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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Consequences of the unfair rules introduced by the Batteries Regulation – E-001814/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001814/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    Europe’s largest factory producing lithium-ion cells for electric cars is located in Poland. The LG Energy Solution Wrocław plant employs over 7 000 people with an annual production of 70 GWh. My country is currently one of the world’s largest battery manufacturers, and the value of battery exports from Poland in the first quarter of 2024 exceeded PLN 12 billion.

    Poland, for objective and historical reasons, has not yet completed the energy transition. Implementing a clean atomic energy programme requires time and financial resources. Meanwhile, as part of the pending implementing acts to the Batteries Regulation, the Commission plans to introduce a methodology for calculating the carbon footprint of batteries by taking into account CO2 emissions in a country’s energy mix. The proposed provisions favour Member States deriving their energy predominantly from renewable energy sources, at the expense of my region, which is a key link in the supply chain of essential components for electric vehicles. Moreover, Poland has already made huge investments in recycling[1] on the road to building circularity.

    • 1.Is the Commission deliberately introducing rules, under the guise of pro-environmental measures, which favour specific Member States at the expense of fair competition within the single market?
    • 2.Is the Commission aware that Poland is an important link in the European supply chain for the battery sector, and that the introduction of the aforementioned rules threatens the destruction of this branch of the economy in my country and a decline in the competitiveness of the entire EU battery sector?

    Submitted: 25.9.2024

    • [1] https://wysokienapiecie.pl/101824-recykling-baterii-litowo-jonowych-polska-liderem-ue/
    Last updated: 2 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Revising crop insurance at European level – E-001822/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001822/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE)

    In 2024, as in previous years, winegrowers have suffered from adverse weather conditions (effects of frost on vines and buds, drought, hail, etc.) and plant diseases, such as mildew.

    At EU level the Crop Insurance Act can help them protect against loss of income caused by these devastating events.

    However, the Olympic average method for calculating the compensation, based on yield over the preceding five years, excluding the best and the worst, is much criticised. As climate-related hazards become more frequent and more serious, the calculation method should be adapted to take account of the reality of climate change and the upheavals it entails, and to ensure that farmers have good insurance cover.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of a request from Member States (including France) on this matter?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to review its calculation method in order to adapt the scheme?

    Submitted: 25.9.2024

    Last updated: 2 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – European Parliament hearings with Commissioners-designate to start on 4 November

    Source: European Parliament

    On Wednesday, the Conference of Presidents (EP President and leaders of political groups) agreed on the calendar for the hearings of the Commissioners-designate.

    The hearings will start on 4 November and take place until 12 November. The Conference of Presidents also decided on the division of responsibilities among committees for the confirmation hearings. The detailed schedule of which Commissioner-designate will be heard at what time will be decided by the Conference of Presidents at its next meeting.

    The European Parliament invites Commissioners-designate to appear before the appropriate committees for hearings in order to scrutinise if they are suitable for the posts they have been assigned to.

    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said: “The hearings for the Commissioners-designate are an important moment for European democracy. European Parliament members will thoroughly vet every candidate’s competence, independence and European commitment before voting on the College as a whole. Democracy will cut no corners. With a new legislative term comes new expectations. Rightly so, citizens want solutions to their concerns. The European Parliament will continue playing its role to ensure that our European Union delivers.”

    The procedure

    Ahead of the hearings, Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs scrutinises the declarations of interests of the Commissioners-designate. In order for a Commissioner-designate to take part in a hearing, there must be no conflicts of interest.

    Depending on the portfolio, a Commissioner-designate can be assessed by one parliamentary committee (committee responsible) or by more than one committee (joint committees). Other committees may be invited to participate, meaning they can contribute with oral questions while the final evaluation of candidates lies with the coordinators of the committee(s) responsible.

    The hearings will be followed by meetings in which the committee chair and group representatives (coordinators) of the various committees will assess whether a Commissioner-designate is qualified both to be a member of the College and to carry out the particular duties they have been assigned.

    Once all hearings are completed, the Conference of Committee Chairs will assess the outcome of the confirmation hearings and forward its conclusions to the Conference of Presidents. The latter will conduct the final evaluation and decide whether to close the hearings.

    Election of the Commission in plenary

    After the hearings have been concluded, Commission President-elect Ursula von der Leyen will present the full College of Commissioners and its programme in plenary.

    Her statement will be followed by a debate, and any political group or at least one-twentieth of Members of Parliament (low threshold) may table a motion for a resolution.

    The full Commission needs the consent of Parliament (by a majority of the votes cast, by roll-call).

    Once elected by Parliament, the Commission is formally appointed by the European Council, acting by a qualified majority.

    Background

    Annex VII of the EP Rules of Procedure specifies Parliament’s role in approving the European Commission and monitoring the commitments made during the hearings.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Breach of water temperature limit at Paks nuclear power plant – P-001906/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001906/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)

    In the summer of 2024, the Hungarian government issued a decree to bypass the legal temperature limits set for the Danube River downstream of Hungary’s Paks nuclear power plant, using the argument of security of energy supply. The Danube is an important European waterway and borders numerous Natura 2000 areas.

    • 1.Which procedural and legal steps is the Commission planning to take to address the Hungarian government’s disregard for environmental standards?
    • 2.Is the Commission evaluating the consequences of the rise in the river temperature to above 30 °C for animal welfare, for the ecosystem as a whole, and for human health?
    • 3.Is the Commission evaluating the consequences of the future operations of Paks nuclear power plant for the Danube’s ecosystem, in light of accelerating climate change?

    Submitted: 1.10.2024

    Last updated: 2 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Floods in Poland – P-001841/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001841/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jacek Ozdoba (ECR)

    In the debate on the impact of the flooding in Central and Eastern Europe that was held on 18 September 2024 during Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, Janez Lenarčič, the EU Crisis Management Commissioner, said that the relevant EU bodies had already sent flood warnings to the governments of Member States at risk, including Poland, on 10 September 2024. Those alerts were issued through the Copernicus early warning system. In response to that statement, we have the following questions:

    • 1.When exactly did the Commission pass on the first alerts of a flood risk in Poland? On what date and at what time were those alerts relayed?
    • 2.Did the Polish Government react to those warnings?

    Submitted: 26.9.2024

    Last updated: 2 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: From Berlin, closing of the conference on the future of Europe in a multipolar world.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: President of the Republic of France in French (video)

    To follow the Presidency of the Republic: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elysee.fr Twitter: https://twitter.com/elysee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elysee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pr-sidence-de-la-r-publique

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada and Nova Scotia announce significant investment to purchase more wildfire equipment and build resilience to wildfires

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Minister of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy for Nova Scotia, the Honourable Tory Rushton, announced a joint investment of nearly $30 million over five years through two Government of Canada initiatives: the Fighting and Managing Wildfires in a Changing Climate (FWMC) Capital Fund and the Building Resilient Communities through FireSmart program.

    October 1, 2024 Halifax, Nova Scotia Natural Resources Canada

    As the frequency and severity of wildfires increase in Canada – to the detriment of our health, economy, living environments and wildlife – the governments of Canada and Nova Scotia are supporting their citizens whose lives and livelihoods are threatened by wildfires.

    The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Minister of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy for Nova Scotia, the Honourable Tory Rushton, today announced a joint investment of nearly $30 million over five years through two Government of Canada initiatives: the Equipment Fund for the Fighting and Managing Wildfires in a Changing Climate Program (CGFFCC) and the Resilient Communities through FireSmart program.

    A joint investment of $25.6 million from the CGFFCC Equipment Fund will support Nova Scotia in its efforts to purchase wildfire equipment, including helicopters, fire trucks, communications vehicles, incident command trailers, weather stations, technology upgrades and personal protective equipment. By supporting the acquisition and upgrade of specialized wildfire equipment, as well as the recruitment and training of personnel to meet peak needs, this investment will improve Nova Scotia’s response capacity. It will also strengthen community and firefighter safety and the ability to share resources across Canada.

