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  • MIL-OSI Global: Football acts like referees are the issue but they are just following the rules

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Daniel Hough, Professor of Politics, University of Sussex

    Football seems to have a problem with referees. Barely a weekend goes by without someone – a manager, a player, a pundit – making it abundantly clear that many of those who officiate are (apparently) not very good at their jobs.

    Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, for example, was furious with referee Michael Oliver for sending off Leandro Trossard during his side’s top-of-the-table clash with Manchester City on September 22. He described it as “really, really worrying” that referees were giving out cards for what Arteta seemed to regard as trivial offences.

    In this case it was Oliver’s decision to award a yellow card to Trossard after the Belgian booted the ball away to stop City taking a quick free kick. On top of a yellow card Trossard had already earned for a foul earlier in the game, the second offence, bringing a second yellow card, added up to a red card, meaning Trossard had to be sent off. Arteta’s criticism came even though it’s crystal clear that such offences merit exactly the punishments that were being meted out.

    The previous week, referee Anthony Taylor was the man in the firing line. He dished out 14 yellow cards (a premier league record) for a range of offences committed during the Chelsea v Bournemouth game on 14 September. Perhaps unsurprisingly, a whole host of self-appointed social media experts were quick to express their dissatisfaction with Taylor’s officiating. As a result, the Premier League is currently investigating a number of those social media posts for allegedly making threats against Taylor and his family.

    A significant part of the story in both of these cases concerns dissent and player petulance. Taylor, in particular, wasn’t standing for any of that, yellow-carding four players for inappropriately chatting back to the referee and one for excessive celebrations following a goal.

    The story, or so one of the narratives around poor referring would have it, is officials are being over-zealous. The players themselves seem to have no agency in this. It’s the referees that are the problem.

    If football is going to stop looking like a game primed for spoilt, stroppy schoolboys, then it’s precisely that narrative that needs to change. As I argue in a new book on integrity and football, there are three dimensions to cases like these.

    Firstly, players continue – again and again, and at all levels of the game – to think that verbally abusing the referee when they make decisions that the player doesn’t like is part and parcel of football. “Shithousery”, to use the contemporary parlance, is frequently seen as a virtue. It shouldn’t be. Players push and push the rules to their limits and yet when they are called out the instinct is often to whine and bleat about how unfair it all is.

    Football doesn’t have to look far to see how this can be done differently. Rugby referees have broadly similar sets of tools at their disposal and yet rugby players treat officials very differently. Diving about to win a free kick, for example, is not just frowned upon in rugby union, players trying it on are openly ridiculed. There is certainly bad behaviour in rugby, but you only very rarely see any players disrespecting the officials.

    One way of shifting the balance is by doing what Taylor did in the Chelsea v Bournemouth fixture, which is to pull players up immediately on what he saw as disrespectful behaviour. A few months of rugby-style refereeing and football will be much the better for it.

    Secondly, fans need to understand not just how difficult a referee’s job is but also to appreciate that regardless of whether referees get decisions right or wrong they, the fans, need to deal with it. Abusing officials and players is now a depressingly predictable part of football’s story.

    And, as the pleayers themselves will tell you, it’s not just the referees who are singled out for abuse. Research by Ofcom and the Alan Turing Institute in 2022 showed that, 34% of all tweets directed at Newcastle United defender Ciaran Clark in the first five months of the 2021-22 season were deemed “offensive” by OfCom. OfCom further claimed that an offensive tweet was sent to a premier league footballer once every four minutes across that same time period. Players getting things wrong is part and parcel of the game – verbally abusing them for it should not be.

    Finally, the administrators have a role to play in pushing stakeholders (fans, players, analysts) to show just a bit more spine. The FA needs to come out and explain that football will no longer stand for many of the antics that we currently see on the field. At the beginning of 2023-24 referees started giving yellow cards when players kicked the ball away to stop free kicks being taken. The result was that players for the most part simply stopped doing it. Sadly, no one appeared to tell Trossard.

    The FA has long argued that those within football need to show the game more respect. Yet the FA itself needs to show the backbone to stand up and defend, openly and forcefully, those who try to practically implement all these nice words.

    Whether Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor thought they were fighting for the game’s integrity is largely irrelevant. They were just doing their job by interpreting the rules as they saw them. But there is something about the reaction of players, fans and indeed the FA that says that too many people still don’t really get it. Integrity matters. And it really is about time that they all start to take it seriously.


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

    – ref. Football acts like referees are the issue but they are just following the rules – https://theconversation.com/football-acts-like-referees-are-the-issue-but-they-are-just-following-the-rules-239962

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda – what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Manal Mohammed, Senior Lecturer, Medical Microbiology, University of Westminster

    Rwanda is in the midst of its first outbreak of Marburg virus – an often fatal disease with symptoms similar to Ebola. So far, 46 cases have been recorded and 12 deaths. The source of the outbreak is still not known.

    Seven hundred doses of an experimental vaccine against the virus have just been shipped from the US to Rwanda. The vaccine is currently being administered, largely to healthcare workers, who have made up the bulk of the victims so far.

    The roll out is part of a clinical trial, so it will be a while before the vaccine’s efficacy is known.

    Marburg virus is named after the town in Germany where it first emerged. In 1967, there were simultaneous outbreaks at laboratories in Marburg and Belgrade in Serbia (then part of Yugoslavia). The outbreak was caused by African green monkeys imported from Uganda for use in experiments. Seven people died.

    Since then, there have been several Marburg virus outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa, including in countries bordering Rwanda.

    Previous outbreaks have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Tanzania. The most recent outbreaks were reported in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania between February and June 2023, where nine cases were reported and six deaths.

    Other countries that previously reported outbreaks include Angola, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya and South Africa. The outbreak in Angola in 2005 killed 300 people.

    Outbreaks typically occur when people come in contact with infected green monkeys, pigs or Egyptian rousette bats (a type of Old World fruit bat) – a common carrier of the virus. These bats are often found in mines and caves. Once the disease jumps from an infected animal to a human – so-called zoonotic spillover – it can spread from person to person through bodily fluids or by contact with contaminated surfaces, such as bedding.

    There are no antiviral drugs to treat patients. People infected with Marburg virus are kept hydrated and any blood loss is replaced through transfusion.

    The incubation period, which is the time between the exposure to Marburg virus and the start of symptoms, is five to ten days. Symptoms of Marburg virus disease can appear suddenly and include fever, muscle pains, diarrhoea and vomiting.

    The virus damages blood vessels and interferes with the ability of blood to clot, which can lead to uncontrolled bleeding from the nose, eyes, gums, rectum and, in women, the vagina. The disease has a very high “case fatality rate”. Between 24 and 88% of people infected with Marburg virus die – usually through extreme blood loss and shock.

    Marburg virus disease is not an airborne illness and is not thought to be contagious before symptoms appear. However, people can remain infectious for months after they have recovered, and pass the disease on through bodily fluids. Men are advised to wear a condom for a year after symptoms first appear.

    Looking for clues

    The Rwandan authorities are working to identify the source of the outbreak, how far it has spread and when the first case occurred.

    Although Marburg virus disease has been reported in seven of 30 districts in the east African nation, the readiness of unaffected districts is also being ensured to mitigate the spread and quickly identify any spillover.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) is working with Rwanda’s neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, to review their readiness to respond to the outbreak.

    The WHO assesses the risk of the Marburg virus outbreak as “very high” at the national level and “high” at the regional level. However, at a global level, the risk remains low.

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

    – ref. Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda – what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/marburg-virus-outbreak-in-rwanda-what-you-need-to-know-240252

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Chagos islands: what the UK-Mauritius agreement means for displaced Chagossians

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laura Jeffery, Professor of Anthropology of Migration, University of Edinburgh

    Coconut palm fronds are an integral part of Chagossian handicraft. Laura Jeffery, CC BY-NC-ND

    After years of negotiations and legal pressure, the UK and the Republic of Mauritius have agreed that Mauritius is sovereign over the Chagos Archipelago.

    The Chagos Archipelago is a group of seven coral atolls which comprise more than 60 islands in the Indian Ocean. In 1965, as part of negotiations leading to Mauritian independence, the UK government excised the Chagos Archipelago from colonial Mauritius. The UK kept the islands, which are in a globally strategic location, to make the island of Diego Garcia available to the US military for 50 years, later extended by 20 years.

    The islands have been the subject of a diplomatic dispute for decades, with Mauritius maintaining its sovereignty and arguing it was illegally forced to give the archipelago away in exchange for independence.



    Read more:
    UK hands Chagos Islands to Mauritius, marking the end of a longstanding sovereignty dispute

    Under the new political agreement, the UK will provide financial support to Mauritius, including a new trust fund for displaced Chagossians. Mauritius will be able to resettle the Chagos islands, other than Diego Garcia. This island will remain the site of a US-UK military facility for at least 99 years.

    This is a significant moment for decolonisation (albeit incomplete), and potentially a landmark moment for the displaced Chagossian community. Decades after being forcibly exiled, they may finally be able to resettle on some of the Chagos islands.

    Who are the Chagossians?

    The Chagos Archipelago was unpopulated before European expansion in the Indian Ocean, when it was administered as a dependency of colonial Mauritius. French, and later British, colonists populated the islands. This took place first with enslaved labourers, mostly from east Africa and Madagascar via Mauritius, and later with contract workers, mostly from India via Mauritius.

    The economy relied on coconut plantations, which became central to Chagossian culture. Coconut features in Chagossian cuisine, handicrafts and song.

    The population of the Chagos islands rose over the 19th century. It hovered around 1,000 in the first half of the 20th century.

    At the request of the US, the UK authorities depopulated the Chagos Archipelago to make way for the military base. From 1967 to 1973, they forcibly evicted more than 1,500 islanders to Mauritius and Seychelles.

    They did this first by preventing the return of islanders who had gone on trips to Mauritius and Seychelles. Later, they restricted supplies and wound down work on coconut plantations. Finally, they coerced the remaining islanders onto crowded ships.



    Read more:
    How the US and UK worked together to recolonise the Chagos Islands and evict Chagossians

    By 1973, between 1,328 and 1,522 Chagos islanders had been relocated to Mauritius, and 232 to Seychelles. Their forced displacement led to further economic, psychological and cultural harms.

    The British Overseas Territories Act 2002 and the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 awarded UK citizenship to Chagos islanders and their descendants born in exile. Today, several thousand members of the extended Chagossian community live in the UK, while many still live in Mauritius and Seychelles.

    Since 2002, I have conducted anthropological research with the extended and geographically dispersed Chagossian communities. I have witnessed their chronic marginalisation firsthand.

    My research has studied how members of this dispersed and fractured community have sustained their relationships to Chagos through shared cultural practices.

    One example of this is through music. Chagossian sega songs composed on Chagos paint a nuanced picture of the complexities and turbulence of colonial plantation life. Lyrics protest unfavourable social, political, and economic conditions. They lament personal suffering, depict joyful occasions, or jest via suggestive double entendres.

    Meanwhile, sega songs are now also composed in exile. They contrast depictions of the island as an idyllic paradise, with the community’s subsequent experiences of displacement, dislocation and loss.

