington (October 17, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, today released the following statement after the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) released a study showing methadone is more effective than buprenorphine and naloxone for opioid use disorder (OUD).

    “The study released today demonstrates that methadone is an essential and effective treatment for opioid use disorder. In fact, more people stayed in treatment when on methadone compared to buprenorphine and naloxone. Amid tens of thousands of people dying every year from opioid overdose, this study reiterates that it is unacceptable to keep this evidence-based, life-saving medication behind antiquated guardrails. My Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act would take a carefully considered step forward in expanding access to this medication by allowing the most highly trained addiction physicians in the country prescribe methadone to their patients that could be picked up at a pharmacy. To stand in the way of its passage is to keep in place outdated guardrails that cost people’s lives. Congress must pass the Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act.”

    In March 2023, Senators Markey and Rand Paul (R-Ky.), along with Representatives Norcross and Bacon, introduced their bipartisan and bicameral MOTAA, which would represent the first major reform to methadone in half a century and is supported by hundreds of clinicians and medical organizations. In December 2023, MOTAA passed the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. In December 2022, Senator Markey secured his bipartisan Opioid Treatment Access Act (OTAA)—legislation that reduces wait times for patients qualifying for methadone medication treatment and expands access to methadone clinics—into the end-of-year omnibus spending package. That same month, Senator Markey also applauded proposed changes by the Department of Health and Human Services to remove barriers to OUD treatment, such as allowing people to take home doses of methadone medication, which are key provisions included in the OTAA.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Cramer: USDA Awards $200,000 to the Rural Electric and Telecommunications Development Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development announced an award of $200,000 to the Rural Electric and Telecommunications Development Center, which operates under the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives and the Broadband Association of North Dakota. This investment allows the center to offer services to businesses and cooperatives such as technical assistance, financing, education, consultation, enhancing economic development and providing a higher quality of life in rural areas across North Dakota.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI – BLM’s Western Solar Plan is ‘Fantasy World,’ Relies Heavily on Taxpayer Dollars: Congressman Matt Rosendale

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Matt Rosendale (Montana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Fox News published an article titled, “BLM’s Western Solar Plan is ‘fantasy world,’ relies heavily on taxpayer dollars: GOP congressman” detailing Congressman Matt Rosendale’s disagreements with Bureau of Land Management’s updated Western Solar Plan, which aims to restrict 31 million acres of land across 11 states for the development of solar fields.

    The article states:

    “Rosendale said he is concerned that the Western Solar Plan violates the Taylor Grazing Act, which regulates grazing on public lands, and will produce intermittent energy in places where it will still need to be transmitted hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of miles before it can be used.

    “It is not a consistent, reliable, affordable source of energy,” the congressman said of solar energy.

    “You’re paying more for your energy that’s being produced from these sources and you’re being taxed heavier because of trying to subsidize it, make it work,” he said.”

    You find the rest of the article HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian tourism ministers join forces to propel tourism forward

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023.

    October 17, 2024 – Banff, Alberta

    Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023. In several jurisdictions, tourism is the top or one of the top service exports. Today, the federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for tourism participated in the 2024 Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) meeting in Banff National Park. The meeting was held in Alberta with the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, as well as the Honourable Joseph Schow, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport, co-chairing and recognizing the traditional Treaty 7 territory.

    In 2023, tourism industries represented nearly 6 percent of Canada’s total economy and almost 8 percent of the Canadian service economy. Tourism revenues reached $113.4 billion in 2023 and the positive experiences international tourists have in Canada enhance the country’s brand abroad. Tourism has strong growth potential in every province and territory, and ministers recognized that strategic and collaborative actions will propel the sector forward.

    Throughout the meeting, ministers heard from tourism stakeholders on the areas of destination development, investment attraction, workforce development and retention, air access, parks and recreation, and emergency management. Ministers acknowledged the importance of having consistent dialogue with experts in these fields to capitalize on trends, glean critical operational insights, and work collaboratively with industry partners to find solutions for the most pressing challenges facing the sector. Ministers sought an international perspective by inviting a speaker from the Government of Australia to discuss experiences and best practices in attracting workers to careers in tourism. Ministers also heard from Alberta officials about their successes in supporting the recovery and relaunch of the tourism sector, while bringing attention to ambitious strategic plans for the future, which aim to more than double the size of the province’s visitor economy within the next decade. Alberta demonstrated leadership within Canada’s overall tourism economy, ushering in a return to pre-pandemic levels of visitor spending two years ahead of schedule.

    Ministers also acknowledged the economic impact of this summer’s wildfires across Canada, particularly in the Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park, as well as the critical importance of effective emergency management and disaster preparedness. Ministers also noted that emergency management is paramount for all jurisdictions as, like other countries, Canada faces the potential of a range of emergency events year-round. Maintaining Canada’s brand and reputation are important components of the collaborative work of jurisdictions to respond to events as they arise.

    Ministers were pleased with the work accomplished by the CCTM Working Groups throughout 2024 to address the topics of destination access and economic growth, as well as the important connections forged with external organizations. Ministers took the opportunity to discuss areas that impact the growth of tourism in Canada, such as limited transportation connectivity in some regions, barriers to raising private capital for investments, fees and regulations impacting the competitiveness of domestic air travel, and associated challenges including the seasonal nature of tourism. Recognizing the critical importance of the link between tourism and transportation, there was a desire to invite the Federal Minister of Transport to next year’s CCTM meeting.

    In 2025, the CCTM will seek to refresh the mandates of the Working Groups to ensure their work addresses emerging priorities while effectively leveraging inter-governmental collaboration. To that end, jurisdictions will be focusing on the responsiveness and preparedness of the sector to emergency events, and ensuring capacity for strong economic growth of the industry. Efforts will be made to look at new mandate areas from different angles, while also engaging broadly across the sector to ensure CCTM priorities align with industry.