    The investment builds on last year’s $169,292 contribution to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) to train firefighters to fight wildfires in several Mi’kmaq communities in Nova Scotia. The contribution came from the CGFFCC Program Training Fund Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), which prioritizes support for Indigenous communities and organizations in training firefighters and provides NRCan with a better understanding of the needs and barriers in this area. Staff from CIFFC and the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy provided this training to 21 Mi’kmaq firefighters in 2023.

    Through the Building Resilient Communities through FireSmart program, Nova Scotia and NRCan will invest up to $3.9 million over five years to support fire preparedness, risk reduction and the expansion of FireSmart principles and practices in Nova Scotia. With this funding, Nova Scotia will provide education and awareness related to wildfire prevention and mitigation at the community level. The funding will be used to build capacity to better assess fire risk and develop tools to support prevention and mitigation. This initial investment is part of a series of joint investments to help provinces and territories advance FireSmart principles and practices to prevent and mitigate wildfire impacts.

    While strengthening our ability to fight wildfires when they occur is critical, we also need to make proactive investments to reduce risks in the first place. The federal government has invested on both fronts by helping fire departments across the country better prepare for and respond to wildfires and by implementing community-based measures to prevent wildfires and reduce their impacts.

    The governments of Canada and Nova Scotia have the health and safety of Canadians as their top priority. Working with provinces, territories, Indigenous communities and international allies, the federal government continues to support and lead the fight against wildfires to keep our communities safe by protecting the lives, health, livelihoods and homes of our citizens from coast to coast to coast.

    Cindy CaturaoPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources613-795-5638cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Patricia JreigeCommunications AdvisorNova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewable Energy902-718-7866media.spsa@gov.sk.ca

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: With uptick in traffic fatalities, California makes record investment in enforcement and road safety projects

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 2, 2024

    What you need to know: California is investing record amounts of federal funding and implementing new measures to save lives following an increase in traffic fatalities.

    SACRAMENTO – As states across the nation, including California, continue to see an increase in traffic-related deaths, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced new record investments in transportation safety, education and enforcement programs. The record funding complements a slate of new safety measures recently signed by the Governor.

    The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is awarding a record $149 million in federal funding for 497 grants that expand safe biking and walking options and provide critical education and enforcement programs that will make roads safer throughout the state. This is the third consecutive year of historic funding, exceeding last year’s amount by $21 million. 

    Roughly 12 people are killed on California roadways every day. Thanks to the help of the Biden-Harris Administration, we’re doing something about it – surging record investments to communities across the state for enforcement and safety improvements and programs. This funding builds on action we recently took with the legislature to protect Californians on our roads and highways. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Last week, Governor Newsom announced he signed legislation allowing Malibu to add new speed cameras to a stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway. He also signed legislation setting long-term goals for safer and more inclusive transportation infrastructure, as well as new accountability measures.

    The OTS funds hundreds of projects throughout the state addressing alcohol and drug-impaired driving, distracted driving, seat belts and child safety seats, bicycle and pedestrian safety, emergency medical services, police traffic services and traffic records. 

    The investments are part of Governor Newsom’s infrastructure agenda to build more, faster. See projects in your community at build.ca.gov.

    “The OTS is supporting the biggest investments in traffic safety programs since the 1960s,” said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “The once-in-a-generation funding will benefit communities across California as we continue to forge a path toward our goal of zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads with the immediate action, urgency and undivided attention traffic safety deserves.” 

    Among the projects funded today:

    • Approximately $51 million for law enforcement agencies: More than 200 law enforcement agencies are receiving grants to conduct equitable enforcement targeting the most dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted and impaired driving, as well as support education programs focused on bicycle and pedestrian safety.
    • Approximately $13 million for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Programs: Funding for bicycle and pedestrian safety programs increased by 12% from the previous grant cycle. The programs fund walking and biking safety assessments and trainings to implement infrastructure solutions that improve active transportation, including a pilot speed limit setting and technical assistance program that looks at promising speed management policies and practices to make roads more bicycle and pedestrian friendly.
    • Approximately $2.74 million for Emergency Medical Services: Funds extrication equipment, also known as the “Jaws of Life,” for three dozen fire departments, a nearly 40% increase in funding from the previous grant cycle. Research shows that approximately 42% of fatal crash victims were alive immediately following the crash. Increased investments in approaches to address post-crash care also include supporting the development and use of the Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency’s trauma training mobile application used to help treat victims at the crash site. 
    • $350,000 for University of California, Berkeley Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC): Funds the development of an autonomous vehicle crash data dashboard and mapping system using crash and disengagement records from the Department of Motor Vehicles, as well as a public survey to understand California residents’ comfort with new emerging vehicle technology. 
    • $143,078 for Calaveras County Public Health Department: Funds a prevention focused program that addresses multiple traffic challenges in the rural county, such as child passenger safety, school zone safety, and bicycle safety, with the goal of serving as a model for rural road safety efforts in other counties throughout the state.

    California encourages the public to join the movement for safer roads and sign up as a “traffic safety champion” at gosafelyca.org/get-involved.

    Recent news

    Oct 1, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement on the inauguration of Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum.  Jennifer and I warmly congratulate President Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic inauguration. Her swearing-in marks a pivotal moment, not…

    Oct 1, 2024

    News What you need to know: The Assembly passed Governor Newsom’s proposal to prevent gasoline price spikes in the special session called by the Governor. The proposal now heads to the Senate. SACRAMENTO – Today, the California Assembly advanced Governor Gavin…

    Oct 1, 2024

    News What you need to know: A recent joint enforcement operation led by the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), seized and destroyed millions of dollars of illegally cultivated cannabis. The Alameda County operation also led to the confiscation of a…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Department of State Reminds Voters of Upcoming Registration Deadline for November 5 General Election

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    PROVIDENCE, RI � Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore and the RI Department of State Elections Division are today reminding eligible voters of important deadlines for the November 5, 2024 General Election.

    The deadline for individuals to be registered to vote to participate in the General Election is October 6, 2024.

    Eligible individuals can register online at vote.ri.gov or by visiting their local board of canvassers’ office. Below is a list of local voter registration form drop-off locations which will be open on Sunday, October 6.

    Mail ballot applications are also available. Registered voters can apply for a mail ballot using a paper form or the RI Department of State’s online mail ballot application portal. The deadline to request a mail ballot for the General Election is Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Voters are also reminded of a new law that allows mail ballot applications received within three days of the deadline to be accepted, so long as they are postmarked by the deadline. Mail ballots will be sent to voters beginning the week of October 7.

    Voters can find important information and deadlines online here.

    To learn more about elections in Rhode Island, register to vote, or check your registration status, visit vote.ri.gov.

    ###

    El Departamento de Estado de RI le Recuerda a los Votantes Sobre las Pr�ximas Fechas L�mite para la Inscripci�n y Desafiliaci�n para las Elecciones Generales del 5 de Noviembre

    PROVIDENCE, RI � El Secretario de Estado Gregg M. Amore y la Divisi�n de Elecciones del Departamento de Estado de RI les recuerdan hoy a los votantes elegibles para votar, sobre las fechas l�mite importantes para las Elecciones Generales, que se llevar�n a cabo el 5 de noviembre del 2024.

    La fecha l�mite para que las personas se inscriban para votar y participen en las Elecciones Generales es el 6 de octubre del 2024.

    Los votantes elegibles para votar pueden inscribirse en vota.ri.gov o visitando su junta local de elecciones. A continuaci�n, encontrar� una lista de los lugares para entregar los formularios de inscripci�n de votantes, los cuales estar�n abiertos el domingo 06 de octubre.