    These cultural practices have brought the exiled Chagossian community together, and served as a vehicle for cultural and political mobilisation. They have also, I argue, drawn attention to the Chagossian cause from outside communities.

    Resettlement

    Chagossian activists have long campaigned for compensation for their forcible displacement and their legal right of return. They secured limited compensation from the UK government in 1978 and 1982. But they have not yet achieved resettlement in practice.

    It is not yet clear whether displaced Chagossians will be able to return to the islands under the new agreement.

    Members of the Chagossian community hold differing opinions about resettlement and sovereignty. Some are hopeful that the Mauritian government will facilitate resettlement: something the UK refused to do.

    Some Mauritian citizens and Chagos islanders from Diego Garcia are critical of the exclusion of Diego Garcia from the agreement. And many Chagossians are worried that Mauritius might prioritise the interests of Mauritian citizens over non-citizens, or that it might prioritise its economic and military interests over resettlement.

    Many Chagossians are concerned
    that the negotiations involved representatives of the two governments, but not of the displaced Chagossian community.

    The political agreement is subject to the finalisation of a treaty and supporting legal documents. This means there is still time for the governments to involve Chagossians in the conversation.

    Laura Jeffery has previously received funding for Chagos research from the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

    – ref. Chagos islands: what the UK-Mauritius agreement means for displaced Chagossians – https://theconversation.com/chagos-islands-what-the-uk-mauritius-agreement-means-for-displaced-chagossians-240581

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Fossil Fuels to Power 60% of Africa’s Energy by 2040

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    LUANDA, Angola, October 7, 2024/APO Group/ —

    By 2040, up to 60% of the African energy matrix will be fossil fuel driven, Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary of the African Refiners and Distributors Association remarked at a FAMAR-sponsored panel discussion during the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference on Thursday. This, he noted, highlights a fundamental need to invest more heavily in downstream infrastructure.

    While efforts are being made to reduce petroleum imports, Kragha offered three recommendations to expand downstream infrastructure, strengthen regional trade and bolster energy security.

    “The first is coordinated, harmonized, regional regulations – it is critical to do this. If you don’t have harmonized regulations, you won’t have harmonized markets. Secondly, you need market-based pricing and products. Lastly, you must focus on infrastructure to minimize supply chain risks. We use trucks but we should be using rails, optimizing ports and such,” he said.

    Orlando Chongo, Head, Coverage in Indian Ocean and Lusophone Africa at the Trade Development Bank, emphasized the need to improve access to financing for downstream players. While plans are in place to strengthen infrastructure capacity, capital needs to be made more available.

    Meanwhile, in Angola, to support companies seeking investments in the country’s downstream market, the country’s downstream regulator is putting in place the requisite supportive policies. Dr. Luis Fernandes, Director General at the IRDP said that “Today, the regulatory framework allows everyone that wants to be in the market to be involved. We have new rules that are needed to be implemented to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in compliance with climate change policies. We have a legal framework that supports companies achieve this.”

    For the national oil company Sonangol, expanding downstream infrastructure is a top priority. The company is prioritizing investments in refining, distribution and port infrastructure to strengthen regional trade. Three new refining projects are currently under construction, namely the 60,000 barrel per day (BPD) Cabinda project – starting operations this year -; the 100,000 BPD Soyo Refinery and the 200,000 BPD Lobito Refinery.

    Other projects include the Barra do Dande Ocean Terminal. According to Mauro Graça, CEO, Sonangol Distribution and Marketing, “This will not only allow us to be self-sufficient in storage capacity but allow us to fulfil our strategic reserves. With that project, we are not only thinking about Angola, but of the region. With the Cabinda refinery, we will need more storage capacity and to be able to export. We are investing in 24,000 cubic meters in additional storage capacity. We also have a project to make a sea-line, so that larger ships can go to Cabinda to conduct operations.”

    Angola’s focus on strengthening its port logistics will be instrumental in driving exports – both regionally and internationally. Sara Silva, Legal Compliance Manager at FAMAR, noted that maritime transport is imperative for global trade.

    “It is proving to be the most cost-effective manner of transportation, allowing you to transport large volumes of cargo and reducing the cost per unit that you transport. It has the opportunity to connect markets, connecting Africa to the world,” she said.

    In the retail sector, efforts are underway to increase the number of retail stations across the country. Óscar Sequesseque, CCO at Pumangol, shared that the company is focused on accelerating Angola’s inland fuel storage capacity. This way, Angola aims to improve access to affordable, locally-sourced fuel products.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Massachusetts Cellular Phone Tower Installation and Repair Business Pleads Guilty to Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty on Friday to willful failure to collect, account for and pay over any payroll taxes owed by businesses he owned and controlled.

    According to court documents, Kenneth Marston, of Kingston, was the owner and operator of Bowmar Steel Industries Inc., a steel fabrication company, and Teleconstructors Inc., which provided installation services on cellular phone towers. Marston was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from his employees’ paychecks and paying those funds over to the IRS.

    However, from approximately March 2015 through December 2018, Marston caused Bowmar Steel and Teleconstructors to not withhold taxes or pay them to the IRS on approximately $3.8 million in wages.

    In total, Kenneth Marston caused a tax loss to the IRS of between $550,000 and $1.5 million.

    Marston is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 3. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Mark McDonald of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney James R. Drabick for the District of Massachusetts are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: NJBiz’s Matthew Fazelpoor on How the Murphy Administration Nurtures the ‘Innovation Economy’

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    https://njbiz.com/deploying-dollars-how-the-state-nurtures-the-innovation-economy/
     

    A number of Strategic Innovation Centers are designed to support R&D, innovation or entrepreneurship

    One of the recurring themes throughout Gov. Phil Murphy’s time in office has been an emphasis on building out what he calls the innovation economy with programs overseen by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. At the core of that strategy has been a focus on assembling public-private partners from industry, academia and other stakeholders to collaborate and help catalyze economic growth.

    That effort has taken shape in a number of Strategic Innovation Centers, facilities that either directly support research and development, innovation or entrepreneurship. They can also help solve specific problems in new and innovative ways through a combination of services such as mentorship, networking opportunities, hands-on training, business support services, education opportunities and/or access to testing, fabrication, or manufacturing facilities and equipment.

    According to the NJEDA, the SICs can be accelerators, incubators or research centers – stressing that having a physical location where entrepreneurs can collaborate will help support new, diverse innovators as well as help drive long-term economic growth.

    A June report analyzed the impact of innovation centers and incubators, finding that the New Jersey BioScience Center Incubator – the largest incubator in the state dedicated to life sciences and biotechnology companies – supported companies that created an average of 2,744 jobs per year. In 2023, resident companies generated $32 million in state and local tax revenue.

    Situated on Route 1, that North Brunswick incubator is part of the 50-acre research park known as the New Jersey Bioscience Center, offering lab space and much more. “Located alongside New Jersey’s Route 1 Research Corridor, the Incubator at the New Jersey Bioscience Center leverages it close proximity to leading universities and corporations to attract, retain, and grow companies of the future that fuel our highly talented workforce,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Since taking office, Gov. Phil Murphy has been committed to creating resources for biotech startups to help bring life-saving products to market, and further New Jersey’s legacy as a leader in innovation, especially within the life sciences sector.”

    “The BCI is one of many ways the NJEDA is supporting biotech and life sciences businesses and startups by providing them with the space and resources to grow their companies, while encouraging collaboration among like-minded entrepreneurs,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello. “This report shows that New Jersey has what it takes to remain at the forefront of innovation.”

    Some examples of recent and impending SICs NJEDA has partnered or invested in include HAX, a Newark hard tech startup accelerator; the New Jersey Health & Life Science Exchange (HELIX) in New Brunswick; the NJ Fintech Accelerator at Stevens Institute of Technology (NJ FAST) in Hoboken; SciTech Scity on the Liberty Science campus in Jersey City; and the recently announced Aerospace Innovation Center in Egg Harbor Township.

    ‘We’ve got a lot to do’

    NJBIZ recently spoke with Coviello, who joined the agency in 2005 and is central to the state’s innovation economy efforts and ambitions. “Usually, a governor this late in his term, we start to soften the pace a little bit,” she said. “But that’s not the case here. It’s rush, rush – we’ve got a lot to do, before the end of the term.”

    Coviello noted that she has worked under several different administrations, stressing that there is a lot happening at NJEDA in a number of sectors — from the broader innovation efforts to clean energy/offshore wind, manufacturing, film and television, tech, life sciences and more.

    “The organization has put together tremendous toolkits – when you look at each of these segments of the economy that we are supporting, in response to really what we’ve heard from the market,” she explained. “I think, in general, most of what we’ve done has been really well-received. And, if and when needed, we’ll go back and tweak it and get it right. So, yeah, lots of activity.”

    Through the first six months of the year, New Jersey hit a major milestone in the innovation/startup space with a $9.8 billion investment in venture capital money, ranking as the No. 3 state in the nation during that stretch, according to PitchBook.

    “Timing is right for New Jersey. Some of the major hubs that you think of for innovation are struggling a bit more,” said Coviello. “We’ve got the talent. Certainly, when we talk about those Strategic Innovation Centers, we have the locations. When we think about life science, a lot is location-based. Particularly, we saw it during COVID and coming out of COVID. You can’t do genome predicting and drug discovery in your basement. So having all that lab space and all the talent in New Jersey is critical to that industry. We’re seeing it in film as a new resurgence of another innovation economy in the State of New Jersey. I think that the data around venture capital in New Jersey shows that we’re a good value for investors.”

    She said that some of the markets, such as the West Coast, Boston and New York, have “very frothy” deal terms that are overpriced. “But what we find traditionally in New Jersey is you get good value for your investment,” said Coviello. “And we have a lot of investors starting to see that. Of course, the Evergreen Fund, has attracted a lot of national attention. We have investors from California, New York. We just approved an investor from Mexico. Folks are saying – this is a tremendous opportunity to partner with the state and put more capital to work in New Jersey. The Angel Investor Tax Credit program continues to break all kinds of records. Lots and lots of great things going on anywhere you look in the state.”

    Growing life science companies

    Discussing the SICs, Coviello cited the Bioscience Center Incubator, which she described as the NJEDA’s first SCI – before that term was coined – and almost a proof of concept for the current efforts and projects.

    Since 2002, BCI companies have generated over $9 billion in total output and $4 billion in total labor income in the state, according to the recent study. “We’ve had the ability to really prove it out. And that facility came about because the life science industry in the state couldn’t invest in real estate,” she explained. “What I think we’ve proven out there – is the collision that happens when you bring like-minded, innovation-focused, smart people under one roof is really important.

    “We kind of took that and said – that’s a great anchor in the state to point to of where and how we grow life science companies in the state,” said Coviello.

    She reflected on when Murphy first ran for governor and noted that the state sits between two major metropolitan areas. “It’s the great thing about New Jersey – you have access to New York and the investors, and you have access to Philadelphia and D.C.,” she recounted. “But sometimes we get carved out as suburbs of those locations. And if we want to have our own identity, we need to put these pins in a map where we point to: This is where innovation happens in this part of our economy. What we have found as we have built these out is we really want to make sure we have an academic partner, a corporate partner and we have government. So, it’s all about this public-private partnership. And then part of the sauce, as well, is bringing in an activator – someone who’s going to pull all these pieces together; make sure that folks aren’t working in silos; make sure that there is collaboration.”