    Canada’s provinces and territories continue to showcase their diverse tourism offerings globally, ranging from parks and attractions in the great outdoors, to major festivals and events, and Indigenous tourism. Successes are evident with Canada’s overall position on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index improving to 11th place in the 2024 ranking, up from 13th place in 2021. Going forward, ministers are keen to work collaboratively to tackle persistent issues and showcase Canada’s leadership in tourism on the world stage. 

    Marie-Justine Torres
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
    613-327-5918
    marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Amber Edgerton
    Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Tourism and Sport
    Government of Alberta
    780-222-6113
    amber.edgerton@gov.ab.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: KnowBe4 Honours 2024 EMEA Partner Programme Award Winners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Leeds, UK, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KnowBe4, the provider of the world’s largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, announced the winners of its 2024 Partner Programme Awards from Europe, the Middle East and Africa during their KB4-CON EMEA event.

    This annual awards programme recognises KnowBe4 Partners demonstrating sales excellence, marketing innovation, thought leadership and top performance in key areas of growth. Held in person for the first time, the awards ceremony closed the cybersecurity conference where attendees immersed themselves into the convergence of AI and the human layer. KnowBe4’s mission, together with its partner community, is to empower customers’ cybersecurity through knowledge, awareness, coaching and human risk mitigation.

    “Our 2024 EMEA Partner Programme Award winners represent some of our strongest partnerships in the region,” said Tony Jennings, EVP international & global channel sales and 2024 CRN Channel Chief. “Celebrating this excellence in person for the first time further demonstrates the significant investments we have made in accelerating partner-led growth. We thank these partners for their dedication, and we look forward to continued success.”

    “We believe in the power of data to drive success, and our partner awards programme was founded on this core value,” said Kirsten Esposito, VP, global channel sales and 2024 CRN Channel Chief. “These partners have not only exceeded quantitative benchmarks but have championed a customer-first approach to human risk management. We are proud to welcome them into our 2024 global awards class.”

    The winners of the KnowBe4 2024 Partner Programme Awards from Europe, the Middle East and Africa are:

    EMEA Partner of the Year
    United Security Providers AG
    Awards the partner who has demonstrated overall excellence in advocating for strong security culture, joint go-to-market strategy, sales growth and marketing innovation.

    Partners to Watch

    Awards the partners regionally who have shown tremendous growth and potential for future advancement in our Partner Programmes.

    EMEA Marketing Innovator of the Year
    InfoGuard AG
    Awards the partner who has executed creative and successful marketing campaigns and gone above and beyond to promote our joint value.

    EMEA Product Champion of the Year
    Integrity360
    Awards the partner who has championed selling the full product suite to help their customers build a human layer of defence.

    For more information on KnowBe4’s partner programmes, visit https://www.knowbe4.com/partners/partner-programs.

    About KnowBe4
    KnowBe4, the provider of the world’s largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, is used by more than 70,000 organisations around the globe. Founded by IT and data security specialist Stu Sjouwerman, KnowBe4 helps organisations address the human element of security by raising awareness about ransomware, CEO fraud and other social engineering tactics through a new-school approach to awareness training on security. The late Kevin Mitnick, who was an internationally recognised cybersecurity specialist and KnowBe4’s Chief Hacking Officer, helped design the KnowBe4 training based on his well-documented social engineering tactics. Organisations rely on KnowBe4 to mobilise their end users as their last line of defence and trust the KnowBe4 platform to strengthen their security culture and reduce human risk.

    The MIL Network –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jacksonville Felon Pleads Guilty To Possessing A Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Christopher O’Neal Houser (44, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Houser faces a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.

    According to court documents, on February 2, 2024, Houser sold a sawed-off shotgun to a convicted felon. At the time that he possessed and sold the shotgun, Houser had a prior felony conviction (July 2019) for possessing methamphetamine. As a convicted felon he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Houser also has prior convictions for committing sodomy in 2001, and for misdemeanor battery in 2019.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.

    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 safe 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.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Berry Corporation to Report Third Quarter 2024 Results and Hold Conference Call November 7

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Berry Corporation (NASDAQ: BRY) (“Berry” or the “Company”) today announced it will report third quarter 2024 results on Thursday, November 7, 2024, before the open of U.S. financial markets and will host a conference call and webcast that morning to discuss these results; details and links are provided below.

    Earnings Call Information

    Call Date: Thursday, November 7, 2024
    Call Time: 11:00 am a.m. Eastern Time / 10:00 a.m. Central Time / 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time
     

    Join the live listen-only audio webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/tysxczje or at https://bry.com/category/events

    If you would like to ask a question on the live call, please preregister at any time using the following link:
    https://register.vevent.com/register/BIe48b23e273834c71bc53e0d17114932f.
    Once registered, you will receive the dial-in numbers and a unique PIN number. You may then dial in or have a call back. When you dial in, you will input your PIN and be placed into the call. If you register and forget your PIN or lose your registration confirmation email, you may simply re-register and receive a new PIN.

    A web based audio replay will be available shortly after the broadcast and will be archived at https://ir.bry.com/reports-resources or visit https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/tysxczje or https://bry.com/category/events

    About Berry Corporation

    Berry is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: BRY) Western United States independent upstream energy company with a focus on onshore, low geologic risk, long-lived oil and gas reserves. We operate in two business segments: (i) exploration and production (“E&P”) and (ii) well servicing and abandonment. Our E&P assets are located in California and Utah, are characterized by high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population. Our California assets are in the San Joaquin basin (100% oil), while our Utah assets are in the Uinta basin (60% oil and 40% gas). We operate our well servicing and abandonment segment in California. More information can be found on the Company’s website at bry.com.

