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  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken participates in a G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken participates in a G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting in New York City, New York. in New York City, New York, on September 25, 2024.

    Transcript: https://www.state.gov/secretary-antony-j-blinken-at-a-g20-foreign-ministers-meeting/

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0m1nrFXZ-Uk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Introduces Suite of Bills to Expand Access to Community College

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
    Casey’s bills would make community college programs more accessible and valuable for students
    Bills would spur investment in new and existing community college infrastructure in underserved areas, make it easier for college students to receive degrees when they have completed requirements
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced a suite of bills to strengthen American community colleges and make their programs more accessible and valuable for students. Two of the bills would spur investment in new and existing community college infrastructure in underserved areas. The package also includes the Correctly Recognizing Educational Achievements to Empower (CREATE) Graduates Act, which would resolve an issue preventing some community college students from receiving degrees for which they have completed the requirements.
    “Community college programs help young Americans compete for jobs, earn higher wages, and build brighter futures,” said Senator Casey. “I introduced these bills to expand access to community college and ensure students can fully take advantage of the benefits these programs have to offer. I will always fight to make sure every young American has access to the education they need to reach their full potential.”
    More than two-thirds of jobs in the modern economy require some education and training beyond high school, but many Americans lack access to affordable, quality postsecondary education. Approximately 35 million people, or 10 percent of the country’s population, live in education deserts: areas with zero or only one public broad-access college nearby. The legislative package Casey introduced today would invest in new community college infrastructure in these areas, while also bolstering existing programs around the country.
    The Funding Community College Infrastructure Act would create a $10 billion grant program within the Department of Education to invest in expanding community college access. Existing community colleges, states, local governments, and municipalities would be eligible for grant funding to establish or expand community colleges and programs to underserved areas, as well as address infrastructure needs at existing community colleges to help them serve students.
    The Community College Infrastructure Financing Act would create a bond program to provide interest-free financing for community colleges, which will allow existing community colleges, States, local governments, and municipalities, to issue “Qualified Community College Bonds” to establish or expand community colleges and programs to underserved areas, as well as address existing infrastructure needs to help them serve students. The bond’s interest would be covered through a federal tax credit to the bondholder in lieu of an interest payment by the municipality.
    Each year, thousands of community college students transfer to four-year institutions before receiving a degree. These students complete additional courses at those institutions, which if taken at a community college, would have earned them an associate degree. However, if these students leave the four-year university before graduation, they are left with nothing to show for their hard work, even though they have fulfilled the requirements for a shorter degree. The CREATE Graduates Act will help students receive the degrees that they have already earned by creating incentives for institutions of higher education to establish “reverse transfer” programs, or initiatives to transfer back credits from a four-year institution to the community college where a student without a degree was initially enrolled. As a result, this bill will allow eligible students to obtain the associate degree that they have earned and, consequently, be more competitive when they enter the job market and ready to succeed.
    Read more about the Funding Community College Infrastructure Act and the Community College Infrastructure Financing Act here. Read more about the CREATE Graduates Act here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Joins Colleagues to Modernize Vehicle Safety Tests, Require Use of Female Crash Test Dummies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    September 25, 2024
    Senator: “Safety testing that only uses male test dummies is negligent, and women are paying the price”
    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said today he has joined U.S. Senate colleagues from both parties to introduce legislation that would  improve passenger vehicle safety by requiring the use of the most advanced testing devices available — including a female crash test dummy. 
    The bipartisan She Develops Regulations In Vehicle Equality and Safety Act would enhance passenger vehicle safety by updating U.S. crashworthiness testing procedures, Wyden said.
    “The fact that women are much more likely to be seriously injured in a car crash is not just alarming–but flat out unacceptable,” Wyden said. “Safety testing that only uses male test dummies is negligent, and women are paying the price. We need to rectify the status quo so that the safety of everyone is a priority.”
    U.S. crash testing standards rely on a crash test dummy representing a typical adult male. However, this decades-old model does not consider other characteristics such as gender, age, or disabilities. Research indicates women are more vulnerable than men to certain types of injuries in car crashes.
    “Senator Wyden has always put the health and safety of Oregonians and Americans first, and the She DRIVES Act is no exception. As one of the most powerful voices in the U.S. Senate, his choice to co-sponsor S. 4299 is a monumental step towards ending the fatal gender-based discrimination in vehicle safety testing. As a car crash survivor and young woman — thank you, Senator Wyden, for helping to finally make cars safe for everybody,” said Maria Kuhn, Founder and President of Drive US Forward.
    The bill was led by U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Nebr.). In addition to Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), and Susan Collins (R-Maine).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski, Hirono Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Hold Judiciary Accountable for Workplace Misconduct

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    09.25.24
    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Judiciary Accountability Act of 2024 (JAA). The legislation would ensure the more than 30,000 employees of the federal judiciary have strong statutory rights and protections against discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, and other forms of workplace misconduct and will guide further conversations with stakeholders and experts about a legislative solution to protect the rights of judiciary employees. U.S. Representatives Hank Johnson (D-GA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), and Norma Torres (D-CA) introduced a House companion bill.
    “The Judiciary Accountability Act expands federal laws that prohibit workplace harassment and discrimination to employees of the judiciary, putting them on par with executive branch, congressional, and private sector employees who have long-had these protections,” said Senator Murkowski. “This legislation not only helps safeguard employees from mistreatment at work, but also establishes a review system to foster accountability when those rights are violated. I appreciate the opportunity to lead this bipartisan legislation with Senator Hirono to cultivate transparency and a positive working environment within the judicial branch.”
    “No one is above the law, but most federal judiciary employees lack essential workplace protections, preventing them from obtaining justice when they face discrimination and harassment,” said Senator Hirono. “Employees of the federal judiciary dedicate their careers to providing justice, and they deserve justice when they face misconduct in the workplace. Yet these employees are among the only ones in the United States who lack the right to sue when they face discrimination or harassment. The Judiciary Accountability Act will help to protect the 30,000 federal judiciary employees by extending basic anti-discrimination protections to cover them, giving them access to federal court to vindicate those rights, and helping to ensure more accountability in the federal courts.”
    The foundational federal statutes—such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—generally do not apply to the federal judiciary, making it one of the only employers in the entire country–public or private–whose employees are not protected by federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination and retaliation. The federal judiciary has faced sustained criticism for its approach to preventing, investigating, and remedying sexual harassment and discrimination by judges and others in the judicial branch.
    This year, back-to-back reports were released—one from the from the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the other from the Federal Judicial Center and National Academy of Public Administration—underscoring that although the Judiciary has taken steps to implement an internal dispute resolution process, that process can be disjoined and confusing. Moreover, no part of that process provides judiciary employees a path to vindicate their rights in court.
    The Judiciary Accountability Act will:
    • Give judicial branch employees the same anti-discrimination rights and remedies private sector and government employees have had for decades. Today, most judicial branch employees are not protected by the federal civil rights statutes that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, and disability. The Judiciary Accountability Act would correct that injustice.
    • Protect judicial branch employees from retaliation against them by providing them with the right to sue for relief if they are retaliated against. Unlike other federal employees, most judicial branch employees currently have no statutory protection against retaliation. At a House Judiciary Committee hearing in 2020, multiple witnesses testified that they and others were afraid to come forward about the sexual harassment they suffered or witnessed.
    • Establish a comprehensive workplace misconduct prevention program overseen by an improved and expanded Office of Judicial Integrity. The Office’s Board of Directors would include members experienced in investigating and enforcing civil rights laws against workplace discrimination, as well as experience assisting victims of discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment and sexual assault. The Office would administer a nationwide, confidential reporting system and a comprehensive training program addressing workplace behavior and bystander intervention, among other duties.
    • Require regular assessments of workplace culture to determine the effectiveness of judicial branch policies designed to prevent and remedy harassment and discrimination.
    • Make clear that discrimination and retaliation constitute judicial misconduct and ensure that the judicial misconduct laws apply to all federal judges, regardless of whether they subsequently resign, retire, or pass away.
    The full text of the legislation is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Cortez Masto Receives NALEO’s 2024 Edward R. Roybal Award for Outstanding Public Service