    Each of the SICs takes on their own identity, Coviello emphasized. “We’ve been very mindful about making sure we play to the strengths of that region,” she added.

    Coviello stressed there has been a deliberate process and focus behind the SICs and their different components and partners. “And that’s the only way it’s going to work. Each one has a very unique structure,” she explained. “Each one has very unique purposely articulated and curated partners – each one has a different focus.”

    Partners on these ventures include heavy hitters such as Nokia Bell Labs, Rutgers University, Hackensack Meridian Health, DEVCO, Plug and Play, Prudential Financial, Stevens, SOSV, RWJBarnabas Health, Bristol Myers Squibb, EY, Sheba Medical Center and others.

    She spoke about the power of partnerships – especially for ventures and initiatives such as these.

    “First off, we don’t have big enough pockets in government to do it alone – and it just wouldn’t be smart to do it alone,” said Coviello. “We don’t do everything. And adding that value in experience of the private sector is critical.”

    Recently, the first phase of HELIX reached a milestone with a topping off ceremony and NJ FAST held a launch event.

    As for other areas of emphasis and focus for Coviello and NJEDA, she pointed to life sciences continuing to be one of the leading sectors as well as technology, especially with Bell Labs at HELIX, and the resurgence of manufacturing. “I think the sky’s the limit. But again, playing to our strengths – fintech, aviation, life sciences, manufacturing,” she said. “And you’ll certainly hear announcements in the next six months about a few more of these centers. We’ve got, I think, 15 months left in the Murphy administration. The total funding pool for innovation centers was $250 million with all of the different appropriations over the years.”

    “We’re working hard to deploy all those dollars.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Owner of Massachusetts Cellular Phone Tower Installation and Repair Business Pleads Guilty to Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty on Friday to willful failure to collect, account for and pay over any payroll taxes owed by businesses he owned and controlled.

    According to court documents, Kenneth Marston, of Kingston, was the owner and operator of Bowmar Steel Industries Inc., a steel fabrication company, and Teleconstructors Inc., which provided installation services on cellular phone towers. Marston was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from his employees’ paychecks and paying those funds over to the IRS.

    However, from approximately March 2015 through December 2018, Marston caused Bowmar Steel and Teleconstructors to not withhold taxes or pay them to the IRS on approximately $3.8 million in wages.

    In total, Kenneth Marston caused a tax loss to the IRS of between $550,000 and $1.5 million.

    Marston is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 3. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Mark McDonald of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney James R. Drabick for the District of Massachusetts are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: NJBiz’s Matthew Fazelpoor Sits Down With New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s CEO Tim Sullivan Ahead of the NJEDA’s 50th Anniversary

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    Sitting down with Sullivan

    With the anniversary in the backdrop, NJBIZ recently caught up with Sullivan to discuss how the agency has evolved, areas of focus under his leadership during the Murphy administration, what’s next and more.

    “Across the state, I think Gov. Murphy’s strategy of focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship, small businesses, and key sectors like film and television continues to pay huge dividends,” Sullivan told NJBIZ, noting the state’s third place ranking for VC capital dollars invested in the first six months of this year. “Largely through some of the success of sectors like AI, which Gov. Murphy has been really focused on, our teams are really focused on. Whether that’s continued momentum in film and television – you’re going to see a groundbreaking for the Lionsgate Studio in Newark. Netflix is making tons of progress – it’s sort of invisible – on their ambitions down in Monmouth County. You’re seeing the advancement in things like the 1888 Studios project in Bayonne. So – really good momentum across the board, while continuing to focus on things like our small businesses in our downtowns and the cannabis sector in places that are really core to our main street and our equity agenda.”

    Sullivan has led the NJEDA since 2018. He stressed how vital partnerships are to successful economic development. “It’s very rare, with regard to economic development, that you can pass a law or stand up a program – and just sort of leave it out on the stoop and hope something good happens,” he said. “You’ve got to really work closely with the private sector; with nonprofits; with academia; with investors – to structure transactions and bring them together.”

    He pointed to the recent groundbreaking of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center campus redevelopment project in Newark — a complicated deal that involves a number of stakeholders, partners and moving parts; as well as the recent topping of the New Jersey Health and Life Sciences Exchange (HELIX) in New Brunswick.

    Sullivan described both projects as a “big coalition of the willing.”

    “And that’s what usually brings these big, transformative projects together,” he explained. “In economic development, when it makes sense for us to act and be involved, and usually invest money, it’s because there’s either a market failure or because there is something where we are trying to sort of build or strengthen a competitive advantage for the state. And investment in real estate in our downtown communities, for example, is a good example of market failure – without tax credits, without some of the pretty highly structured stuff that the NJPAC project includes as does things like the HELIX and Loew’s Theater in Jersey City, and various other things.”

    He said that the NJEDA is trying to act on those opportunities, which requires coordination, collaboration and partnerships with a variety of entities. “And it’s not the kind of the thing where the government just waves a magic wand and sort of makes the economy better,” Sullivan said. “The economy is driven by the private sector. We know that. And that’s a critically important part of our approach.”

    Expanding the toolkit

    The CEO credited the governor and Legislature for the expansion of the resources and breadth of what the agency has been empowered to do. “Our toolkit was good – but it was a bit narrow in terms of who our typical partners were,” he explained. “And those are good partners to have. Those are large companies – big real estate developers. Those are important partners. But whether it’s looking at things like child care, food security, small business – broadly. The EDA has always had a small business effort – and that’s important. But we’ve put it on steroids and then some under Gov. Murphy’s leadership. We’re now supporting thousands of businesses, small businesses every year.”

    And whether the NJEDA and other state officials are in Paterson or Camden – or even Canada as was the sight of a recent Choose New Jersey-organized, Murphy-led economic trade mission – Sullivan stressed that the state’s toolkit is as good as any in the country for being able to solve whatever problem or opportunity might present itself.
    “Compared to 2018, we have custom-built tools – 10 or 12 – for small businesses, not just here’s a grant or here’s a loan,” he continued. “We’ve got different sorts of ways to intervene and be helpful. On innovation, we’ve probably got 20 to 25 programs that help companies at different stages of their life cycle. On real estate, we’ve got seven or eight really large-scale programs to support community development. We’ve got manufacturing tools. We’ve got child care supports. We’ve got food security interventions. And so, the range in depth and breadth of what Gov. Murphy and the Legislature have empowered the EDA to do – it’s pretty broad and it’s pretty striking.”

    In discussing the evolution of the agency, Sullivan stressed those efforts responding to the pandemic as well as some of the scrutiny agency faced a few years back, including audits, investigations and hearings into its tax incentive programs.

    “It forced us to get better and get our house in order,” he said. “In regard to how we do things like compliance and making sure that we know what bargain are we signing up for; what bargain is the applicant signing up for. In the comptroller’s audit, the very first sort of major critique of the EDA back in the early days, talked about that we didn’t have a good enough handle on – were the jobs that people said they were creating real, and could we really account for them?”

    That led to a strong technology partnership with the Department of Labor & Workforce Development to address that issue. Sullivan said that’s not only helped NJEDA as a whole, but especially during the pandemic when everything needed to be implemented at scale.

    “The work that was done and continues to happen every single day to make sure we are getting it right on the foundational elements of compliance and oversight and all that builds the foundation and gives us the ability to execute better on a bigger scale,” said Sullivan. “If you can’t do the foundational stuff right, you forfeit the right to do anything – but particularly, big, complicated things.”

    Another major recent development for the agency was moving the New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission under the NJEDA’s ambit and the hiring of Jon Crowley as its new executive director in March. The production industry has been growing here, with high-profile projects recently completed or in the works in the Garden State, including the “Happy Gilmore” sequel.

    “The film commission is a hugely important part of the strategy,” said Sullivan. “And the members of the commission are really great advisers to the governor and the state about the needs of the industry and the opportunities in film and TV industry.”

    He stressed that the state has done really well in the film and television industry over the last few years. “And the best is yet to come,” Sullivan said, noting how great it is for stars like Adam Sandler and others to be in New Jersey — and for crew and staff to be spending dollars here and frequenting local spots during production.

    “Because once Netflix, Lionsgate and 1888 are open, they’re going to work really hard to keep those things full – year-round, all-the-time, with permanent jobs. You’re going to have shows – hopefully filming multiple seasons in New Jersey, both inside the soundstage and also out in New Jersey’s locations. Unless you need to film a shot on the moon or in the Sahara, you can pretty much make New Jersey look like anywhere in the world. We’ve got main streets. We’ve got downtowns. We’ve got farms. We’ve mountains and hills. We’ve got the beach.”

    Sullivan, a New Jersey native, said that leading this organization during such a critical time has been a fun challenge to broaden and deepen what the NJEDA focuses on and how it approaches strategic challenges. He said it’s possible because of the governor’s focus and commitment to economic growth and development, especially from an equity standpoint.

    “We have the high-class challenge of more opportunities and more resources to accomplish them,” he said. “But we’re really fortunate to have a great team at the EDA. Some of those are folks that have been here a long time. Some are folks who have joined in the last few years. And we’re supported by a great board. We’ve got great leaders from the private sector and the public sector on our board. And it’s a challenge made possible – or made easier – by great colleagues and lots of support and resources from the governor.”

    Looking ahead

    As for the areas of focus, especially as the governor and his administration enter the final year in office, Sullivan said that Murphy intends to sprint through the tape. “And he means it – I promise. Because he’s working his butt off. And if anything, running harder and running faster in late ’24 than ever before,” Sullivan said. “We will continue to push forward and make sure we can get done and finish up – or kind of get to lift-speed a lot of the different initiatives. AI has been something that we have talked about in the last year or so. There’s a heck of a lot of work left to do on things like the Princeton AI Hub and getting that all buttoned up. Offshore wind will remain a major priority for Gov. Murphy and our team.”

    He said that the outcome of the election will affect the future of offshore wind one way or the other. Sullivan also cited issues like film and television production, child care, economic security, small businesses and more as other areas of focus in this stretch.

    “Making sure we deliver on all of the things we’ve said we were going to do will keep us more than busy for the next 15, 16 months for sure,” said Sullivan.

    He also addressed the agency’s continuing evolution. “I think as we look to the future, no matter who the governor is and no matter what party or ideology she or he might have – both the next governor and 10 to 15 governors to come – the economy’s always going to be incredibly important,” said Sullivan. “It’s the engine that fuels not just prosperity and quality of life in the state – but also the ability to pay for things. Go back to Gov. Murphy’s articulation of a stronger and fairer New Jersey. A stronger New Jersey begets a fairer New Jersey because you have more resources to pay for it – and ways to narrow those inequality gaps. I think that’s going to be a challenge and an opportunity for many, many governors to come.”

    He said the agency is trying to make sure it’s ready to deliver on whatever the strategy of the governor is at the time.

    The conversation closed with Sullivan reflecting on what it has meant to lead NJEDA in his native state during such a critical and notable time.