    The MIL Network –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley and Bipartisan Senators Advocate for Veterans by Pushing for C&P Exam Improvements

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today led a bipartisan letter to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) demanding answers on the steps it is taking to ensure veterans’ access to quality, timely compensation and pension examinations (C&P exams) amid allegations contracted services and insufficient federal oversight have negatively impacted veterans. Joining Grassley are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
    “[T]he overall management and oversight of VA vendors that provide C&P exams must improve. As the department relies more on contracted examiners, it should also remain committed to ensuring that veterans are properly looked after,” the senators wrote.
    “The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, requires the department to provide oversight of C&P exams and to apply standards of timeliness and quality performance for [Veterans Health Administration] examiners and your contracted vendors. It also requires a mechanism for veterans, such as the ones described in this correspondence, to lodge complaints with the [Veterans Benefits Administration] to provide for a resolution to the unnecessary barriers put in front of our veterans. As we await the report from the department, our concerns for veterans persist,” they concluded.
    Grassley and his colleagues cited the following reported issues riddling C&P exam processes:
    VHA examiners are operating under limited capacity. A Jasper County, Iowa veteran said the VA expected him to travel 97 miles one way for a C&P exam rather than see a provider in nearby Des Moines.
    Contracted vendors are mismanaging appointments. A contractor assigned a Rindge, New Hampshire veteran to an appointment in Maine. When the veteran explained he couldn’t attend appointments there, the contractor suspended his claim.
    Contracted vendors are not maintaining their facilities. The VA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found some contractor facilities are noncompliant with the Americans Disabilities Act, as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards.
    The VA is not conducting proper oversight of contracted employees. The VBA said it cannot verify subcontracts into which exam vendors enter. While the VA must at minimum verify the contractors, the VA OIG found the department has not complied with contractor vetting requirements.
    Read the full letter HERE.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Breast Cancer – 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: Is early detection and treatment for breast cancer moving in the right direction?
    A: As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act of 2000, I’m glad to see measurable strides indicating early detection and breast screenings are helping to lower female death rates from breast cancer. The 24-year-old federal law expanded on earlier legislation that directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Our bill allowed states to offer patients diagnosed with cancer under this federal program to access treatment services through Medicaid. It provides a lifeline of hope for tens of thousands of patients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford timely access to cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment. In 2023, the federal program provided cancer screening and diagnostic services to 273,989 women, diagnosing 1,761 invasive breast cancers. Although we’ve made progress in the battle against breast cancer, more work remains. The National Cancer Institute estimates 310,720 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 42,250 people will lose their battle to the disease. The CDC says breast cancer is still the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following skin cancer diagnoses. Breast cancer also is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following only lung cancer. Raising public awareness is central to advancing strides for life-saving prevention, detection and treatment.
    Losing a beloved mother, wife, aunt or sister to breast cancer is a devastating loss to families in communities across the country. I encourage Iowans to check in with their loved ones. Take advantage of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to prompt a friend or family member to make their screening appointment. Non-invasive mammography screenings can alert health care providers long before symptoms arise. A recent FDA rule requires mammography facilities to include a breast density assessment as part of a patient’s medical report. Having this information can help lead to better patient outcomes. My wife Barbara is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. She credits early detection for putting her on the road to healing and recovery.
    Q: What efforts have you led to help cancer patients survive and thrive?
    A: From my consistent support for breast cancer research, including the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, I also steered bipartisan legislation across the finish line to enact the Lymphedema Treatment Act that closes a coverage gap for Medicare patients for physician-prescribed compression therapy items, including for breast cancer survivors. I’m a vocal champion for rural health care initiatives to ensure patients in Rural America aren’t left behind, such as expanded medical residency positions to grow Iowa’s health care workforce and efforts to strengthen stability and security for rural hospitals and clinics that are the safety net providers for millions of Americans. From the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over federal health care programs, I champion policies to help ensure rural hospitals, local pharmacies and health care clinics keep their doors open for the community. I also keep the spotlight shining on market-driven solutions to reduce drug costs and lower barriers to care, such as expanding telehealth services and cutting red tape for kids with complex medical needs. Oncology patients can avoid the expense and tiring experience of a long road trip by seeing health care providers via the convenience and flexibility provided by a telehealth appointment. The bipartisan infrastructure law I supported is helping expand internet access needed for rural health clinics to provide telehealth services, including diagnosis and prescribing medicine. I’ve also joined a bipartisan effort to push for an expansion of Medicare coverage for telehealth services and make permanent pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities. I’ll continue pushing to lower barriers to care and raise awareness so that the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer survives and thrives to enjoy a high quality of life for years to come.
    October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Free or low-cost screening services are available for eligible recipients, learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.html#IA

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

    The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

    Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

    Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

    The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

    The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

    “Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

    “Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

    “This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

    Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

    Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

    At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

    Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

    The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

    More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

    The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at http://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

    EPA and NMED investigated the case.

    Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Visits Chicago State University to Discuss Efforts to Support Student Parents

