NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious Crash at Port Elliott

    Source: South Australia Police

    Just after 1.30am this morning (Saturday 5 October), police and emergency services were called to North Terrace, Port Elliot in relation to a blue Ford sedan which had collided with a group of people out the front of licensed premises before leaving the area.

    Upon arrival, police identified numerous victims and also had a number of witnesses come forward providing information in relation to the vehicle involved.

    A short time later, the driver of the suspect vehicle returned to the scene and was promptly arrested by local patrols. The 37-year-old man has since been taken to the Christies Beach Police station where he is currently being interviewed by detectives and is likely to be charged later today.

    The vehicle believed to have been involved in the incident was located nearby on Sturt Street.

    A 21-year-old man from Goolwa Beach, a 37-year-old woman from Port Elliott, a 20-year-old woman from Inman Valley and a 30-year-old man from Blackwood were all treated at hospital for minor injuries.

    A 22-year-old man from Hindmarsh Island received serious life-threatening injuries and was flown to Adelaide where he remains in hospital.

    North Terrace will remain closed for most of the day whilst the scene is examined. Diversions are in place, and members of the public are advised to be patient when driving in the area.

    Anyone who witnessed the incident or may have CCTV of the incident is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a tip online at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: A Proclamation on Child Health Day,  2024

    Source: The White House

         Our Nation’s children deserve every opportunity to reach their biggest dreams — that begins with ensuring our families and children have the resources and support they need to stay healthy and strong.  On Child Health Day, we recommit to supporting families as they help their children to lead healthy lives.

         When we came into office, Vice President Harris and I promised to give families some well-deserved breathing room so that families could care for their children without worrying about how they were going to pay the bills.  That is why my American Rescue Plan expanded the Child Tax Credit, which reduced child poverty by nearly half across the Nation.  That law also made our Nation’s biggest investment in child care ever, keeping businesses open and hundreds of thousands of child care workers employed to care for children.  To lower health insurance costs, I signed the Inflation Reduction Act, saving millions of families $800 per year on their health insurance premiums.  And we strengthened the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program to provide home visits from trained professionals, who can offer prenatal care and postpartum support to new mothers and ensure their children’s health and well-being needs are met.  We launched the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA to help better support pregnant and postpartum moms.  We also modernized the Thrifty Food Plan for the first time in nearly five decades so that millions more families can afford nutritious foods.  We are working to reduce the amount of sodium in food to help prevent children from experiencing high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke later in life.  At the same time, we are working to secure free and healthy school meals for every child — beginning with setting a goal to deliver free school meals to nine million more children by 2032.

         My Administration is also working to ensure our youth have access to the mental health care they need, making the largest investment in mental health ever.  This includes over $2 billion in funding, including $1 billion through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, to help schools across the country train and hire new mental health counselors.  We made it easier for schools to leverage Medicaid to deliver health care, including mental health care, to millions of children and youth.  And we launched 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which anyone can call, text, or chat to be connected to a trained crisis counselor, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

          Americans deserve to live in a safe community, free from the threat of violence — and when it comes to our Nation’s children, one of our most fundamental responsibilities is keeping them safe.  In the United States, firearms are the leading cause of death for children.  It is unacceptable.  Children are exposed to violence and worry about school shootings happening to them, and this exposure and fear can lead to negative consequences for their school life, mental health, and more.  That is why I signed the most significant gun safety law in nearly 30 years and have announced dozens of gun safety executive actions, including one that will improve the active shooter drills that nearly all students undergo.  I also established the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, overseen by Vice President Harris.  We have made significant progress, but we must do more.  I continue to call on the Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, require safe storage of firearms, enact universal background checks, and end immunity for gun manufacturers. 

         Our Administration is also making historic investments to tackle the climate crisis, which is essential to protecting our children’s futures.  Every child should be able to turn on the faucet at home or school and have access to safe, clean water — that is why, through my Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are working to replace every lead pipe in America.  My Inflation Reduction Act — the most significant investment in climate ever — is investing in air quality sensors so that we prevent communities from experiencing the harmful effects of pollution.  And we have recommitted to conserving 30 percent of all our Nation’s lands and waters by 2030 so that generations to come may enjoy them.

         Our children deserve to grow up in a country that cares about their health, happiness, and opportunities for success.  During Child Health Day, may we recommit to supporting our children and families so that they can thrive.  And may we continue to build a future where every child can reach their full potential. 

         The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 18, 1928, as amended (36 U.S.C. 105), has called for the designation of the first Monday in October as Child Health Day and has requested that the President issue a proclamation in observance of this day.

         NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Monday, October 7, 2024, as Child Health Day.  I call upon families, child health professionals, faith-based and community organizations, and governments to help ensure that America’s children stay safe and healthy.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
    fourth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                  JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Press Release: Bill Signed: H.R.  6513

    Source: The White House

    On Friday, October 4, 2024, the President signed into law:

    H.R. 6513, the “Confirmation Of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2024” or the “COCOA Act of 2024,” which requires States to provide designated congressional election observers with full access to observe all elements of the administration of congressional elections.

    Thank you to Representatives Carey, Morelle, and Steil for their leadership.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks by Vice President Harris at a Campaign Event | Redford,  MI

    Source: The White House

    Redford Fire Department Station 1
    Redford, Michigan

    2:03 P.M. EDT

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi.  (Applause.) 

    Oh, good afternoon, everybody.  Good afternoon.  Good afternoon.  It is my great honor to be with everybody this afternoon.

    Matt, I want to thank you for your leadership and for all that you do for so many.

    You know, everyone here, you all have chosen to live a life of service in the most extraordinary way.  And I’m so thankful to all of you — to Matt, for your leadership — and everybody here. 

    And it is so good to be in the house of labor.  Thank you all.  (Applause.)  Thank you all.  Thank you all. 

    And, you know, yours is a profession that is more than a profession.  It really is about a calling. 

    You know, my — I was just telling Matt — my brother-in-law just retired as a firefighter in California.  So, for me, this is personal and it is professional.  I know what you guys do, and I know your character.  I know your families.  I know what it means for the whole community for you all to take on the lives that you have decided to live, and I’m so thankful to you.

    You guys work long shifts with unpredictable hours in some of the most dangerous conditions.  You do so on behalf of people you’ve never met.  Sometimes, those people will never know your name, but because of what you do with such sincerity and the highest level of skill and professionalism, their lives are forever better.  And they always know and have the comfort of going to sleep at night knowing that should any tragedy come their way that you guys are out there and would be there.

    It’s an extraordinary thing you do, and it’s a great gift that you have that you give.  And so, I am so thankful to you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    And, of course, I am thankful for the union that supports you and your right to all that you deserve in terms of the wages and the benefits that you so rightly have earned.  (Applause.)

    And I also want to thank the other brothers and sisters from labor who are here from UAW — (applause); IBE- — IBEW; LIUNA.  Where are your orange T-shirts?  I know you’re here somewhere.  I thank you all, all of you. 

    So, look, just yesterday, we saw another example of the power of collective bargaining — right? — when the longshoremen and the U.S. Maritime Alliance came together, ended a strike, and reached an agreement on a record wage.  Right?  (Applause.)  They did good.  They did good. 

    And I say, everywhere I go, look, collective bargaining benefits everybody.  And you know the — the term — and I’m looking at our young leaders who are here.  I’m so glad you guys are here.  (Applause.)  So, collective bargaining, it’s really — it’s just a basic logical point. 

    So, here’s what it means.  It means that in any negotiation, you want the outcome to be fair.  Right?  We all want fairness, right?  Everybody wants fairness — or should. 

    So, here’s the thing about collective bargaining.  If you want the outcome to be fair, you got to realize, if you’re requiring the one worker to negotiate against the big entity, do we really think that the outcome is going to be fair?  Probably not.  But if you let the workers together, as the collective, then negotiate against the big entity, it’s more likely that the outcome will be fair.  

    That’s the basic point of collective bargaining.  That’s the basic point of why we want our unions to be able to do their work on behalf of workers every day, because we know when union wages go up, everyone’s wages go up.  (Applause.)  Yeah. 

    And when union workplaces are safer, all workplaces are safer.  (Applause.) 

    And the bottom line is: When unions are strong, America is strong.  (Applause.)  And our unions have always fought to make our nation, then, more equal, more fair, and more free. 

    And in this election, in 32 days, everything we have fought for is on the line. 

    This election is about two very different visions for our nation: one that is focused on the past, and ours that is focused on the future. 

    We fight for a future where we protect the fundamental freedom to organize.  We fight for a future where workers, all workers, are treated with dignity and respect; a future where we tap into the ambition and the aspirations of the American people and build what I call an “opportunity economy” so that every American has an opportunity to buy a home, start a business, build wealth — intergenerational wealth for their family. 

    Over the last three and a half years, our nation has seen historic small-business creation as an example of that focus. 

    In Michigan alone, we have seen more than 500,000 new small-business applications.  And when I am president, I plan to build on that progress and that success, including by raising the start-up deduction — tax deduction for small businesses from $5,000 for — to $50,000 to help more entrepreneurs start a small business. 

    I’ll tell you guys, my sister and I were raised by our mother, who worked very hard, and we lived on an apartment above a daycare center.  And it was run by and owned by the woman that we called our second mother, who lived two houses down.  She was a small-business owner, and her name was Ms. Shelton. 