    “I’ve had the extraordinarily good fortune of a governor and a Legislature that wants to support what we’re doing – and not just in words, but with resources and with programs as well as the ability to work with some really great colleagues,” said Sullivan. “I’m really proud of the work we’ve done. Whether it’s the high-profile stuff or the behind-the-scenes, lower-profile stuff – that I think has just as big an impact as the high-profile stuff.”

    Sullivan said that he believes the Authority has made a huge difference – pointing to the addition of 250,000 jobs since the governor took office while turning the tide on a lot of longstanding challenges in the state economy.

    “But we have real work left to do. No one should expect to see a ‘mission accomplished’ sign on anything anytime soon,” Sullivan stressed. “The work of continuing to close yawning inequalities and disparities between folks who are doing great and folks who just need an opportunity to do great – that work goes on. It’ll take a lifetime of work. I’m really proud of the progress we’ve made – and very, very conscious of the work left to be done.”

    Getting small businesses through tough times

    NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello, who has served at the NJEDA since 2005 through the administrations of Govs. Codey (acting), Corzine, Christie, and Murphy, said that each governor puts their own on touch on things in terms of economic development.

    “And that’s the great thing about democracy. The people elect who the governor’s going to be. The governor sets the policy. The EDA administers the policy set by the governor,” Coviello told NJBIZ. “And have been fortunate to have a lot of governors that have entrusted quite a bit to the EDA. I think the pandemic was a real turning point for the organization.”

    She reflected on the agency working around the clock to step up and help small businesses during the throes of the pandemic.

    “And we’ve done that before as an organization. Superstorm Sandy – EDA was called upon to support those businesses,” she continued. “But it maybe was just starting to get us warmed up for what we saw during the pandemic. And I’m particularly proud of how the organization responded during that time. But what’s great is we now have a much broader view of what economic development is. We’ve really grown our scope.”

    Coviello said that when she joined the organization, it was primarily a lender.

    “Then, we started to get into venture and equity,” she said. “And then under Tim and Gov. Murphy, it’s really a holistic approach. They’ve secured a lot more federal funding. They’ve secured a lot more state funding, which has given us a considerable amount more flexibility.”

    Areas like workforce, child care and small business support, Coviello explained, require more than just a loan.

    “I think our vision has grown tremendously over the 50 years since the organization started,” said Coviello. “But no more so than in the last seven that I have seen.”

    High praise

    In a statement to NJBIZ, Murphy lauded Sullivan and the NJEDA team for their work throughout his administration.

    “Tim Sullivan’s record of achievement as CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority ranks him as one of the finest leaders in the 50-year history of the Authority,” Murphy told NJBIZ. “Tim and his team have created good-paying jobs for New Jerseyans and have provided resources and created opportunities for small businesses to grow and thrive after the pandemic. Under Tim’s leadership, the State has also supported New Jersey’s innovators and attracted major film studios. The incentive programs created by Tim and his team have reignited a growing and expanding film and television industry.”

    “With Tim at the helm of NJEDA, New Jersey’s economic programs are a national model for sustainable and equitable growth,” the governor said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton

    Source: US State of Florida

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas Adjutant General of Florida, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates on preparedness efforts for Hurricane Milton.

    As of 11 a.m. ET, Hurricane Milton is located about 720 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida, with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph. Milton is forecast to move near or just north of the Yucatan Peninsula today and Tuesday, then cross the eastern Gulf of Mexico and approach the west coast of Florida by Wednesday.

    Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-215, amending EO 24-214 and declaring a state of emergency for 51 counties.

    To learn more about navigating hurricane season, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.

    State Preparedness Efforts

    • The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 since Tuesday, September 24, for Hurricane Helene, and is at a Level 1 for Hurricane Milton as of October 6, leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
    • The State Emergency Response Team is engaged in over 600 missions to assist counties in their preparedness efforts. These missions accomplish vital tasks like staging resources to deploy for immediate response as soon as it is safe to do so, protecting critical infrastructure facilities like hospitals and utility stations, and coordinating personnel statewide.
    • FDEM is establishing a 10,000-person base camp at Tropicana Field to support ongoing debris operations and post-landfall responders.
    • FDEM is coordinating the deployment of fuel and EV chargers to pre-stage along evacuation routes to support evacuations.
    • The Florida Department of Veteran’s Affairs (FDVA) storm preparations are underway at all State Veterans’ Nursing Homes in anticipation of Hurricane Milton’s landfall.
    • All outpatient appointments on Monday will be converted to virtual or rescheduled for the C. W. “Bill” Young VA Medical Center in Bay Pines. The VA Regional Office in St. Petersburg is also closed Monday.
    • The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7/365 for virtual care and tele-emergency care to support Florida Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care. Call 1-877-741-3400.
    • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Regional Law Enforcement Coordination Teams (RLECT) are operational in Tampa, Orlando and Fort Myers.
    • FDLE aviation assets are prepositioned ahead of the storm.
    • The FDLE Sworn Training Unit cut team is on stand-by and ready to deploy. The team helps make temporary, emergency repairs to the homes of first responders so they can quickly get back to work after a storm.
    • Maintenance is complete on all equipment used during Hurricane Helene and Operation Blue Ridge. The equipment, including command buses, sleeping quarters and generators, is ready for deployment.
    • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has readied high-water vehicles and all other storm response resources statewide so they may be rapidly deployed to assist Floridians in need in the event of damage or flooding. Contingency plans based on forecasted landfall locations have been developed and remain flexible based on the storm’s projected path.
    • In addition to local officers, approximately 75, FWC officers are ready to deploy and respond with a variety of specialized equipment as necessary, such as:
      • Airboats
      • Shallow draft boats
      • ATVs/Side-by-sides
      • Larger platform vessels
      • Four-wheel vehicles
      • Specialized high water vehicles
    • FWC Special Operations Group (SOG) teams will serve as reconnaissance units for the state and report on damage after the storm has made landfall.
    • FWC Aviation Section has been placed on standby and has readied all appropriate aircraft for potential deployment for aerial assistance, reconnaissance, and post-storm damage assessments when needed.

    Health and Human Services

    • The Florida Department of Health (DOH) deployed nearly 600 emergency response vehicles on the I-4 Corridor in preparation for the storm.
    • The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has initiated an event in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS). Health care providers in the have been requested to provide information on census, available beds, evacuation status, accepting evacuees and generator needs from counties declared under EO-24-114. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
      • 64 health care facilities have reported evacuations. This includes:
      • 21 assisted living facilities
      • 4 Hospitals
      • 33 nursing home
      • 1 residential treatment centers for Children and Adolescents
      • 4 residential treatment centers
      • 1 Hospice
    • AHCA is conducting daily calls with the Florida Hospital Association and Florida Healthcare Association to ensure nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals are prepared and have their needs met ahead of Hurricane Milton.
    • The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is working with Florida’s ports and fuel industry partners to ensure adequate fuel supplies are available, and with Florida’s agricultural partners so producers have adequate resources.
    • The Florida Forest Service is staging equipment, like high-water vehicles, dump trucks, bulldozers, and front-end loaders to assist with road clearing.
    • The Florida Forest Service and the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement are supporting efforts to expedite debris removal in the Tampa Bay region.
    • Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has approved an emergency order temporarily suspending the intrastate movement requirements for the transportation of animals and livestock fleeing Hurricane Milton. In addition, the following states have waived their interstate import requirements for Florida pets, horses and livestock leaving the state: Alabama, Georgia (does not include livestock), Mississippi, and North Carolina.
    • The Department is working to connect evacuating horse owners with open public and private facilities across the state.
    • The Florida State Fairgrounds has opened the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center on a first come first serve basis for horse owners that are in the direct path of Hurricane Milton. To learn more and reserve a spot, visit floridastatefair.com/equestrian.
    • The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) is contacting all our Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates on their ongoing preparation efforts and gather the status of any unmet needs.
    • The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) continues response and pre-landfall protocols and communication with APD-operated facilities, regions, and providers to provide updates on Hurricane Milton and check the status of clients and residents, while simultaneously anticipating unmet needs in potentially affected areas.
    • The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is preparing for Hurricane Milton and ensuring providers in potentially impacted areas have the resources they need for the storm.
    • The Department has secured supplies to ensure readiness in the event the Hope Bus is needed for deployment after landfall.
    • The State Mental Health Treatment Facilities have activated their disaster preparation plans and are assessing facility readiness.
    • DCF has begun contacting foster families, adult protective services clients, and licensed providers in the storm’s path to ensure preparedness.
    • DCF is making preliminary preparations for staffing shelters, delivering emergency supplies, and directing generators to critical human services infrastructure.
    • DCF has instructed all contracted vendors to deploy their Disaster Preparedness Plan.
    • DCF is providing information about Hope Florida to storm shelters, domestic violence shelters, and Continuums of Care ahead of the storm.

    Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures

    • The Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Hurricane Milton statewide preparedness efforts include clearing shoulders in preparation for potential Emergency Should Use (ESU):
      • Currently analyzing flooding vulnerabilities for major roadways and bridges.
      • Inspecting and clearing drainage systems, monitoring flood-prone and currently saturated areas, and pre-positioning pumps as appropriate.
      • Monitoring interstate traffic speeds and levels for the potential implementation of Emergency Should Use (ESU) to assist with evacuations if necessary.
      • Securing high mast lighting, maintenance yards, active construction projects, rest areas/welcome centers, service plazas, and weigh stations that had returned to normal since Hurricane Helene.
      • Barges at the Howard Frankland Bridge project is being secured.
      • FDOT has suspended construction projects with lane closures within all counties statewide located on all interstates and Florida Turnpike facilities.
      • Replenishing fuel reserves, checking generator readiness, and pre-positioning assets as appropriate.
      • Completing repairs on malfunctioning vehicles and equipment in preparation for deployment.
      • Initiated communication with modal partners – seaports, airports, railroads, transit, and spaceports. All partners are currently in monitoring posture.
      • Staging ITS trailers, as well as drone teams and equipment are being prepped and ready to deploy as needed.
      • Expanded Road Ranger Service across the impact zones.
    • Resources prepped and staged strategically (close to the projected path for quick implementation)
      • Cut & Toss Ops = 328 team members on standby
      • Over 1,015 generators
      • Over 350 pieces of heavy equipment and trucks
      • 67 pumps pre-positioned
      • Satellite internet equipment= 58 Starlink devices
      • Over 1,900 team members on standby for various emergency response efforts, including, damage assessment, flooding, traffic signals outages, etc.
      • FDOT has 20 drone pilots on standby
      • 8 ITS trailers staged
      • Over 150 bridge inspectors on standby
    • FDOT has removed 139,718 cubic yards of debris statewide (66,278 from state roads and 73,440 from local roads).
    • FDOT is supporting our local communities with supplemental sand and debris removal from local roads on the barrier islands in Pinellas and Manatee counties.
    • At the direction of Gov. DeSantis, FDOT is coordinating debris removal assignments for the Florida National Guard, Florida State Guard, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Department of Agriculture, amongst others, who have activated available state personnel and resources to clear and haul remaining debris.
    • Approximately 450 truckloads and 8,100 cubic yards of debris have been removed from Pinellas barrier islands.
    • FDOT encourages drivers to download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com for road/bridge closures and potential detours that may be activated. Remember to always follow the direction of local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
    • Transportation Modes:
      • Seaports, Airports, Rail, and Transit partners are monitoring storm conditions.
      • Please check with your airline or transportation service provider directly about potential service impacts.
      • Transit agencies in the impacted area are offering evacuation transportation to shelters. Please check with your local transit provider for schedules.
      • SunRail operations will be suspended starting Tuesday, October 8
    • Following the issuance of the Governor’s Executive Order, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued an Emergency Final Order allowing for the activation of disaster debris management sites to store and process storm generated solid waste and debris.
    • DEP’s Emergency Final Order also removes barriers for expediting necessary repair, replacement and restoration of structures, including coastal structures, equipment, surface water management systems, works and other systems that may be damaged by the storm.
    • DEP is coordinating with Landfill Strike Teams to assess Disaster Debris Management Sites (DDMS) operating as a result of Hurricane Helene.
    • For counties and local governments in need of additional debris disposal locations, especially ahead of Hurricane Milton, DEP has approved all pending DDMS site activation requests and stands ready to approve the activation of any additional pre-authorized or new DDMSs that may be needed.
      • Currently, 193 DDMS have been authorized to operate.
    • Hurricane Helene kicked up significant amounts of sediment and sand along the coastlines in and along its path. DEP is working with local governments to manage the excess sand and continue removal efforts.
      • For sand that has accumulated on private properties, residents should return it to the beach if it appears clean, smells fresh and is free of debris. If the sand contains debris, residents should contact their local government to find the nearest disposal site. DEP has worked with counties to establish temporary staging areas to properly screen the sand before it is returned to the beach.
    • DEP is working with Florida’s Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), the Florida Rural Water Association and other response agencies to ensure preparations are underway to support drinking and wastewater facilities ahead of Hurricane Milton.
    • Florida’s water management districts are engaging local governments and drainage operators throughout the state and are available to provide technical and other support, including deploying temporary pumps to alleviate localized flooding. As part of standard operations, DEP and Florida’s water management districts continue to monitor water systems and river levels as the storm develops.
    • DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated of closures: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
    • The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has staged high-water rescue vehicles in preparation for landfall of Hurricane Milton.
    • FHP is mobilizing 74 Quick Response Force (QRF) Troopers to stage in preparation for the incoming storm.
    • FHP is providing security at the Pinellas County Landfill and assisting with traffic entering and exiting.
    • All FHP Troops statewide will be going to Alpha/Bravo shifts effective Tuesday., October 8 (Troop C-Tampa area will begin this on 10/7/24 at 6 a.m.). All days off will be canceled.
    • FHP will be assisting with debris cleanup in the Tampa area.
    • FHP is working with its partners at FDOT to prepare and implement the Emergency Shoulder Use (ESU) plan for evacuations in the Tampa area.
    • FHP is assisting with traffic control in Taylor County and outside Tropicana Field for debris cleanup crews.
    • FHP is providing security at multiple fuel sites across the state.
    • FHP is assisting with community patrols in Taylor County.
    • FHP air support and drone assets are staged and prepared to deploy when needed.
    • The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is actively preparing mitigation measures by deploying evacuation assets and identifying areas of evacuation. Updates will be made available to the public at http://www.fdc.myflorida.com/weather-updates.
    • The Florida Department of Education (DOE) is actively monitoring Hurricane Milton and is working with school districts as they begin preparation efforts. The Department is also in close contact with districts that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene and will assist them with addressing critical needs ahead of the storm. Updates on school closures can be found at FLDOE.org/storminfo.

    Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers

    • The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is staging assets and personnel across 13 offices statewide and is prepared to surge resources to areas impacted by Hurricane Helene that receive a second impact from Hurricane Milton.
    • Updates on business closures and business resources are consistently being updated at FloridaDisaster.biz.
    • FloridaCommerce activated the private sector hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
    • FloridaCommerce is hosting daily private sector coordination calls. Briefings will be provided by Emergency Support Functions and private sector partners. For call information email ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
    • VISIT FLORIDA Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia, Priceline and Booking.com will remain available to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
    • The Florida Small Business Development Center Network (SBDC) has pulled their Helene Mobile Assistance Centers from the field and will redeploy once storm conditions have passed.
    • The Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) issued a proclamation to financial institutions and securities professionals. In addition, the OFR offers online resources to Floridians who may need help finding information about their financial services provider(s), including state-chartered banks and credit unions, mortgage servicers, and other financial businesses and professionals.
    • OIR, in coordination with the Florida Department of Health (DOH), sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-215. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains, and health care providers. Information can be found here.

      For previous updates see below:
      10/6/2024 (1)
      10/6/2024 (2)

      Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Milton.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manufacturing Week Middlesex Student Feature

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    National Manufacturing Week runs from October 4–11, 2024.

    CT State Middlesex student Bethany Crum was born in Jackson, Michigan, but spent her high school years at Middletown High School. Focused on her future after graduation, Bethany chose to take a year off from school to work full-time and learn how to manage living independently.

    Bethany was inspired by her father’s advice about the stability of a career in CNC machining. Encouraged by her grandmother, Donna Crum, who is the program director of the radiology program at Middlesex—along with guidance counselors—Bethany enrolled in the college’s Machine Manufacturing Technology program.

    Juggling full-time work and part-time classes, Bethany excelled, especially in the Precision Machining class with professor Joseph Duhaine, whose hands-on teaching gave Bethany the foundational skills she needed.

    “I loved this course because it was my first time being able to get my hands on a machine and Joseph gave me the foundation that I needed to spend years cutting metal. He was very thorough in his education, making sure we could manually turn/mill down to tight tolerances, while also maintaining patience and understanding for those of us who had no prior experience,” said Bethany.

    After earning a Machine Manufacturing Technology Certificate from CT State Middlesex with honors in 2023, Bethany is pursuing an A.S. in Manufacturing Machine Technology and aiming for a four-year degree in mechanical engineering.

    Networking during college led her to a job at The Lee Company, where she manufactures microhydraulic components for aerospace applications.

    “My current title is CNC machinist IV, working for the Chek Valve group manufacturing microhydraulic components for aerospace applications. My responsibilities include the setup, loading and operation of two high-tech machines to perform operations that include drilling, milling, turning, grinding and facing. I work from blueprints with tolerances as tight as +/- 0.00025” and frequently have the need to read through and interpret G-Code. I perform weekly preventative maintenance on the machines to ensure that they are long lived,” Bethany explained.

    Looking to the future, Bethany plans to further her education and join The Lee Company’s engineering department, believing her practical experience would help improve processes.

    She advises prospective students to explore all of CT State Middlesex’s opportunities, emphasizing the support and resources available to help them succeed.

    “It’s a place with several opportunities for growth, and provides students with many assistance programs. I have been fortunate enough to not pay for my tuition the past few years because of scholarships from the Middlesex Community College Foundation,” Bethany added. “The school offers free semester rentals of Wi-Fi hotspots, computers and advanced calculators for students who are unable to acquire their own. The college even offers free tutoring for students who want to study more effectively. Middlesex is a place that will truly work to help students succeed so they can open more doors in their future.”

    October 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Quigley Statement on One-Year Anniversary of Attack on Israel

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

    Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley(IL-05) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel:

    “One year ago today, the world witnessed the greatest assault on the Jewish people in Israel’s history. Hamas carried out the brutal murder of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 251 innocent people. The attack horrified people across the globe and alarmed all nations who value international law and human rights. For the hostages still being held by Hamas and their families, the nightmare is not over. Today, over 60 hostages and the remains of over 30 more are still being held in Gaza. To the victims, the hostages, and their families, we will not give up until all hostages are returned.

    “Here in the United States, I have been disheartened to see the rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia over the past year. We can and must find ways to disagree about policy without attacking and degrading entire groups of people. Antisemitic language and conspiracy theories have no place in our communities.

    “I continue to support Israel’s right to self-defense as well as its goal of dismantling Hamas and bringing the hostages home. There is a clear path forward to reach these aims.

    “The ceasefire deal President Biden proposed earlier this year is our best course of action. It outlines a clear path to peace for Israelis and Palestinians after a year of war. A ceasefire agreement is in Israel’s best interest, as it will ensure their long-term security and stabilize threats from outside actors. Recent escalation in the region has increased the urgency of reaching an agreement – for Israel and for all of the Middle East. 

    “The path forward must also consider the conditions impacting the Palestinian people. For them, a two-state solution remains the only tenable diplomatic resolution to this crisis. The Arab states have an obligation to oversee reforms to the Palestinian Authority, so Palestinians have a legitimate governing body that works on their behalf. This is critical if we are to ensure lasting peace for not just Palestinians, but for Israelis. Israelis and Palestinians both have a right to exist peacefully and the United States must work toward that end.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Releases Statement Marking One Year Since Deadly October 7th Hamas Terrorist Attacks Against Israel

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis released the following statement, one year after the horrific October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel.

    “Today, we commemorate and reflect on one year since the horrific Hamas attacks against Israel. October 7 is seared in memory as the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. A day when families were attacked in their homes and in their daily lives, shattering the basic right to safety. A day when mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children, neighbors, friends were taken hostage in Gaza.

    These heinous attacks ignited a year of war, pain, loss, and devastation. And one year later, we continue to fight for the urgent release of the remaining one hundred or so hostages, including seven Americans, from captivity, and plea for greater peace and respect for human rights in the region.

    The hostages still in captivity today include Ariel Bibas who was 9 months old when he was taken hostage, and 86 year old Shlomo Mantzu. It is time to bring them and all those in Hamas captivity home now.

    Since October 7, we’ve seen antisemitism as well as Islamophobia rear its ugly head across the world. In Colorado, we stand strong against antisemitism and Islamophobia. Hate and violence have no home in Colorado. Not today, not one year ago, not ever.

    We continue the work to build a Colorado for All where every person can live safely and thrive.

    Just as we mourn the memory of those killed in Israel, we also mourn the heartbreaking loss of life in Gaza and Lebanon. May their memory be for a blessing. And may we soon know the safe return of the hostages and peace for the region.

    It is imperative that all sides strive for a negotiated, diplomatic end to the devastating violence, and a return of all hostages to their homes.”

    ###
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeLauro Recognizes One Year Since October 7 Terrorist Attacks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03)

    Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement marking one year since the Hamas terrorist attacks that resulted in the loss of 1,195 Israeli lives, hundreds of hostages held by Hamas, and has spurred the ongoing conflict in the region:

    “On October 7, Israel faced the most devastating terrorist attack in its history. My heart breaks for the lives lost and the families torn apart. Earlier this year, I went to Kibbutz Be’eri and saw the homes where so many were massacred, to the site of the supernova Sukkot Gathering music festival that Hamas attacked, and met repeatedly with families of those taken in the Hostage Square. I continue to stand with Israel and support its right to defend itself from threats – whether it be Hamas’s terrorist violence, Hezbollah’s aggression, or Iran’s ballistic missile attacks. October 7th also brought an unacceptable rise in antisemitism that we must fight.

    “It is time we finally bring the remaining hostages held by Hamas home. All future actions must respect Palestinian lives and keep open a two-state solution as the only route to peace. As I have said previously, the United States stands firmly with our ally Israel, and it will have what it needs to ensure its security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REP LIEU STATEMENT ON ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF OCTOBER 7 ATTACK

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

    LOS ANGELES – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attacks in Israel.