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    October 17, 2024
    [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Chicago State University (CSU) to tour their campus child care center and meet with Chicago Alderwoman Michelle Harris, Illinois State Representative Marcus Evans Jr. (IL-HD-33), CSU leadership and parents. Last month, Duckworth reintroduced her Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) Reauthorization Act, legislation which builds on her previous efforts to help increase access to on-campus child care for the more than 4 million parenting students currently enrolled in postsecondary education programs. Duckworth and University leadership also discussed funding for CSU, including $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending Duckworth secured for the University. Photos from today’s visit are available on the Senator’s website. “As college costs continue to skyrocket, we can’t simply stay on the sidelines as it gets even harder for parenting students to afford higher education,” said Duckworth. “The more than 4 million college students who are also raising children already have enough to worry about—child care should not be one of them. It was great to visit Chicago State today and see the University’s efforts to support its students to help them provide a better, stronger future for their families.”  The CCAMPIS Reauthorization Act would help increase the rate of parenting students attending postsecondary education by reauthorizing and fully funding the only federal program that exclusively supports on-campus child care services and ensure the U.S. Department of Education is meeting the needs of parenting students. Duckworth originally introduced this legislation when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives. In Fiscal Year 2023, Duckworth secured $800,000 in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending Request for Chicago State University. This federal investment supported redesigning the CSU curriculum and increasing access to the internet by improving and expanding computer facilities. In August, Duckworth and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) secured $22.7 million for the Strengthening Predominately Black Institutions (PBI) program as a part of their Illinois priorities for FY25 advancing through the Senate Appropriations Committee. This funding will support the Strengthening PBIs program by helping to expand their capacity to serve low- and middle-income students, especially Black students. Chicago State University is a PBI. Chicago State University is a predominantly black public university in Chicago. It includes an honors program for undergraduates, and offers bachelors and masters degrees in the arts and sciences. CSU was founded in 1867 as the Cook County Normal School, an innovative teachers college. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley and Bipartisan Senators Advocate for Veterans by Pushing for C&P Exam Improvements

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today led a bipartisan letter to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) demanding answers on the steps it is taking to ensure veterans’ access to quality, timely compensation and pension examinations (C&P exams) amid allegations contracted services and insufficient federal oversight have negatively impacted veterans. Joining Grassley are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
    “[T]he overall management and oversight of VA vendors that provide C&P exams must improve. As the department relies more on contracted examiners, it should also remain committed to ensuring that veterans are properly looked after,” the senators wrote.
    “The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, requires the department to provide oversight of C&P exams and to apply standards of timeliness and quality performance for [Veterans Health Administration] examiners and your contracted vendors. It also requires a mechanism for veterans, such as the ones described in this correspondence, to lodge complaints with the [Veterans Benefits Administration] to provide for a resolution to the unnecessary barriers put in front of our veterans. As we await the report from the department, our concerns for veterans persist,” they concluded.
    Grassley and his colleagues cited the following reported issues riddling C&P exam processes:
    VHA examiners are operating under limited capacity. A Jasper County, Iowa veteran said the VA expected him to travel 97 miles one way for a C&P exam rather than see a provider in nearby Des Moines.
    Contracted vendors are mismanaging appointments. A contractor assigned a Rindge, New Hampshire veteran to an appointment in Maine. When the veteran explained he couldn’t attend appointments there, the contractor suspended his claim.
    Contracted vendors are not maintaining their facilities. The VA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found some contractor facilities are noncompliant with the Americans Disabilities Act, as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards.
    The VA is not conducting proper oversight of contracted employees. The VBA said it cannot verify subcontracts into which exam vendors enter. While the VA must at minimum verify the contractors, the VA OIG found the department has not complied with contractor vetting requirements.
    Read the full letter HERE.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Breast Cancer – 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: Is early detection and treatment for breast cancer moving in the right direction?
    A: As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act of 2000, I’m glad to see measurable strides indicating early detection and breast screenings are helping to lower female death rates from breast cancer. The 24-year-old federal law expanded on earlier legislation that directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Our bill allowed states to offer patients diagnosed with cancer under this federal program to access treatment services through Medicaid. It provides a lifeline of hope for tens of thousands of patients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford timely access to cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment. In 2023, the federal program provided cancer screening and diagnostic services to 273,989 women, diagnosing 1,761 invasive breast cancers. Although we’ve made progress in the battle against breast cancer, more work remains. The National Cancer Institute estimates 310,720 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 42,250 people will lose their battle to the disease. The CDC says breast cancer is still the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following skin cancer diagnoses. Breast cancer also is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following only lung cancer. Raising public awareness is central to advancing strides for life-saving prevention, detection and treatment.
    Losing a beloved mother, wife, aunt or sister to breast cancer is a devastating loss to families in communities across the country. I encourage Iowans to check in with their loved ones. Take advantage of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to prompt a friend or family member to make their screening appointment. Non-invasive mammography screenings can alert health care providers long before symptoms arise. A recent FDA rule requires mammography facilities to include a breast density assessment as part of a patient’s medical report. Having this information can help lead to better patient outcomes. My wife Barbara is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. She credits early detection for putting her on the road to healing and recovery.
    Q: What efforts have you led to help cancer patients survive and thrive?
    A: From my consistent support for breast cancer research, including the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, I also steered bipartisan legislation across the finish line to enact the Lymphedema Treatment Act that closes a coverage gap for Medicare patients for physician-prescribed compression therapy items, including for breast cancer survivors. I’m a vocal champion for rural health care initiatives to ensure patients in Rural America aren’t left behind, such as expanded medical residency positions to grow Iowa’s health care workforce and efforts to strengthen stability and security for rural hospitals and clinics that are the safety net providers for millions of Americans. From the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over federal health care programs, I champion policies to help ensure rural hospitals, local pharmacies and health care clinics keep their doors open for the community. I also keep the spotlight shining on market-driven solutions to reduce drug costs and lower barriers to care, such as expanding telehealth services and cutting red tape for kids with complex medical needs. Oncology patients can avoid the expense and tiring experience of a long road trip by seeing health care providers via the convenience and flexibility provided by a telehealth appointment. The bipartisan infrastructure law I supported is helping expand internet access needed for rural health clinics to provide telehealth services, including diagnosis and prescribing medicine. I’ve also joined a bipartisan effort to push for an expansion of Medicare coverage for telehealth services and make permanent pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities. I’ll continue pushing to lower barriers to care and raise awareness so that the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer survives and thrives to enjoy a high quality of life for years to come.
    October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Free or low-cost screening services are available for eligible recipients, learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.html#IA

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 17th, 2024 JEC Chairman Martin Heinrich Hosts “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” Roundtable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    PHOTOS & VIDEO
    Heinrich highlights how federal legislation is expanding pathways to in-demand jobs in New Mexico
    ALBUQUERQUE — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), hosted a “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” roundtable to talk directly with New Mexicans about how federal legislation he helped pass into law is creating careers in high-demand sectors and strengthening New Mexico’s health care, skilled trades, early childhood education, and union workforce.   