    And I grew up as a child knowing about who our small businesses are, right?  They’re leaders in the community.  They’re civic leaders.  They hire locally.  They train.  And so, that’s one of the reasons I’m focused on small businesses as part of how we lift up the middle class in America’s economy.

    We need to also build more housing in America.  Housing is too expensive. 

    My mother saved up for years, until I was a teenager, when she was able to buy our first home. 

    And right now, we have a serious housing shortage in America, and that’s part of what is driving up costs.  And so, we are going to cut red tape, we’re going to work with the private sector, and we’ll build 3 million new homes by the end of my first term — (applause) — including — including providing first-time homebuyers with a $25,000 down payment assistance so they can just get their foot literally in the door to be able to invest in the American dream — (applause) — which not everyone has access to these days.

    We need to lower the cost of living, because, look, our economy, while we’re making good progress — just this morning, in fact, we got a solid jobs report: over 250,000 jobs created last month, unemployment fell.  And just a few weeks ago, the Federal Reserve cut down interest rates, which is going to be great for a lot of folks.  But there’s still more work we need to do. 

    Prices for everyday things like groceries are still too high.  You know it, and I know it.

    And so, we have a plan to lower costs on everything from health care to groceries, including what I’ve done in my career as attorney general, which is we got to take on corporate price gouging. 

    We got to take on what we need to do to understand that if you want to grow the middle class, we need more middle-class tax cuts.  And the tax cut that is part of my plan will give a tax cut to 100 million Americans. 

    We need to expand Child Tax Credit, and I will do that to expand it to $6,000 so that for the first year of a child’s life, their parents have the resources that they need to be able to buy a crib or a car seat, and in that very critical stage of their child’s development, just be able to do more than get by but be able to get ahead. 

    And I say all this to say, I will always put the middle class and working families first.  I come from the middle class, and I will never forget where I come from.  I will never forget where I come from.  (Applause.)

    And we know we cannot have a strong middle class without American manufacturing. 

    Over the last three and a half years, we brought manufacturing back to America.  We created 730,000 manufacturing jobs and announced the opening of more than 20 new auto plants in the United States.  And we did it by investing in American industry and American workers.

    And I want to make sure that America, not China, wins the competition for the 21st century.  (Applause.)

    So, under my plan, we will invest in the industries that built America, like steel, iron, and the great American auto industry — (applause) — yeah — so we can ensure that the next generation of breakthroughs, from advanced batteries to electric vehicles, are not only invented but built right here in America by American union workers.  (Applause.)

    So, the election is in 32 days, and Americans have a big choice to make.  And I think it’s very important, then, to point out Donald Trump has a very different approach than mine. 

    And let’s be real about who Donald Trump is.  Let’s be real.  This is a time for real talk. 

    He was handed $400 million on a silver platter and filed for bankruptcy six times.  This is a man who has only ever fought for himself.  This is a man who has been a union buster his entire career, who has called union leaders, quote, “Dues Sucking” people.  And as president, he did not lift a finger to save the pensions of millions of American workers. 

    We did.  We did.  (Applause.)

    This is a man who sold promise after promise to American workers but never delivered, who said he supports so-called right-to-work laws “100 percent.”  Those are his words. 

    He who joked and laughed about firing striking workers.  You remember that? 

    AUDIENCE:  Yes.

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Who rolled back labor standards and made it easier for companies that break labor laws to get federal contracts. 

    And Donald Trump is a man who tried to cut funding for our first responders, including SAFER grants for firefighters. 

    So, brothers and sisters, as we stand here in a house of labor, we will not be fooled.  We will not be gaslighted.  Donald Trump’s track record is a disaster for working people, and he’s trying to gaslight people all over our country.  But we know the facts and we know the truth: He is an existential threat to America’s labor movement.  Just look at his track record to know. 

    He said he was the only one who could bring back America’s manufacturing jobs — Michigan knows what I’m about to say — then America lost nearly 200,000 manufacturing jobs when he was president, including tens of thousands of jobs in Michigan.  And those losses started before the pandemic, so we’re clear, making Donald Trump one of the biggest losers of manufacturing jobs in American history.  (Applause.)

    And recall his record — his track record for the auto industry.  He promised workers in Warren that the auto industry would, quote, “not lose one plant” during his presidency.  Then American automakers announced the closure of six auto plants when he was president, including General Motors in Warren and Stellantis in Detroit.  Thousands of Michigan autoworkers lost their jobs. 

    And now he is making the same empty promises to the people of Michigan that he did before, hoping you will forget how he let you down.  But we know, if he wins again, it will be more of the same. 

    Everything he intends to do is spelled out in Project 2025.  If reelected, he intends to launch a full-on attack on unions and the freedom to organize.  He will ban public-sector unions, roll back workplace safety protections, and appoint a union buster to run the Department of Labor.

    And on top of that, Donald Trump will give billionaires and the biggest corporations massive tax cuts like he did last time. 

    He will cut Social Security and Medicare and impose what I call a Trump sales tax, a 20 percent tax on everyday goods and necessities, which will cost — the economists have said — which will cost the average American over $4,000 a year more. 

    And if that weren’t enough, he intends to end the Affordable Care Act.  And even after he tried to repeal it time and time again when he was president, he still has no plan to replace it. 

    Did you guys see the debate?  (Laughter and applause.)  “Concepts of a plan.”  He has “concepts of a plan.”  (Laughter.)  Come on. 

    And, you know, I’ve said many times he is an unserious human — (laughter) — but the consequence of him is quite serious, because think about that: “concepts of a plan.” 

    So, he’s going to threaten the health care and health coverage of 45 million people in America based on a concept — think about that — to take us back to when insurance companies could deny people with preexisting conditions.  You remember what that was like?

    So, look, I’m here to say, and I think we all know: It’s time to turn the page.  It’s time to turn the page.  (Applause.)  We’re not going back. 

    America is ready to chart a new way forward, because we are not going back. 

    AUDIENCE MEMBER:  No, we’re not.  We’re not going back.

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  No, we’re not.

    And so, it all comes down to this.  We are here together because we know what is at stake.  And we are here together — and I’m looking at the young leaders — because we love our country.  We love our country.  (Applause.)  Yes, we do.  We love our country.

    And I do believe it is the highest form of patriotism to then fight for the ideals of our country and to fight to realize the promise of America. 

    We have 32 days to get this done, and we know this is going to be a very tight race until the very end.  And we are the underdog, so we have some hard work ahead of us.  But I know who’s here.  We like hard work.  Hard work is good work.  Hard work is good work.  (Applause.)

    And we know what we stand for, so we know what to fight for.  We stand for opportunity, we stand for dignity, and we stand for the future.

    And so, we know when we fight —

    AUDIENCE:  We win!

    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — we win. 

    God bless you.  God bless the United States of America.  (Applause.)

    Thank you all.  Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    END                 2:20 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: A Proclamation on National Community Policing Week,  2024

    Source: The White House

    Every day that our police officers put on that shield and walk out the door, they put their lives at risk to ensure the rest of us are safe.  During National Community Policing Week, we honor police officers’ service and sacrifice, recommit to supporting them, and reaffirm that community policing practices that advance public trust are the gold standard for law enforcement.

    In the first half of this year, according to preliminary data submitted to the FBI, the homicide rate continued to fall at record speed, declining by 22.7 percent, while the violent crime rate fell by 10.3 percent to its lowest level since 1969.  These record decreases follow the historic declines in crime in 2023, including the largest-ever decrease in the homicide rate.  The decreases are in no small part due to the hard work and courageous efforts of law enforcement across America. 

    As President, public safety and crime reduction are top priorities for my Administration and me.  Since day one, my Administration has worked with law enforcement, mayors, and community leaders to do what we know works to keep people and communities safe.  Through my American Rescue Plan, we made the largest Federal investment toward public safety in our Nation’s history — delivering more than $15 billion in aid for local and State governments to keep law enforcement on the beat, retain and hire more police officers, pay overtime and bonuses, and expand benefits for disabled first responders.  States, counties, and cities have already invested that funding to make their communities safer, and we added billions more in grants through the Department of Justice to help cities invest in law enforcement and community violence interruption programs. 

    I also know that being in law enforcement today is harder than ever — police are expected to respond to so many challenging situations, from drug overdoses and mental health crises to domestic violence, child abandonment, and more.  That is why my Administration has invested in increasing the number of crisis responders who work alongside police officers to respond to non-violent crimes.  We have made more investments in recruiting, retaining, and training officers.  I have called for funding that would put 100,000 more officers on the street who are trained in community policing.  Additionally, we need to invest more in technology and training to solve crimes faster and clear court backlogs, and we need more detectives to solve murders and more deputy United States Marshals to apprehend fugitives.

    Police officers deal with unbelievable stress.  Every time an officer responds to a call, executes a warrant, or conducts a traffic stop, there is a tremendous risk:  the fear of ambush, the anxiety of not knowing what is behind that door, and the trauma of bearing witness to the most horrible tragedies imaginable.  That is why I have been laser-focused on providing officers with the mental health and wellness resources they need and deserve.  I also signed extended benefits for families of officers who have tragically died by suicide.