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    In Case You Missed It, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) was awarded the 2024 Edward R. Roybal Award for Outstanding Public Service by the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO). She accepted the award at the Edward R. Roybal Legacy Celebration this week. U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and President and CEO of the Vegas Chamber of Commerce Mary Beth Sewald spoke at the celebration to honor Senator Cortez Masto for her bipartisan work for working families and small businesses in Nevada and across the country.
    “I’m honored to receive such a meaningful award, and I want to thank NALEO for its tireless advocacy on behalf of Latinos throughout our country. I also want to thank Mary Beth and Senator Luján for your kind words and your partnership,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “From local school boards to state government to federal delegations, Latinos are making policy that reflects our nation’s diversity and that ensures nobody gets left behind. I may be the first Latina in the Senate, but I know I won’t be the last, and I’m working every day to make sure of it.”
    “As the first and only Latina Senator, Catherine is inspiring the next generation of leaders to continue a legacy of fighting for our communities and making things better for everyone. Senator Cortez Masto is one of the most effective leaders in the Senate – always willing to reach across the aisle and work with anyone who will deliver for her constituents and the American people,” said Senator Luján. “I was honored to join our friends and colleagues in recognizing Senator Cortez Masto’s leadership. I am lucky to count her as a mentor and a friend.”
    “It is my profound honor to be here this evening to pay tribute to U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto,” said Mary Beth Sewald, President & CEO of Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. “From her own upbringing in Las Vegas, she understands that families and small businesses are the economic generator and the fabric of our national economy, and she has a record of working to pass legislation to make it easier to get a good-paying job, own a business, and build a better life. On behalf of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees, your fellow Nevadans, and all of us who are blessed to know you, a heartfelt congratulations on earning the Edward R. Roybal, Legacy Award for Outstanding Public Service.”
    Established in 1996, the Edward R. Roybal Award for Outstanding Public Service is presented to individuals who have distinguished themselves as devoted public servants to the nation and the Latino community. The award pays tribute to the organization’s founder and President Emeritus, the late Congressman Edward R. Roybal. For more information about the NALEO and the Edward R. Roybal Legacy Celebration, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: During National Hazing Awareness Week, Klobuchar, Cassidy Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Hazing on College Campuses Passes House

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced their Stop Campus Hazing Act to improve the reporting and prevention of hazing on college campuses has passed the House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation would require colleges to include hazing incidents in their annual campus safety report and establish a campus-wide, research-based program to educate students about the dangers of hazing. In addition, the bill would increase transparency and accountability by providing parents and students with better information about a student organization’s history of hazing incidents. The bill is championed by Representatives Lucy McBath (D-GA) and Jeff Duncan (R-SC) in the House of Representatives.

    House passage of the Stop Campus Hazing Act comes as the Senate passed Klobuchar and Cassidy’s bipartisan resolution to recognize National Hazing Awareness Week. The resolution designates this week, September 23 through 27, 2024, as “National Hazing Awareness Week,” recognizes the hundreds of students who have died or suffered severe, life-altering injuries as a result of collegiate hazing, and promotes efforts to prevent hazing. McBath and Duncan lead the companion resolution in the House of Representatives. 

    “When parents send their kids away to college, they expect they will get a good education and make new friends. Unfortunately, too many are also exposed to hazing, a dangerous—and at times deadly—problem,” said Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will improve hazing prevention efforts on college campuses to make sure we have the information we need to stop this abuse and keep students safe.”

    “Students and families should feel safe no matter what college they choose,” said Dr. Cassidy. “By increasing transparency, the Stop Campus Hazing Act will ensure that hazing is never ignored. We must get this bill across the finish line and passed into law.” 

    This Stop Campus Hazing Act is cosponsored by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bob Casey (D-PA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), James Lankford (R-OK), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Angus King (I-ME), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

    The National Study of Student Hazing found that more than half of college students involved in extracurricular clubs, athletic teams, and organizations experience hazing. Since 2000, there have been more than 50 hazing-related deaths. 

    The Stop Campus Hazing Act would:

    • Improve hazing reporting by requiring colleges to include hazing incidents in their Annual Security Report;
    • Prevent hazing by establishing campus-wide, research-based hazing education and prevention programs; and
    • Help students and their parents make informed decisions about joining organizations on campus by requiring colleges to publish on their websites the institution’s hazing prevention policies and the organizations that have violated them. 

    This bipartisan, evidence-informed legislation is supported by the Clery Center; StopHazing; Anti-Hazing Coalition including the Hazing Prevention Network, Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values, Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors, National Panhellenic Conference and its member sororities, the North American Interfraternity Conference and its member fraternities; National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc.; Association of Big Ten Students; College Safety Coalition; SAFE Campuses, LLC; International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators; National Association of Clery Compliance Officers and Professionals; and the parents of hazing victims.

    Klobuchar has been a leader in the fight to end hazing. 

    Last year, Klobuchar and Cassidy introduced the bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act and the first ever congressional resolution designating “National Hazing Awareness Week.”

    The 2024 National Hazing Awareness Week resolution is cosponsored by Bob Casey (D-PA), James Lankford (R-OK), Senators Angus King (I-ME), Susan Collins (R-ME), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Joe Manchin (I-WV).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis Applauds New 9-8-8 Geo-Routing Implementation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Tillis, founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus, applauded the recent announcement by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to begin implementing geo-routing for incoming calls to the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Network. 

    “From the creation of the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to historic mental health investments included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, we have made substantial progress in recent years in expanding access to quality mental health care,” said Senator Tillis. “This new geo-routing policy furthers that goal by ensuring those experiencing a mental health crisis receive rapid and localized care when calling the Lifeline.”

    Background:

    Currently, calls to the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are routed by area code rather than by the caller’s location. This system leads to callers oftentimes being connected to centers that cannot connect them with local mental health resources. Geo-routing allows callers to be connected to crisis call centers and resources closest to their physical location, improving the effectiveness of the crisis care continuum and ensuring more timely, appropriate, and equitable access to crisis services. Importantly, geo-routing does not provide a precise location of the caller and allows callers to maintain their location privacy. Studies have shown that after speaking with a trained crisis counselor, most callers feel more hopeful and less depressed, suicidal and overwhelmed. 

    In North Carolina, the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has received over 112,000 calls, texts, and chats over the last 12 months, with an average response time of 14.2 seconds and a 98% answer rate. 90% of North Carolinians who contacted the hotline with thoughts of suicide reported improvement in how they were feeling by the end of the call.

    In December 2023, Senator Tillis introduced the Local 9-8-8 Response Act of 2023, legislation would expedite the process of connecting callers with their nearest call center so they can receive appropriate care from mental health professionals as quickly and as safely as possible, while still protecting user privacy. 

    In March 2024, Senator Tillis joined Senator Padilla, Health and Human Services Secretary Xaiver Becerra, and Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to announce that the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) address the discrepancies and inefficiencies of the current system by proposing the adoption of a rule that would require a geo-routing solution to be implemented for all wireless calls to the 9-8-8 Lifeline while balancing the privacy needs of individuals in crisis. The FCC is expected to vote on final rules to codify geo-routing on October 17.

    These new rules, if adopted next month, would build on SAMHSA’s announcement, requiring all U.S. wireless carriers to implement geo-routing. In addition, the rules will also establish an implementation timeline for geo-routing calls to the 988 Lifeline of 30 days following the effective date of the rule for nationwide wireless providers and 24 months after the effective date of the rule for smaller, non-nationwide providers.  

    A one-page summary of the bill is available HERE. Full text of the bill is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 09/25/2024 Senate Passes Blackburn, Kaine Resolution Designating October as “National Country Music Month”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of the Senate’s passage of her resolution with Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to designate the month of October as “National Country Music Month.”

    This resolution honors the contributions of country music to the story and history of the U.S. and encourages the American people to observe “National Country Music Month” with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

    Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks on the Senate floor about her “National Country Music Month” resolution.

    REMARKS AS PREPARED:

    Next Month, Country Music Association Will Add John Anderson, James Burton, and Toby Keith to Country Music Hall of Fame

    “Each year since 1961, the Country Music Association has inducted the legendary performers, songwriters, and artists of this uniquely American musical tradition into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

    In many ways, this distinction is the highest honor in country music—with names like Hank Williams, Chet Atkins, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley among its roll of honor.

    Next month, three new names will join this legendary group during the Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony: John Anderson—a force for traditionalism in country music who achieved twenty Top Ten country singles across a five-decade-long career. James Burton—who is considered one of the greatest guitarists in all of music, performing and recording with the likes of Elvis, Merle Haggard, John Denver, and Emmylou Harris. And the late Toby Kieth—an exceptional storyteller who brought joy to millions around the world through his music, especially to our men and women in uniform.”

    Country Music Reminds Every American of the Importance of Faith, Family, Freedom, Hope, Opportunity, and Patriotism

    “While each artist has their own distinct sound and style, they share a music tradition that reminds every American of the things that truly matter: faith, family, freedom, hope, opportunity, and patriotism.

    To honor this incredible genre, I come to the floor today to call for a unanimous consent vote for my resolution that would designate October 2024 as ‘National Country Music Month.’”

    Blackburn Honors Grand Ole Opry as “Home of American Music”

    “There’s a reason the Grand Ole Opry, the most famous stage in country music, is known as the ‘home of American music.’

    Now is the perfect time for Congress to honor the contributions of country music—and its legendary performers and artists—to the story and history of the United States.”

    Click here to read the resolution, and click here to download photos of Senator Blackburn with songwriters from Nashville Songwriters Association International.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Al Green Emphasizes How Better Capitalization Would Prevent Bank Runs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Washington, D.C.) — On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Congressman Al Green, Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, questioned witnesses on the panel in a Financial Services Committee Hearing entitled, “Regulatory Recipe for Economic Uncertainty: The Endless Basel Endgame and an Onslaught of Hurried Rulemaking Undertaken by the Administration.”

    You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s questions here. The hearing remarks highlighted are also accessible on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin visited the Lugansk People’s Republic

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Marat Khusnullin inspected a number of objects as part of a working visit to the Luhansk People’s Republic. Inspection of a kindergarten in Severodonetsk

    September 25, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin inspected a number of facilities during his working visit to the Luhansk People’s Republic. Inspection of a dormitory in Luhansk

    September 25, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin inspected a number of objects during his working visit to the Luhansk People’s Republic. Dormitory in Luhansk

    September 25, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin inspected a number of sites during a working visit to the Luhansk People’s Republic. Construction College in Severodonetsk

    September 25, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin held a meeting on issues of socio-economic development of the Lugansk People’s Republic

    September 25, 2024

    Marat Khusnullin held a meeting on issues of socio-economic development of the Lugansk People’s Republic

    September 25, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Marat Khusnullin inspected a number of objects as part of a working visit to the Luhansk People’s Republic. Inspection of a kindergarten in Severodonetsk

    During his working visit, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin inspected a number of sites in Severodonetsk and Lugansk, and also held a meeting on issues of socio-economic development of the LPR.

    “In general, I would like to note that I am satisfied with the pace of work that is underway in Severodonetsk. It is clear that the city is being transformed. I stopped by the boiler house of the 83rd microdistrict. Its modernization is ongoing under the supervision of the Territorial Development Fund. In the last heating season, the facility heated residents of 111 houses and 8 social facilities with one boiler. The task for specialists this year is to launch the second boiler in order to triple the number of consumers with centralized heat this winter,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister inspected the building of nursery-kindergarten No. 42 for 280 children, which was built in 1983 and required repairs. The major repairs were carried out under the supervision of the Unified Customer PPC. Marat Khusnullin instructed the local administration to quickly close all organizational issues so that children would be able to attend the institution.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also spoke with students at the restored College of Industrial, Construction and Household Technologies.

    In Lugansk, the Deputy Prime Minister got acquainted with the progress of the restoration of the Volodymyr Dahl Lugansk State University. There, the builders have already commissioned two dormitory buildings. According to Marat Khusnullin, students will live in comfortable conditions. In general, the total area of the restoration facilities exceeds 71 thousand square meters.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also visited a building materials store in Lugansk. He noted that the cost of goods is at the average Russian level, and set the task of expanding the range of local manufacturers.

    At the end of his working visit, the Deputy Prime Minister held a meeting on the socio-economic development of the LPR.

    “We discussed the budget for the next three years, outlined a range of priority tasks that we will continue to work on. In addition, we touched upon the issues of implementing the new national project “Infrastructure for Life” in new regions. We must understand how we will implement it here,” Marat Khusnullin emphasized.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://government.ru/nevs/52798/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Declares State of Emergency, Activates State Operations Center Ahead of Helene

    Source: US State of Georgia

    Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp directed the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to activate the State Operations Center (SOC) in preparation for Hurricane Helene, which is expected to strengthen into a hurricane before making landfall in Florida on Thursday. He declared a State of Emergency yesterday for all 159 counties, enabling emergency management teams to make necessary arrangements and position needed resources ahead of the storm’s impact. Governor Kemp has also asked FEMA to grant Georgia an emergency declaration to further marshal resources and deploy them where most needed before, during, and after the major weather event.

    “The current forecast for Hurricane Helene suggests this storm will impact every part of our state,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “We are not taking anything for granted, which is why I have directed appropriate state agencies to work around the clock to ensure we’re prepared for whatever is heading our way. I want to thank them for their diligence and ask that all Georgians make preparations now to keep their families and property safe.”

    Forecasters expect Helene to move into Georgia Thursday evening and early Friday morning, with tropical storm force winds and heavy rain possible throughout the state, potentially leading to spin-off tornadoes, downed trees and power lines, flooding, and other major impacts. The State Operations Center (SOC) elevated to a full-scale activation level at 7 a.m. this morning, and GEMA/HS will continue to monitor and aid local emergency management agencies for the duration of the event.

    “As we closely monitor the development of Hurricane Helene, the safety of Georgians remains our top priority. GEMA/HS is working around the clock in coordination with local, state, and federal partners to ensure that we are fully prepared for any potential impacts,” said GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings. “We’ve pre-positioned resources, enhanced communication channels and are advising residents to stay informed and take the necessary precautions. Our team is ready to respond to emergencies and assist communities as needed, and we encourage everyone to follow official guidance to stay safe.”

    In case of flooding, do not drive or walk through standing water or drive around barricades. Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution. If a tornado warning is issued, storm cellars or basements provide the best protection. If an underground shelter is not available, go to a small, windowless interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.

    For more information on how to prepare, visit https://gema.georgia.gov/hurricanes and https://gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia.

    As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia website and preparedness campaign provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters. Go to gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Fulda

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Fulda

    Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Fulda

    ST. PAUL – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open Thursday, September 26, 2024, in Fulda to help residents kickstart their recovery after the severe storms and flooding of June 16 – July 4, 2024. 

    Specialists from FEMA, the state of Minnesota and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

    This center will be open at the following location, days, and hours:  

    Murray County: Fulda Senior Center 107 N. Lafayette Ave., Fulda, MN 56131 Hours: Mon. – Fri. 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Closed Sundays.

    Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

    The deadline to apply with FEMA is October 27, 2024. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797. 

    kimberly.keblish

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Looking back and moving forward: Marking 20 Years of NATO – Istanbul Cooperation Initiative partnership

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called for stronger, more strategic and results-orientated partnerships with countries in the Gulf region during an event in the margins of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday (25 September 2024). Hosted by the Crown Prince of Kuwait, his Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Sabah, the event celebrated 20 years of NATO-Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI). It brought together NATO’s four ICI partners (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates) as well as Saudi Arabia, Oman and the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

    Mr. Stoltenberg thanked the Crown Prince for hosting the anniversary event and reaffirmed the importance of the NATO-ICI partnership as a platform for cooperation, highlighting its evolution and achievements. The Secretary General underlined areas of close cooperation between NATO and the ICI partners – including cyber defence, security sector reform, climate change, energy security, maritime security, and the protection of critical infrastructure. “During these two decades, our cooperation has grown from strength to strength”, he said, praising the Gulf partners’ contributions and participation.

    Mr. Stoltenberg emphasized that, when faced with “a deeply deteriorated security environment, we see more than ever that our security is not regional, but global”, closer cooperation with partners in the Gulf and wider Middle East region is a necessary step. He outlined the decisions taken by Allies at the Washington Summit in July 2024 to increase NATO’s engagement in the Middle East, North Africa and the Sahel. Referring to Javier Colomina’s appointment as the new Special Representative for the Southern Neighbourhood, the Secretary General stated that it is “the first time the Alliance has a dedicated focal point for this work”. He also referred to the upcoming​opening of the NATO Liaison Office in Jordan, the broadened scope of the training mission in Iraq, the NATO-Istanbul Cooperation Initiative Regional Centre in Kuwait and the Hub for the South in Naples, which provide “an even stronger basis on which to take our partnerships forward”, said the Secretary General.

    The Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI) was launched in 2004 and provides a partnership forum to practical cooperation and political dialogue between NATO and partner countries in the Gulf region. Four countries, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, have joined the initiative, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

    The NATO-Istanbul Cooperation Initiative Regional Centre in Kuwait (NIRC) opened in 2017 and helps strengthen political dialogue, education and training, and public diplomacy. The centre was inaugurated in 2017 by Secretary General Stoltenberg, marking NATO’s first such presence in the Gulf region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Climate change fuelling August heatwaves across Canada – Results from Canada’s Rapid Attribution System for Extreme Weather reveal that human-caused climate change has increased the likelihood of August heatwaves by at least 10-fold in some cases.

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Analyses using Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Rapid Attribution System for Extreme Weather Events show that, in all cases, human-induced climate change has increased the likelihood of the August 2024 heat waves, and in some cases by at least 10 times.

    September 25, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Analyses carried out using the Rapid attribution system for extreme weather events Environment and Climate Change Canada’s data show that, in all cases, human-caused climate change has increased the likelihood of August 2024 heat waves, and by at least 10 times in some cases.

    This system uses climate models to compare today’s climate to that of the pre-industrial period to explain how human-caused climate change has affected the likelihood of each heat wave.

    In three cases, human-induced climate change has made these heat waves significantly more likely. This means that human influence on the climate has made the following events at least ten times more likely.

    Inuvik (Northwest Territories) (August 6-10)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 26.5°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 13.0°C

    Kitikmeot (Nunavut) (August 7-12)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 25.0°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 12.4°C

    Kivalliq, Nunavut (August 8 to 14)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 27.1°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 12.2°C

    In seven cases, human-caused climate change made these heat waves much more likely. This means that human influence on the climate made the following events at least two to ten times more likely.

    Atlantic Canada (August 24-27)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 23.9°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 6.7°C

    Eastern Ontario (July 31 to August 2)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 29.2°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 5.8°C

    Fort Smith, Northwest Territories (August 8-13)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 26.9°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 9.2°C

    Northern British Columbia (August 7-11)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 23.6°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 7.0°C

    Northern Quebec (August 13 to 16)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 23.6°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 7.8°C

    Southern Quebec (July 27 to August 3)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 28.3°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 7.6°C

    Yukon (August 5-9)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 24.1°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 8.9°C

    Finally, human-caused climate change has made subsequent heat waves more likely. This means that human influence on the climate has made subsequent events at least one to two times more likely.

    Manitoba (July 30 to August 1)

    Daily peak temperature during heatwave: 28.3°C Degrees above normal daily maximum*: 6.4°C

    *The normal daily maximum is an average of all average daily maximum temperatures for a region between 1991 and 2020 over a one-month period around the event.

    Prolonged heat waves are a major factor driving increased wildfire activity in Canada. The 2023 wildfires in Canada burned nearly 15 million hectares of forest and cost Canadians tens of billions of dollars in damages.[1]. It is important to understand how human influence on climate has increased the likelihood of a particular heatwave shortly after it has occurred. This understanding helps inform adaptation strategies and intervention efforts in the context of climate change, while the heatwave and its impacts are still fresh in the mind.

    We urge the population to regularly monitor weather forecasts, to take all weather warnings seriously and to prepare weather hazards by developing an emergency plan or adapting their travel arrangements. Canadians can download the app WeatherCAN to receive weather alert notifications directly to their mobile devices. Weather alerts help Canadians prepare for severe weather, save lives and reduce impacts to property and livelihoods.

    [1] P. Jain, QE Barber, SW Taylor, et al., Drivers and Impacts of the Record-Breaking 2023 Wildfire Season in Canada, Nature Communications 15, 6764 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51154-7 (in English only)

    Media RelationsEnvironment and Climate Change Canada819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free)media@ec.gc.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 Security: Dauphin — Dauphin RCMP make large seizure after traffic stop

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 22, 2024, at approximately 6:45 pm, Dauphin RCMP conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Mountain Avenue in Dauphin as part of an ongoing investigation. When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle by activating the lights and sirens on the police vehicle, the suspect vehicle fled at a high rate of speed.

    The suspect vehicle ran a red light on Main Street and struck another vehicle, and then spun and struck a 26-year-old male pedestrian. The suspect vehicle then continued and struck a parked vehicle. At this time, the driver and passenger fled on foot. The passenger was taken into custody a short while later.

    An RCMP drone operator and Police Service Dog Marook were engaged to track the driver, and located him after a track that led them across the Vermillion River.

    A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of a loaded shotgun, a large sum of Canadian currency, and a substance believed to be cocaine.

    An RCMP Forensic Collision Reconstructionist attended the scene where the vehicle and the pedestrian were struck to assist with that part of the investigation.

    The pedestrian was transported to local hospital with non-life threatening injuries, and the driver of the vehicle that was struck was not physically injured.

    Samuel Flatfoot, 26, of Dauphin, was the driver and is charged with charged with Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Flight from Peace Officer, Resists/Obstructs Peace Officer, and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.

    Marcus George, 22, of Swan River, was the passenger. He is charged with Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, Resist/Obstructs Peace Officer x2, and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.

    Both have been remanded.

    The investigation continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Lebanon/Israel: Fears for safety of civilians grow as devastating death toll in Lebanon continues to rise

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The exponential rise in the death toll in Lebanon over the past three days amid an escalation in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah is a reminder of the crucial need for all parties to the conflict to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law, Amnesty International said today.

    On Monday [23 September] alone, at least 558 people, including 50 children and 94 women, were killed and more than 1,800 injured by Israeli attacks in Lebanon, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry, as Israel announced the start of Operation Northern Arrows. Scores more have been killed since. Hezbollah attacks on Israel have also significantly intensified and according to Israeli media reports, at least 15 people were injured, the majority by shrapnel or debris and others while trying to access shelter.

    “On Monday, 23 September, Lebanon experienced its deadliest day since the end of the country’s civil war in 1990. We are deeply alarmed by the staggering death toll within a single day, which continues to rise, and the devastating impact on civilians with almost 500,000 displaced from south Lebanon, the Bekaa and other regions that have come under intense bombardment. In northern Israel, due to attacks from Lebanon around 63,000 residents have been displaced since last October. As Israel continues to intensify and expand its bombardment, and Hezbollah continues to launch attacks into Israel, all parties to the conflict must respect international humanitarian law and take all feasible precautions to protect civilian lives,” said Erika Guevara Rosas, Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns.   

    On Monday, 23 September, Lebanon experienced its deadliest day since the end of the country’s civil war in 1990. We are deeply alarmed by the staggering death toll within a single day, which continues to rise

    Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International

    “In the past, conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah have been characterized by serious violations of international humanitarian law. This raises serious concerns that the current escalation in hostilities will inevitably result again in civilian casualties, injuries and widespread destruction in Lebanon and Israel. We urge all states to halt all arms transfers and other forms of military assistance to Israel and Hezbollah due to the significant risk that these weapons could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes.”

    Since October 2023, Hezbollah and Israel have engaged in hostilities, mostly confined to the south of Lebanon and north of Israel.  As of 10 September, the total death toll due to Israeli attacks had risen to 589 in Lebanon, as of 19 September, the toll due to Hezbollah attacks rose to 34 in Israel. A further 12 people were killed in the occupied Golan Heights. The spike in the death toll in Lebanon over the past three days alone is therefore exponential.

    During the 34-day conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006, the death toll was 1,100 in Lebanon and 43 in Israel. Amnesty International’s investigations revealed that during the conflict, Israeli forces carried out indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks on a large scale, including massive destruction of civilian infrastructure. It also found that Hezbollah carried out direct and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and appeared to fail to take necessary precautions to protect civilians in Lebanon from the effects of Israeli attacks.

    Many of the areas struck by Israeli attacks in recent days were crowded residential areas, according to videos reviewed by Amnesty International. Lebanon’s health minister said that medical facilities and personnel also came under fire, killing four medics and injuring at least 16.

    Respecting international humanitarian law requires ensuring that only military objectives are targeted, avoiding indiscriminate attacks, disproportionate attack, and direct attacks on civilians and civilian objects and taking all feasible precautions to minimize harm to civilians and damage to civilian infrastructure. Using explosive weapons with wide area effects in the vicinity of densely populated residential areas is likely to violate the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks and also can lead to disproportionate attacks.

    The Israeli authorities and Hezbollah and other armed groups need to recognize that the rules of international humanitarian law apply in all circumstances, whatever the reason for the conflict. Nothing can excuse unlawful killing and injury of civilians

    Erika Guevara Rosas

    “On 25 September, the Israeli army spokesperson issued a public warning in Arabic, advising people not to return to their homes “until further notice” and stating that “air strikes are ongoing”. Such warnings do not absolve Israel of its responsibilities under international humanitarian law to distinguish between military objectives and civilians, and to take all feasible precautions to minimize harm to civilians. According to international law, a warning must ensure that sufficient time is granted. Even so, evacuation calls do not render the impacted areas free-fire zones,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.  

    “Israel’s relentless onslaught on Gaza has already seen more than 42,000 Palestinians killed over the past year. The latest assault on Lebanon has brought a fresh wave of horror to the wider region. The Israeli authorities and Hezbollah and other armed groups need to recognize that the rules of international humanitarian law apply in all circumstances, whatever the reason for the conflict. Nothing can excuse unlawful killing and injury of civilians.”  

    Background

    Israel’s Operation Northern Arrows began on 23 September. During the first day, Israeli forces carried out at least 1,600 strikes in areas across Lebanon. Hezbollah also launched more than 200 rockets towards Israel.

    Hezbollah and Israel have been engaged in ongoing cross-border hostilities since the group launched attacks into northern Israel following the start of Israel’s offensive in the occupied Gaza Strip in October 2023. As of 10 September 2024, Israeli attacks on south Lebanon and the Bekaa since 7 October 2023 had killed at least 137 civilians, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health and the United Nations. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced from south Lebanon, the Bekaa, and other areas due to the ongoing hostilities, the majority of them fleeing the latest attacks. 

    Across the same period, Hezbollah and other armed groups have fired projectiles at northern Israel and killed at least 14 civilians in Israel, according to the Israeli authorities. On 27 July, 12 civilians, all children, were killed in an attack on Majdal Shams in the occupied Golan Heights. Around 63,000 residents of northern Israel have been evacuated since 8 October. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Grassley Urge Biden-Harris Admin to Address Abuses in Unaccompanied Migrant Children Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    09.24.24
    WASHINGTON — Senator John Hoeven joined Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and 43 bicameral Republican colleagues in sending a letter calling on President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to root out abuses in their administration’s unaccompanied migrant children program and stop the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)’s cover-up of the crisis. HHS has failed to comply with two out of three Department of Homeland Security (DHS) subpoenas and other information requests issued amid its investigation into more than 100 suspicious sponsors. The Biden-Harris administration limited background checks for sponsors of unaccompanied children, cut back on familial DNA testing at the border and decreased information sharing with law enforcement.
    The lawmakers are urging Biden and Harris to “make changes to [their] policies and procedures” in order to “end this public safety crisis.” They are specifically calling on the Biden-Harris administration to enhance information sharing with law enforcement and Congress, fully cooperate with DHS’s child exploitation investigation and thoroughly respond to all congressional oversight requests.
    “[The Biden-Harris HHS] must stop its cover-up and cooperate with law enforcement and Congress to end this crisis and protect unaccompanied children and the American people,” the lawmakers concluded.
    Joining Hoeven and Grassley in sending the letter are Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.),  John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (R-La.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Roger Marshall (R-Kans.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).
     Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Statement on Identification of ND WWII Servicemember Charles R. Reiser, Lost During Operation Forager

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    09.24.24
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today issued the following statement regarding the service of Army Pvt. 1st Class Charles R. Reiser, a native of Washburn, North Dakota who served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was lost during Operation Forager on the island of Saipan, in the Northern Mariana Islands. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced today that the remains of Reiser, 20, were accounted for on June 25, 2024. Reiser was killed on June 15, 1944, when it is believed his unit, D, 708th Amphibious Tank Battalion, was providing armor support to the Marines’ initial landing on the beaches during Operation Forager. U.S. servicemembers ashore were under constant assault from Japanese mortars.
    “We are grateful for the DPAA and their work in identifying Charles. It’s vital that we always remember the bravery and sacrifices made by our servicemembers during WWII,” said Hoeven. “Charles, who was killed along with thousands of other Americans during the Battle of Saipan, reminds us yet again of the courage of the Greatest Generation. We honor Charles’ sacrifice and join his family, his fellow veterans and North Dakotans in paying tribute to his loss.”
    Hoeven helped advance legislation in 2014 that created the DPAA, and since that time, he has worked to support the agency as it seeks to locate and bring home the remains of missing service personnel. The DPAA identified Reiser’s remains using DNA as well as dental and other evidence. Reiser will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery, on a date to be determined.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken participates in a High-Level Meeting

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken participates in a High-Level Meeting on Addressing the Existential Threats Posed by Sea-Level Rise in New York City, New York, on September 25, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCOGQo-4WP8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hirono, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Hold Judiciary Accountable for Workplace Misconduct

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Mazie K. Hirono
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Judiciary Accountability Act of 2024 (JAA). The legislation would ensure the more than 30,000 employees of the federal judiciary have strong statutory rights and protections against discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, and other forms of workplace misconduct and will guide further conversations with stakeholders and experts about a legislative solution to protect the rights of judiciary employees. U.S. Representatives Hank Johnson (D-GA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), and Norma Torres (D-CA) introduced a House companion bill.
    “No one is above the law, but most federal judiciary employees lack essential workplace protections, preventing them from obtaining justice when they face discrimination and harassment,” said Senator Hirono. “Employees of the federal judiciary dedicate their careers to providing justice, and they deserve justice when they face misconduct in the workplace. Yet these employees are among the only ones in the United States who lack the right to sue when they face discrimination or harassment. The Judiciary Accountability Act will help to protect the 30,000 federal judiciary employees by extending basic anti-discrimination protections to cover them, giving them access to federal court to vindicate those rights, and helping to ensure more accountability in the federal courts.”
    “The Judiciary Accountability Act expands federal laws that prohibit workplace harassment and discrimination to employees of the judiciary, putting them on par with executive branch, congressional, and private sector employees who have long-had these protections,” said Senator Murkowski. “This legislation not only helps safeguard employees from mistreatment at work, but also establishes a review system to foster accountability when those rights are violated. I appreciate the opportunity to lead this bipartisan legislation with Senator Hirono to cultivate transparency and a positive working environment within the judicial branch.”
    The foundational federal civil rights statutes—such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—generally do not apply to the federal judiciary, making it one of the only employers in the entire country–public or private–whose employees are not protected by federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination and retaliation. The federal judiciary has faced sustained criticism for its approach to preventing, investigating, and remedying sexual harassment and discrimination by judges and others in the judicial branch.
    This year, back-to-back reports were released—one from the from the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the other from the Federal Judicial Center and National Academy of Public Administration—underscoring that although the Judiciary has taken steps to implement an internal dispute resolution process, that process can be disjointed and confusing. Moreover, no part of that process provides judiciary employees a path to vindicate their rights in court.
    The Judiciary Accountability Act will:
    Give judicial branch employees the same anti-discrimination rights and remedies private sector and government employees have had for decades. Today, most judicial branch employees are not protected by the federal civil rights statutes that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, and disability. The Judiciary Accountability Act would correct that injustice.
    Protect judicial branch employees from retaliation against them by providing them with the right to sue for relief if they are retaliated against. Unlike other federal employees, most judicial branch employees currently have no statutory protection against retaliation. At a House Judiciary Committee hearing in 2020, multiple witnesses testified that they and others were afraid to come forward about the sexual harassment they suffered or witnessed.
    Establish a comprehensive workplace misconduct prevention program overseen by an improved and expanded Office of Judicial Integrity. The Office’s Board of Directors would include members experienced in investigating and enforcing civil rights laws against workplace discrimination, as well as experience assisting victims of discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment and sexual assault. The Office would administer a nationwide, confidential reporting system and a comprehensive training program addressing workplace behavior and bystander intervention, among other duties.
    Require regular assessments of workplace culture to determine the effectiveness of judicial branch policies designed to prevent and remedy harassment and discrimination.
    Make clear that discrimination and retaliation constitute judicial misconduct and ensure that the judicial misconduct laws apply to all federal judges, regardless of whether they subsequently resign, retire, or pass away.
    The full text of the legislation is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Over 90,000 People Displaced by Latest Military Escalation in Lebanon – IOM Scales Up Its Response 

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Beirut, 25 September – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has released its latest Mobility Tracking displacement update showing at least 90,350 people have become newly displaced since 19 September, following the latest military escalation in Lebanon.  

    According to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health, nearly 600 people have been killed, including 50 children, and approximately 1,700 injured, since Monday.  

    IOM Director General Amy Pope, speaking from the United Nations General Assembly in New York reiterated a call for diplomacy, peace and de-escalation.   

    “We are deeply alarmed by the military escalation in Lebanon, which has claimed hundreds of lives, including women and children.” DG Pope said.  “The welfare of civilians and protection of related infrastructure must be respected, in line with international humanitarian law and United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 which calls for peace and stability in the region.”  

    IOM is working with government authorities and partners to address immediate humanitarian needs. It is responding with the delivery of assistance, services, and protection to internally displaced persons by supporting local authorities and partners.   

    The Organization is distributing essential relief items to internally displaced persons and host families, and protection services, including psychosocial support services. In close coordination with the Government of Lebanon, IOM provided 1,350 mattresses, blankets, and pillows in the past 48 hours to individuals sheltering in schools and other buildings that have been converted into shelters for displaced families.   

    Since October 2023, IOM has delivered lifesaving medicines and supplies to Ministry of Public Health hospitals and health centres across the south, prepositioned vital equipment and more recently, provided logistics support the Ministry’s primary warehouse facility.   

    “Our teams are on the ground, working tirelessly alongside our government counterparts and local partners to deliver vital humanitarian support to those who need it most. We are committed to scaling up our response to meet the growing needs faced by so many across Lebanon” said Mathieu Luciano, IOM’s Head of Office in Lebanon.   

    Prior to the recent displacement across Lebanon, the country was already in the grips of a protracted political and socio-economic crisis, with more than 3.7 million people in need of humanitarian assistance.    

    In support of the Government of Lebanon, IOM is scaling up its critical humanitarian support to ensure the needs of displaced populations and host communities are met.   

    For more information, please contact:  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $3.2+ MILLION TO TRAIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF SEMICONDUCTOR WORKERS AT THE ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY & IN CLASSROOMS IN SCHOOLS ACROSS NY VIA HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    NY Received Two Of Just 7 Awards Across America To Jumpstart The National Semiconductor Technology Center’s Workforce Partner Alliance Program Which Will Help Get Students The Hands-On Training They Need For Good-Paying Jobs At Companies Like Micron, GlobalFoundries, Corning, And Edwards Vacuum Expanding Now In Upstate NY Thanks To Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law
    Awards To The American Federation Of Teachers Program Will Provide Training So Teachers Can Help Students Get Ready For Semiconductor Careers, Expanding An Initiative That Is Being Piloted In 10 School Districts Across New York State & RIT’s Program Plans To Help Over 500 Students Get Microelectronics-Related Skills Necessary To Thrive In The Growing Semiconductor Industry
    Schumer: We’re Training The Future Of America’s Semiconductor Industry By The Next Generation Of Workers Here In NY
    U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced $3,200,347 in federal funding to boost New York-based programs to prepare New York high school and college students for careers in the semiconductor industry. The awards include $1,720,400 for the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to expand a program that prepares teachers in school districts across NY to help students get ready for careers in the semiconductor industry and $1,479,947 for the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to implement a new online certificate program to train students across microelectronics-related educational tracks.
    “It’s all-hands-on-deck to build the workforce of the future and awards like today’s will help classrooms across New York get students ready to be the next generation of semiconductor workers.  I am proud to have pushed for and secured this more than $3.2 million federal investment from my CHIPS & Science Law that will help students in New York and across America get the hands-on training they need to enter careers in the booming chip industry,” said Senator Schumer. “AFT’s program will provide training to teachers across New York and beyond so that hundreds of students at school districts throughout NY can develop the skills they need to thrive in the growing domestic semiconductor industry, and RIT’s program will provide training to hundreds of college students so that they can succeed in the thousands upon thousands of new jobs being created in New York in the semiconductor industry. This will prepare our students for good-paying jobs at companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, Corning, Edwards Vacuum, and more as we see the chip industry expand in Upstate NY thanks to my CHIPS & Science Law. This federal investment in high-quality training is how we can support Upstate New York’s historic growth in the semiconductor industry spurred by my CHIPS and Science Law, and attract even more investment to the region by having a high-skilled workforce.”
    The AFT and RIT are two of just seven award recipients in the nation, and the AFT is the only recipient whose project focuses on K-12 students. The federal funding comes from the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC)’s Workforce Partner Alliance Program, which is funded by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. Schumer personally called and wrote to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Natcast CEO Deirdre Hanford for both programs to be awarded this funding.
    Schumer explained that the AFT’s program will help expand their partnership with Micron to help students in school districts across New York, with plans to expand in Michigan and Minnesota, prepare for careers at companies that are vital to America’s semiconductor industry like Micron, which announced a historic $100 billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory megafab in Central New York. This award will boost the framework Schumer announced with AFT last year that will be piloted in 10 school districts and BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services), including Baldwinsville, Chittenango, East Syracuse Minoa, Liverpool, New York City (Brooklyn STEAM Center and Thomas Edison High School), Niagara Falls, North Syracuse, Syracuse, OCM BOCES, and Watertown. The curriculum framework rolling out now in New York classrooms aims to help thousands of high school students hone the foundational skills necessary for career success in the booming semiconductor industry, working with industry partners like Micron to equip them with the skills they need to enter these careers.
    “I crafted the CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY as my north star, because I knew that with targeted federal investments like this, the communities in Upstate NY that powered America’s industrial past could be the ones to build its future and bring critical manufacturing back from overseas to America. I’ve worked closely with the Administration to make the case for federal investment in Upstate NY’s R&D and workforce training programs, and I’m pleased that the Commerce Department and Natcast, which was created to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center, recognizes New York’s premier work and leadership in boosting the nation’s semiconductor workforce,” added Schumer.
    RIT’s program will expand the domestic skilled workforce in the semiconductor industry with a focus on creating opportunities for disadvantaged and underrepresented workers to get access to the thousands of new jobs being created by new semiconductor industry investments in the U.S., including across Upstate NY, spurred by the CHIPS & Science Law. RIT’s goal is to train 555 students at both the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels through a new online certificate program to address workforce shortages in the microelectronics sector.
    “I want to thank Sen. Schumer for his vision around the CHIPS and Science Act and ensuring that investments in workforce development were part and parcel of this law, and for his tremendous advocacy for projects like ours that benefit students, educators and communities in New York. We are grateful that Natcast is recognizing, in its first ever set of grants, the promise and potential of these curriculum frameworks that educators, in partnership with industry, have authored through their union,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “What we seeded in New York will now spread as a model nationwide. These frameworks pave student pathways to the booming microchip sector and lead directly to good, middle-class jobs. They connect teacher expertise and student passions to career, college and life. And they’re anchored in our shared vision of real solutions that puts kids and educators at the center of the manufacturing renaissance happening right now across America.”
    “I want to thank Senator Schumer and the Biden-Harris Administration for providing this opportunity that RIT will use to address workforce shortages in the microelectronics industry here in the U.S.,” said RIT President David Munson. “Technology is driving unprecedented changes in the way we work. RIT is committed to fostering diversity and removing educational barriers for a new wave of highly-skilled workers, who will need to be analytical problem solvers with an ability to adapt to evolving career fields.”
    A copy of Schumer’s letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo about the AFT project can be found here and about the RIT project can be found here.
    Schumer has an extensive record of championing workforce development efforts for Upstate NY, particularly to support the growth of the semiconductor industry and broader tech and manufacturing sectors. The senator recently announced a major $40 million from his CHIPS & Science Law as one of only 12 Tech Hub award winners for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region. This includes major funding for workforce training initiatives to close gaps in upskilling, hiring, and retention, especially for populations that have been historically excluded from tech and manufacturing-related job opportunities. Earlier this year, Schumer also announced that after his advocacy, a major $6 million federal investment by the U.S. Department of Labor was made for the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) to expand Registered Apprenticeships for advanced manufacturing, including the semiconductor industry, to get workers the skills they need for these highly in-demand, good-paying jobs.
    Last year, Schumer also announced $5 million in DoD funding for Syracuse University and partners to expand microelectronics workforce training and connect job seekers with defense manufacturing and tech employers, as well as $2 million in DOL funding for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties and Mohawk Valley Community College to boost technical training. Schumer also secured $2 million for MVCC to create a new state-of-the-art semiconductor-and-advanced-manufacturing training center. Additionally, Schumer brought NSF Director Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan to Syracuse to meet with key stakeholders and see with his own eyes how Central New York is primed to be a global manufacturing hub and discuss how federal STEM training investment could support this effort.
    In addition, Schumer just last week announced $30 million in Department of Defense funding for the New York-based Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH) to boost semiconductor and other cutting-edge tech research & development and workforce training at Upstate NY universities and research institutions. This funding comes from the $2 billion CHIPS for America Defense Fund which Schumer helped establish in his CHIPS & Science Law, and helped secure Upstate NY’s spot in competing for as one of the first Microelectronic Commons Hubs last year, and will put Upstate NY at the forefront of cutting-edge tech R&D for the defense industry leading the future of this technology for America’s national security.
    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 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 $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 over $50 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: SBA Administrator Guzman Announces $20M in Grants for States to Boost Small Business Exports

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – Today, Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice for America’s more than 34 million small businesses in President Biden’s Cabinet, announced $20 million in State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grants have been awarded to 43 state and territory international trade agencies to provide financial support to small businesses in growing the volume and value of exports. States may start to solicit applications from small businesses now, and funding will become available to small businesses beginning Sept. 30.

    “With 95% of the world’s consumers based outside of the United States, our small businesses need access to markets abroad to grow and create good jobs in America. Through SBA’s STEP funding to states, small businesses can get grants to export to new markets and grow their revenues through marketing, trade missions and more,” said Administrator Guzman. “STEP delivers against the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to increase exports and helps ensure that we can strengthen our small businesses, ensure our economy is more resilient and increase our global competitiveness.”

    “Small businesses build the economic future of the Granite State by tapping into international markets and growing exports at a record pace thanks to programs like STEP. I urge small businesses interested in exporting to take advantage of STEP funding that will help them expand international sales and grow their local economies,” said New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. “As Governor, I led the first overseas trade mission from New Hampshire – and when I got to Congress, I worked to create STEP in 2010 to help small businesses start and grow their exports. I’m proud to see STEP’s critical impact across the nation. In the Granite State, it has helped small business owners attend the Farnborough International Air Show and supported the creation of the Export Accelerator program that helps newer small businesses get started in exporting and connect with federal resources. I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for working to provide the programs and resources that small business owners need to compete abroad.”

    “The STEP program supports initiatives for small businesses to access global markets seamlessly,” said Dan Krupnick, Associate Administrator for SBA’s Office of International Trade. “It helps them understand the ins and outs of exporting, provides opportunities to participate in international trade shows, and assists in creating websites that are tailored to attract and engage foreign buyers. Small businesses are key to supporting global supply chains and STEP continues to make them more resilient.”

    These 43 awardees were selected after a competitive application process to STEP. New grants will help local entrepreneurs enter and thrive in the global marketplace by providing small businesses with the information and tools they need to succeed in export-related activities. Qualifying exporting activities include participating in foreign trade missions and market sales trips, designing international marketing campaigns, participating in export trade show exhibits, and attending training workshops.

    Since its creation in 2010 as part of The Small Business Jobs Act, STEP has awarded $255 million in grants and recorded over $6.8 billion in exports with more than 18,000 small businesses receiving grants to fund their export opportunities and increase their footprint in over 100 countries. Last year, for every $1 in funding for STEP, businesses benefited from $27 in export sales. As states improve their exporting skills, the returns on investment keep improving.

    Individual STEP awards are managed at the local level by state government organizations. To find out if your state or territory has earned an award, and to apply for funding opportunities, please visit: www.sba.gov/STEP. To explore how small business counseling can help inform your export strategy, connect with your local SBA district office and our network of resource partners.

    ###

    About the SBA’s Office of International Trade

    The SBA’s Office of International Trade (OIT) works in cooperation with other federal agencies and public- and private-sector groups to encourage small business exports and to assist small businesses seeking to export. Through U.S. Export Assistance Centers, SBA district offices and a variety of service-provider partners, OIT directs and coordinates SBA’s ongoing export initiatives in an effort to encourage small businesses going global. For more information on the resources available for small business international trade development and to find local Export Finance Managers, visit https://www.sba.gov/about-sba/sba-locations/headquarters-offices/office-international-trade.

    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, or 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 www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Connolly-Warner Reintroduce Chai Suthammanont Healthy Federal Workplaces Act to Protect Federal Employees During Public Health Emergencies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gerry Connolly (D-Va)

    Today, Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) reintroduced the Chai Suthammanont Healthy Federal Workplaces Act, legislation to better protect federal employees during a public health emergency. The legislation previously passed the House in September 2022.

    “On May 26, 2020, Chai Suthammanont, my constituent and a kitchen staff worker at a childcare facility on Marine Corps Base Quantico, died from COVID-related complications,” said Rep. Connolly. “Confusion and uncertainty surrounding agency guidance during the pandemic emerged as two of the largest contributing factors to Chai’s death. These factors, combined with a general lack of communication with federal workforce staff, led to tragedy. Our Chai Suthammanont Healthy Federal Workplaces Act will ensure federal employees are informed and better protected during any future public health emergency. I want to thank Senator Warner for his partnership, and I want to thank Chai’s widow, Christina, for her continued efforts to transform her family’s loss into a charge to help others.”

    “Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, federal employees remained hard at work, ensuring that the American people could continue to count on their government. But unfortunately, the pandemic highlighted that our federal agencies were widely unprepared to protect these essential workers,” said Sen. Warner. “It’s crucial that we learn from our mistakes. We owe it to our federal workforce to ensure a safe workplace, and when faced with another public health emergency, we must be prepared.”

    The legislation requires each federal agency to establish a plan that describes public health protocols including, but not limited to, testing; identification and notification of individuals who may have been exposed; cleaning; occupancy limits; use of personal protective equipment; protections for employees whose work requires them to travel off-site; and ensuring the continuity of agency operations. The bill would also require each agency’s Office of the Inspector General to report on the extent each agency has implemented the plan and would require the Government Accountability Office to report on lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Text of the legislation is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colombia: ICITAP Conducts Training Exclusively for Judicial Experts in ¨Communication of the Expert During the Criminal Proceeding”

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    On July 2, the ICITAP-Colombia mission provided an update on its assistance to the criminal justice system. With funding and support from the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), ICITAP sponsored the participation of nineteen officials from the Colombian National Police (CNP) the Attorney General´s Office (AGO) and the National Institute of Legal Medicine (LM). During the training, participants prepared their expert report collaborating along with the prosecutor, to prepare for their testimony as experts during a mock hearing exercise of an oral trial. During the preparation stage, participants increased their communication skills utilizing logical reasoning and how to prepare demonstrative evidence by means of illustrations, drawings, and flowcharts to present the results of their expert opinions. During the mock oral hearing in front of a judge, participants experienced the interrogation phase, cross-examination, redirect and clarifications, from which they received feedback from judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys and their colleagues. All participants were recorded during their hearing and at the end, they were presented with their recorded video for constructive feedback from their peers, attorneys, and the judge. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Students Provide Dental Screenings to Veterans at Annual Stand Down Event

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    For many veterans across the state, access to essential social, financial, and health services can be hard to come by. Basic oral health care can be especially difficult, as dental benefits through the country’s Veterans Affairs health system are only available to veterans with service-connected oral health issues.

    Working to help close the veterans oral health care gap is the UConn School of Dental Medicine. This past weekend, students and faculty participated in the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs annual “Stand Down” event—a one-stop shop for Connecticut’s veterans to access services with a variety of state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and veterans organizations. From flu shots to legal services, local resources were available to veterans at several sites across the state.

    Third-year dental students Jenna Whelan, Catherine Tang, and second-year student Dylan Hatajik distribute supplies during the 2024 Stand Down event.

    “The Stand Down event was both impactful and memorable. Beyond providing services, we had the opportunity to listen to the veterans share their stories of their time serving,” said student leader and second-year student Stephen Ogarekpe

    This is the second year that the School of Dental Medicine participated in this statewide event to deliver oral health screenings, hand out supplies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and denture cleaner, and distribute important information on resources for veterans. This year, the students provided over 100 screenings at the Bridgeport, Bristol, Danbury, Norwich, and Stamford locations.

    Dr. John Agar with dental students Marley Esch, Lenka Serdar, and Nick Mattioli.

    “It was an incredible experience to honor our local veterans and be a part of such a wonderful community event,” said student leader and third-year student Lenka Serdar. “It was humbling to see so many veterans thank us for helping to determine their oral health needs and how to access care, when in reality we were most appreciative of their selfless service.”

    Along with connecting with veterans and other vendors, the students met with U.S. Senator Chris Murphy in Danbury, and Mayor Caroline Simmons and State Senator Ryan Fazio in Stamford.

    “It was a fantastic morning, and we were able to provide screenings and answer important questions from veterans regarding their oral healthcare,” said second-year student Dylan Hatajik.

    UConn School of Dental Medicine’s efforts to address the dental care needs of veterans are made possible with philanthropic support, including the Delta Dental Foundation’s support of our Open Wide for Veterans initiative.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexico: ICITAP Holds Closing Ceremony for Forensic Leadership Workshop

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    On July 9, the ICITAP-Mexico virtually held the closing ceremony for the 4th yearly iteration of the Forensic Leadership and Management Workshop. In attendance was the ICITAP Director, who gave final remarks as well as ICITAP’s Senior Forensic Advisor Elizabeth Marso and ICITAP-Mexico’s Law Enforcement Assistance Attaché. This year there were approximately 40 participants including lab directors, quality managers, liaisons, and technical leaders in forensics from Mexico, Costa Rica, Panamá, Colombia, Honduras, and Guatemala. The objective of the course is for participants to enhance problem-solving skills of forensic scientists in leadership roles for those having leadership positions in forensic laboratories. The workshop was held virtually once a week for 12 sessions on topics such as leadership, ethics, communication, motivation, intergenerational and intercultural conflict, improving processes, decision making and risk management. In order to maintain the culture of quality within the laboratories it is important that leadership stays up to date on their skills and abilities which in turn promotes sustainability of forensic services in Mexico, Central America and Colombia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia joins the AI Pact, a new framework to prepare for the European Union’s AI Act

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia joins the AI Pact, a new framework to prepare for the European Union’s AI Act

    • AI Pact initiative is aimed at facilitating companies’ early preparation for compliance with the new EU AI Act covering the use of AI systems.
    • Nokia’s AI Pact pledges demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the responsible, innovative and business-oriented implementation of AI.
    • Nokia has built up strong expertise in trustworthy AI and governance, and actively contributes to the creation of European standards that enable compliance with the AI Act.
    • Nokia welcomes this opportunity to share its learnings and work together with industry peers and the EU AI Office.

    25 September 2024
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia announced today that it has officially joined the AI Pact, a voluntary framework to prepare for compliance with the European Union’s AI Act.

    The AI Act is a binding legal framework that regulates the use of AI systems according to the level of risk they pose. The AI Act came into force in August 2024, and its significant obligations will take effect in stages over the next three years.

    The AI Pact is a business-focused initiative to help companies prepare for full compliance with the Act, adapt their existing AI compliance processes, and share their ideas and experience through EU-organized workshops.

    Ingrid Viitanen, General Counsel, Nokia Strategy & Technology, said: “Nokia’s AI Pact pledges underscore our ongoing commitment to the responsible, innovative and business-oriented implementation of artificial intelligence in our AI-powered products and services. Nokia has set up an AI Governance Framework program to strengthen our internal AI-related processes and build trust with stakeholders, including customers, suppliers and authorities. In parallel, we continue to contribute actively to building industry standards reflecting the AI Act’s requirements. We look forward to sharing our learnings collaboratively and transparently with our industry peers and with the EU AI Office.”

    Nokia’s research arm, Nokia Bell Labs, is an industry leader in AI technologies and its applications to communication networks and industrial automation solutions. Nokia Bell Labs has a strong emphasis on Responsible AI and in 2022 defined six principles to guide AI research and development in the future along the lines of fairness, reliability, privacy, transparency, sustainability and accountability. These principles continue to be relevant as Nokia embraces the telecom industry’s renewed focus on environmental sustainability, social responsibility and good governance.

    Resources and additional information
    Website: Nokia
    Website: Nokia Bell Labs
    Website: Responsible AI – Nokia Bell Labs
    Website: AI: Always Innovating – Nokia
    Website: EU Artificial Intelligence Act

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. 

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.  

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. 

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pakistan: ICITAP Delivers Lecture at National Police Academy of New Police Officers, Undergoing Assistant Superintendents of Police Training

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    On July 29, ICITAP-Pakistan’s Mission Advisor conducted a four-hour guest lecture in money laundering for new police officers undergoing training to become Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASP). While this training occurred in Islamabad, the eighteen officers who attended are highly educated men and women from many different regions of Pakistan. These officers had previously passed a rigorous, highly competitive civil service examination that qualified them as Police Services of Pakistan (PSPs). As each of them advance in their careers, they will assume executive management ranks within the police of Pakistan.  As a result of this lecture, which was well received by the attendees and NPA administrators, ICITAP was offered the full use of the National Police Academy and was petitioned to conduct multiple, full five-day versions of this training to seasoned field officers, as future in-service training. In Pakistan, ICITAP works with the support of and in coordination with the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Counterterrorism.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Uzbekistan: ICITAP Commences Development of Counter Terrorism Investigators and Managers Courses with Law Enforcement Academy of Uzbekistan

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    On July 22, ICITAP commenced its training development engagement with the Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) of Uzbekistan jointly with the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office of the British Government. This engagement will facilitate the long-term sustainability of counter-terrorism related teachings across agencies and institutions within Uzbekistan. The joint training development team consisting of individuals from the US, UK, and the LEA will work together for a three-week period reviewing existing materials, course structures, accreditation opportunities and incorporating human rights teachings to support an enhanced ability to investigate and manage counter-terrorism investigations and prosecutions. During the engagement the team will visit the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation (JCLEC) in Indonesia to engage with staff and representatives from the National Police Academy. They will have the opportunity to observe a course designed to support the development of female law enforcers in the field of counter-terrorism surveillance techniques. The visit to JCLEC will enable the team to witness how counter-terrorism related training is being delivered effectively within Southeast Asia and serve as a point of reference for course structure and content. At the conclusion of this initial period of development the training team will structure counter-terrorism courses for delivery to academics, prosecutors, and frontline enforcement assets. Following agreement across the team on content and structure CT-DOJ/ICITAP will work with institutions in the US and UK to seek accreditation opportunities. This process will assist with long-term capacitation in country and encourage enhanced intelligence-sharing practices due to the developed abilities to handle intelligence and information accordingly. 

    MIL Security OSI –