    Heinrich Hosts “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” Roundtable on October 17, 2024.
    “The manufacturing and clean energy renaissance driven by historic investments from the Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act is creating career opportunities across New Mexico. We need to build on this momentum by expanding access to apprenticeships, supporting new, high-quality jobs in the building and skilled trades, growing pathways to health care careers, and strengthening our early childhood education workforce. I will continue fighting to address workforce shortages, build the middle class, grow our economy, and provide more New Mexicans with the careers they can build their families around in their home communities,” said Heinrich.
    Thanks to recently enacted legislation that Heinrich helped pass into law, like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Law, New Mexico is now at the center of a clean energy “manufacturing renaissance,” which is creating hundreds of jobs in New Mexico that people can build their families around.  
    Heinrich discussed his work with community leaders to create more pathways to in-demand careers, including through jobs training and registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. He also highlighted the success of the domestic manufacturing tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act that have expanded clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing in New Mexico.
    Through his role as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich has held hearings on job training in the clean energy sector, the domestic boom in manufacturing, and investing in early childhood education. Heinrich has also released reports on growing registered apprenticeship programs, job training for the clean energy transition, the manufacturing renaissance, addressing rural health worker shortages, the economic benefits of early childhood education, employing women in the clean energy sector, and growing the labor force in New Mexico.
    Heinrich has long been committed to creating new pathways to careers for New Mexicans in the communities where they grew up, while tackling shortages in in-demand sectors like health care and early childhood education.  
    Heinrich introduced the Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeship programs for occupations with high need, including the building trades, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, and early childhood education. 
    Earlier this year, Heinrich introduced the Pre-Apprenticeships To Hardhats (PATH) Act, legislation to strengthen the pipeline for careers in New Mexico, address rising workforce shortages, and grow the state’s economy through quality pre-apprenticeship programs.  
    In March, Heinrich introduced the Providing Resources and Opportunities for Health Education and Learning (PRO-HEAL) Act, legislation that will tackle the health care provider shortage in New Mexico and nationwide by expanding pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers that medical professionals can access in their communities. Specifically, the PRO-HEAL Act addresses medical provider shortages by incentivizing states and institutions of higher education to expand or create health care provider pipeline programs, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The legislation is inspired by the success of the Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico, where over 65% of students who have graduated from their program practice medicine in New Mexico.   
    Last year, Heinrich introduced the Pathways to Health Careers Act, legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program to help address health care shortages in New Mexico and across the country and create pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers.  
    The HPOG program has a proven track record of successfully educating workers for jobs in the health care industry, while also providing career coaching, job placement, and a mix of other support services. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the HPOG Program, providing $425 million to make HPOG available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories. 
    In 2021, Heinrich introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, legislation to create earlier pathways to high-paying careers in the information technology (IT) industry. 
    Investments in Clean Energy and Advanced Manufacturing:
    Heinrich has been fighting hard to pass legislation and secure investments that are growing the state’s economy, building the middle class, and expanding high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.  
    In 2022, Heinrich helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act,which has created a manufacturing renaissance in the state and established New Mexico at the center of the nation’s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico. 
    Earlier this year, Heinrich highlighted $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for Pajarito Powder to scale production of components for electrolyzers and fuel cells. Heinrich invited the U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm to tour the facilities of Pajarito Powder in Albuquerque, N.M. 
    In June, the N.M. Delegation welcomed $23.9 million from the CHIPS and Science Act for SolAero, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based manufacturing company, to increase its production of compound semiconductors for spacecraft and satellites, as part of an expansion and modernization of their facility. Heinrich, Luján, and Stansbury, along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves and White House CHIPS Coordinator Ryan Harper to New Mexico to highlight this investment.  
    In April, Heinrich and Luján welcomed Energy Secretary Granholm to break ground on a new 216,000-square-foot Array Technologies manufacturing campus — a $50+ million investment located on Albuquerque’s Westside — which will employ over 300 additional New Mexicans to facilitate the production, assembly, design, engineering, and customer service of solar tracking technology.  
    That same day, Heinrich, Granholm, and Vasquez participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the production of the first wind towers coming off the Arcosa Wind Towers manufacturing line. The ribbon-cutting ceremony came nearly nine months after Heinrich welcomed President Biden to the Belén manufacturing facility — a $60 million investment that will have a $314 million economic impact and create 250 jobs in the region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator announces inquiry into Leicester disability charity

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    The Charity Commission, the regulator of charities for England and Wales, has opened a statutory inquiry into Leicestershire Centre for Integrated Living Limited.

    The charity supports disabled people by promoting inclusion and accessibility in everyday living. 

    The charity was already under investigation as part of the Commission’s ‘double defaulters’ class inquiry, after it was identified as persistently late in filing its accounting information.   

    Upon further engagement with the charity, serious concerns arose regarding its general management and governance. The Commission has therefore escalated its engagement to a separate inquiry to investigate:   

    • The extent to which the charity’s trustees are complying with their legal duties in respect of the administration, governance and management of their charity.  

    • Whether the trustees have adequate financial and strategic oversight of their charity, including the management and supervision of staff. 

    • Whether the charity is being managed in accordance with its governing document and operating for the public benefit. 

    • The trustees’ compliance with their legal obligations for the content, preparation and filing of the charity’s accounts and other information or returns. 

    The scope of the inquiry may be varied if new evidence comes to light.  

    It is the Commission’s policy, after it has concluded an inquiry, to publish a report detailing what issues the inquiry looked at, what actions were undertaken as part of the inquiry and what the outcomes were.  

    ENDS

    Notes to editors   

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society.  