    Our police officers are dedicated, honorable, and good people — they build trust with the communities they serve because they know that trust is the foundation of public safety.  Our communities are safer and stronger when our officers have the resources, training, and tools they need to do their jobs and walk the beat, getting to know the neighborhoods and the people they serve.  A lack of trust from the public means less public safety for all of us:  crimes do not get reported, witnesses do not come forward and cases do not get solved, victims suffer while perpetrators roam free, and justice goes undelivered.

    When communities trust the police, crimes get solved faster.  That is why when Republicans blocked the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021, a bill that the Vice President coauthored while in the Senate, we took action.  I signed a historic Executive Order to set the gold standard for law enforcement.  In part, it requires Federal law enforcement agencies to develop best practices that attract, support, and retain officers who are representative of the communities they are sworn to serve.  We have also made historic investments in proven strategies to interrupt and prevent violence in the first place, including using trusted messengers who are trained to disrupt violence.  At the same time, I signed the most significant gun safety law in nearly three decades and have taken more executive actions to stop the flow of illegal guns than any other administration in history. 

    There is more work to be done.  My Safer America Plan calls on the Congress to invest $37 billion to support law enforcement and crime prevention.  The plan would fund 100,000 additional police officers, invest $5 billion in community violence interventions, and enact commonsense gun safety reforms, such as a universal background check requirement and a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

    There is no greater responsibility than keeping our families, neighborhoods, and Nation safe. During National Community Policing Week, we reaffirm our commitment to choosing progress over politics when it comes to supporting our law enforcement and ensuring the safety of our communities.  We honor the heroism, bravery, and sacrifice of our police officers.  And may we recommit to upholding one of our Nation’s most fundamental values:  justice for all.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 6 through October 12, 2024, as National Community Policing Week.  I call upon law enforcement agencies, elected officials, and all Americans to observe this week by recognizing ways to improve public safety, build trust, and strengthen community-police relationships.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                  JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Army Best Squad: Day Four | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    Testing Soldier expertise to challenge the 2024 Army Best Squad competitors with E3B and medical lanes.

    : AMVID

    About the U.S. Army:
    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #ArmyBestSquad

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tg8tNaYdtnQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: The White  House Announces 2024 Fall Garden  Tours

    Source: The White House

    The President and First Lady will continue the tradition of welcoming members of the public to tour the White House Gardens and South Grounds. This fall, tours of the White House Gardens will be available to the public from 10:00 a.m. ET to 4:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, October 12 and Sunday, October 13.
     
    These tours are free and open to members of the public; however, a timed ticket is required for all attendees, regardless of age. The National Park Service (NPS) will distribute free, timed tickets outside the White House Visitor Center, located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, each day of the tour beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET. Timed tickets will be distributed, one ticket per person, on a first-come, first-served basis.
     
    Once attendees have received their tickets, the South Lawn entry point for everyone will be located on 15th St, NW between E Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW, near the Boy Scout Memorial. The ADA entrance will be located at 15th Street, NW and Alexander Hamilton Place, NW.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lunds & Byerlys Voluntarily Recalls L&B Lone Star Dip Due to Potential Mold

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    FDA Publish Date:
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Foodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description

    Potential mold contamination

    Company Name:
    Lunds & Byerlys
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)

    L&B

    Product Description:

    Product Description

    Lone Star Dip

    Company Announcement

    Edina, Minn. (October 4, 2024) – Lunds & Byerlys is voluntarily recalling approximately 500 containers of L&B Lone Star Dip because of potential mold growth contamination.

    The recalled product was sold at Lunds & Byerlys stores throughout the Twin Cities and surrounding area.

    Brand Name & Description

    Unit Size

    UPC

    Impacted Best By Date(s)
    L&B Lone Star Dip 12 oz. 18169-74197 10-15-24
    10-17-24

    No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall. This product concern was first noticed by store employees, and they notified the company’s Quality Assurance team.

    If a customer recently purchased the impacted product, they are encouraged to return it to any Lunds & Byerlys for a full refund (no receipt required) or destroy the product immediately.

    For additional questions, customers can call 952-548-1400 Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    952-548-1400

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Kansas Businesses and Residents Affected by Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to Kansas businesses and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 19, announced Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Laura Kelly on Oct. 1.

    The SBA Rural disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available to both rural and non-rural areas of Harvey County in Kansas.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Kansas small businesses and residents impacted by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    “When disasters strike, our virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” said Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “At these virtual centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    “Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,” Sánchez continued.

    SBA has established a virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center to provide personalized assistance to business owners, homeowners and renters. SBA customer service representatives will be available to business owners and individuals to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application. Applicants may call or email as indicated below.

    Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Mondays – Fridays
    8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time
    FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
    (916) 735-1501
    Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, Oct. 7

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez added. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

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

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 3, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 7, 2025.

    ###

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jacks and the Green Sprouts Recalls Alfalfa and Alfalfa Onion Sprouts Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    FDA Publish Date:
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Foodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description

    Listeria monocytogenes

    Company Name:
    Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)

    Jack & the Green Sprouts

    Product Description:

    Product Description

    Alfalfa and Alfalfa & Onion Sprouts

    Company Announcement

    Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc. of River Falls, WI is recalling its 5 ounce packages of Alfalfa and Alfalfa Onion sprouts because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

    The produce was sold in MN, WI and Iowa at grocery store and local Co-ops.

    The product comes in a 5 ounce, clear plastic package marked with lot #300 UPC 763247198915 or #246 UPC 763247195945 on the top.

    No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

    The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 5 ounce packages of Alfalfa sprouts.

    The production of the product has been suspended while the company continues to investigate the source of the problem.

    Consumers who have purchased 5 ounce packages of Alfalfa and Alfalfa Onion sprouts are urged to discarded or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 715-425-9495, 8:00-2:00, Monday thru Fridays.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    715-425-9495

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS landslide event team activated in wake of Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Geological Survey

    “Our thoughts are with the communities and the countless people impacted by this tragic storm,” said Holly Weyers, USGS Southeast Regional Director. “We feel that activating our landslide event team in the aftermath of Helene was an essential step in providing federal, state, emergency managers, and rescue teams with the science information needed to assist with relief efforts. We’re actively assisting local authorities both on the ground and from afar as they work to protect lives and vital infrastructure.”

    The North Carolina and Tennessee Geological Surveys requested federal assistance after Helene brought record rainfall and river levels across the southern Appalachian Mountains. Landslides can be triggered by rainfall from hurricanes when rainwater fills the gaps in the soil, or the pores, faster than the water can drain resulting in elevated pore water pressure that reduces the strength of the soil and leads to slope failures. These types of landslides can occur suddenly and turn into fast-moving landslides that can travel very far, called debris flows. “We will always activate if a state asks us for help on a landslide issue,” said Eric Bilderback, a supervisory research geologist, who manages landslide hazard and earthquake geology research groups in the USGS’ Geologic Hazards Science Center.

    Two USGS landslide experts are currently based in the Knoxville, Tennessee area conducting aerial reconnaissance flights in partnership with U.S.

     Fish & Wildlife Services, to get a better understanding of the extent and severity of landslide impacts in the southern Appalachian region. This information is being shared across multiple state and federal agencies including Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Flights began Thursday and are currently planned through Saturday. 

    The scientists are flying in a Kodiak Fish & Wildlife fixed-wing aircraft, that can fly at low enough altitude to get below cloud cover for better ground visibility, explained Bilderback.

    The data gathered in the flights will also help in confirming the locations of some landslides, which, can be accessed by the public on a newly-launched USGS Landslide Observations Dashboard here: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/01b4f51fc0b64002bf7722a9acfc181d. The dashboard is multi-agency collaborative effort to map where landslides have been sighted.  

    At time of publication, the dashboard shows 230 landslides across North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, depicted in red and grey dots. The red dots are “flagged landslides,” or those that impact rivers, roads, and structures.

    Bilderback explained that landslide sightings are coming from a variety of sources such as partner organizations, satellite imagery, and even the public through social media. This dashboard is being continuously updated with more information. The landslide event team does due diligence in attempting to confirm the accuracy of each landslide report, but Bilderback stressed, the Landslide Observations Dashboard is a rapid emergency analysis of the data that’s currently available and provisional data only. Due to the provisional nature of the dashboard, landslide point locations could be inaccurate, and all data is subject to change without notice.

    For an overview of the work the USGS is doing on landslides related to Hurricane Helene, please visit: https://www.usgs.gov/programs/landslide-hazards/science/2024-hurricane-helene-landslide-hazards.

    Links and contacts within this release are valid at the time of publication.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Under Kamalanomics, Americans Are Being Left Behind, And American Manufacturing Stifled

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    Under Kamalanomics, Americans Are Being Left Behind, And American Manufacturing Stifled

    Washington, October 4, 2024

    Under Kamalanomics, Americans are getting left behind as American manufacturing is stifled. The failed economic policies of the Biden-Harris Administration have crippled a once booming economy left by President Trump. Despite attempts to cover up their failures, the American people are smart and know Kamala Harris and Joe Biden created today’s economic crisis. 
     
    The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) September jobs report once again exposes the harsh reality of Kamalanomics. Just in the last two months, America has lost at least 34,000 manufacturing jobs as the failed economic policies of Kamala Harris have disincentivized the growth of America’s job market, manufacturing, and economy. 
     