    Las solicitudes para las papeletas de votaci�n por correo tambi�n se encuentran disponibles. Los votantes inscritos para votar pueden solicitar una papeleta de votaci�n por correo utilizando un formulario impreso o el Sistema de Solicitud Digital para una Papeleta de Votaci�n por Correo del Departamento de Estado de RI. La fecha l�mite para solicitar una papeleta de votaci�n por correo para las Elecciones Generales es el martes 15 de octubre del 2024. Tambi�n se recuerda a los votantes una nueva ley que permite aceptar las solicitudes para votar por correo recibidas dentro de los tres d�as anteriores a la fecha l�mite, siempre que lleven franqueo de la fecha l�mite. Las papeletas de votaci�n por correo ser�n enviadas a partir de la semana del 7 de octubre.

    Los votantes pueden encontrar informaci�n importante y fechas l�mite aqu�.

    Para obtener m�s informaci�n sobre las elecciones en Rhode Island, inscribirse para votar o verificar el estado de su registro, visite vota.ri.gov.

    ###

    BARRINGTON Barrington Public Safety Building 100 Federal Rd. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    BRISTOL Bristol Police Department 395 Metacom Ave. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    BURRILLVILLE Burrillville Town Hall Drop Box 105 Harrisville Main St. Harrisville, RI Until 4 p.m.

    CENTRAL FALLS Central Falls Police Department 160 Illinois St. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    CHARLESTOWN Charlestown Town Hall 4540 South County Trail Charlestown, RI 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    COVENTRY Mail Ballot Drop Box or Coventry Library Reference Desk 1670 Flat River Rd. Drop Box: until 4 p.m. Library: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    CRANSTON Mail Ballot Drop Box Cranston City Hall 869 Park Ave (side entrance of the building, next to Cranston East) (entrada lateral del edificio, junto a Cranston East) Until 4 p.m.

    CUMBERLAND Cumberland Police Department 1379 Diamond Hill Rd. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    EAST GREENWICH East Greenwich Police Department 176 First Ave. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    EAST PROVIDENCE East Providence City Hall Drop Box (Grove Ave side of building) 145 Taunton Ave. Until 4 p.m.

    EXETER Exeter Mail Ballot Drop Box 675 Ten Rod Rd. or Animal Shelter 169 South County Trail Drop Box: until 4 p.m. Animal Shelter: 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m.

    FOSTER Foster Town Hall Drop Box 181 Howard Hill Rd. Until 4:00 p.m.

    GLOCESTER Glocester Town Hall 1145 Putnam Pike Chepachet, RI 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    HOPKINTON Hopkinton Town Hall Drop Box 1 Townhouse Rd. Until 4 p.m.

    JAMESTOWN Jamestown Town Hall 93 Narragansett Ave. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    JOHNSTON Johnston Police Department 1651 Atwood Ave. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    LINCOLN Lincoln Police Department 100 Old River Rd. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    LITTLE COMPTON Public Safety Complex 60 Simmons Rd. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    MIDDLETOWN Middletown Police Department 123 Valley Rd. Until 4 p.m.

    NARRAGANSETT Narragansett Town Hall Drop Box 25 Fifth Ave. Until 4 p.m.

    NEWPORT Newport City Hall Municipal Drop Box � Bull Street 43 Broadway (Completed forms may be placed in the City Hall Drop Box on Bull St.) (Los formularios completados pueden ser depositados en el Buz�n Municipal ubicado en Bull Street) Until 4 p.m.

    NEW SHOREHAM New Shoreham Town Hall Drop Box 16 Old Town Rd. Until 4 p.m.

    NORTH KINGSTOWN North Kingstown Town Hall 100 Fairway Dr. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    NORTH PROVIDENCE North Providence Public Safety Complex � Service Desk 1835 Mineral Spring Ave. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    NORTH SMITHFIELD North Smithfield Police Station 575 Smithfield Rd. Until 4 p.m.

    PAWTUCKET Blackstone Valley Visitors Center 175 Main St. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    PORTSMOUTH Portsmouth Town Hall 2200 East Main Rd. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    PROVIDENCE Public Safety Complex – Lobby 325 Washington St. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    RICHMOND Richmond Town Hall Drop Box 5 Richmond Townhouse Rd. Until 4 p.m.

    SCITUATE Scituate Town Hall Drop Box 195 Danielson Pike Until 4 p.m.

    SMITHFIELD Smithfield Police Department 215 Pleasant View Ave. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    SOUTH KINGSTOWN South Kingstown Town Hall Drop Box 180 High St. Wakefield, RI Until 4 p.m.

    TIVERTON Tiverton Police Department 20 Industrial Way 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    WARREN Warren Police Department 1 Joyce St. Until 4 p.m.

    WARWICK Warwick City Hall � Drop Box 3275 Post Rd. or Warwick City Annex � Sawtooth Building Drop Box 65 Centerville Rd. Until 4 p.m.

    WESTERLY Westerly Town Hall Drop Box 45 Broad St. (Completed forms may be deposited in the Drop Box located along the driveway to the left side of Town Hall) Until 4 p.m.

    WEST GREENWICH West Greenwich Police Department 280 Victory Highway 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    WEST WARWICK West Warwick Town Hall 1170 Main St. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    WOONSOCKET Woonsocket Police Department 242 Clinton St. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California makes major strides for water supplies and climate resilience over the past year

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 2, 2024

    What you need to know: With California experiencing climate-driven extremes in weather, the state is continuing to take aggressive action to protect and expand the state’s water supplies, including prioritizing groundwater recharge and infrastructure improvements and supporting vulnerable drinking water systems. 

    SACRAMENTO — The State of California, under the leadership of Governor Gavin Newsom, has made significant strides in securing and enhancing water supplies while building climate resilience. Over the past year, California has implemented innovative water management strategies and invested heavily in drinking water systems, groundwater protection and infrastructure projects, benefitting millions of residents statewide.

    As the state begins a new water year, here’s an overview of some key developments:

    Key milestones

    • Connecting hundreds of thousands of people to clean drinking water: Close to 900,000 more Californians now have access to clean drinking water since 2019, thanks to consolidation efforts and infrastructure improvements benefiting underserved areas across the state. Since Governor Newsom took office, California has reduced the number of people who lack access from 1.6 million to approximately 700,000.
    • Supporting drinking water systems: Nearly 400 communities across California have received support to bolster their drinking water and wastewater systems and build resilience against climate impacts through $880 million distributed by the State Water Board in the 2023-2024 fiscal year alone. These projects, which focus on both immediate and long-term needs, ensure cleaner and more reliable water access for local communities. Since 2019, California has facilitated more than 140 water system consolidations to provide safe drinking water, and the Governor last month signed SB 1188 (Laird) to support struggling small water systems with technical resources.
    • Streamlining Sites Reservoir project: California is forging ahead with this major water storage project which could store enough water for 3 million households’ yearly usage. The Sites Reservoir project cleared a legal hurdle last month under expedited judicial review enabled by the Governor’s infrastructure streamlining law.
    • Making progress on the Delta Conveyance Project: California released the final Environmental Impact Report for this critical project, as well as a new cost-benefit analysis showing that it would create billions of dollars in benefits for California communities – including reliable water supplies, climate change adaptation, earthquake preparedness and improved water quality. With every $1 spent, $2.20 in benefits would be generated. Through the rest of the year, local water districts that depend upon the State Water Project  will vote on funding the project. To date, the boards of the first three such districts to vote have committed to providing planning funds for the project.
    • 10 years of protecting groundwater supplies: California last month marked the first decade of protecting and sustaining our critical groundwater supplies through the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), which empowers local agencies to tackle overpumping that endangers water supplies for communities, agriculture and ecosystems. Since the law’s enactment, more than 300 local Groundwater Sustainability Agencies have been formed and are implementing enforceable groundwater sustainability plans. The state has invested nearly $1 billion in SGMA to achieve groundwater sustainability for future generations​.
    • Increasing groundwater supplies: California has increased its groundwater reserves, investing in projects that recharge groundwater basins, including capturing excess stormwater. In 2023 alone, 4.1 million acre-feet of water were added to underground aquifers through managed efforts.
    • Water Plan for extreme weather: Governor Newsom unveiled an update to the California Water Plan, outlining comprehensive solutions to enhance the state’s ability to capture and store more water, especially during extreme weather events like floods. This plan includes infrastructure improvements and technological advancements to build climate resilience.
    • Clearing $880 million in water utility debts: The state distributed $880 million to eliminate water utility debts for 4 million Californians, alleviating financial burdens on residents and businesses and ensuring continued access to water services during challenging economic times.

     As California begins a new water year, the state remains ready to respond to changing water conditions, including the potential return of dry conditions. With estimates that hotter, drier conditions could reduce California’s water supply by up to 10% by the year 2040, the state is implementing an all-of-the-above approach to safeguard and boost water supplies as outlined in the California Water Plan, Water Supply Strategy and Water Resilience Portfolio. 
     

    Recent news

    Oct 2, 2024

    News What you need to know: California is investing record amounts of federal funding and implementing new measures to save lives following an increase in traffic fatalities. SACRAMENTO – As states across the nation, including California, continue to see an increase…

    Oct 1, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement on the inauguration of Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum.  Jennifer and I warmly congratulate President Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic inauguration. Her swearing-in marks a pivotal moment, not…

    Oct 1, 2024

    News What you need to know: The Assembly passed Governor Newsom’s proposal to prevent gasoline price spikes in the special session called by the Governor. The proposal now heads to the Senate. SACRAMENTO – Today, the California Assembly advanced Governor Gavin…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Board of Elections Encourages Rhode Islanders To Become Poll Workers For November 5th General Election

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    CRANSTON, RI � The Rhode Island Board of Elections is encouraging Rhode Islanders to become poll workers for the November 5th General Election.

    “Our city and town board of canvassers partners are actively recruiting paid poll workers for the upcoming November 5th General Election,” said Rhode Island Board of Elections Executive Director Miguel Nunez. “This is a great opportunity to participate in the democratic process, help your community, and get paid for working the polls on election day.”

    Poll worker responsibilities include setting up polling places, greeting voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots. Poll workers also assist voters in understanding the voting process by demonstrating the use of voting equipment and explaining voting procedures. Poll workers can earn between $125 and $250. Click here for statewide poll worker pay rates.

    Poll worker trainings will be conducted October 2nd through November 1st.

    For more information about becoming a poll worker and to sign-up, visit https://elections.ri.gov/elections/poll-worker-information or contact your local board of canvassers.

    # # #

    About the Rhode Island Board of Elections The Rhode Island Board of Elections is the state agency of dedicated professionals responsible for regulating various aspects of the elections process within Rhode Island. For more information, visit elections.ri.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klamath River dams fully removed ahead of schedule

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 2, 2024

    What you need to know: The largest river restoration project in American history has officially completed all of the work to remove the dams, a massive infrastructure project that was done ahead of schedule and on budget. Work will continue for several years restoring the 2,200 acres of formerly submerged lands.

    SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Newsom announced that the Klamath River restoration project completed the final work to remove the dams from the river. The largest such infrastructure project in American history has came in ahead of schedule and on budget.

    While the dam removal portion of the project is now complete, work will continue for several years restoring the 2,200 acres of formerly submerged lands.

    Governor Newsom helped convene leaders in 2020 to advance this restoration plan and since then has pushed for the needed federal approvals, returned land to the Shasta Indian Nation, visited the site, and more. In August, the Governor announced that the project had gotten to the point of fish being able to swim freely for the first time in more than 100 years, with the Klamath River returning to free-flowing.

    “This is a monumental achievement – not just for the Klamath River but for our entire state, nation, and planet. By taking down these outdated dams, we are giving salmon and other species a chance to thrive once again, while also restoring an essential lifeline for tribal communities who have long depended on the health of the river. This is proof of what’s possible when we come together to prioritize our environment, our people, and future generations.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The removal of the dams, which had blocked the river’s natural flow for over a century, restores nearly 400 miles of vital habitat for salmon and other species that are essential to the river’s ecosystem and the communities that depend on them.

    Here’s what tribal leaders had to say: 

    • “Our áama, ancestral companions, can now return to over 400 miles of unleashed spawning grounds, renewing a bond that has nourished our people since time immemorial. The river is cleansing itself, and with time, its waters will grow purer. The scars left by the dams will fade and balance will be restored to the land. This is a reclamation of our cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and sovereign rights. We are thankful to everyone who made this possible. Yôotva!” – Chairman Russell ‘Buster’ Attebery of the Karuk Tribe
    • “The tribally led effort to dismantle the dams is an expression of our sacred duty to maintain balance in the world. That is why we fought so hard for so long to tear down the dams and bring the salmon home.” – Yurok Tribal Chairman Joseph L. James

    The Klamath River, once the third-largest salmon-producing river on the West Coast, has faced drastic declines in fish populations since the construction of hydroelectric dams began in 1918. The river’s blocked flow reduced water quality, increased temperatures, and made it nearly impossible for salmon and steelhead to complete their life cycles. 

    This represents a major victory for the Klamath Basin tribes, the States of California and Oregon, and numerous environmental and fishing groups.

    Below is how the river has transformed with each dam’s removal:

    Before and after photos can also be found here, attributable to Swiftwater Films. 

    Recent news

    Oct 2, 2024

    News What you need to know: With California experiencing climate-driven extremes in weather, the state is continuing to take aggressive action to protect and expand the state’s water supplies, including prioritizing groundwater recharge and infrastructure improvements…

    Oct 2, 2024

    News What you need to know: California is investing record amounts of federal funding and implementing new measures to save lives following an increase in traffic fatalities. SACRAMENTO – As states across the nation, including California, continue to see an increase…

    Oct 1, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement on the inauguration of Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum.  Jennifer and I warmly congratulate President Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic inauguration. Her swearing-in marks a pivotal moment, not…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Millions of Californians to receive average $71 credit on October electric bills

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 2, 2024

    What you need to know: California’s Cap-and-Trade Program is providing an average $71 electricity bill credit to millions of customers of investor-owned utilities, including PG&E, Southern California Edison, and SDG&E, among others. 

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that more than 11.5 million Californian households will automatically see savings on their October electricity bill through the California Climate Credit, funded by the state’s innovative Cap-and-Trade Program. 

    This credit will average $71 per electric bill customer. Including credits that went out in April, Californians will receive an average of $217 in bill credits during 2024. Since 2014, Californian households have already received an average of $971 in combined automatic April and October climate credits on their utility bills, totaling more than $14 billion statewide.

    “Thanks to our state’s Cap-and-Trade program, millions of Californians will see an average credit of $71 on their electric bills this month. Not only does this credit provide much-needed relief for families, it’s helping Californians make the switch to cleaner energy.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Electricity bill credits this month will range from approximately $32 to $174. More than 1 million small businesses are also expected to receive the credit. Customers may remember receiving a similar credit on electricity bills in April. 

    The California Climate Credit comes from the State’s Cap-and-Trade Program, which collects funds by requiring companies to pay for climate pollution, and is managed by the California Air Resources Board. The credit on utility bills represents the consumer’s share of the payments from the State’s program. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Oct 2, 2024

    News What you need to know: The largest river restoration project in American history has officially completed all of the work to remove the dams, a massive infrastructure project that was done ahead of schedule and on budget. Work will continue for several years…

    Oct 2, 2024

    News What you need to know: With California experiencing climate-driven extremes in weather, the state is continuing to take aggressive action to protect and expand the state’s water supplies, including prioritizing groundwater recharge and infrastructure improvements…

    Oct 2, 2024

    News What you need to know: California is investing record amounts of federal funding and implementing new measures to save lives following an increase in traffic fatalities. SACRAMENTO – As states across the nation, including California, continue to see an increase…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Waccamaw Siouan Indian Tribe to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Waccamaw Siouan Indian Tribe to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Waccamaw Siouan Indian Tribe to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
    jejohnson6

    An American Indian tribe that settled in southeastern North Carolina soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker.

    The marker commemorating the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe will be dedicated during a ceremony Oct. 12 at 10 a.m., at the Waccamaw Siouan tribal grounds (7239 Old Lake Rd, Bolton, N.C.).

    The “People of the Falling Star,” currently known as the Waccamaw Siouan Indian Tribe, were first documented in 1701 by John Lawson as he visited the tribal areas located on the lower Neuse River not far from the Tuscarora Tribe. Lawson recorded 143 words from the Siouan Language which is a similar dialect of the southwestern neighboring Catawba Tribe, which resides in present-day South Carolina. The words are documented in Lawson’s book, “A Vocabulary of Woccon,” which can be found in the State Archives of North Carolina.

    After the Indian Wars in North Carolina known as the Tuscarora (1711-1713) and Yamassee (1715) Wars, the Waccamaw Siouans (Woccon) retreated southeast to the current day Green Swamp in Columbus County, while others were adopted by the Catawba Tribe with their similar language dialects. The Waccamaw Siouan remained in obscurity until the late-1700s.

    Tribal history speaks of the formation of Lake Waccamaw. The lore says a huge meteor crashed into the earth’s surface, creating a large crater and forming the lake. While there is no known translation of the word “Waccamaw,” a study of the Catawba language provides clues to its origin. A game played by the Catawba Indian children is spelled Wap Ka’ Hare, which translated is “ball knock.” Listening to an Indian say this word sounds like “Wah-um-wah.” Historians say it is reasonable to conclude that “Waccamaw,” is the English translation of part of the phrase that told of the ball of fire that “knocked” into the earth and created Lake Waccamaw.

    The Waccamaw Siouan received North Carolina state recognition in 1971 and hold membership with the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs. The tribe was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) organization in 1977. On the third week of October, an annual powwow is held on the tribal grounds. The major communities of tribal members are St. James, east of Lake Waccamaw, and Buckhead and Council, north of Bolton, N.C.

    For a more complete history of the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe visit https://waccamaw-siouan.org

    For more information about the historical marker, please visit https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2023/12/12/waccamaw-siouan-indian-tribe-d-123, or call (919) 814-6625.

    The marker is one of nine markers being dedicated in 2024 that highlight American Indian culture and history in North Carolina. Historical markers were approved for the Coharie, Haliwa-Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi Band of the Saponi, Sappony, and Waccamaw Siouan tribes. In addition, historical markers were approved for the site of the East Carolina Indian School and the Buie Mound site. The N.C. American Indian Heritage Commission staff worked closely with N.C. tribes to complete applications to be considered for the historical marker program.

    The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 2, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Parks Closures Through October, All Programming Canceled Across the State

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: State Parks Closures Through October, All Programming Canceled Across the State

    State Parks Closures Through October, All Programming Canceled Across the State
    jejohnson6

    All North Carolina state parks west of Interstate 77 are closed through at least Oct. 31, the Division of Parks and Recreation announced. These parks include Chimney Rock, Crowders Mountain, Elk Knob, Gorges, Grandfather Mountain, Lake James, Lake Norman, Mount Mitchell, New River, South Mountains, and Stone Mountains state parks, as well as Mount Jefferson State Natural Area and Rendezvous Mountain.

    In addition, all events and programs at all state parks have been canceled through Oct. 31, with the exception of Dismal Day, Oct. 12, at Dismal Swamp State Park; Fear at the Fort, Oct. 18-19 and 25-26, at Fort Macon State Park; and a Schools in Parks training, Oct. 26, at Carolina Beach State Park.

    The division is assisting with the statewide emergency and rescue efforts in western North Carolina, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. About 30 staff have been deployed on law enforcement assignments requested through the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center. Scaling back operations across the state will allow staff to continue to assist with critical deployments. In addition, the closure of western parks can help limit travel in the area while roads and other infrastructure are repaired and replaced.

    “The devastation brought by Helene in many communities across western North Carolina has been profound,” said State Parks Director Brian Strong. “The entire division wants to provide whatever assistance we can to our neighbors and to these areas that were hit hardest. We want to prioritize our resources, both staff and equipment, towards immediate and lifesaving needs.”

    State park rangers are sworn law enforcement officers, and many park field staff — rangers and maintenance technicians — are certified as emergency medical responders, are trained to operate chainsaws and large equipment, and possess a commercial driver’s license. Once the vital needs of post-storm recovery efforts have been met, staff will focus on recreational facilities at parks, including trails, visitor centers, and campsites. Staff will assess conditions, clear downed trees, and address any remaining safety hazards before reopening to the public.

    “In the last few days alone, we have seen the entire state come together to support each other during this difficult time,” Strong said. “We know our parks are beloved by North Carolinians, but we also know our visitors are eager to help those who are grieving and those who have lost so much because of this storm.”

    All reservations for campsites and other facilities such as picnic shelters at western state parks through Oct. 31 have been canceled and refunded in full.

    About North Carolina State Parks
    North Carolina State Parks manages more than 262,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolina’s state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19 million visitors annually.
    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 2, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $9.4 MILLION TO HELP SMALL BUSINESSES GROW & TAP INTO THE BOOMING SEMICONDUCTOR SUPPLY CHAIN ACROSS UPSTATE NY

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Funding Will Help Grow NY’s Semiconductor Supply Chain By Providing Technical Assistance To Small Businesses Growing In The Semiconductor Industry Across Upstate NY Supporting Ongoing Work With The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse Tech Hub, Mohawk Valley Edge, The Capital Region CEG & Empire State Development

    Schumer: Fed $$$ Will Supercharge Upstate NY’s Growing Semiconductor Superhighway!

    U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced New York State has been awarded $9.4 million, with $1.5 million in matching funds from Empire State Development (ESD), to help small businesses across Upstate NY tap into and grow in the semiconductor and microelectronics industries. Schumer said this new program will help maximize the local impact of the billions in investment we are seeing across Upstate NY from companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed thanks to his CHIPS & Science Law by breaking down barriers to help small businesses enter and expand into the semiconductor supply chain.  

    “Small businesses across Upstate NY want to enter the booming semiconductor industry, but they can’t do it alone. This major $9.4 million in federal funding will help provide critical technical assistance to boost effort to make it happen. This is how we maximize the benefit of companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed’s expansions in Upstate NY, helping existing businesses grow and adapt to lead in the next frontier of technology. This will help boost efforts along the I-90 Tech Hub I secured and help Upstate NY build a robust supply chain from Buffalo to Utica to Albany that further positions the region as a global center for chip manufacturing,” said Senator Schumer. “I fought to secure historic funding for the State Small Business Credit Initiative in the American Rescue Plan and urged Secretary Yellen to prioritize funding for supply chain development, including in the semiconductor industry, because I know that support for small businesses is critical to our efforts to bringing manufacturing back home to America. Today’s federal investment further supercharges Upstate NY’s growing semiconductor superhighway!”

    With this funding, New York will implement the Semiconductor Growth Access Program (SGAP). The program will provide technical assistance – including legal, financial, and accounting services – to existing small businesses to grow in or pivot to the semiconductor and microelectronic supply chain. This will help those businesses upgrade and expand their equipment, building a chip manufacturing cluster across Upstate New York. Additionally, SGAP will create a shared regional purchasing roundtable of large manufacturers and tier 1 suppliers, designed to provide regular access to purchasing opportunities for participating businesses.

    The SGAP program will work alongside the Supply Chain Activation Network (SCAN), a project of the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse NY SMART-I Corridor Tech Hub, which Schumer fought to secure and has already delivered $40 million of federal funding to support. It will also support critical semiconductor supply chain growth with partners at the Mohawk Valley Economic Development Growth Enterprises Corporation (EDGE), and the Capital Region Center for Economic Growth (CEG).

    “New York has become a global leader in high-tech manufacturing – and we’re just getting started,” Governor Hochul said. “This $9.4 million investment from the State Small Business Credit Initiative will be critical as we work to connect underserved and very small businesses with the resources they need to succeed. Working with the Biden-Harris Administration, we’re creating even more jobs and opportunities for all New Yorkers.”

    Schumer previously led 15 senators in urging U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to use State and Small Business Credit Initiative funding to bring manufacturing back to the United States to strengthen domestic supply chains, including in the semiconductor industry. The American Rescue Plan Act reauthorized and expanded SSBCI, which provides nearly $10 billion to support small businesses and empower them to access the capital needed to invest in job-creating opportunities. Schumer supported state and local capital and technical assistance initiatives for small businesses to rebuild the economy coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York with the support of an over $6 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support of a $1.5 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. Wolfspeed has opened the first, largest, and only 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the world in the Mohawk Valley, with plans to further expand their operations. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, and following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall, Ernst Fight to Protect Americans and Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    New report finds 16,320 illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are currently in the country.
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) in introducing the Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act, a bipartisan bill that will allow America to deport sexual offenders currently in the country and block those seeking to enter. This legislation follows a shocking report that revealed 16,320 illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are in the country. 
    Specifically, the BE GONE Act will amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as “aggravated felonies.”
    “Kamala Harris and Joe Biden’s open borders agenda is flooding our communities with dangerous individuals who are putting American citizens in harm’s way,” Senator Marshall said. “Until we get a new sheriff in Washington, Congress must act with legislation that will block this administration’s free-for-all open border policies, stop threats before they enter over the southern border, and ensure Americans’ safety and security above all else.”
    “These violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they’re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,” Senator Ernst said. “Since Border Czar Kamala Harris won’t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped, and deported.”
    “I am honored to amplify and support the incredible efforts of Senator Joni Ernst on this bill. Senator Ernst has been the tip of the spear when it comes to enhancing our public safety. This bill will hold accountable those who commit the most heinous crimes and ensure they are dealt consequences. That is something this country not only demands but expects from our representatives and as always Joni Ernst comes through for America,” Retired Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Tom Homan said.
    “We are grateful to Senator Ernst for introducing the BE GONE Act which will deport immigrants who have committed heinous acts. This is common sense legislation that Congress must pass, so criminals are identified and stopped to protect Americans,” NumbersUSA Director of Federal Affairs Michael Hough said. 
    “The Biden-Harris Administration has created an historic crisis at our borders. Under this administration’s policies, tens of thousands of criminal aliens are being apprehended attempting to enter illegally and shocking new data shows that there are now 16,320 aliens in the U.S. convicted of sexual assault. Congress must work to ensure that criminal aliens are quickly removed from our country and this bill will help to accomplish exactly that. FAIR is proud to support the BE GONE Act and keeping American communities safe from illegal alien crime,” Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) President Dan Stein said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall On Newsmax: Trump gave us peace through strength, Biden-Harris continue to give war through weaknesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Wichita, KS – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Newsmax to discuss Iran’s attack on Israel and the growing conflict in the Middle East. President Trump delivered peace through strength, with tough policies on Iran that left the county’s economy in shambles. In contrast, the Biden-Harris Administration’s foreign policies have emboldened adversaries like Iran and enabled the largest state-sponsor of terrorism to finance violent attacks like the one it carried out on Israel yesterday. 
    Additionally, Senator Marshall reacted to last night’s Vice Presidential debate and discussed the Trump-Vance ticket’s policies that will restore a thriving American economy and protect our citizens’ safety and security. 

    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.

    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include: 
    On last night’s Vice Presidential Debate:
    “I’m so proud of JD… JD Vance mopped the floor with Tim Walz. JD was an excellent professional, and I tell you who clearly won the debate last night, and that was the American people. For the first time on a legacy news channel, America got to hear policy for about an hour and a half, and JD got to brag on the accomplishments of what Donald Trump did, that Donald Trump gave us a secure border and a strong economy.”
    “He pointed out, once again, that Kamala, who cannot be separated from Joe Biden’s policies, that she was an abject failure. So, exciting day for us last night. America wins, and I can’t wait until November 5th.”
    “What I thought was interesting, by about 30 minutes into the debate, Tim Walz was beat red, but he was nodding in agreement with JD. So as JD laid out the policies and laid out the defense, it looked like Tim Walz was agreeing with him, like we’d won him over.”
    “It was like JD walked in there with a full house of aces and queens, and got to share the policy of Donald Trump victories on the southern border, keeping a safe a strong economy, versus Tim Walz, all he had were twos and threes, had nothing that he could share, nothing he could point to as success. And by the way, Kamala, you had three and a half years to fix some of these problems.”
    On Iran’s attack on Israel and growing conflict in the Middle East: 
    “Don’t listen to what they say, watch what they do. Donald Trump gave us peace through strength. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris continue to give war through weaknesses.”
    “What we need is leadership in the White House, someone that will stand up and say, number one, Israel has unequivocally the right to defend themselves. Number two is that America is steadfast in our friendship to our great ally, Israel, and there needs to be a very, very significant response to Iran, much like President Reagan responded when they attacked some of our ships. We sunk some of their ships and attacked some of their offshore oil platforms.”
    “We need to empower Israel to do what they need to do. We need to tell the rest of the world to stand up and let Israel defend themselves. They have every right to do it. And because of Kamala Harris and their policies, Iran is just weeks away from having a nuclear weapon.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott, Kaine, Warner Statement on International Longshoremen’s Association Strike

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

    Headline: Scott, Kaine, Warner Statement on International Longshoremen’s Association Strike

    WASHINGTON – Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner (Both D-VA) and Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on the International Longshoremen’s Association strike: 

    “The International Longshoremen’s Union and United States Maritime Alliance must reach a fair and equitable deal as soon as possible to ensure operations can continue at the Port of Virginia and other port facilities along the East and Gulf Coasts. We urge both sides to work in good faith towards a new contract, and we’ll continue to monitor this situation as it develops.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: TheBLUF: Army Soldiers & Veterans on Team USA, Nt’l Veterans Summer Sports Clinic, Golden Age Games

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In this episode of The BLUF, it’s all about our Veteran athletes – and some Army Soldiers – as we look at how they represented Team USA at the 2024 Olympic Games. We also take a look at this summer’s other events – the National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic and the National Veterans Golden Age Games.

    Army Soldiers and Veterans compete on Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics

    Army Soldiers and Veterans compete on Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics


    National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic:

    National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic

    National Veterans Golden Age Games:

    National Veterans Golden Age Games

    VA Adaptive Sports and Arts
    Follow @Sports4Vets on social media

    Home


    The BLUF
    A VA Rocky Mountain Network Production
    This show is made by Veterans for Veterans

    Executive Producer: Shawn Spitler
    Producer, Director, Editor: Matt Murray
    Host, Producer: Sarah Kallassy
    Technical Director: Patrick Battle
    Audiovisual Production Specialist: Adam Desaulniers
    Stories by: Katie Beall, Jesus Flores, Sarah Kallassy, and Matt Murray

    Chapters:
    00:00 – 00:12 Intro
    00:13 – 01:16 Team USA
    01:17 – 01:54 National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic
    01:55 – 04:01 National Veterans Golden Age Games
    04:02 – 04:19 Thanks for watching!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePjCtNt-PWM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gallego, Mayor Weiers, APA President Justin Harris Highlight Work to Support Local Law Enforcement, Protect Public Safety

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ruben Gallego (AZ-07)

    October 02, 2024

    GLENDALE – Gathering at the Glendale Police Department, Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03), Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers, and Glendale Police Officer and Arizona Police Association President (APA) Justin Harris held a press conference highlighting Rep. Gallego’s work to support local law enforcement and protect public safety.

    “Ensuring Arizonans’ safety is my top priority,” said Rep. Gallego. “That’s why, since taking office, I’ve voted for billions of dollars in funding for local law enforcement and have fought to bring $61 million of that back home to Arizona. I’m proud of the work I’ve done to protect public safety in Arizona, and I’ll continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do more.”

    “I would like to thank the Congressman and our delegation for continuing to support public safety,” said Mayor Weiers. “In 2022, Congressman Gallego and our representatives in Washington D.C. funded public safety upgrades for our police department, including funding a new mobile command center and also funding to rebuild our 9-1-1 communications center that receives nearly 400,000 calls each year. I urge our delegation to remain focused on ensuring federal policies do not stop our officers from protecting the public.”

    “The Arizona Police Association values Rep. Gallego’s commitment to supporting the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our community,” said APA President Harris. “His dedication and commitment to ensure that police officers have the necessary funding and resources to enforce the laws, to maintain order and to support our communities is something we greatly appreciate and respect.”

    A recording of the press conference can be viewed HERE. Pictures of the event can be accessed HERE.

    Background on Rep. Gallego’s work to support local law enforcement

    During his time in Congress, Rep. Gallego has voted for over $168 billion in law enforcement funding and fought to bring home $45.9 million in Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program and $49.7 million in Byrne Justice Assistance Grants (JAG) funding to Arizona.

    Earlier this year, Rep. Gallego introduced his First Responders Emergency Assistance Act which would create a new emergency grant program for law enforcement and first responders in communities experiencing increased migrant arrivals. He also backs multiple bipartisan bills to strengthen the COPS program and support local law enforcement, including:

    • the Filling Public Safety Vacancies Act to provide an emergency boost to the COPS Hiring Program, doubling the amount of federal grant funding available for local departments this fiscal year.

    • the Recruit and Retain Act to increase the recruitment of new and qualified officers by reducing application and recruiting costs associated with finding new talent.

    • the Strong Communities Act to build stronger relationships between police and the communities they serve by incentivizing law enforcement officers to work in the communities where they live.

    • the Enhancing COPS Hiring Program Grants for Local Law Enforcement Act to expand the COPS Hiring Program to allow local law enforcement agencies to utilize program grants for recruitment and retention bonuses and to allow grant applications to be valid for five years, instead of the current one year.

    • the Supporting the Health and Safety of Law Enforcement Act to create a new grant program to increase coordination between community mental health centers and law enforcement officers on mental health issues, including homelessness and public safety.

    • the Invest to Protect Act to help small and mid-sized police departments, including Tribal police departments, recruit and provide safety training, de-escalation training, and mental health support for their officers.

    • the Establishing Accreditation Grants for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) Act to authorize $10 million in funding for small and mid-sized police departments to earn or renew accreditation from state, regional, tribal or national police accreditation organizations.

    In 2023, he introduced the Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens Tribal law enforcement and increases public safety in Indian Country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: HHS Food is Medicine Briefing | September 2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has worked collaboratively with federal partners and non-

    governmental organizations and communities to develop a Food Is Medicine (FIM) Virtual Toolkit populated with

    resources that can be used to advance FIM approaches across the country and help communities design and

    implement effective FIM interventions. The collection of resources helps enable communities – in any stage of

    programming – to become engaged in FIM, continue a FIM initiative, or start new FIM programs that meet the needs

    of the people in their communities. The Virtual Toolkit is available at https://health.gov/foodismedicine.

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zu3A8Gn11jM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How to Apply for Disaster Assistance – ASL

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    We know this is an extremely difficult time for the families who have lost loved ones and communities who have been impacted by this storm.

    If you are a homeowner or renter whose home was damaged by the recent storm, FEMA has resources available to help you jumpstart your recovery.

    Please remember, if you have home or flood insurance, contact
    your insurance provider and file a claim as soon as possible.

    If you live in a county that has been identified
    for federal assistance for individuals and households
    you can now apply for disaster assistance.

    There are three ways to apply:
    Go to Disaster Assistance. Gov
    Call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to apply for assistance.
    If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone
    or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
    Or download the FEMA App to start the application process on your mobile device.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3GJqNX5x9M

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Industrial Decarbonization with Sunvapor

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    With funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office, Sunvapor is developing technology that can concentrate sunlight to generate heat, producing steam. This steam can then be used for a variety of industrial processes, from food processing to chemical production to desalination. Learn more about how Sunvapor is partnering with other U.S. companies to decarbonize their operations with this innovative solar technology. https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/concentrating-solar-thermal-power

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZGOQ8M3Z1o

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Heritage Commerce Corp and Heritage Bank of Commerce Announce Appointment of New Chief Operating Officer Thomas A. Sa

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Heritage Commerce Corp (NASDAQ: HTBK) (“Company”), parent company of Heritage Bank of Commerce (“Bank”), today announced the appointment of Thomas A. Sa as the Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) of the Company and the Bank. As COO, Mr. Sa will report directly to Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) Robertson “Clay” Jones and will have primary responsibility for banking operations, risk management, and information technology systems. Mr. Sa had previously served as President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of California BanCorp and its subsidiary, California Bank of Commerce, which merged with Southern California Bancorp in July 2024. Mr. Sa has more than thirty years’ experience in a variety of increasingly responsible positions in California-based community and regional banks.

    “We are delighted to have Tom bring his immense talent and experience to Heritage Commerce Corp and Heritage Bank of Commerce,” said CEO Clay Jones. “We’re confident that Tom will play a pivotal role in our drive to be the community business bank of choice throughout our market areas. His personality and dedication to community business banking and demonstrated leadership ability position him well to lead our talented, motivated team.”

    Mr. Jones continued, “Tom’s diverse experience includes guiding strategy and oversight of business execution in addition to extensive knowledge of bank operations, lending, risk management, compliance, and finance, and we are confident that his skillset will allow us to continue our trend of consistent, profitable growth while managing today’s challenging environment.”

    Mr. Sa likewise expressed his enthusiasm for the Company and the Bank. “It’s rare to find such a tremendous blend of talent and commitment among such a small, close-knit team,” said Mr. Sa. “I’m looking forward to joining the Company and the Bank and I’m confident we are well-positioned to grow and improve investor returns, prudently manage the Bank’s assets, and promote compliance with an ever more complex system of laws and regulations that govern our business.”

    Heritage Commerce Corp, a bank holding company established in October 1997, is the parent company of Heritage Bank of Commerce, established in 1994 and headquartered in San Jose, CA with full-service branches in Danville, Fremont, Gilroy, Hollister, Livermore, Los Altos, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill, Oakland, Palo Alto, Pleasanton, Redwood City, San Francisco, San Jose, San Mateo, San Rafael, and Walnut Creek. Heritage Bank of Commerce is an SBA Preferred Lender. Bay View Funding, a subsidiary of Heritage Bank of Commerce, is based in San Jose, CA and provides business-essential working capital factoring financing to various industries throughout the United States. For more information, please visit http://www.heritagecommercecorp.com.

    Member FDIC

    For additional information, contact:
    Debbie Reuter
    EVP, Corporate Secretary
    Direct: (408) 494-4542
    Debbie.Reuter@herbank.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ee41931-2d17-41c8-9d30-b33cef4ebe7e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Kenya Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    Fancy Chepkemoi Too, the new Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented her credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    Prior to her appointment in Geneva, she served as the Chairperson of Kenya’s National Environmental Complaints Committee.  She has experience holding senior positions within the Kenyan Government, including Director of the Kenya Revenue Authority, and was awarded the distinguished Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear for her service in 2023.

    A seasoned lawyer, Ms. Too is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.  She has also served in several senior academic positions, including Director of Postgraduate Law Programmes at Strathmore University, Kenya, and Dean at the School of Law, Kabarak University, Kenya.

    Ms. Too obtained a Doctor of Philosophy in Laws and a Master of Laws from Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom, and a Bachelor of Laws from Moi University, Kenya.

     

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

     

    CR24.037E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada and Nova Scotia Announce Major Investment in Wildfire Equipment and Enhance Wildfire Resilience

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, with the Honourable Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, announced a joint investment of nearly $30 million over five years under the Government of Canada’s Fighting and Managing Wildfires in a Changing Climate Program (FMWCC) – Equipment Fund and the Resilient Communities through FireSmart (RCF) Program.

    October 1, 2024                                                          Halifax, Nova Scotia                                               Natural Resources Canada

    With wildfires increasing in frequency and severity across Canada — impacting our health, economies, communities and wildlife — the Governments of Canada and Nova Scotia are supporting Canadians and Nova Scotians whose lives and livelihoods are threatened by wildfires.

    Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, with the Honourable Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, announced a joint investment of nearly $30 million over five years under the Government of Canada’s Fighting and Managing Wildfires in a Changing Climate Program (FMWCC) – Equipment Fund and the Resilient Communities through FireSmart (RCF) Program.

    A joint investment of $25.6 million through the FMWCC – Equipment Fund is supporting Nova Scotia’s efforts to purchase wildfire firefighting equipment such as helicopters, fire trucks, communication vehicles, incident command trailers, weather monitoring stations, technology upgrades, personal protective equipment and more. This investment increases Nova Scotia’s response capacity by buying and upgrading specialized firefighting equipment and training more personnel to support surge capacity needs. This investment will further enhance safety for communities and firefighters and improve wildfire resource sharing across Canada.

    This funding also builds on last year’s contribution of $169,292 to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) to deliver wildfire firefighter training to Indigenous participants from several Mi’kmaq communities throughout Nova Scotia. The contribution came from Natural Resource Canada’s (NRCan) FMWCC – Training Fund, which provides support primarily to Indigenous communities and organizations to train firefighters and increase NRCan’s understanding of the needs and barriers in this space. Staff from the CIFFC and the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables have delivered this training to 21 Mi’kmaw firefighters in 2023.

    Through the RCF Program, Nova Scotia and NRCan will invest up to $3.9 million over five years aimed at preparing for wildfires, reducing risks before they occur and expanding the adoption of FireSmart principles and practices in Nova Scotia. With this funding, Nova Scotia will deliver educational and awareness activities related to wildfire prevention and community-based risk reduction. Nova Scotia is also using the funding to increase capacity to conduct wildfire risk assessments and develop tools to support wildfire prevention and mitigation. This initial investment is part of a series of joint investments aimed at supporting provincial and territorial efforts to advance FireSmart principles and practices to prevent wildfires and mitigate their impacts.

    While reinforcing our country’s ability to respond to wildfires when they occur is essential, proactive investment will also help reduce risks before a wildfire happens. The federal government has invested in both areas by supporting fire agencies across the country to better prepare for and respond to wildfires and by implementing community-level measures to prevent and reduce the impacts of wildfires.

    Keeping Canadians safe and healthy is a top priority for the Governments of Canada and Nova Scotia. By working with provinces, territories, Indigenous communities and international allies, the federal government continues to address and support the fight against wildfires to protect Canadian lives, as well as the health, safety, homes and livelihoods of our communities across the country.

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    613-795-5638
    cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Patricia Jreige
    Communications advisor
    Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables
    902-718-7866
    patricia.jreige@novascotia.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Plains All American Pipeline and Plains GP Holdings Announce Quarterly Distributions and Timing of Third Quarter 2024 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (Nasdaq: PAA) and Plains GP Holdings (Nasdaq: PAGP) today announced their quarterly distributions with respect to the third quarter of 2024 and also announced timing of third quarter 2024 earnings.

    Third Quarter Distribution Declaration 

    PAA and PAGP announced the following quarterly cash distributions:

    • PAA Common Units – $0.3175 per Common Unit ($1.27 per unit on an annualized basis), which is unchanged from the distribution paid in August 2024.
    • PAGP Class A Shares – $0.3175 per Class A Share ($1.27 per Class A Share on an annualized basis), which is unchanged from the distribution paid in August 2024.
    • PAA Series A Preferred Units – $0.61524 per Series A Preferred Unit (approximately $2.46 per unit on an annualized basis).
    • PAA Series B Preferred Units – $24.25 per Series B Preferred Unit (based on the applicable quarterly floating rate).

    The distributions on the PAA Common Units, PAGP Class A Shares and PAA Series A Preferred Units are payable on November 14, 2024 to holders of each respective security as of October 31, 2024. The distribution on the PAA Series B Preferred Units is payable on November 15, 2024 to holders of such security as of November 1, 2024.

    Although equity holders should consult their own tax advisor regarding their particular circumstances, the PAGP cash distribution per Class A Share is expected to be a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of a Class A Shareholder’s tax basis in each PAGP Class A Share and a reduction in such tax basis. In addition, to the extent any cash distribution exceeds a Class A Shareholder’s tax basis, it should be taxable as a capital gain. Qualified Notices under Treasury Regulation Section 1.1446 with respect to the PAA Common Unit distribution and PAA Series B Preferred Unit distribution will be posted on the Plains website under “Investor Relations – Tax Information.”

    Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Timing

    PAA and PAGP also announced that they will release third quarter 2024 earnings before market open on Friday, November 8, 2024. Following the announcement, PAA and PAGP will host a conference call at 9:00 a.m. CT (10 a.m. ET) with analysts and investors to discuss earnings. The call will be webcast live on the internet and may be accessed through the “Investors Relations” section of the website at http://www.plains.com. An audio replay will be available on the website after the call.

    PAA is a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services for crude oil and natural gas liquids (NGL). PAA owns an extensive network of pipeline gathering and transportation systems, in addition to terminalling, storage, processing, fractionation and other infrastructure assets serving key producing basins, transportation corridors and major market hubs and export outlets in the United States and Canada. On average, PAA handles approximately eight million barrels per day of crude oil and NGL.

    PAGP is a publicly traded entity that owns an indirect, non-economic controlling general partner interest in PAA and an indirect limited partner interest in PAA, one of the largest energy infrastructure and logistics companies in North America.

    PAA and PAGP are headquartered in Houston, Texas. More information is available at http://www.plains.com.

    Investor Relations Contacts:        

    Blake Fernandez
    Michael Gladstein
    (866) 809-1291

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. Announces Third Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont., Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: GBCI) will report third quarter financial results after the market closes on October 24, 2024. A conference call for investors is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Friday, October 25, 2024.

    Please note that our conference call host no longer offers a general dial-in number.

    Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI32ee03ea65c34bd794e0027768d383d4

    To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/9bh88vfv

    If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived on our website, http://www.glacierbancorp.com.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT) Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).

    Randall M. Chesler, CEO
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher, CFO
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Visits Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative in Pickens

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today met with leadership and employees at Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative in Pickens, South Carolina.

    Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative is a customer-owned electric utility company that has been operating in South Carolina since 1940. Graham is a customer of Blue Ridge.

    CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS

    Graham gave an update with Blue Ridge President and CEO Jim Lovinggood during his visit.

    • LOVINGGOOD: “This storm was historic in every way you choose to measure it. We had about 90 percent of our customers out of power Friday morning at 10:00 AM… So far we’ve been able to get about 70 percent of those back on. So we’re down now to about 30 percent of our customers without power.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=MaDIT-YOP2UWp52C&t=69
    • GRAHAM: “This is Hurricane Hugo for the Upstate, if you’re old enough to remember that…We got flattened up here, folks. I wanted to come by and thank the co-ops and all the line crew out there and the people working out in the field. You know it’s a team sport here.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=5LSZOZI3CNz8NLEa&t=167
    • LOVINGGOOD: “We are working around the clock. We’ve set up in both of our campuses to house up to 700 outside workers. We have over 500 currently in the field and we’re hoping to get more help as the days go by.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=YdQY-t_gt1KbejXG&t=116
    • GRAHAM: “Just be patient. The people who are trying to restore your power lost their power. They haven’t seen their families, they are out there working 16 to 18-hour days working under very dangerous conditions. So to the extent you can be patient, please do. I know it’s frustrating, but the people trying to help you have suffered like you have.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=f_7q90Lk6sX3VLer&t=193

    Click here to watch the entire video

    MIL OSI USA News –