    2. This statutory inquiry was opened on 13 September 2024. 

    3. On 25 July 2022 the Commission placed the charity into the Double Defaulter Class Inquiry for charities that are in default of their statutory obligations to meet reporting requirements by failing to file their annual documents (annual returns, reports and accounts) for two or more years in the last five years.

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

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    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Infrastructure Dividend Split Corp. Announces Preferred Distribution and Increase to Class A Distribution Rate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infrastructure Dividend Split Corp. (TSX: IS and IS.PR.A) (the “Company”), is pleased to announce an increase in the monthly distribution rate of Class A shares from $0.125/share to $0.14/share. The distribution increase is supported by dividend growth from several of the Company’s portfolio holdings and the strong performance and outlook for the infrastructure sector.  

    On May 6, 2024, the Class A shares were converted from units of the International Clean Power Dividend Fund (TSX: CLP.UN) at a value of $15.00 per share. As of October 16, 2024, the Net Asset Value per Class A share is $17.93. In addition, the Company has paid cumulative monthly distributions to Class A shareholders of $0.75 per share since inception.

      Record Date   Payable Date Distribution Per
    Equity Share
    October 31, 2024 November 15, 2024 $0.14
         

    The Company also announces the second quarterly distribution of 2024 will be payable to preferred shareholders as follows:

      Record Date   Payable Date Distribution Per
    Preferred Share
    October 31, 2024 November 15, 2024 $0.18
         

    The equity and preferred shares both trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the respective symbols IS and IS.PR.A.

    The Company invests in a diversified, actively managed portfolio of dividend-paying securities of issuers operating in the infrastructure sector, focusing on issuers that that Middlefield Capital Corporation, the investment advisor of the Company, believes are undervalued and well-positioned to benefit from the outlook for a gradual reduction in interest rates, the global decarbonization, and favourable demographics.

    For further information, please visit our website at http://www.middlefield.com or contact our Sales and Marketing Department at 1.888.890.1868.

    This press release contains forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is based on historical information concerning distributions and dividends paid on the securities of issuers historically included in the portfolio of the Company. Actual future results, including the amount of distributions paid by the Company, may differ from the monthly distribution amount. Specifically, the income from which distributions are paid may vary significantly due to: changes in portfolio composition; changes in distributions and dividends paid by issuers of securities included in the Company’s portfolio from time to time; there being no assurance that those issuers will pay distributions or dividends on their securities; the declaration of distributions and dividends by issuers of securities included in the portfolio will generally depend upon various factors, including the financial condition of each issuer and general economic and stock market conditions; the level of borrowing by the Company; and the uncertainty of realizing capital gains.  The risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results are described under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s prospectus and other documents filed by the Company with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes the Company’s current estimate, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered hereby. Investors and others should not assume that any forward-looking statement contained in this press release represents the Company’s estimate as of any date other than the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Announces More than $18.4 Million for Workforce Development, Community Revitalization in Pennsylvania Coal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    Recipient

    Grant

    Project

    Bedford County Development Association

    $498,840

    Bedford County Business Park II -Site Preparation

    Bedford County Technical Center

    $50,000

    Bedford County Technical Center: Expanding Opportunity in Coal Impacted Appalachia

    Catalyst Connection

    $2,000,000

    Pennsylvania Career Pathways to Advanced Manufacturing:  “Forging Your Future”

    Center for Employment Opportunities

    $50,000

    Transitional Employment for Justice Impacted Pittsburgh Residents

    Center for Population Health

    $751,057

    Growth of Community Health Workers inCambria/Somerset Counties, Pennsylvania

    Corry Community Development Corporation D/B/A Impact Corry (nonprofit)

    $887,000

    Corry City Center Trail Link

    Enterprise Development Center of Erie County, Inc.

    $2,000,000

    Ironworks Square: Smart Redevelopment in Coal Impacted Regions

    Greene County Commissioners

    $50,000

    Greene County Barriers to Workforce Study

    IUP Research Institute

    $452,326

    NWPAMade — Galvanizing and empowering the region’s creative economy

    JARI Growth Fund, Inc.

    $1,000,000

    Startup Alleghenies Ecosystem Capital and Technical Assistance Expansion – Capital

    JARI Growth Fund, Inc.

    $879,253

    Startup Alleghenies Ecosystem Capital and Technical Assistance Expansion- Technical Assistance

    Jewish Healthcare Foundation

    $1,990,867

    Revitalizing Community Jobs—Building, Training and Supporting the Frontline Workforce for Nursing Homes in Pennsylvania

    Lycoming County

    $1,867,395

    Susquehanna River Walk Extension Trail Construction Project

    O.S. Johnson Technical Institute

    $50,000

    Planning for Vehicle Maintenance Technology Jobs of the Future

    Office of Child Development, University of Pittsburgh

    $49,751

    Two-Generational Literacy to Strengthen the Workforce Pipeline

    Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN)

    $750,000

    Maturing Appalachia’s Robotics Workforce

    Saint Vincent College (SVC)

    $662,672

    Equipment and Technology for a Nursing Education and Lab Facility at Saint Vincent College

    Screen Arts Institute

    $400,000

    The Broadcast Arts Initiative

    The ClearWater Conservancy of Central Pennsylvania, Inc.

    $2,000,000

    ClearWater Community Conservation Center Ecotourism, Agritourism, and Agribusiness Hub

    The University of Scranton

    $1,321,980

    The University of Scranton: Technology Driven Transformation in Workforce Development and Innovation

    Westmoreland Hospital

    $769,193

    Building an Innovative Nursing Workforce Model: Bridging the Gap from Student to Expert

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government praises important progress on East Coast clean-up

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Important progress is being made on cleaning-up and strengthening resilience in the Tairāwhiti region, 18 months on from the devastating weather events in 2023, Forestry Minister Todd McClay said today.