    “Today marks one year since Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Hamas terrorists systematically brutalized, raped, and maimed scores of innocent Israelis, killing more than 1,200 people in what was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas also killed Americans who were in Israel. Hamas kidnapped 251 people, and we desperately await the return of the 101 hostages still being held captive today. I share in the grief of so many who experienced or were horrified to witness what transpired that day.

    “Compounding the grief has been the alarming surge in antisemitism we’ve seen this year. Following October 7, Jewish people around the world have been subjected to an unprecedented increase of hate and vitriol. My own Jewish constituents have been the victims of abhorrent acts of violence and bigotry, and it breaks my heart that people in our communities are being targeted or made to feel unsafe because of their faith. As a co-Chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, I am committed to rooting out antisemitism and the insidious ways hate spreads in our communities. Like any form of bigotry, antisemitism should be condemned in the strongest terms. 

    “As we reel from a profoundly difficult year, we cannot lose sight of how the horrors of October 7 have destroyed families and reshaped communities forever. I mourn all the innocent civilian lives lost that day and throughout the ensuing conflict. I share President Biden and Vice President Harris’ view that Israel has the absolute right to defend itself. The United States will continue to work with Israel to bring home the hostages, protect innocent lives, and achieve durable peace in the Middle East.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Machines to be removed for cashless parking

    Source: City of York

    Published Monday, 7 October 2024

    In the coming weeks a number of parking machines will be removed as the council moves to cashless parking.

    In February it was agreed at a decision session that the majority of the council’s car parking would go cashless as the council looked to save money by removing the costs of maintaining machines and also avoiding the risk of thefts. 

    This followed a consultation with residents in the Summer of 2023 which proposed removing all cash payment machines in council car parks. However, after feedback from the consultation it was agreed that cash payments would still be accepted in two council car parks, Bootham Row and Castle Car Park. 

    Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport said:

    Ahead of the changes being made as we move to cashless on-street parking we wanted to update residents.

    “While 90% of payments are made by credit card we are aware that some still prefer to pay cash so want to support them through this change. After listening to feedback we are keeping machines for people to pay by cash in at Bootham Row and Castle Car Park.”

    Currently out of over 1.5 million transactions in the last year 10 per cent of the parking income was from cash payments. On street parking accounts for 6 per cent of parking income in the city and there would have been a need to upgrade over 50 parking machines at significant cost.

    In the coming weeks on-street car parking machines will be removed. Information stickers will be added to machines to give residents early warning. Blue badge holders can continue to park free as per usual.

    Information on how to pay for car parking by phone can be found on the council website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Opening: 7-10 October plenary session

    Source: European Parliament 3

    President Metsola marked the one-year anniversary of terrorist attacks in Israel at the opening of the 7-10 October plenary session in Strasbourg.

    Recalling the horror of that day “that will live in infamy”, President Metsola said nothing could ever justify the indiscriminate mass murder, rape, kidnapping and torture that occurred one year ago. Since then, too few have been able to make it back to their loved ones – “this house will continue to do what we can to help bring them all home”, she said.

    The 7 October attacks triggered a cycle of war, death and devastation that has seen thousands killed in Gaza, and instability across the region, President Metsola stated. In remembering all those lost and taken, the President added that “Parliament’s calls for the immediate release of the remaining hostages will remain steadfast, our calls for ceasefire will remain resolute, and our efforts towards de-escalation will remain strong.” The work for real, dignified, long-term and sustainable peace will remain unwavering, she concluded.

    MEPs held a minute of silence in memory of all the innocent lives lost.

    Changes to the agenda

    Monday

    The sitting is extended to 23:00.

    Tuesday

    The Question Time on the Situation of animal health in Europe: how to prevent and prepare for future sanitary crises in agriculture is postponed. As a consequence, the sitting will finish at 21:00.

    Wednesday

    The Parliament statements on The recent devastating floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with one round of political groups’ speakers, is added as the first point in the afternoon.

    The title of the debate and resolution under Rule 150 on The case of Bülent Mumay in Turkey is adapted to The case of Bülent Mumay in Türkiye.

    Information concerning the distribution of votes is available under the section “Priority information”.

    Outgoing MEPs

    Marcin Kierwiński (EPP, Poland) as of 25 September

    Incoming MEPs

    Csaba Dömötör (PfE, Hungary) as of 22 September

    Tomáš Kubín (PfE, Czechia) as of 1 August

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Minister Joly to mark one year since Hamas’s terrorist attacks against Israel

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement marking one year since Hamas’s terrorist attacks against Israel: “Today we commemorate one year since Hamas’s horrific terrorist attack on October 7.

    October 7, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement marking one year since Hamas’s terrorist attacks against Israel:

    “Today we commemorate one year since Hamas’s horrific terrorist attack on October 7.

    “One year since innocent people were murdered only because they were Israeli in what constituted the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Nothing can justify the violence and terror unleashed that day, and nothing can take away the pain from that day.

    “We remember those who were murdered, as well as those injured and those taken hostage. Canada mourns victims of our own among the innocent people killed by Hamas: Judih Weinstein, Vivian Silver, Ben Mizrachi, Netta Epstein, Shir Georgy, Alexandre Look and Adi Vital-Kaploun, as well as those with strong ties to Canada, including Tiferet Lapidot.

    “We also remember those who suffered horrific acts of sexual and gender-based violence by Hamas, and we remember those who bore witness to those unspeakable acts of violence.

    “It has been one year, and innocent people are still being held hostage by Hamas. Their friends and families await their return in unimaginable pain.

    “Canada will not stop calling for the immediate release of each person who is still unjustifiably held hostage by terrorists. This includes returning the bodies of those brutally killed while in captivity: families must be able to bury their loved ones in peace and dignity.

    “We must all stand up to the rising tide of antisemitism and hate we see in our own country that has only worsened since October 7.

    “Canada continues to unequivocally condemn Hamas, a listed terrorist organization backed by Iran, in the strongest possible terms. Far too many civilians have been killed in this conflict, and Canada will continue to work tirelessly with its partners to bring peace and security to the Middle East and remain committed to working towards an irreversible path to achieving a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live securely within internationally recognised borders.

    Today, as we remember and reflect let us not lose sight of our shared humanity and the future that is possible for this generation and those who will follow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Collaboration between the UK and Guatemala to enhance the armed forces’ strategic capabilities

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK Ministry of Defence and Cranfield University will deliver a one-week Strategic Leadership Programme.

    Representatives of the Armed forces and civil ministries of Guatemala will attend the course at the Higher Command of Army Education (COSEDE), starting today 7 October.

    Participants will develop key strategic leadership skills including decision making under pressure, long-term planning and personal development. The course will also address influencing and motivation and building effective relationships within teams. Participants will also discuss strategic leadership as a tool to understand defence capabilities and the challenges faced by leaders in this arena.

    Training will conclude with a certificate presentation by the British Defence Attaché for Mexico and Guatemala, Aviator Colonel Simon Stewart and the British Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, Paul Huggins.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reoffending Oxford Street candy shop has illegal sweets, cereal, and crisps incinerated after Environmental Health raid | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    More than 600 items on sale at an Oxford Street candy shop, including American cereal, crisps, and fizzy drinks have been sent to the incinerator after being seized by Westminster City Council’s Environmental Health team.

    With Halloween creeping up on us, unsuspecting Trick or Treaters could have been in for an early fright if officers from the council had not seized the illegal products, which contained additives, colourings and e-numbers banned in the UK.

    Several of the chocolate bars were not labelled in English, meaning consumers were unable to check the products for ingredients, sell by dates, or allergens. Trading Standards teams also uncovered illicit Lucky Charms Cereal, KitKats, Lion Bars and a variety of bottled drinks including Mirinda and Fanta all containing dangerous and harmful ingredients.

    676 items, valued at £2852.75, were confiscated in a raid from 6th September and will now be incinerated.

    It is the latest raid on the same premises which was previously found to be selling Swedish Fish and Hot Tamales sweets, which are banned in the UK due to the impact their additive ingredients can have on children. In the last three months alone, 2,374 non-compliant products were destroyed from this premises.

    Following the seizure, council staff attended Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday 1st October where it the destruction of good was ordered and £3110.25 was awarded.  The business is also required to pay for the destruction.

    Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Adam Hug, said:

    We are continuing to make the lives of unscrupulous traders a nightmare through regular enforcement action and putting pressure on landlords. This collection of illegal sweets was enough to send a shiver down anyone’s spine.

    There are more raids coming in the next few weeks, so I hope traders who seem happy to sell illegal goods to children are ready for a fright.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trump’s new golf course is not welcome

    Source: Scottish Greens

    07 Oct 2024 Nature

    Donald Trump and his new golf course are not welcome in Aberdeenshire.

    More in Nature

    Donald Trump and his new golf course are not welcome in Aberdeenshire, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman following the announcement that the former US President will be opening his new course in Menie next summer.

    Trump’s existing Aberdeenshire course came under significant fire due to numerous environmental concerns, including the irreversible damage from construction leaving the unique sand dunes, a site of special scientific interest, “partially destroyed”. 

    The new course would join his portfolio of golf venues, with membership at his Ayrshire site costing up to £1,000 per month. 

    In February this year, the New York State Supreme Court found Donald Trump guilty of civil fraud, ordering defendants to pay more than $350 million. They were found to have falsely inflated the value of Trump’s assets, including his existing golf course in the region. Donald Trump was also subsequently convicted by a New York jury on 34 counts of falsifying business records. 

    Maggie Chapman, who represents the North East region, slammed the project, saying: “Another Trump vanity project is the last thing we need. We should be protecting our natural environment, not offering it up to a racist climate change-denier with a long history of lies and dodgy business dealings. 

    “Scotland cannot be a country where anyone with the money is able to buy whatever land and property they want without question. He is a thoroughly discredited and dishonest individual. Any land developed should be in the interest of all people, not only those with an expensive hobby.”

    The Scottish Greens have been urging the First Minister to confirm whether or not Trump will be investigated under an Unexplained Wealth Order, a mechanism which allows investigations into “politically exposed persons” like Trump suspected of involvement in serious crime. 

    Chapman continued: “Time and time again, Donald Trump has proven that he is only interested in one thing: himself. He is not welcome here. He is a serial liar and he should not be allowed to encroach even further on the Aberdeenshire landscape than he already has.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary Oral Statement on the Chagos Islands – 7 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, provided an update to the House of Commons on the conclusion of negotiations on the exercise of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory.

    Location:
    House of Commons
    Delivered on:

    With permission, Mr Speaker, I will make a statement on the conclusion of negotiations on the exercise of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory. 

    On Thursday the third of October, my Right Honourable Friend the Prime Minister and Mauritian Prime Minister Jugnauth made an historic announcement.

    After two years of negotiations,…

    …and decades of disagreement,…

    …the UK and Mauritius have reached a political agreement on the future of the British Indian Ocean Territory.

    Mr Speaker, the treaty is neither signed nor ratified.

    But I wanted to update the House on the conclusion of formal negotiations at the earliest opportunity.

    Members will appreciate the context.

    Since its creation, the Territory and the joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia has had a contested existence.

    In recent years, the threat has risen significantly.