    KEY POINTS FROM THE JOBS REPORT: 

    • In September, the unemployment rate remained high, at 4.1%.
    • Over the past 12 months, 825,000 native-born Americans lost employment, while 1.2 million foreign-born workers found jobs.
    • There are over 6.8 million Americans who are unemployed which is up from a year ago at 6.3 million.
      • The labor force participation rate remains well below pre-pandemic levels. 
    • In September, the labor force participation rates decreased for the following demographics:
      • Women, 16 years and over.
      • White women, 20 years and over.
      • Black or African American women, 20 years and over.
      • Asian Americans. 
      • Hispanic or Latino Americans.
      • Hispanic or Latino men, 20 years and over.
      • Hispanic or Latino women, 20 years and over.
    • Since July of 2023 versus July of 2024, there has been a net zero job growth. 
    • In August, it was announced that 818,000 jobs that the Harris-Biden Administration claimed to have created aren’t there.
      • The BLS revised down its total tally of jobs created from March 2023 through March 2024 by 818,000.
      • This included 115,000 manufacturing jobs. 
      • The revision is the largest in 15 years. 
      • In addition to these revisions, the August jobs report revealed the employment in June and July combined is 86,000 lower than previously reported.
    • The Biden-Harris Administration deserves no credit for economic growth. 
      • Republican-led states are leading the way creating jobs and leading economic growth.
      • The latest state jobs report shows that 16 of the top 20 states for  jobs recovered since the coronavirus pandemic began are led by Republican governors, and 16 of the states have Republican-controlled legislatures. 

    KAMALANOMICS BY THE NUMBERS: 

    • Nearly half of Americans consider themselves “broke.” 
    • Two-thirds of Americans report living paycheck-to-paycheck.
    • Americans need a six-figure salary to afford a typical home in nearly half of U.S. states
    • Inflation is a tax on ALL Americans. 
    • When Joe Biden and Kamala Harris took office, inflation was at just 1.4%.
    • Since Biden and Harris took office, inflation has risen by 20.3%.
    • Americans are paying more for just about everything because of inflation since Biden and Harris took office: 
    • Americans are spending $13,200 more annually to buy the basics because of Kamalaflation, compared to three years ago.
    • Real wages remain lower than when Biden-Harris first took office.
    • Inflation-adjusted average weekly earnings were $397.90 when Biden-Harris took office and are now $384.47 – the Bureau of Labor Statistics adjusts to 1982-1984 dollars – meaning Americans have seen a 3.4% decrease under Biden-Harris.
    • Kamalaflation outpaced wages for a majority of Biden’s presidency – both year-over-year real average hourly earnings and real average weekly earnings were negative for 25 months.
    • Interest rates have remained at a 23-year high.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Domestic Energy Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a resolution to designate October 4, 2024, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the men and women who work to power our nation and the world. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), James Lankford (R-OK), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Risch (R-ID), Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) cosponsored the resolution.

    “Wyoming’s energy producers work tirelessly each and every day to power our nation, yet our domestic energy industry is under attack like never before due to the Biden-Harris administration’s war on energy production,” said Lummis. “I introduced this resolution to recognize and celebrate the men and women in the Cowboy State and throughout the country who work to power not only our nation, but the entire world.”

    “American energy production fuels American success,” said Barrasso. “Wyoming is America’s energy breadbasket. Our workers produce the energy and resources that keep America running and our economy strong. While this administration wages war on American energy, Wyoming will proudly celebrate National Energy Appreciation Day and continue to unleash American energy.”

    “Louisiana energy workers are the reason we have the fuel to run our cars and electricity to power our homes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thanks for powering the American economy.”   

    “Oklahoma energy producers and energy innovators are leading America to energy dominance,”said Lankford. “They continue their great work to provide clean, affordable, and reliable energy to our state, despite the Biden-Harris Administration’s agenda to raise energy prices and surrender our energy future to China.” 

    “Energy generated in West Virginia, made possible by our skilled and dedicated workforce, continues to keep homes warm, lights on, and move our nation forward,” said Capito. “West Virginia energy producers have done this for generations, and this tradition will always be a central aspect of our identity and culture in the Mountain State. On National Energy Appreciation Day, we recognize how this sector strengthens our national security and improves the lives of our people, country, and world. I’m proud to join my colleagues to once again establish this day of appreciation and highlight the importance of American energy and the personnel behind it.” 

    “National Energy Appreciation Day recognizes the vital role that American energy and its workers play in our quality of life and the success of our economy,” said Hoeven. “That’s why we continue working to rescind costly federal rules and provide regulatory relief to ensure our nation can continue to utilize all of its abundant energy resources, including coal, oil and gas, making energy affordable again for Americans.”

    “The thousands of hardworking Mississippians and Americans producing domestic energy are vital to our daily lives and the very foundation of our national and economic security,” said Hyde-Smith. “It is undeniable that U.S.-produced energy is not only more affordable, but also cleaner and safer than the options our current administration favors from foreign adversaries.  I am proud to join Senator Lummis in championing this resolution, and I appreciate the efforts of the American energy industry that powers our nation’s progress.”

    “With American innovation and abundant natural resources, the United States has everything we need to be energy independent and secure,” said Risch. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in celebrating American energy and will continue pushing for policies that cut red tape, boost investment, and ensure affordable, reliable energy for every home and business in Idaho.” 

    BACKGROUND:

    American energy plays an integral role in keeping energy affordable, reliable and efficient while also supporting economic growth and creating upward mobility. Not only have domestic energy advancements greatly reduced emissions, but widespread access to energy has more than doubled life expectancy and reduced the percentage of people living in poverty to less than 10%.

    The American energy industry accounts for more than seven million jobs and ultimately supports more than 10 million jobs across the United States.

    The U.S. oil and natural gas industry generates nearly $1.8 billion in gross domestic product annually.  Federal oil and natural gas leases for onshore and offshore development brought in $15.9 billion for the federal government in 2023. This is $6.3 billion less than 2022, due in large part to the administration’s war on American energy, including banning exports of liquified natural gas. 

    Since day one of the Biden-Harris administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris have taken several actions to greatly restrict domestic energy production including:

    • Halting construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.
    • Banning exports of liquified natural gas (LNG).
    • Drastically increasing royalty rates for domestic gas production on federal lands.
    • Putting Resource Management Plans (RMPs) in place to effectively end oil and gas production on federal lands.
    • Halting offshore oil and gas leases in the gulf due to the potential for the Rices Whale to be impacted despite no scientific evidence the whale is impacted by offshore drilling.