    To date the Government has committed $110 million resulting in approximately 440,000 tonnes of slash and debris being removed from Tairāwhiti.

    “I want to acknowledge the significant impact on the region and local people and praise the clean-up efforts of all those involved. There is strong momentum and coordination of work in the region across local and central government, and the Forestry and Agriculture sectors in addressing the impacts of last year’s cyclones,” Mr McClay says.

    In response to Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle in January and February 2023, the previous Government initiated the Ministerial Inquiry into Land Use in Tairāwhiti/Gisborne and Wairoa. It resulted in 49 recommendations to both reduce risk and strengthen resilience in the region.

    “This Government is focused on delivering tangible outcomes through the recently established Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group and Gisborne District Council-led Transition Advisory Group.

    “The Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group made up of forestry owners, farming interests, Māori landowners and council officials, is working to accelerate the clean-up in the region, remove debris and sediment, address the legacy issue of wood that poses future risk and help to implement best practice for forestry. 

    “The Gisborne District Council-led Transition Advisory Group is working together to support landowners make the changes required to a more sustainable land-use.

    “Central government will continue to stay closely engaged in regionally led initiatives through existing work programmes. This will ensure efforts to align with Government priorities and support the Crown’s Treaty relationships.”

    “Forestry has an important role in Tairāwhiti, but it will be done differently in the future to ensure risks are well managed. 

    “The Government recognises the importance of the forestry sector to the regional economy. Proposed changes to the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry will enable council to implement rules to ensure land use is appropriate, but also give certainty and confidence to the forestry sector.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: MEDIA AVAILABILIY: Coast Guard, partners to discuss rescue of 17-year-old kayaker

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    10/17/2024 06:15 PM EDT

    WHO: Coast Guard Sector Honolulu, Honolulu Fire Department, Honolulu Ocean Safety Department WHAT: Holding joint press briefing about rescue of missing 17-year-old kayaker off Waikiki WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 WHERE: Hale Kinai Ahi Auditorium, Honolulu Fire Department Headquarters, 636 South St., Honolulu, HI 96813

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: $5,000 Reward for Fugitive Who Shot 3 Women on SEPTA Bus

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Philadelphia, PA – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crime Fugitive Task Force is asking for the public’s assistance in locating Raphael Ezeamaka, 18. 

    On October 10th,  a warrant for attempt to commit criminal homicide, aggravated assaut, and criminal conspiracy was issued by the Philadelphia Police Department for Ezeamaka’s role in a shooting that took place October 8th in the 700 block of S. 57th street. After a verbal dispute on the SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) Route G bus, Ezeamaka exited and fired multiple shots into the bus from the outside. 3 women were struck and transported to local hospitals where they were treated for non-life-threatening wounds. The Marshals Service Violent Crimes Fugitive Task is now assisting the Philadelphia Police in locating and apprehending Ezeamaka.

    The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to Ezeamaka’s arrest. The $5,000 reward will be processed immediately upon arrest and not upon conviction.

    Ezeamaka stands 5 feet 10 inches and weighs approximately 150 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. His last known address was in the 100 block of N. Fairview Avenue in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania.

    “Anyone who purposely shoots into a crowded bus full of innocent people demonstrates an absolute disregard for human life. Apprehending Raphael Ezeamaka is paramount to public safety,” said Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Clark.  

    Tips can be called into the U.S. Marshals Philadelphia Tipline at 1-866-865-TIPS (8477) or by using the USMS Tips App.

    The Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force is a team of law enforcement officers led by U.S. Marshals in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. The task force’s objective is to seek out and arrest violent crime fugitives. Membership agencies include the Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania State Parole Officers, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General Agents, Chester Police Department, and the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Enterprise Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison Following Federal Gun Conviction

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Montgomery, AL – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced that 43-year-old Steve Allen Grubbs, Jr., a resident of Enterprise, Alabama, received a sentence of 120 months in prison following his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system. The sentencing occurred on October 16, 2024.

    According to the plea agreement and other court records, in the summer of 2019, law enforcement began an investigation related to suspected drug-trafficking taking place at a residence in Daleville. After confirming their suspicions, on August 2, 2019, officers from the Daleville Police Department executed a search warrant on the residence which was associated with Grubbs at the time. Among the items seized were two handguns. Grubbs has previous felony convictions and is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Grubbs pleaded guilty to illegally possessing the firearms on July 3, 2024.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Daleville Police Department, and Enterprise Police Department investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorney Eric M. Counts prosecuted.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Puerto Rico’s Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Lajas, PR

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Nelson Torres-Delgado, a.k.a. “El Burro”, was arrested today in the municipality of Lajas, PR, on criminal charges related to his alleged drug trafficking and violent crimes charges in three different indictments since 2017. Torres-Delgado’s first indictment in Crim. Case No. 17-621 was issued on December 8, 2017, where he was charged in a conspiracy with 43 other individuals with drug trafficking and firearms violations. The second indictment was issued by a grand jury on May 20, 2019, in Crim. Case No. 19-307 where he was charged with 25 other individuals also with drug trafficking and firearms violations. The third indictment pending against Torres-Delgado was issued on August 21, 2024, in Crim. Case 23-273, where he was charged in a conspiracy with 51 other individuals with drug trafficking, firearms violations, and drug-related murders.

    According to court documents, Nelson Torres-Delgado, 37, was the leader of a violent drug trafficking organization in Caguas and other areas, since the early 2010s. He had been a federal fugitive since 2017 and maintained control over the criminal organization as a fugitive through deadly violence and intimidation, and by engaging in violent turf wars against rival drug trafficking organizations. His methods of avoiding capture while controlling his gang included limited face-to-face contact to only the highest and most trusted leaders in his organization.