    Coming into office, the status quo was clearly not sustainable.

    A binding judgement against the UK seemed inevitable.

    It was just a matter of time before our only choices would have been abandoning the base altogether.

    Or breaking international law.

    If you oppose the deal, which of these alternatives do you prefer?

    Doing this deal – on our terms – was the sole way to maintain the full and effective operations of the base into the future.

    Mr Speaker, this must be why, in November 2022, the then Foreign Secretary, the Right Honourable Member for Braintree, initiated sovereignty negotiations.

    It’s also why my immediate predecessor, Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton, ultimately continued with those talks.

    Under the previous Government there were eleven rounds of negotiations, the last one held just weeks before the General Election was called.

    So, in July, this Government inherited unfinished business.

    Where a threat was real, and inaction was not a strategy.

    Inaction posed several acute risks to the UK.

    First, it threatened the UK-US base.

    From countering malign Iranian activity in the Middle East to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, it is critical for our national security.

    Without surety of tenure, no base can operate effectively – nor truly deter our enemies.

    Critical investment decisions were already being delayed.

    Second, it impacted on our relationship with the US,…

    …who neither wanted nor welcomed the legal uncertainty,…

    …and strongly encouraged us to strike a deal.   

    I am a trans-Atlanticist.

    We had to protect this important relationship.

    And third, it undermined our international standing.

    We are showing that what we mean is what we say on international law and desire for partnerships with the Global South.

    This strengthens our arguments when it comes to issues like Ukraine or the South China Sea.

    Mr Speaker, further legal wrangling served nobody’s interests but our adversaries’.

    In a more volatile world,…

    …a deal benefited us all,…

    …the UK, US and Mauritius.

    This Government therefore made striking the best possible deal a priority.

    We appointed Jonathan Powell.

    As the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for these negotiations, he has worked closely with a brilliant team of civil servants and lawyers.

    Their goal was a way forward which serves UK national interests,…

    …respects the interests of our partners,…

    …and upholds the international rule of law.

    This agreement fulfils these objectives.

    It is strongly supported by partners,…

    …with Present Biden going so far as to ‘applaud’ our achievement within minutes of the announcement!

    Secretary Blinken and Secretary Austin have also backed this ‘successful outcome’ which ‘reaffirms [our] special defence relationship’.

    And the agreement has been welcomed by the Indian government and commended by the UN Secretary-General.

    In return for agreeing to Mauritian sovereignty over the entire islands, including Diego Garcia,…

    …the UK-US base has an uncontested long-term future.  

    Base operations will remain under full UK control well into the next century.

    Mauritius will authorise us to exercise their sovereign rights and authorities in respect of Diego Garcia.

    This is initially for 99 years, but the UK has the right to extend this.

    And we have full Mauritian backing for robust security arrangements…

    …including preventing foreign armed forces from accessing or establishing themselves on the outer islands.

    The base’s long-term future is therefore more secure under this agreement than without it.

    If this were not the case, I doubt the White House, State Department or Pentagon would have praised the deal so effusively.

    This agreement will be underpinned by a financial settlement that is acceptable to both sides. 

    Members will be aware the Government does not normally reveal payments for our military bases overseas.

    And so it would be inappropriate to publicise further details of these arrangements at this stage.

    Mr Speaker, the agreement also recognises the rights and wrongs of the past.

    The whole House would agree that the manner in which Chagossians were forcibly removed in the 1960s was deeply wrong and regrettable.

    Mauritius is now free to implement a resettlement programme to islands other than Diego Garcia.

    The UK and Mauritius have also committed to support Chagossians’ welfare,…

    …establishing a new Trust Fund capitalised by the UK…

    …and providing additional Government support to Chagossians in the UK.

    And the UK will maintain the pathway for Chagossians to obtain British Citizenship.

    Furthermore, Mauritius and the UK will now establish a new programme of visits to the archipelago for Chagossians. 

    This agreement also ushers in a new era in our relations with Mauritius.

    A Commonwealth nation and Africa’s leading democracy.

    We have agreed to intensify cooperation on our shared priorities, including security, growth and the environment. 

    The agreement ensures continued protection of these islands’ unique environment, home to over two hundred species of coral and over eight hundred species of fish.

    Finally Mr Speaker, I want to reassure the House,…

    …and all members of the UK family worldwide,…

    …that this agreement does not signal any change in policy to Britain’s other Overseas Territories.

    British sovereignty of the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar and the Sovereign Base Areas is not up for negotiation.

    The situations are not comparable.

    This, Mr Speaker, has been acknowledged across our Overseas Territories.

    Fabian Picardo, Chief Minister of Gibraltar, vocally supported this agreement…

    …stating that there is “no possible read across” to Gibraltar on the issue of sovereignty.

    Similarly, the Governor of the Falklands has confirmed that the historic contexts of the Chagos Archipelago and Falklands are “very different”.

    The Government remains firmly committed to modern partnerships with our Overseas Territories based on mutual consent.

    After Mauritian elections, the Government will move towards treaty signature.

    And it is then our intention to pursue ratification in 2025,…

    …by submitting the Treaty and a Bill to this House for scrutiny.

    This is a historic moment, a victory for diplomacy.

    We have saved the base.

    We have secured Britain’s national interests for the long-term.

    I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Oct. 7, Lankford Stands with Israel, Condemns Iran-backed Hamas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – One year since the October 7th terrorist attacks that killed dozens of Americans, Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), along with the entire Senate Republican Conference, introduced a resolution fully condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages. 
    “Israel is America’s closest ally in the Middle East and our partner for peace in the region. They have faced vicious attacks since their founding in 1948, but in the past year the attacks have reached a level never seen in the last half century of Israel. Terror attacks on the streets, rockets and missiles from all four directions and innocent hostages in Gaza have tested Israel’s strength. But, Israel still stands. The United States should stand with Israel in their battle for peace and existence, just as Israel has always stood with us in our battle against terrorism,” said Lankford.
    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
    Lankford is co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Abraham Accords Caucus and the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism. 
    The resolution affirms that America remains united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. It also reiterates Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasizes the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated.
    Click here to view the full resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Multimedia Update – RentRedi Reports Landlords Enjoy 99% On-time Rent Payments When Tenants Use Autopay

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RentRedi, the fastest-growing property management software, released new data that demonstrates the effectiveness of its automatic payments (“autopay”) feature in ensuring landlords collect rent on time. According to data collected between January 2020 and August 2024, units with at least one tenant using RentRedi’s autopay feature reported on-time rent payments 99% of the time. Conversely, units without tenants using autopay had an 88% on-time payment rate.

    The autopay feature is widely used on the RentRedi platform across a variety of rental property types. While units associated with classic residential property categories (single-family residential, duplex, etc.) dominate the top of the list of RentRedi’s autopay users, other property types using automatic payments include sorority and fraternity housing, parking garages, and storage/warehousing facilities.

    Tenants can set up autopay to ensure that their rent payments will be made consistently for the same amount every month. If tenants have not already set up autopay on their own, their landlords can invite them to do so using the rent collection features within the RentRedi app. Tenants who share rent for the same unit can also take advantage of a RentRedi’s ability to allow multiple tenants to set up autopay to split rent charges.

    “We are fundamentally focused on making renting easier for both landlords and tenants, and our autopay feature is proven to benefit both parties,” said RentRedi Co-founder and CEO Ryan Barone. “There is a great incentive for tenants to use the autopay feature, because it removes the risk of missing payments and incurring late fees. This saves tenants time and money, and also provides a more reliable cash flow to landlords.”

    Autopay’s benefits remain consistent for tenants with different economic situations, resulting in similar on-time payment patterns. For example, data collected between January 2020 and August 2024 show that units with tenants that had weaker credit scores still pay 98.8% of their monthly payments on time when using autopay, as opposed to 85.4% for those who do not enable the feature.

    Additionally, RentRedi recently expanded its on-time rent reporting to all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. The ability to report on-time rent payments helps tenants build and boost their credit scores. RentRedi data shows that landlords are likely to see a 13% jump in on-time rent payments when a tenant is benefitting from the RentRedi Credit Boost feature.

    When Credit Boost is combined with autopay, there is added incentive and convenience to being punctual with rent payments. More information about this and other related data can be found in the RentRedi white paper: The Secret Success of Self-Managing Your Rentals.

    Methodology
    For this analysis, as long as one tenant occupying a unit was using autopay at the time of payment, the entire unit is considered to be benefiting from that feature. Payment status categories (on-time, late, and unpaid) are from the same methodology used in the Chandan Economics Independent Landlord Rental Performance Report. Critical features of Chandan Economics’ methodology are:

    • It only includes rent income charges.
    • It only contains charges between $500 and $10,000.
    • It removes units that are inactive for more than two months from the sample.

    About RentRedi

    RentRedi offers an award-winning, comprehensive property management platform that simplifies the renting process for landlords and renters by automating and streamlining processes. For landlords, RentRedi provides all-in-one web and mobile apps to collect rent, list and market vacancies, find and screen tenants, sign leases, and manage maintenance and accounting. For tenants, RentRedi’s easy-to-use mobile app allows them to pay rent, set up auto-pay, build credit by reporting rent payments to major credit agencies, prequalify and sign leases, and submit maintenance requests.

    Founded in 2016, RentRedi is VC-backed and a proven leader in the PropTech market. The company ranks No. 180 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list and No. 12 on the Inc. 5000 Regionals list and was named an Inc. Power Partner, a GetApp Category Leader, a Capterra Established Player, and a G2 High Performer and Momentum Leader based on the software’s user ratings and popularity. To date, RentRedi has more than $28 billion in assets under management with nearly 200,000 landlords and tenants using the platform. The company partners with technology leaders such as Zillow, TransUnion, Experian, Equifax, Realtor.com, Plaid, and Stripe to create the best customer experience possible. For more information visit RentRedi.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e7e94793-dcb4-4849-a9b5-4ecdc323f94f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moncton — Missing 61-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Codiac Regional RCMP is asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 61-year-old man from Moncton, N.B.

    George Alward was last seen on October 1, 2024, near Mountain Road and Mapleton Road in Moncton. He was reported missing to police on October 3. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and his family are concerned for his wellbeing.

    George Alward is described as being approximately 5 feet 8 inches (178 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 148 pounds (67 kilograms). He has green eyes, and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black leather jacket, jeans, and leather cowboy boots.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Codiac Regional RCMP at 506-857-2400.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Atlanta Warns Public of Disaster Scams

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    The FBI and the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) remind the public that there is a increased risk for disaster fraud following Hurricane Helene. There have been reports of scammers claiming to work for contractors and insurance companies targeting Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Suspected fraudulent activity should be reported to the toll-free NCDF hotline at (866) 720-5721. The hotline is staffed by a live operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency reminds those in the disaster zone officials with government disaster assistance agencies do not ask for financial information, and there is no fee required to apply for assistance. If you have Internet access, you can go to fema.gov to apply for assistance directly.