    For a copy of the resolution, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski & Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Release LIHEAP Home Heating Aid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    10.04.24
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – With colder weather around the corner and Congress continuing its work on appropriations bills, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Jack Reed (D-RI) and are leading a bipartisan call for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible.
    “As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution (PL 118-83),” Murkowski, Collins and Reed wrote.
    The Senators say the federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that keeps vulnerable citizens safe and warm during winter by helping low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills. Murkowski helped provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in fiscal year 2024, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.  Nationwide, an estimated 5.1 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP in FY 2023. In Fiscal Year 2024, Alaskans got $21.3 million from LIHEAP.
    LIHEAP is administered by states, federally recognized tribes and tribal organizations, and territories.  Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources.
    Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2025 — or until the funding is exhausted.
    Full text of the letter follows:
    “Dear Secretary Becerra:
    As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution (PL 118-83). 
    As the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months.  October marks the start of the heating season for many states, and with temperatures already dropping, low-income families and seniors are feeling additional strains on their household budgets. 
    As state agencies activate their LIHEAP programs for the coming winter, it is crucial that they have the resources on hand to help low-income households and seniors as soon as possible.  As such, we request that you quickly release LIHEAP funds at the highest level possible, so that low-income households do not have to choose between paying for heat and affording other necessities like food or medicine.
    We look forward to working with you on this critical program, and thank you for your attention to our concerns and those of our constituents.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Disturbing Reports Of Veteran Mistreatment At Buffalo VA, Gillibrand, Kennedy Pledge To Hold VA’s Feet To The Fire; Demand Comprehensive VA-Wide Review Of Community Care Practices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, following disturbing allegations of veteran mistreatment at the Buffalo VA, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a press conference at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 416 to discuss the failures at the Buffalo VA and to pledge to hold it accountable. She is leading a bipartisan push demanding that the Government Accountability Office conduct a VA-wide review of the Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices to ensure that no veteran in New York or anywhere in the country suffers egregious delays in care again. Gillibrand was joined by Congressman Tim Kennedy, Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa, and veterans of VFW Post 416.
    “Caring for our veterans is our most sacred duty,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But the Buffalo VA failed to honor that duty and caused unimaginable suffering for Western New York veterans and their families as a result. This can never happen again – in Buffalo, in New York, or anywhere in the country. Today, I’m demanding a VA-wide review of veteran community care consultpractices to ensure that no one is slipping through the cracks. I am pledging to hold the VA accountable for its egregious failures last year and ensure that every patient has access to high-quality and timely care moving forward.”
    “This egregious neglect and failure is a betrayal to the women and men who have made incredible sacrifices to safeguard our nation. I join in requesting that the GAO conduct a full review of community care practices, which did not meet the needs of our veterans. I will not rest until the Buffalo VA has the leadership, staff, funding, and infrastructure—including a new state-of-the-art facility—to deliver the care that our heroes have earned and deserve,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. 
    “I am proud of the work my office has done to shine a spotlight on the unacceptable, and at times inhumane, practices at the Buffalo VA. This report confirms what we long suspected in painful detail: the Buffalo VA has failed in its mission, allowing veterans to suffer unnecessarily and neglecting to treat life-threatening conditions. Such failures are a grave disservice to those who have bravely served our country, and we are committed to ensuring accountability and meaningful change,” said Assemblymember Patrick Burke.
    “Thank you to Senator Gillibrand for addressing this important issue and her commitment to ensuring timely, effective and high-quality care for all veterans. I am honored to stand here today as our federal elected officials work together to address any failures in service, and take the necessary steps to do better going forward for all who served our country,” said Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa. 
    “As a member of the military community, I know the struggles facing veterans when it comes to their mental and physical recovery and wellbeing. I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for putting a spotlight on this issue. We all need to come together to make improvements and assist veterans as best we can. Every man and woman who served under the American flag deserves the best care and resources possible, and today’s announcement is the right step in that direction,” said Amherst Deputy Town Supervisor Shawn Lavin. 
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to the Government Accountability Office is available HERE or below:
    Dear Mr. Dodaro:
                On Friday, September 27th, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) released its findings following its inspection of the VA Western New York Health System in Buffalo, New York. The report – Leaders Failed to Address Community Care Consult Delays Despite Staff’s Advocacy Efforts at VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo – found a shocking pattern of apathy and incompetence on the part of Department facility and community care leaders in addressing the needs of patients with complex and high-risk conditions.
                As the report indicates, these delays caused or led to an increased risk of harm to the patients. One veteran passed away while waiting months to receive palliative care that would have helped manage cancer pain in their final months. Another patient  waited nine weeks to schedule radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. Another veteran in their twenties continued to suffer from seizures for another 10 months as they waited for a consult to be scheduled, the delay partially caused by a referral being canceled by the community care medical director. These are only some of the cases highlighted by an OIG report that identified incompetence and bureaucratic red tape that failed the veterans in Buffalo again and again.
                The failure by the leadership at the Buffalo VA Medical Center must never occur again, and veterans across the United States must be reassured that they can receive timely and high-quality health care across the VA health care system.  Therefore, I request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review of Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices. The review should include, but not be limited to: 
    Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; 
    Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements;
    Reviewing how medical facility, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs;
    Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety;
    I request a briefing on the preliminary findings with final results to be submitted on a date and in form mutually agreed upon. Please include recommendations, as appropriate, for agency or congressional action in your evaluation.
    Sincerely, 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper Welcome $170 Million for Clean Water, Reliable Energy Infrastructure in Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
    Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper welcomed over $170 million in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for 12 Colorado projects in rural and Tribal communities to expand access to safe drinking water and reliable energy. 
    “Everyone deserves access to clean and safe water, no matter where they live. However, far too many rural communities in Colorado face the challenges of aging or unsafe water infrastructure,” said Bennet. “I’m glad towns from Holly to Del Norte will receive this federal support to help them continue delivering reliable, clean water to Coloradans across the state.”’
    “Where you live shouldn’t determine if you have clean water to drink or reliable electricity to keep the lights on,” said Hickenlooper. “From Rocky Ford to Silverton, these investments will create thousands of good-paying jobs while expanding access to safe drinking water and reliable energy.” 
    The  funding announcement is part of a $1.3 billion nationwide investment to make water infrastructure and the electrical grid more resilient to extreme weather, while creating thousands of well-paying jobs in the process. This funding comes from USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants and the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee programs. It is divided between over $127 million in grant funding and over $42 million in federal loans to the 12 Colorado projects. 
    A full list of selected projects is below:

    Recipient

    Grant Awarded

    Loan Awarded

    Description

    Location

    Hunter Solar

    N/A

    $38,285,000

    Provide long term financing of a 75 MW solar farm

    Arapahoe County

    San Miguel Power Association

     
    N/A

    $29,784,000

    Build and improve power lines, invest in smart grid technologies

    San Miguel County

    City of Rocky Ford

    $7,935,000

    $20,351,000

    Replace problematic sections of the existing water system

    City of Rocky Ford

    Town of Del Norte

    $11,018,000

    $12,010,000

    Replace undersized and failing water piping and add fire hydrants to extend firefighting coverage

    Town of Del Norte

    Montezuma Water Company

    N/A

    $15,300,000

    Modernize the water system to increase capacity,  install new water pumps

    Montezuma County

    Town of Holly

    $6,189,000

    $4,740,000

    Construct a new well and treatment plant and improve system efficiency

    Town of Holly

    Town of Walsh

    $4,404,000

    $1,550,000

    Upgrade the water treatment system

    Town of Walsh

    Sedalia Water and Sanitation District

    $5,045,000

    $561,000

    Help replace an aging water distribution system and connect the system to Castle Rock’s water system

    Douglas County

    Town of Silverton

    $2,764,000

    $2,165,000

    Improve wastewater treatment facilities

    Town of Silverton

    Town of Bethune

    $2,662,000

    $1,523,000

    Decommission existing treatment plant and construct a new 3-pond evaporation system

    Town of Bethune

    Meadow Mountain Water Supply Company

     
    $1,974,000

     
    $441,000

    Repair failing water distribution system

    Allenspark, CO

    Marble Water Company

    $455,000

    $1,158,000

    Install new distribution lines, fire hydrants, and water pumps

    Town of Marble

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Justice Awards University of Colorado Nearly $2 Million Grant to Combat Hate Crimes

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Hate Crime)

    DENVER – Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch is pleased to announce that the United States Department of Justice has awarded the University of Colorado the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program Grant.

    The grant, totaling $1,999,939, will go to support the work of The University of Colorado Boulder’s Police Department (CUPD), and the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence (CSPV) to build and deliver a comprehensive approach to hate crimes prevention, intervention, and investigation for all CU locations including CU Boulder, CU Colorado Springs, and CU Denver. Funds will be used to educate audiences across the CU System and train campus officials on coordinated strategies for preventing, investigating, and addressing hate-based incidents and hate crimes in higher education. Grant funding will reach approximately 60,000 students, 23,000 faculty and staff, and 60 law enforcement officers while serving as a model for other colleges and universities around the country.

    “The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado has a long-standing commitment both to investigating and prosecuting hate crimes and to engaging with the community on this topic,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch.  “Public education on the tools available to prevent and address hate crimes is fundamental to these efforts, and we are proud to work with University of Colorado.”

    “The University of Colorado and the CU Boulder Police Department is honored to receive the Matthew Shepard and Edward Byrne Hate Crimes Grant, which will help us continue the important work of building a comprehensive approach to preventing hate crimes across the CU System,” said Doreen Jokerst, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Public Safety and Chief of Police of the CU Boulder Police Department at the University of Colorado Boulder. “CUPD will continue to work collaboratively with violence prevention researchers and other experts to create an effective, broad-reaching campaign to combat targeted violence.”

    This grant is part of the Office of Justice Program (OJP) and its wide-ranging efforts to improve community safety, serve victims of crime, support America’s youth, advance science, and promote equal justice. OJP is the largest grantmaking component of the Department of Justice and houses its criminal and juvenile justice related science and statistical units.

    The Department of Justice (DOJ) offers funding opportunities to support law enforcement and public safety activities in state, local, and tribal jurisdictions; to assist victims of crime; to provide training and technical assistance; to conduct research; and to implement programs that improve the criminal, civil, and juvenile justice systems. DOJ grant-making components regularly engage with United States Attorneys’ offices (USAOs) to promote outreach and communication about DOJ-funded grant programs, training, and technical assistance. Such communication helps the Department increase public awareness, access, and utilization of these resources. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Visits Rush-Henrietta Senior High School, Discusses Her Legislation To Provide Free Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner To All Students