    “As alleged in the indictments, Torres-Delgado was the leader of a violent, armed criminal enterprise that he controlled even as a fugitive from justice since 2017. Thanks to the tenacious efforts and collaboration of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors, he now will face justice in a United States courtroom in Puerto Rico,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.

    “When we work together, we accomplish more and when communities come alongside us as partners in the fight against drug trafficking and violent crime, amazing things can happen,” said Joseph González, the Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. “No one is above the law, and no one is untouchable. Especially, when the public collaborates with law enforcement. The FBI’s commitment is to the people and I look forward to continuing the work we have begun with our local partners and the support of the public.”

    “This arrest is a culmination of a long-term fugitive apprehension effort of one of the most violent individuals in an effort to bolster public safety for the people of Puerto Rico,” said Christopher A. Robinson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Miami Field Division.

    Torres-Delgado is charged with drug trafficking, firearms violations, money laundering, and multiple drug-related murders. If convicted, Torres-Delgado faces up to life in prison, with the possibility of the death penalty for certain offenses. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    This arrest was led by the FBI, Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB), ATF, and the United States Marshals Service (USMS).

    Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) and Chief of the Gang Section Alberto López-Rocafort, Deputy Chief of the Gang Section, AUSA Teresa Zapata-Valladares, and AUSAs R. Vance Eaton and Héctor Siaca Flores are prosecuting the case.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Clarksville Murder Suspect

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Memphis, TN – Turnity Rossell, age 22, was arrested today for First Degree Murder.

    On October 28, 2019, Clarksville Tennessee Police responded to a shots fired call in the area of 16 Hand Village Avenue, Clarksville, Tennessee. It was found that Serdyrin Brown, age 22, was shot there in an incident. He was taken for medical care and pronounced dead at the hospital.

    On June 4, 2024, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Turnity Rossell for this crime. The warrant was for First Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery. On September 24, 2024, this case was adopted by the U.S. Marshals Middle Tennessee Fugitive Task Force.

    The Middle Tennessee Fugitive Task Force developed information that Rossell was in the Memphis, Tennessee area. On September 24, 2024, they requested that the U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force assist with locating Rossell.

    On October 17, 2024, the Two Rivers Task Force went to a residence near the intersection of S. Mendenhall and Colony in an effort to locate Rossell. They were aided by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Team and the Memphis Police Fugitive Apprehension Team. Rossell was located and placed under arrest. He initially tried to lie about his identity, however he soon stopped trying to mislead the Task Force investigators. Rossell was taken to the Shelby County Detention Center without incident.

    The U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, and Tipton County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 2,600 violent fugitives and sexual predators.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office to Monitor Election Day Complaints

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Acting United States Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee announced today that Criminal Chief Ben Schrader will lead the United States Attorney’s Office’s efforts in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. Criminal Chief Schrader has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Middle District of Tennessee, and in that capacity is 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.

    Acting United States Attorney Jaworski said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. 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).

    Acting United States Attorney Jaworski stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. 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. In order 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, Criminal Chief/DEO Schrader will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (615) 736-5151.”

    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 Nashville Division of the FBI, which covers the entire state of Tennessee, can be reached by the public at (865) 544-0751.

    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.

    Acting United States Attorney Jaworski said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. 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.

    #####

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former NYCHA Superintendent Convicted Of Bribery And Extortion Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    In the First Trial Following a 70-Person Takedown in February 2024, Joy Harris, a Former New York City Housing Authority Superintendent, Was Convicted of Bribery and Extortion for Accepting Cash from Contractors in Exchange for Awarding Contracts

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that Joy Harris, a former New York City Housing Authority (“NYCHA”) superintendent, was convicted of bribery and extortion under color of official right for soliciting and accepting tens of thousands of dollars from contractors in exchange for awarding those contractors no-bid contracts at NYCHA developments.  The verdict followed a one-week trial before U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, who will sentence HARRIS on February 26, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Corruption is an insidious crime—difficult to detect, corrosive in its effect on government agencies, and damaging to public trust in government institutions. Joy Harris’s years-long abuse of her position to demand tens of thousands of dollars in bribes betrayed her duty to NYCHA residents, the City of New York, and taxpayers.  The jury’s unanimous verdict sends a clear message that those who use their public offices for personal gain will be held accountable.”

    According to the evidence presented in court during the trial:

    NYCHA is the largest public housing authority in the country, providing housing to New Yorkers across the City and receiving over $1.5 billion in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) every year.  When repairs or construction work at NYCHA housing require the use of outside contractors, services must typically be purchased via a bidding process.  However, when the value of a contract was under a certain threshold, designated staff at NYCHA developments, including assistant superintendent and superintendents, could hire a contractor of their choosing without soliciting multiple bids.

    HARRIS, an assistant superintendent and superintendent at four different NYCHA developments in Manhattan between 2015 and 2021, demanded and accepted cash in exchange for NYCHA contracts.  She required contractors to pay bribes up front in order to be awarded the contracts or required bribe payments after the contractor finished the work and needed a NYCHA employee to sign off on the completed job so that the contractor could be paid by NYCHA.  HARRIS typically demanded 10% of the contract value—between $500 and $1,000, depending on the size of the contract.  In total, HARRIS demanded and accepted tens of thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for awarding contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

    *                *                *

    HARRIS, 49, of Bushkill, Pennsylvania, was convicted of one count of federal program bribery, which carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison, and one count of extortion under color of official right, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Department of Investigation, U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the HUD Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, which work together collaboratively as part of the HSI Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, as well as the special agents and task force officers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (“OCDETF”) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Of the 70 current and former NYCHA employees charged with bribery and extortion offenses in February 2024, 55 of the defendants have now pled guilty or been convicted at trial.  The charges against the remaining defendants are pending.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry J. Fang, Meredith Foster, Sheb Swett, Jacob R. Fiddelman, and Catherine Ghosh are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Jayda Foote and Nandita Vasantha.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 24, 2025
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