    Here are some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of disaster fraud:

    • Scammers may go door to door to target residents in areas affected by hurricanes. They may also call, text, or e-mail with promises to quickly provide aid. Do not give out personal information without confirming the legitimacy of the person contacting you.
    • Government workers are required to carry official identification and show it if requested. Closely scrutinize any ID you see and call the agency directly to confirm a worker’s identity if you are unsure.
    • Do your homework when it comes to donations. Research charity reviews online, state regulators of charities, and charity reports and ratings via the Better Business Bureau.
    • Never make charitable donations by gift card or wire transfer. Credit cards are safer.
    • Don’t believe your caller ID. Scammers often spoof agency phone numbers. It is always best to research the organization’s telephone number and call directly to verify. Do not be pressured or rushed to donate. If so, it may be a scam.
    • Do not click on links from sources you don’t know. These could be attempts to download viruses onto your computer or cell phone. Manually type out links instead of clicking on them.

    If you think you are a victim of disaster or charity fraud, report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 1-866-720-5721 or online at justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Latta, Griffith op-ed: Congress must advance HALT Fentanyl Act to save lives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

    Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) and Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA9) penned an op-ed in The Washington Times today outlining the importance of Congress advancing their HALT Fentanyl Act to help save lives. The bill was approved by the House Energy & Commerce Committee in March of 2023 and was passed by the U.S. House in May of 2023. 

    The HALT Fentanyl Act would permanently label fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I narcotic, which is a scheduling change supported by the Biden administration. 

    Read an excerpt of the op-ed below, or click here to read the piece in its entirety.

    “As members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, we’ve met too many families who have told their stories of fentanyl poisonings that killed their loved ones. It’s excruciating to hear, but it’s nothing compared with what these families have gone through. 

    “It’s why we rolled up our sleeves and crafted the HALT Fentanyl Act, a bill to help put an end to the fentanyl crisis by permanently labeling fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I narcotics…”

    “This important legislation advanced last year through the House Energy and Commerce Committee and was passed by the full House, where it received wide bipartisan support.

    “However, it is stalled in the Senate. Bill Cassidy, the Louisiana Republican who is leading the Senate version of the HALT Fentanyl Act, moved to pass the bill earlier this year. Unfortunately, the Democrats objected, and the bill didn’t move.

    “What is stopping Senate Democrats from advancing this bill? Our bill has widespread bipartisan support. Both the DEA and Customs and Border Protection have listed this legislation as a top priority in the fight against fentanyl. Even President Biden last year signaled he would sign our bill if it came to his desk.

    “There should be no excuse for this bill not to move through the Senate.

    “It did come as a surprise to us, though, that the Biden administration announced a “new” proposal to designate fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I narcotic — which is exactly what our bill does, but without a research component.

    “While we appreciate the attention to this issue, we agree that the administration’s efforts would be best placed in asking Senate leaders to take up the House-passed HALT Fentanyl Act, where it has been sitting and collecting dust for 16 months.

    “As members of Congress who care deeply about the state of our country and the health and well-being of the American people, we will continue to call on the Senate to bring forward the HALT Fentanyl Act for a vote.

    “We have the chance to help remedy the fentanyl crisis and save lives. Let’s get this done.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Perseverance Matters

    Source: NASA

    2 min read

    Close-up view of Cheyava Falls natural surface on Mars where chunks of olivine (pale green) in the straight veins and leopard spots in the center are seen.
    NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS

    In January 2024, the SHERLOC instrument aboard NASA’s Mars 2020 Perseverance rover encountered a significant issue. A  fault in the instrument’s motor caused the dust cover and autofocus mechanism to become inoperative, putting the rover’s SHERLOC Raman spectroscopy capability at risk.

    Although Mars had posed an unexpected challenge, members of the SHERLOC operations team working together with the rover engineers refused to give up.

    Fortunately, a motion of the arm on Sol 1077, almost exactly two months after the original issue occurred, resulted in the dust cover moving to a nearly fully open position. As a result, the team began to look for ways to focus the optics and operate SHERLOC with the dust cover in this open position. These efforts involved many trials and errors, several rounds of diagnostic examinations, analyses, and troubleshooting around the clock.

    And as they say, “It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop”.

    After much hard work and persistence, the team successfully brought the SHERLOC instrument back online in June 2024 with a successful observation of the rock target Walhalla Glades. It was just the start of an exciting summer for SHERLOC.

    In July 2024, SHERLOC’s Raman capability, whose destiny was uncertain a month ago, performed multiple calibrations, scans, and observations on a rock named “Cheyava Falls” and the team was thrilled to discover the mission’s most compelling evidence for organics in the Jezero crater. Organic compounds can be formed through biological or non-biological processes and the organics that SHERLOC observed in Cheyava Falls would need to be studied in laboratories here on Earth for their origin to be determined. Regardless of how they formed, the Cheyava Falls organics could tell us a great deal about the Red Planet’s past and present carbon inventory, a possible early carbon cycle, and the precursor conditions to life as we know it.

    It is an important and exciting juncture in Mars exploration and astrobiology. This year, the SHERLOC instrument beat the odds and made one of the most exciting discoveries of the Mars 2020 mission. As the mission encounters and overcomes problems like that experienced by SHERLOC, we find that exploring Mars can also lead to discovering the team’s persistence and Perseverance.

    Written by Anushree Srivastava, Postdoctoral Fellow at Carnegie Institution. Member of Mars 2020 SHERLOC Science and Operations Team

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson on Anniversary of October 7 Attacks: America Stands with Israel

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — To recognize the anniversary of Hamas’ barbaric attack in Israel on October 7, 2023, Speaker Johnson released a statement and video honoring the lives taken by Hamas, offering prayers for peace and for the hostages still held captive in Gaza, and reiterating that the United States stands proudly with our strongest ally in the Middle East. 

     Click here to watch the video 

    Speaker Johnson’s statement:

    “It’s been 365 days since the world watched in horror as Hamas terrorists carried out their barbaric attack on innocent Israelis in the worst assault on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Nearly 1,200 people were brutally killed, 251 were kidnapped, and countless others were beaten and raped.

    “Today, as Hamas continues to hold hostages in Gaza, including four Americans, we remember the families who are fighting to bring their loved ones home. These brave families inspire us all to stand with Israel in its fight against terror and to work for the swift return of all those held captive by Hamas.

    “The terror and antisemitism we’ve witnessed have demanded full resolve from America’s leaders, which is why Congress passed legislation in the spring to provide Israel with necessary military aid and support. Today, at this critical time, following a second direct attack by Iran and ongoing terror from Hezbollah, Americans must insist that the Biden-Harris Administration stand unequivocally with Israel and against the terrorist regime in Iran, as we continue to pray for peace and security in Israel.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Velazquez on the Passing of Kevin Barry

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

    Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the passing of Carroll Gardens hero Kevin Barry:

    “I am deeply saddened by the recent passing of Kevin Barry. He was a dear friend, entrepreneur, community volunteer and all-around good guy.

    “As a young man, Kevin played football in the 1970s for the Philadelphia Eagles’ taxi team. Though he faced health challenges later in life, nothing could stop his outgoing altruism, and his volunteer work to help others.  I met Kevin in the early 1980s when we both worked in the office of Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns.

    “Kevin was a food-guy, and he worked in the restaurant business all his life. His most recent restaurant Grandma’s House he kept afloat after the devastation of Hurricane Sandy and even expanded its reach.

    “Kevin was a people-person with a talent for connecting people of broad backgrounds and giving back to his community. Kevin was always finding ways of feeding more people. He would cook all night for food pantries for the holidays. Kevin also provided food for many National Night Out Against Crime events and local public housing family days. Kevin also raised money for fighting childhood diseases for which he was recognized by his friend Jimmy Kimmel on his live show in Brooklyn. Kevin was also a tireless advocate for the environment and finding solutions to reduce truck traffic and waste.

    “Kevin was one-of-a-kind who never knew how to stop helping others, even when his own health was in question. Going above and beyond was never in question for Kevin. He had the biggest heart, and he will be missed by his family, friends and all who loved him.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson Makes Multiple Sunday Show Appearances

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    This morning, Speaker Johnson joined George Stephanopoulos on ABC’s This Week and Shannon Bream on Fox News Sunday to discuss the federal response to Hurricane Helene, standing with Israel, and the need keep the 2024 election about policy, not politics. 

    Click here to watch ABC interview, here to watch Fox interview

    On the federal response to Hurricane Helene:

    At the federal level, this has been a massive failure, and you could just ask the people there on the ground. I have been there. I was in Georgia, I was in Florida where Hurricane Helene made landfall there on the coast. And then we’ll be going to the hardest hit parts of North Carolina on Wednesday of this week. 

    When you talk to the people who are directly affected, they will tell you that this has been an abject failure. FEMA has lost sight of its core mission I think in so many cases, and the administration has not shown that they were prepared for this eventuality and this terrible disaster. The thing about hurricanes, Shannon, is that we know that they’re coming well in advance. You know, they had more than a week’s notice of this, and yet we still have people who have not been served and even rescued in North Carolina. It is a heartbreaking, tragic, and infuriating situation to have the federal government fail as they have.

    On FEMA funding to house illegal aliens: 

    The streams of funding are different, that is not an untrue statement of course. But the problem is what the American people see and what they’re frustrated by, is that FEMA should be involved – they are the Federal Emergency Management Association – their mission is to help people in times like this of natural disaster, not to be engaged in using any pool of funding from any account for resettling illegal aliens who have come across the border. That’s what the Biden Administration, Kamala Harris, and Secretary Mayorkas have been engaged in this program, and they have spent precious treasure of the American people and taxpayers to do just that. 

    When you see illegals in your local airport and you see them being transported around the country with planes, trains, and automobiles to every community everywhere, every state’s a border stat now because of that. That’s the NGOs, the non-governmental organizations mostly that are transporting those people around. And then they send the receipts to the federal government and Biden Harris and Mayorkas gleefully pay those receipts because they open the border intentionally. The American people are disgusted by this. They’re fed up with it, and so are Republicans in Congress. And it’ll stop after November 5th because we’re going to have unified government with the Republicans in charge and we will bring sanity back to this situation.

    On keeping the 2024 election focused on policy:

    We have to talk about the greatest collection of challenges that this country is facing, probably since World War II, maybe the Civil War. Let’s put all this political nonsense behind us and talk about how we get out of this mess. And I believe the way we do, and I believe a large number of the majority of the American people understand you have to put steady hands at the wheel. You’ve got to put President Donald J. Trump back in the White House because he will bring stability back. 

    He will get the economy going again. He will restore our stature on the world stage at a time where we’re almost on the verge of World War III. You have got to get his leadership back in the White House. That’s why the massive crowds are drawn to these rallies, and that’s why I believe we’re going to win in November.

    On supporting Israel:

    Everything that they have done, since day one, the Biden-Harris Administration, is project weakness on the world stage. And that has put us in the most dangerous situation that we have been in since World War II. Our allies are nervous. Our adversaries do not fear us. They don’t respect us, and that is why China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, terrorists and tyrants around the world are coordinating against us. And that is why you’re seeing the provocations of the war in Israel. 

    Russia moved on Ukraine, China doing all the things they’re doing and threatening Taiwan. None of this happened on President Trump’s watch because he was a steady hand, a strong hand at the wheel. We have got to reelect him so that we can restore the order in the world and project peace through strength again. That’s what we have to get back to, and it cannot happen soon enough.

    MIL OSI USA News –