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited Rush-Henrietta Senior High School to meet with school leaders and discuss her legislation to provide free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack to all schoolchildren regardless of income. The bill would also expand access to free meals over the summer and eliminate school meal debt. 
    Free school meals are associated with a variety of positive outcomes, including improved attendance rates and school performance, fewer behavioral incidents, lower suspension rates, better health outcomes, and reduced financial stress for students and families.Rush-Henrietta Central School District is one of many districts in New York State that is able to offer free school meals because of the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). CEP reimburses schools in low-income communities for providing free breakfast and lunch to all enrolled students. In 2022, Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, advocated directly to Congressional leadership to expand Community Eligibility for high needs schools.
    “In the richest country on earth, it is unacceptable that millions of kids go hungry each day. I’m proud that so many New York schools – including Rush-Henrietta High – already provide free meals for kids, but we must do more. The Universal School Meals Program Act would provide funding for free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack for all students nationwide and slash burdensome red tape for school administrators,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill would make our families and communities healthier and stronger, keep kids in school, and work to fight the stigma too often associated with meal programs. I look forward to passing this critical legislation so every child in the United States has the food they need to succeed.”
    The Universal School Meals Program Act would: 
    Permanently provide free breakfast, lunch, and dinner to all schoolchildren regardless of income and put an end to burdensome application paperwork that poses a barrier to enrollment in meal programs.
    Increase the reimbursement rates for school authorities participating in the food and nutrition programs to more accurately reflect the true cost of providing meals.
    Reduce stigma associated with meal programs by eliminating meal debt and prohibiting school food authorities from discriminating against or overtly identifying a child participating in the free meal program.
    Expand the summer food service program and Summer EBT program by making all children eligible to participate in the programs. Currently, only communities where 50 percent of children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch can operate a summer meals program; the Universal School Meals Program Act would make all communities eligible regardless of income.
    Senator Gillibrand is a longstanding champion for childhood nutrition. She leads the bipartisan MODERN WIC Act, which would make WIC benefits more accessible to low-income families by allowing them to certify and recertify for WIC services remotely. She also leads the bipartisan Summer Meals Act, which would provide meals to children and teens in low-income areas during the summer months when school is not in session.
    A summary of the Universal School Meals Program Act is available here.
    Gillibrand was joined by Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District Dr. Barbara Mullen and Vice President of the Monroe County School Boards Association Scott Adair.
    “Food insecurity is a real challenge for many in our community,” said Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District in suburban Rochester. “This issue impacts many students, so the idea of expanding universal feeding is a critical area of discussion. With 5,400 students from incredibly diverse backgrounds, Rush-Henrietta would benefit from a national effort to expand access to meals. Research – and our own experience – shows us that students who are adequately fed are able to achieve and dream at higher levels. Our students are capable of so much, we want them to reach their full potential. This type of legislation would help school districts and local communities address the needs of the whole child, allowing them to flourish in ways that some of them simply cannot right now.”
    “The Monroe County School Boards Association is proud to support the Universal School Meals Program Act, as our membership believes that every child in America should have access to nutritious meals, regardless of income. Food insecurity remains a devastating reality for millions of children in the United States and certainly within Monroe County. Having a meal every day shouldn’t be a worry for any child, and this bill takes a significant step toward helping to alleviate that issue,” said Amy J. Thomas, Executive Director of the Monroe County School Boards Association. “By ensuring universal access to healthy meals, the Universal School Meals Program Act will not only combat hunger but also remove the stigma associated with receiving free or reduced-price meals, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. It also offers support to families who are struggling to make ends meet by eliminating the financial burden of school meal costs. In addition, eliminating school meal debt will ease financial strains on both families and schools. We commend Senator Gillibrand for her advocacy of the Universal School Meals Program Act as we believe this legislation will promote the health and well-being of our children, foster educational equity, and build a brighter future for all.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China urges EU to get back to right track of resolving trade disputes through consultations: commerce ministry

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China urges EU to get back to right track of resolving trade disputes through consultations: commerce ministry

    BEIJING, Oct. 4 — China has urged the European Commission to truly show concrete actions to implement its political will and get back to the right track of resolving trade frictions through consultations, said a spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce on Friday.

    The remarks came after the commission’s proposal to impose definitive countervailing duties on imports of battery electric vehicles from China had obtained the necessary support from Member States of the European Union (EU) for the adoption of tariffs.

    “China firmly opposes the draft final ruling of the EU side, but has also noted its political will to continue to resolve the issue through negotiations,” said the spokesperson, noting that technical teams from both sides will continue with their negotiations on Oct. 7.

    The ministry urged the EU side to be clearly aware of the harm of imposing additional tariffs, as it will not solve any problems but only waver Chinese enterprises’ confidence and resolve in and prevent them from conducting investing cooperation in Europe.

    “China’s position is consistent and clear. China firmly opposes the unfair, illegal and unreasonable protectionist practices of EU in this case, and resolutely opposes the EU additional countervailing duty on Chinese electric vehicles,” said the spokesperson. “China will take all possible measures to firmly defend the interests of Chinese enterprises.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Bulgaria celebrate anniversaries together at Confucius Institute

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SOFIA, Oct. 4 — “Bulgaria and China — we celebrate together with a view to the future” event was held at the Confucius Institute here on Friday to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bulgaria.

    The event, organized by the Confucius Institute in Sofia, was also held to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, 20 years of Confucius Institutes, Global Confucius Institute Day, and the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival.

    Spectators in the institute’s Multifunctional Hall enjoyed Chinese and Bulgarian songs and dances performed by Bulgarian and Chinese students from educational institutions.

    Earlier on Friday, those interested attended lectures dedicated to China, such as “Educational Exchanges Between China and Bulgaria: Development of Bulgarian Studies in China” and “The Cultural Dimension of China’s Foreign Policy.”

    Guan Xin, cultural counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Bulgaria said addressing the festivity that China’s National Day and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and China have become inseparable events that were celebrated together and gave double joy to the two peoples.

    Guan also said that by promoting the Chinese language and culture, Confucius Institutes have helped people around the world get to know China, creating conditions for mutual understanding and rapprochement.

    Chen Ying, Chinese director of the Confucius Institute in Sofia, said the Confucius Institute in Sofia confidently and steadfastly worked for the spread of Chinese culture in Bulgaria, for more and more Bulgarian youth to learn Chinese, to visit China, and to eventually become young ambassadors of friendship between the two peoples.

    Chen said that currently, there are 25 learning centers with Chinese language teaching in the country, among which were universities in Plovdiv, Ruse, Blagoevgrad, Stara Zagora, and Burgas.

    Confucius Institute in Sofia has built eight Confucius Classrooms, which became regional centers for the dissemination of Chinese language and culture, she said.

    A congratulatory address on behalf of Nikolay Marin, rector of the South-West University in Blagoevgrad, said that his university established itself as a bridge of friendship between Bulgaria and China.

    The sustained friendly relations between China and Bulgaria were a prerequisite for the expansion of cooperation between the two countries in various spheres, Marin said.

    “It is our honor and pleasure to share this special moment with you,” said a congratulatory address on behalf of Dobri Yarkov, rector of Trakia University in Stara Zagora, who said he was happy and proud that the relationship and partnership between China and Bulgaria has been deepening in the culture, science, technology, agriculture and education.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lac La Biche — Alberta RCMP respond to social media post depicting arrest in Lac La Biche

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    We, the Alberta RCMP are aware of a social media post depicting an officer of the Lac La Biche RCMP arresting a man in the early hours of Oct. 1, 2024. This video has garnered concerns from the public with regards to the officer’s actions. This video depicts one moment in a much larger incident and the RCMP would like to provide background as well as a more fulsome video of this interaction.

    On Oct. 1, 2024, at 2 a.m., Lac La Biche RCMP received a report from a family member of an intoxicated individual outside of a residence being verbally aggressive towards the occupants and refusing to leave. A lone Lac La Biche officer was the first to arrive and attempted to arrest the individual by placing him in handcuffs. The individual initially resisted arrest and then attacked the officer punching him in the head. The officer attempted two separate deployments of a conducted energy weapon (Taser) while the suspect continued to pursue the officer, however both deployments were unsuccessful. When the offender momentarily became compliant the officer quickly moved in to gain control and arrested the suspect.

    Police immediately took the suspect to the hospital to be treated for injuries he received during the altercation. Once the suspect received treatment, he was taken to the detachment and later released on charges for resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer.

    The RCMP have initiated our internal review process to gather a full account of what took place during this incident, including police training, policy, and response.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Expanding rail transit lines propel Greater Bay Area integration

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SHENZHEN, Oct. 4 — The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) is being closely-knit by a growingly extensive, interconnected transportation network, poised to become one of China’s largest cross-city rail transit systems.

    Spanning 56,000 square km with a total economic output of over 14 trillion yuan (around 2 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2023, the area encompasses the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, along with nine cities in south China’s Guangdong Province.

    Since May, two new intercity rail lines have joined the existing network. Its integrated infrastructure, ticketing, security and information systems allow passengers to travel seamlessly across Guangzhou, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhaoqing and Huizhou in the GBA with a single ticket.

    The nine cities of Guangdong in the GBA see an average of over 6 million daily intercity trips. The intercity rail network has greatly streamlined business travel, tourism and commuting.

    “Compared to a grueling five-hour drive in the past, my daily commute now takes me just over two hours through the intercity transit network,” said a passenger surnamed Xie who works in Guangzhou and lives about 70 km away in Foshan.

    “The transit is quick and comfortable. It feels like I’m commuting within a single city,” Xie added, noting that the convenience of intercity travel makes it easy to meet and hang out with friends across all five cities.

    Experts believe that a bustling, punctual metro system can reduce travel times and transportation costs. Hence, it is logical to develop an extensive cross-city rail transit system to accommodate the high commuter traffic generated by the GBA’s integration.

    China aims to develop the GBA into a world-class city cluster, a global technology and innovation center, a livable, business-friendly location, an exchange hub for the culture of the East and the West and a world-class tourism destination.

    Experts believe that the GBA’s integration is crucial for harnessing regional industrial strengths, driving collaborative development, optimizing the industrial landscape and aligning with the global value chain.

    According to Hu Gang, a professor at Guangzhou-based Jinan University, the intercity line connecting five cities stimulates vitality and fosters interconnectivity, coordinated development and efficient resource circulation in the area.

    With the launch of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong high-speed railway and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the GBA’s transportation network has fostered new patterns of cross-city consumption, economic exchange and lifestyles.

    “On weekends, I often stay in Shenzhen, enjoy dim sum and go shopping before heading back to Hong Kong on Sunday,” said Lin Lin, who frequently takes the subway to Shenzhen after finishing work in Hong Kong on Fridays.

    Shenzhen and Hong Kong have implemented a mutual authentication system for digital payment in public transport. People can use payment apps including AlipayHK and Alipay for taking buses and subways in both cities, with fares automatically converted at current exchange rates.

    “The transportation network fosters regional economic cohesion and job growth, differentiating industries and boosting competitiveness,” said Li Peilin, an associate researcher at the National Development and Reform Commission’s Institute of Spatial Planning and Regional Economy.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong wins global acclaim as one of top places to do business

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HONG KONG, Oct. 4 — Hong Kong has been winning global acclaim for its ever-improving business and investment climate underpinned by its status as a global financial hub and relentless efforts to nurture industries and firms.

    A pilot Business Ready 2024 Report published by the World Bank Group has named Hong Kong one of the best-performing economies in business environment out of the 50 economies it surveyed worldwide, according to a spokesperson for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government.

    The report gauges business and investment climate from 10 topics with three pillars under each topic. Hong Kong ranks fifth in the pillar of “Operational Efficiency” with a score of 78.52 points out of 100 points. Among the 10 topics, Hong Kong scored 90.77 points for “International Trade,” 85.49 points for “Business Entry,” and 77.71 points for “Utility Services.”

    The report also highlighted that Hong Kong has few restrictions on international trade in services and implements good practices in terms of information provision and regulations relating to company registration, the spokesperson said.

    The pilot report is the latest in a string of nods to the ease of doing business in Hong Kong. The World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 published by the International Institute for Management Development in June put Hong Kong first in terms of “International trade” and “Business legislation.” Hong Kong ranks among the top five globally in “business environment,” “human capital” and “infrastructure” according to the latest Global Financial Centers Index.

    “Apart from London and New York, I think there’s no other international regulatory environment that is more valuable than Hong Kong’s. I’m absolutely confident that I’m in the right place,” said French entrepreneur Julien Martin, dubbing Hong Kong one of the most attractive destination for businesses to grow and thrive.

    Having worked in the financial industry in Hong Kong for more than 10 years, Martin founded a green finance startup, as he has every confidence that Hong Kong’s strong regulatory regime, free flow of capital, as well as abundant sources of technological innovation will help his company thrive.

    Many foreign firms share Martin’s upbeat sentiment for growth. According to a latest business confidence survey conducted by the German Industry and Commerce Ltd. and the German Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, 86 percent of respondents stated their company was not considering a relocation in the immediate future, while one in four indicated further investments in Hong Kong in the next two years, suggesting a commitment to maintaining stable operations in Hong Kong.

    Adding to Hong Kong’s long-standing allures including a transparent regulatory environment, a competitive tax regime and top-notch professional services and talents, Hong Kong is nurturing its sci-tech innovation sector as a cradle of startups as well as offices of leading firms.

    “Aside from enjoying a long legacy as one of the most important international business centers and logistics hubs in the world, Hong Kong is also committed to becoming a leader in the innovation and technology industry and is well-placed to achieve such a status,” said Yang Ming, global strategic affairs vice president of WestWell, an autonomous-driving developer founded in Shanghai.

    Hong Kong’s strategic location at the center of Asia enables innovation and technology companies to establish extensive connections with the regional market and achieve deep insights, Yang added.

    Entrepreneurs also say that Hong Kong’s supportive ecosystem for startups can come in handy, with government-backed initiatives, incubators, accelerators, and funding schemes in place to help startups navigate regulatory frameworks, access capital, and connect with potential partners or clients.

    Heartened by Hong Kong’s efforts to make its business environment more appealing, leading firms are pivoting increasingly to Hong Kong. Artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent speech giant iFLYTEK and its subsidiary iFLYHEALTH announced plans in July to set up their international headquarters in Hong Kong’s flagship incubator Cyberport.

    Hong Kong will maintain its international, open and friendly business environment, said Financial Secretary of the HKSAR government Paul Chan during his visit to Spain in late September. Chan had vowed to deepen cooperation with both developed and emerging markets for fresh impetus into Hong Kong’s capital market.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends South Carolina Disaster  Declaration

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the State of South Carolina by authorizing an increase in the level of Federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the State of South Carolina as a result of Hurricane Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.

    Under the President’s order today, Federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance has been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs for a period of 90 days of the State’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE  FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transformational plans for Liverpool’s Littlewoods Project given green light

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    Plans by Capital&Centric to transform the iconic former Littlewoods building in Liverpool into a new, world-class film and TV campus have been approved by Liverpool City Council’s Planning Committee.

    The plans for the Council-owned site, which include the restoration and repurposing of the 1930s Edge Lane building, were submitted by the social impact developers last year.

    The company has just completed the enabling works and securing planning is the next major milestone for the project.

    Subject to the next tranche of funding being agreed, the go ahead from the council will kick start the main restoration works, including two new 20,000 sq.ft studios for big budget productions, as well as spaces for offices, workshops, studio support facilities and an education facility.

    The site, which holds many memories for locals, will now be opened up and made accessible to surrounding communities. The former canteen which was housed in a barrel-vaulted hangar is to be transformed into a multi-purpose screening and performance zone, which will be for the use of occupiers on site, and then open up to the public out of hours. It’ll feature five small format cinema screens, an outdoor performance space and permanent foodhall.

    John Moffat, Joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric, said: “This is a huge moment for Littlewoods and for the city as we now have the green light to deliver the Hollywood of the North. Liverpool already has a reputation as a world-class filming destination.

    “The Littlewoods Project will take it to the next level, providing much-needed indoor studio space and support facilities. You can’t underestimate what this means for local people – me among them – not only seeing this iconic building brought back to life, but bolstering the city’s creative credentials and creating jobs and careers for generations. It’s the moment everyone’s been waiting for.”

    Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “The transformation of the Littlewoods building into a world-class, cross-sector film, TV and creative campus is a game-changer for the Liverpool City Region. It’s a testament to our growing reputation as a centre for creativity and innovation.

    “This project not only preserves a cherished part of our heritage but will also drive economic growth, create thousands of jobs, and cement our place on the international stage as a destination for high-end productions.

    “It’s fantastic to see our vision for the ‘Hollywood of the North’ take another step towards becoming a reality, and we’re proud to support this iconic development with a £17m investment.”

    Councillor Nick Small, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet member for Growth and Economy, said: “It’s fantastic news that the Littlewoods Project has been greenlit by the city’s Planning Committee. It means the stage is set for it to play a lead role in transforming Liverpool’s TV and Film offer.

    “There’s still some plot development to take place and we’ll be working closely with Capital & Centric and the Combined Authority to ensure a truly blockbuster scheme is delivered.”

    The planned new sound stages will take around a year to be built and become operational. The programme for repurposing the existing building is longer due to the complexity of dealing with the existing structures.

    Capital&Centric is working with Liverpool City Council as freeholder of the site and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority as project funders. The Combined Authority, led by Mayor Steve Rotheram, has committed up to £17m to the project.

    It is anticipated that the Littlewoods Project will bring around 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs in the region’s creative sector.

    Famed for their restoration of historic buildings such as Crusader in Manchester, Weir Mill in Stockport and Eyewitness Works in Sheffield, Capital&Centric recently announced its biggest project to date – delivering 2,000 homes for the UK’s largest new town, Northstowe in Cambridgeshire.

    The team behind the Littlewoods Project includes architect shedkm and planners Avison Young.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley: Biden-Harris Stonewalling Prevents CBO from Conducting Complete Analysis of President’s 2025 Budget

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today issued the following statement on the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)’s report, “An Analysis of the President’s 2025 Budget.”

    “Biden-Harris pie-in-the-sky policy proposals are so unrealistic CBO can’t even calculate their budget impact. This administration’s unprecedented lack of transparency and fiscal discipline is insulting to Congress and the taxpayer,” Grassley said. “President Biden and Vice President Harris shouldn’t count on Congress to go along with their plan to stick Americans with the bill for a bunch of unclear initiatives – especially today, when households are facing 20 percent higher prices than they were four years ago.”  

    The nonpartisan CBO has analyzed presidents’ budget proposals since the 1970s. Due to limited detail in many Biden-Harris policies, CBO hasn’t been able to estimate their budgetary effects as promptly or precisely as past administrations. 

    Grassley in March asked White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Shalanda Young if she would give CBO all the information it needs for this year’s report to Congress. In response, Director Young committed, “We will provide CBO what they need to do this independent assessment.” Despite this promise, CBO and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) did not have enough information from OMB to produce independent estimates for more than 60 Biden-Harris budget proposals. Notably: 

    • CBO could not determine the total spending, revenues, deficits and debt under the Biden-Harris budget.
    • For the tax and mandatory spending policies CBO and JCT could assess, they found the administration overstated expected savings by over $1 trillion. 
    • CBO projects Biden-Harris’ base nondefense funding request exceeded the spending cap enacted in the Fiscal Responsibility Act. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the San Carlos Apache  Tribe

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists for the San Carlos Apache Tribe ordered federal aid to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by the Watch Fire from July 10 to July 17, 2024.

    The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals for the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

    Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

    Federal funding also is available to the San Carlos Apache Tribe and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the Watch Fire.

    Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

    Mr. Benigno Ruiz of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

    Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper Travels to Haywood and Jackson Counties, Meets With First Responders and People Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper Travels to Haywood and Jackson Counties, Meets With First Responders and People Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper Travels to Haywood and Jackson Counties, Meets With First Responders and People Impacted by Hurricane Helene
    bconroy

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper visited Haywood and Jackson counties to meet with people affected by the storm and thank emergency personnel and volunteers for their continued hard work. Relief and recovery operations continue in Western North Carolina as coordinated efforts bring supplies and resources into the region.

    “Today I visited Canton, Waynesville and Cashiers along with the Emergency Operations Centers in Jackson and Haywood Counties, speaking with people impacted by this storm about our continuing support and current needs in their communities,” said Governor Cooper. “The people of Western North Carolina have shown remarkable strength and courage in the face of this unprecedented storm, and we will continue our efforts to surge resources into affected areas.”

    In Haywood County, the Governor visited Canton where he was joined by Mayor Zeb Smathers to walk through damaged downtown businesses and Pisgah Memorial Stadium. The Governor also visited the Haywood County Emergency Operations Center to thank volunteers. In Jackson County, the Governor visited the Cashiers Fire Department and the Jackson County Emergency Operations Center where he thanked first responders and spoke with them about ongoing rescue and recovery missions.

    North Carolina Emergency Management and officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. Today, NCEM launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm.

    Today, Gov. Cooper requested and was granted the addition of Swain and Mecklenburg counties to North Carolina’s Major Disaster Declaration. Residents affected by Helene in these counties can apply for FEMA assistance by going to disasterassistance.gov

    This week, President Biden approved 100% FEMA reimbursement for six months. To apply for Individual Assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov. President Biden also approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. Aviation assets deployed earlier this week, and military personnel have deployed throughout the day today. That is in addition to the more than 1,200 North Carolina National Guard who are currently deployed, conducting search and rescue missions and distributing food, water and other supplies. In order to ensure that all resources are available for use in the response to Hurricane Helene, Governor Cooper issued Executive Order 316, which permits the use, sale, and distribution of dyed diesel fuel for highway use.

    Photos of today’s visit can be found here.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts are underway to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. FEMA has delivered approximately 6.1 million liters of water and 4.1 million meals. More than 70,000 people have registered for individual assistance through FEMA. Food, water and commodity points of distribution have been opened at the following locations:

    • Buncombe County – Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704
    • McDowell County – Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752
    • Watauga County – First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607

    Points of distribution for commodities have been established in each impacted county. Many of these locations are also providing free public Wi-Fi for area residents. Seek information from local governments for the most up-to-date location in your county.

    Power Outages

    Across the region, approximately 148,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million. Power has been restored to more than 800,000 customers.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state.

    Shelters

    A total of 22 shelters are open in Western North Carolina, housing more than 1,162 people and 114 pets. Plans are in place to open additional shelters as needed to accommodate additional needs.

    Search and Rescue Operations

    Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. A total of 53 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event. The NC National Guard has interacted with over 5400 people, including assists, evacuations and rescues.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 600 roads closed as of Friday. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, this number may increase. NCDOT is asking people to refrain from unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. Road access is limited to local and hurricane response traffic as crews work to restore critical routes and access to communities isolated by damage. First responders also want to keep the roads as clear as possible to help ensure they may carry out all response missions. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT is currently using the following resources to assist with the recovery process:

    • 1,350+ employees, plus 70 contract companies
    • 1,200+ trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders
    • 900+ chainsaws
    • 5,000 barricades & signs

    Cellphone Provider Coverage

    Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and coverage issues caused by the storm and get stopgap solutions, such as temporary cell phone towers, in place and rapid progress is being made. Restoring communications is critical to saving lives, finding where people are and getting in supplies, and Governor Cooper been in constant contact with cellphone companies urging action and offering support. Please turn your cell phone off and restart it periodically to allow it to reconnect when a network is reestablished.

    Fatalities

    Sixty-five storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    North Carolina National Guard Deployed

    Gov. Cooper has activated more than 1,200 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen to both conduct search and rescue operations and deliver critical supplies to Western North Carolina. As of Friday, 417 specialized vehicles and 26 aircrafts have been deployed in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions.

    President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. Currently, aviation assets and other equipment from Fort Liberty have been deployed and up to 1,000 active-duty military personnel are expected to begin deploying.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions, and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Major Disaster Declaration and FEMA Assistance

    President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for an expedited request declaring a Major Disaster for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This declaration paves the way for Public Assistance to help our hard-hit local governments, as well as access to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. On Wednesday, President Biden announced the approval of 100% FEMA reimbursement for six months, a significant funding commitment from the federal government.

    FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can apply.

    North Carolinians may apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app.

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    If you would like general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    Oct 4, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Uncovering impactful solutions through user research

    Source: US Government research organizations

    The purpose of user research is to understand the needs and behaviors of your users so you can develop a product or service that supports them. Combined with user testing, it helps ensure that your product or service meets the needs of your users.

    Types of user research

    There are two types of user research: generative, and evaluative.

    Generative research helps you discover behaviors and problems in the current environment. This is the type of research you’ll use most when you first start a user research exercise. Examples of generative research include observations (i.e., watching the user do something) and user interviews.

    Evaluative research takes place after you have a potential solution in mind. You use this type of research to pilot your solution with real users to see how it works. Examples of evaluative research include usability testing, where you watch a user try out your solution to see how they interact with it.

    Types of usability testing

    When conducting these two types of user research, be sure to apply some qualitative testing with users. As with the research types, there are two approaches here, each of which has its own unique benefits.

    Unmoderated user testing. In unmoderated testing, your users all receive the same questions (think of it like a script). This approach works best with a large sample size where you can gather quantitative data to identify the challenges users face when navigating through your digital offerings.

    Moderated user testing. In moderated testing, you have a moderator who can facilitate sessions to follow the needs and the questions of your testers in real time. This can help you discover more qualitative data from users, such as: what are your users thinking, feeling, and saying as they work with your digital content? This type of data can reveal themes and help you empathize with the people who will be accessing your content. Using this approach means you can also get a smaller group of people together and generate less paperwork, driving the goals of the Paperwork Reduction Act.

    Remember that the American public is not necessarily your end customer; they might be someone from another agency or even within your own agency.

    When conducting user testing, some important best practices to keep in mind include:

    • Be empathetic to the needs of differently-abled users.
    • Only ask questions that you really need answered. This shows respect for users’ time.
    • Make it clear from the beginning that the tester is driving the session, and check in often to make sure that they are comfortable proceeding.
    • Highlight that what they are sharing is valuable, and that they are in a safe environment, helping to inform trauma-responsive design of your digital content.

    Guidance within policy

    Recent memos from the Office of Management Budget (OMB) provide agencies with compliance and implementation guidance for two laws: Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), and the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act (21st Century IDEA).

    Strengthening the federal government’s commitment to digital accessibility (M-24-08): Guidance for agencies to incorporate digital accessibility in their services, specifically building in guidelines and guardrails.

    Delivering a digital-first public experience (M-23-22): Guidance for agencies to test their digital solutions with individuals who have disabilities and people using different forms of assistive technology.

    Both policies are important to consider when conducting user research.

    If you have questions about either memo, contact OMB’s Office of the Federal CIO at ofcio@omb.eop.gov.

    User testing resources

    Utilize existing resources across the government for help with accessibility-focused user research journeys, such as identifying testers. There are online guides and communities to help you get started, like the usability testing card from 18F Methods and the Digital.gov User Experience Community.

    Your own agency may even have its own guide to conducting user research. For example, the Department of Homeland Security published Basics of User Research: What is User Research and worked with Digital.gov on a training session, DHS Usability Testing Kit — So Easy, Anyone Can Do It.

    Remember to use your contracts and associated documents — like a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) — to document accessibility requirements and identify the mandates in applicable laws and memos to ensure that contractor-driven developments meet accessibility needs.

    Learn more in the 18F De-risking Guide: Sample Quality Assessment Surveillance Plan (QASP).

    Case study

    Delivering on 21st Century IDEA: A case study from the GSA SmartPay team (Part 1)

    The GSA SmartPay program, the largest government charge card and commercial payment solutions program in the world, celebrated their 25th anniversary by launching three new websites with a user-centered, agile approach.

    While there are automated tools available to help test systems for accessibility, they can only get you so far. A thoughtful plan of action for user research and testing is the only way to calculate for the human element and to design digital services that meet a variety of accessibility and inclusivity needs.

    Join the UX and Section 508 communities of practice.

    User Experience Community

    The UX Community of Practice is a group of managers, subject matter experts, designers, developers, writers, and others interested in creating efficient, effective, and useful technologies. Join the UX Community.

    Section 508/IT Accessibility Community

    The IT Accessibility and Section 508 Community of Practice is a group of federal employees who manage agency Section 508 programs or create electronic content. They work to create accessible online experiences for federal employees and members of the public.

    Note

    This blog post was inspired by session 2 of the Spring 2024 Digital.gov Community Summit: Delivering a digital-first public experience. Panelists included:

    Beth Martin, Digital Source Expert with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), session moderator

    Kristen Lohman, Design Strategist with the Service Delivery Team at GSA

    Mark Meyer, Software Developer with the Digital Service Team at GSA

    Martha Wilkes, the Lead Accessibility Strategist at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

    Christopher Patten, a Human Centered Designer at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Death of an inmate from Springhill Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    On October 4, 2024, John Daley, an inmate from Springhill institution, died while in our custody.

    October 4, 2024 – Springhill, Nova Scotia – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 4, 2024,  John Daley, an inmate from Springhill institution, died while in our custody.

    At the time of death, the inmate was 61 years old and had been serving an indeterminate sentence, which commenced on March 11, 1988.

    The inmate’s next of kin have been notified.

    As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances. CSC policy requires that the police and the coroner be notified.

    -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –