Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)
CHICAGO— Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement a year after the Hamas’ attack on Israel:
“One year ago, I strongly condemned Hamas’ attack on Israel, during which 1,200 civilians were killed and another 251 were taken hostage. As the horror of the attack sunk in, and as we mourned those killed and kidnapped, I feared for what would come next. I feared that Israel’s military response, supported materially, diplomatically, and financially by the United States, would only push peace farther away.
“Since then, Israel’s bombing campaigns have killed more than 42,000 Palestinians and 2,000 Lebanese. The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza grows by the day. A year in, Israel is not safer, many hostages are still being held by Hamas, and the Middle East is at an even more dangerous inflection point—on the precipice of a full-scale regional war.
“So as I once again condemn the horrific attacks one year ago and call for the hostages’ safe return, I also reaffirm my belief that the path toward safety for Israelis, Palestinians, and Lebanese alike includes stopping the flow of unconditional weapons from the U.S. to Israel, and securing a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.”
Juan Alberto Castillero Correa, the new Permanent Representative of Panama to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented his credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.
Mr. Castillero Correa served as the Permanent Representative of Panama to the United Nations Office at Geneva from 2019 until June 2024. He also held the same post from 2004 to 2009. He served as non-resident Ambassador to Qatar from 2008 to 2009, and as ad hoc and ad Honorem Ambassador of Panama in special mission from 1996 until 1999.
Since 1975, Mr. Castillero Correa has worked as a lawyer, practicing public and private international law in relation to treaties and contracts, corporate law, maritime law, air law, privatisation, and tenders.
Mr. Castillero Correa was born in 1948. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the National Institute of Panama (1966) and a degree in law and political science from the University of Panama (1975). He attended the French Language and Civilization School of the University of Geneva (1975), and studied private international law at the Faculty of Law of the University of Geneva (1976). He is a member of the Panamanian Bar Association and the Maritime Law Association of Panama.
Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.
In total, California has deployed 284 highly specialized personnel to support hurricane response efforts in recent weeks
SACRAMENTO – With Hurricane Milton expected to make landfall in Florida this week as a Category 5 hurricane, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of 144 firefighters and ground support personnel from three California Urban Search and Rescue Task Force teams to assist with incident management, emergency operations and search and rescue efforts.
This incoming aid is in addition to California Urban Search and Rescue resources recently deployed to support the response to Hurricane Helene, including 140 firefighters and support personnel from California/FEMA US&R Task Forces 5 and 6 from the Orange County Fire Authority and Riverside Fire Department, and California Swiftwater Task Force 1 from the Los Angeles Fire Department.
In close coordination with FEMA, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is now deploying Task Force members from the Los Angeles City Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department and Menlo Park Fire Protection District to support the Hurricane Milton response. These highly specialized personnel are trained in structural collapse and swift water/flood environments and are expected to arrive in Georgia in the coming days to stage before being dispatched.
The deployment has no impact on California’s emergency response and firefighting capabilities.
“California stands with all those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods in the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene. As Hurricane Milton approaches landfall, California is sending additional specialized resources to support critical emergency response and recovery efforts.”
Governor Gavin Newsom
“Cal OES is proud to deploy highly-skilled teams to be ready to help those in need as Hurricane Milton heads toward the U.S.,” said Cal OES Director Nancy Ward. “These search and rescue professionals have the training needed to navigate extreme environments and assist in the effort to preserve life and property.”
Last month, Governor Newsom deployed California support to Florida to bolster the response to Hurricane Helene. California also sent aid to Texas in July and Georgia in August in response to tropical storms. In the past two years, California has also deployed firefighters to New Mexico, Hawaii, Oregon and Montana.
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Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English
Federal Laboratory for Materials Testing and Research
Dübendorf, St. Gallen und Thun, 08.10.2024 – In summer 2024, the South African government published a strategy paper on the management of e-waste, which was developed in collaboration with Empa. This is the first time the country has issued standardized guidelines for the proper and safe handling of e-waste. The collaboration is part of a program funded by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
Electronic waste can pose a considerable risk to people and the environment, as it often contains toxic substances such as the heavy metals mercury and cadmium. At the same time, discarded electrical and electronic devices are an important source of valuable materials, for instance copper and gold. Proper disposal and recycling of e-waste is therefore crucial – also for developing and newly industrialized countries, who can use it to safeguard their populations and strengthen their economies.
With support from Empa, South Africa has now come a good deal closer to this goal. In June 2024, the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment published, for the first time, a comprehensive e-waste management strategy. An important basis for this strategy was provided by the Sustainable Recycling Industries program (SRI, see text box), financed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
Sustainable change
As part of the SRI program, Empa and the World Resources Forum (WRF) are working with teams from several developing and newly industrialized countries, including South Africa, to improve the recycling of e-waste in these countries. The aim is both to create the necessary legal framework and to impart technical know-how. “Thanks to the collaboration with Empa and the WRF, our partner countries benefit from proven expert knowledge,” says Philipp Ischer, program manager at SECO. According to the expert, this has a very positive effect on the development of the legal foundations for recycling and the formulation of the relevant norms and standards.
“One of our activities as part of the SRI program, for example, is the training of auditors who check the quality of e-waste handling processes at recycling companies,” says Manuele Capelli, a researcher in Empa’s Technology and Society laboratory, which manages the program together with the WRF. Members of the Critical Materials and Resource Efficiency (CARE) research group, which has a longs-standing experience in development cooperation, also carried out audits for the Swiss e-waste recycling industry until 2023.
The expertise from small, prosperous Switzerland cannot, however, be transferred one-to-one to a large newly industrialized country like South Africa. “One of SRI’s goals is to promote sustainable change so that the activities continue even after the program ends,” emphasizes Capelli. Special attention is therefore paid to cooperation with local teams. “Our partners are in contact with the authorities and the industry in South Africa and are very familiar with the country-specific challenges in the area of electronic waste recycling.”
Creating suitable conditions
The recycling of batteries is one example of the e-waste management challenges particular to South Africa. The power grid in the country is unstable; hour-long power cuts have been a daily occurrence for years. “As the largest electricity producer in the region, South Africa has no easy way of importing electricity,” explains Capelli. For this reason, many wealthy households rely on their own solar system with battery storage, resulting in large quantities of used batteries over time. “Batteries are a particularly dangerous form of e-waste. They can cause fires if stored incorrectly and not properly monitored,” says Capelli. Thanks to their experience with the recycling and reuse of batteries, the Empa researchers were able to pass on useful know-how to their local partners.
Otherwise, South Africa faces similar challenges in e-waste recycling as other newly industrialized countries, says Capelli: “The quantities of e-waste are increasing, but disposal and recycling are often inadequate or unsafe. With the new strategy paper, the country now has comprehensive and uniform guidelines for the first time in order to better overcome these challenges. “This is a major milestone and we are delighted to have been able to support South Africa in this,” he says.
Sustainable Recycling Industries Sustainable Recycling Industries (SRI) is a program funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and run by Empa and the World Resources Forum (WRF), an international non-profit organization that emerged from Empa. The aim of the program is to create favorable framework conditions for a sustainable recycling industry for e-waste and related waste streams in selected developing and emerging countries. The countries involved are Colombia, Egypt, Ghana, Peru and South Africa. SRI is currently in its second phase, which will run until 2025. Colombia and Peru have already successfully completed the program.
Baker Hughes Integrated Compressor Line (ICL) technology to enhance gas swing storage capacity as part of the United Arab Emirates decarbonization strategy
Scope includes 10 ICL units to be installed at Margham Gas storage facility in the Emirate of Dubai
HOUSTON and LONDON, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR), an energy technology company, announced Tuesday its largest order ever of Integrated Compressor Line (ICL) units with Dubai Petroleum Establishment (DPE), for and on behalf of Dubai Supply Authority (DUSUP), to enhance the reliability of energy supply and support local decarbonization efforts. The order was booked in the third quarter of 2024.
The 10 ICL units – five for gas storage and five for dual-use injection boosting or gas export to the existing gas distribution system – will be installed at the Margham Gas storage facility in Dubai, significantly increasing its capacity. Through the adoption of the ICL technology, the project aims to achieve a high-reliability system with reduced emissions. The project will provide stability to Dubai’s energy supply by strengthening the system’s ability to switch between natural gas and solar power.
“Our innovative ICL technology is set to be critical to support the gas infrastructure needed to address Dubai’s increasing expansion of renewables into its energy mix,” said Ganesh Ramaswamy, executive vice president of Industrial & Energy Technology at Baker Hughes. “This landmark order underscores the proven track record we have built in the market for our low-carbon solutions, and we are grateful to DPE for their continued commitment and trust as they deliver sustainable energy development.”
With already three ICL units successfully in operation since 2020, DPE’s decision to continue working with Baker Hughes is a testament to the performance and reliability of the installed technology. With zero seal leakages and minimal downtime required for maintenance, Baker Hughes’ ICL technology continues to solidify its position as a highly sought-after option in the market. The latest award from DPE continues the positive order momentum for this technology and follows awards for different applications in projects across Italy, Germany, Argentina and the United States.
About Baker Hughes Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner, and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kenneth Evans, Scholar in Science and Technology Policy, Baker Institute for Public Policy, Rice University
Science topics don’t always come up during presidential debates – but they did on Sept. 10, 2024.Mario Tama via Getty Images
For the first time in American history, quantum computing was mentioned by a candidate during a presidential debate, on Sept. 10, 2024. After Vice President Kamala Harris brought up quantum technology, she and former President Donald Trump went on to have a heated back-and-forth about American chipmaking and China’s rise in semiconductor manufacturing. Science and technology policy usually takes a back seat to issues such as immigration, the economy and health care during election season.
What’s changed for 2024?
From COVID-19 to climate change, ChatGPT to, yes, quantum computers, science-related issues are on the minds of American policymakers and voters alike. The federal government spends nearly US$200 billion each year on scientific research and development to address these challenges and many others. Presidents and Congress, however, rarely agree on how – and how much – money should be spent on science.
With the increasing public focus on global competitiveness, the climate crisis and artificial intelligence, a closer look at Trump’s and Harris’ records on science and technology policy could provide a hint about how they’d approach these topics if elected this fall.
Two distinct visions for science funding
If politics can be described as “who gets what and when,” U.S. science and technology policy can be assessed through the annual budget process for R&D. By this measure, the differences between the Trump and Biden-Harris administrations couldn’t be starker.
In his first budget request to Congress, in 2017, Trump spurned decades of precedent, proposing historic cuts across nearly every federal science agency. In particular, Trump targeted climate-related programs at the Department of Energy, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Trump’s fiscal policy took a page from Reagan-era conservative orthodoxy, prioritizing military spending over social programs, including R&D. Unlike Reagan, however, Trump also took aim at basic research funding, an area with long-standing bipartisan support in Congress. His three subsequent budget proposals were no different: across-the-board reductions to federal research programs, while pushing for increases to defense technology development and demonstration projects.
Congress rebuked nearly all of Trump’s requests. Instead, it passed some of the largest increases to federal R&D programs in U.S. history, even before accounting for emergency spending packages funded as part of the government’s pandemic response.
In contrast, the Biden-Harris administration made science and innovation a centerpiece of its early policy agenda – with budgets to match. Leveraging the slim Democratic majority during the 117th Congress, Biden and Harris shepherded three landmark bills into law: the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS and Science Act. These laws contain significant R&D provisions focused on environmental projects (IIJA), clean energy (IRA) and American semiconductor manufacturing (CHIPS).
CHIPS set up programs within the National Science Foundation and the Department of Commerce to create regional technology hubs in support of American manufacturing. The act also set ambitious funding targets for federal science agencies, especially at NSF, calling for its budget to be doubled from $9 billion to over $18 billion over the course of five years.
Despite its initial push for R&D, the Biden-Harris administration’s final two budget proposals offered far less to science. Years of deficit spending and a new Republican majority in the House cast a cloud of budget austerity over Congress. Instead of moving toward doubling NSF’s budget, the agency suffered an 8% decrease in fiscal year 2024 – its biggest cut in over three decades. For FY2025, which runs from Oct. 1, 2024, through Sept. 30, 2025, Biden and Harris requested a meager 3% increase for NSF, billions of dollars short of CHIPS-enacted spending levels.
An emerging consensus on China
On technology policy, Biden and Harris share more with Trump than they let on.
Their approach to competing with China on tech follows Trump’s lead: They’ve expanded tariffs on Chinese goods and severely limited China’s access to American-made computer chips and semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
Semiconductor manufacturing is a key to many technologies; by extension, where it happens can be a security issue. Costfoto/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The Biden-Harris administration has also drawn from Trump-era policy to strengthen America’s leadership in “industries of the future.” The term, coined by Trump’s then-chief science adviser Kelvin Droegemeier, refers to five emerging technology areas: AI, quantum science, advanced manufacturing, advanced communications and biotechnology. This language has been parroted by the Biden-Harris administration as part of its focus on American manufacturing and throughout Harris’ campaign, including during the debate.
In short, both candidates align with the emerging Washington bipartisan consensus on China: innovation policy at home, strategic decoupling abroad.
Science advice not always a welcome resource
Trump’s dismissal of and at times outright contempt for scientific consensus is well documented. From “Sharpiegate,” when he mapped his own projected path for Hurricane Dorian, to pulling out of the Paris climate agreement, World Health Organization and the Iran nuclear deal, Trump has demonstrated an unwillingness to accept any advice, let alone from scientists.
Indeed, Trump took over two years to hire Droegemeier as director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, or OSTP, doubling the previous record for the length of time a president has gone without a scientific adviser. This absence was no doubt reflected in Trump’s short-on-science budget requests to Congress, especially during the beginning of his administration.
On the other hand, the Biden-Harris administration has promoted science and innovation as a core part of its broader economic policy agenda. It elevated the role of OSTP: Biden is the first president to name his science adviser – a position currently held by Arati Prabhakar – as a member of his Cabinet.
By law, the president is required to appoint an OSTP director. But it is up to the president to decide how and when to use their advice. If the new White House wants the U.S. to remain a global leader in R&D, the science adviser will need to continue to fight for it.
Kenneth Evans receives funding from the National Science Foundation, the American Institute of Physics, and the Clinton Foundation. He is affiliated with Rice University and Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.
Foreign influence campaigns, or information operations, have been widespread in the run-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Influence campaigns are large-scale efforts to shift public opinion, push false narratives or change behaviors among a target population. Russia, China, Iran, Israel and other nations have run these campaigns by exploiting social bots, influencers, media companies and generative AI.
At the Indiana University Observatory on Social Media, my colleagues and I study influence campaigns and design technical solutions – algorithms – to detect and counter them. State-of-the-art methods developed in our center use several indicators of this type of online activity, which researchers call inauthentic coordinated behavior. We identify clusters of social media accounts that post in a synchronized fashion, amplify the same groups of users, share identical sets of links, images or hashtags, or perform suspiciously similar sequences of actions.
We have uncovered many examples of coordinated inauthentic behavior. For example, we found accounts that flood the network with tens or hundreds of thousands of posts in a single day. The same campaign can post a message with one account and then have other accounts that its organizers also control “like” and “unlike” it hundreds of times in a short time span. Once the campaign achieves its objective, all these messages can be deleted to evade detection. Using these tricks, foreign governments and their agents can manipulate social media algorithms that determine what is trending and what is engaging to decide what users see in their feeds.
Adversaries such as Russia, China and Iran aren’t the only foreign governments manipulating social media to influence U.S. politics.
Generative AI
One technique increasingly being used is creating and managing armies of fake accounts with generative artificial intelligence. We analyzed 1,420 fake Twitter – now X – accounts that used AI-generated faces for their profile pictures. These accounts were used to spread scams, disseminate spam and amplify coordinated messages, among other activities.
We estimate that at least 10,000 accounts like these were active daily on the platform, and that was before X CEO Elon Musk dramatically cut the platform’s trust and safety teams. We also identified a network of 1,140 bots that used ChatGPT to generate humanlike content to promote fake news websites and cryptocurrency scams.
In addition to posting machine-generated content, harmful comments and stolen images, these bots engaged with each other and with humans through replies and retweets. Current state-of-the-art large language model content detectors are unable to distinguish between AI-enabled social bots and human accounts in the wild.
Model misbehavior
The consequences of such operations are difficult to evaluate due to the challenges posed by collectingdata and carrying out ethical experiments that would influence online communities. Therefore it is unclear, for example, whether online influence campaigns can sway election outcomes. Yet, it is vital to understand society’s vulnerability to different manipulation tactics.
In a recent paper, we introduced a social media model called SimSoM that simulates how information spreads through the social network. The model has the key ingredients of platforms such as Instagram, X, Threads, Bluesky and Mastodon: an empirical follower network, a feed algorithm, sharing and resharing mechanisms, and metrics for content quality, appeal and engagement.
SimSoM allows researchers to explore scenarios in which the network is manipulated by malicious agents who control inauthentic accounts. These bad actors aim to spread low-quality information, such as disinformation, conspiracy theories, malware or other harmful messages. We can estimate the effects of adversarial manipulation tactics by measuring the quality of information that targeted users are exposed to in the network.
We simulated scenarios to evaluate the effect of three manipulation tactics. First, infiltration: having fake accounts create believable interactions with human users in a target community, getting those users to follow them. Second, deception: having the fake accounts post engaging content, likely to be reshared by the target users. Bots can do this by, for example, leveraging emotional responses and political alignment. Third, flooding: posting high volumes of content.
Our model shows that infiltration is the most effective tactic, reducing the average quality of content in the system by more than 50%. Such harm can be further compounded by flooding the network with low-quality yet appealing content, thus reducing quality by 70%.
Curbing coordinated manipulation
We have observed all these tactics in the wild. Of particular concern is that generative AI models can make it much easier and cheaper for malicious agents to create and manage believable accounts. Further, they can use generative AI to interact nonstop with humans and create and post harmful but engaging content on a wide scale. All these capabilities are being used to infiltrate social media users’ networks and flood their feeds with deceptive posts.
These insights suggest that social media platforms should engage in more – not less – content moderation to identify and hinder manipulation campaigns and thereby increase their users’ resilience to the campaigns.
The platforms can do this by making it more difficult for malicious agents to create fake accounts and to post automatically. They can also challenge accounts that post at very high rates to prove that they are human. They can add friction in combination with educational efforts, such as nudging users to reshare accurate information. And they can educate users about their vulnerability to deceptive AI-generated content.
Open-source AI models and data make it possible for malicious agents to build their own generative AI tools. Regulation should therefore target AI content dissemination via social media platforms rather then AI content generation. For instance, before a large number of people can be exposed to some content, a platform could require its creator to prove its accuracy or provenance.
These types of content moderation would protect, rather than censor, free speech in the modern public squares. The right of free speech is not a right of exposure, and since people’s attention is limited, influence operations can be, in effect, a form of censorship by making authentic voices and opinions less visible.
Filippo Menczer receives funding from the Knight Foundation, Sloan Foundation, NSF, DoD, and the Swiss National Science Foundation.
A decade ago, Sercan Canbolat ’17 MA ’23 Ph.D. was a graduate student in his home country of Turkey. His focus was studying the political psychology of leaders.
What makes them think?
How do they make decisions?
What influences them in their decision making?
His particular focus was on political leaders in the Middle East, where he had grown up and completed his undergraduate degrees.
But as a master’s student at Bilkent University in Turkey’s capital city of Ankara, he knew first-hand some of the challenges he would face as he tried to present his research to a broader, international audience.
“I’m from Turkey,” Canbolat says, “and I know in the broader Middle East and North Africa regions, we don’t have a lot of opportunities to get our work published, to present our work to top scholars in the field, and to get good feedback – to learn and acquire the best research skills and presentation skills.”
Sercan Canbolat ’17 MA ’23 Ph.D. at the ISA International Conference 2017 in Hong Kong. (Contributed photo)
It was during his master’s studies that his advisor, Özgür Özdamar, first introduced him to the International Studies Association, or ISA – one of the oldest interdisciplinary organizations dedicated to understanding international, transnational, and global affairs.
“I was writing my MA thesis with him,” Canbolat explains, “and he offered for me to write a paper that we could present at ISA. But I couldn’t get a visa. So, my advisor went to the conference instead, and he presented our paper.”
The following year, though – in 2014 – Canbolat was able to travel to the ISA conference in Toronto, where he put himself in front of a global audience for the first time to present his research.
“I got some feedback from the chair and from the audience, and it was great,” he says. “It helped me to build self-confidence, and actually, through ISA, I met many scholars based in the U.S., Canada, and Western Europe. Those connections helped me to apply for and receive a Fulbright scholarship to come to the U.S. for my Ph.D.”
That Fulbright Ph.D. grant led Canbolat to UConn in 2014, where he started his doctoral studies in political science.
And in 2015, the organization that helped Canbolat make those connections and first share his research on a global stage – the International Studies Association – also came to UConn.
Best-Kept Secret
Founded in 1959, the ISA has long served as a central hub for the exchange of ideas, for networking, and for programmatic initiatives among those involved in the study, teaching, and practice of international studies.
Through its international and regional conferences and its academic journals, the organization works to promote rigorous discussion, research, and writing on a broad range of topics, including foreign policy, environmental studies, global health, diplomacy, human rights, peace studies, law, and religion.
ISA has been headquartered at UConn since 2015. Under agreements with UConn’s Office of Global Affairs, it will remain in residence at UConn until at least 2030.
Sarah Dorr, Ph.D., ISA director of professional development (Contributed photo)
From 2015 to 2024, ISA was under the leadership of Mark Boyer, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor Emeritus at UConn. As of July 1, 2024, Mike Bosia, professor of political science and international relations and director of gender and sexuality studies at Saint Michael’s College, took over the role of ISA’s executive director.
“ISA is a hidden gem – one of the best kept secrets at UConn,” says Sarah Dorr, the ISA’s director of professional development. “We have over 7,000 members in 120 countries.”
UConn and ISA are a good fit for each other, says Daniel Weiner, a professor of geography and UConn’s vice president for global affairs, because both the organization and the University share similar missions to foster a sense of global-mindedness and facilitate life-transformative educational and research experiences.
“ISA is really a success story about the positive impact of international collaboration,” Weiner says. “One of our major goals in Global Affairs is to support interdisciplinary research and engagement on issues of worldwide importance and impact, so partnership with ISA here at UConn is really a natural pairing.”
Evolving and Growing
In a complex and ever-changing world, adapting to the needs of the time is important for any organization – ISA included.
“Our organization is constantly evolving and growing,” says Dorr, “and we offer different levels of interaction to help people make connections and foster dialogue – something that we feel is particularly critical at this point in time in our increasingly polarized world.”
The ISA publishes seven academic journals, co-sponsors an eighth, and partners with Oxford University Press to publish the International Studies Encyclopedia, the most comprehensive reference work of its kind for the fields of international studies and international relations.
The organization has steadily grown its online and social media presence and, in response to the pandemic in 2020, launched a roster of unique virtual programs to broaden its reach to scholars who might not otherwise have the ability to take part in global opportunities.
Not all students and academics have access to the same resources at their institution. ISA’s virtual initiative provides these programs to level the playing field and create community whilst doing so. — Sarah Dorr, ISA’s director of professional development
“Not all students and academics have access to the same resources at their institution,” says Dorr, who curates virtual programming as part of her role at ISA. “ISA’s virtual initiative provides these programs to level the playing field and create community whilst doing so. Virtual programming allows people to interact with the association throughout the year, and it widens participation and increases accessibility to ISA’s pedagogical and research communities.”
ISA’s virtual programming is available to all members of the UConn community, regardless of membership. To date in 2024, ISA has produced more than 30 programs, with additional virtual events scheduled for the remainder of the calendar year on topics including banal nationalism, Fulbright scholar opportunities, and the impending results of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.
But what ISA has historically been known for are its national and regional conferences – gatherings where scholars from all walks of life and levels of experience come together to share their research, build new networks, and contribute to scholarship on a global level.
An Academic Home
Canbolat’s first ISA conference was in Toronto, but in the years since, ISA has taken him to San Francisco, Nashville, Atlanta, and even Hong Kong.
“It was a great experience; my first time in that part of the world,” he recalls about the 2017 Hong Kong conference. “It was amazing. I really enjoyed it.”
ISA supported Canbolat’s travel to its conferences through a grant program that assists junior scholars, senior graduate students, and scholars from low-income countries in attending conferences that would otherwise be out of reach.
“Grad students don’t have a great budget to go to conferences, and it’s expensive,” Canbolat says. “Travel, accommodations – ISA is really great at providing financial help, especially to students and junior scholars. I benefitted a lot from my ISA travel grants. It really helped make it happen, to go and attend the conferences.”
While on those trips, Canbolat says he had opportunities to meet eminent scholars in his field, network and build relationships with them, attend panel discussions, and meet and workshop with both journal editors and book publishers.
UConn President Radenka Maric delivers remarks at the ISA International Conference 2024 at the University of Rijeka in Croatia. (Photo Courtesy of UNIRI)
“Even if you don’t present, it’s still a great experience to go to panels, listen to state-of-the-art research being presented by both prominent scholars and rising scholars,” he says. “I’ve really enjoyed meeting top scholars, prominent scholars, in a personal setting – not in a panel or in a workshop, but at a reception, and to really make personal connections. Tell them about my family. Tell them about my background. Tell them about my plans. And they were very helpful, listening and giving great feedback.
“I think that stands out, meeting those big names. We always read their books, their articles, but it’s something else to meet them, especially in a personal setting, a relaxed environment. Having a coffee with them. That stands out,” he says.
ISA holds a series of regional conferences throughout each year as well as an annual convention, which will be held in Chicago in 2025.
“One of the major benefits of attending ISA regional conferences is they become a source of intellectual community,” says Dorr. “But ISA’s annual convention is where people go to find their ‘academic home.’”
In June 2024, the ISA built on its long-standing collaboration with the Central and Eastern European International Studies Association, or CEEISA, to host a joint international conference at the University of Rijeka in Croatia.
Focused on “Knowing the Global-Local: Imagining Pasts, Debating Futures,” the conference hosted 800 participants – including Weiner and UConn President Radenka Maric – from 65 countries to discuss global and local political science and international relations.
The conference marked the largest gathering of experts in international relations in Croatia to date.
Full Circle
Canbolat wasn’t able to travel to Croatia in June, but earlier this year, he attended an ISA conference in San Francisco – to accept the ISA Foreign Policy Analysis Section Best Book Award for 2024.
In 2023, Canbolat and his co-author, Özdamar, published their book, Leaders in the Middle East and North Africa: How Ideology Shapes Foreign Policy, through Cambridge University Press in 2023.
The book is based on the initial research that Canbolat presented at his very first ISA conference in Toronto in 2014.
Co-authors Sercan Canbolat ’17 MA ’23 Ph.D. (center) and Özgür Özdamar, professor of international relations at Bilkent University in Ankara, Turkey, (right) — with Danielle Lupton, associate professor of political science at Colgate University (left) — accept the 2024 ISA Best Book in Foreign Policy Analysis Award at the ISA 2024 Annual Convention in San Francisco. (Contributed photo)
“We published it as a journal article first,” he says. “After I presented at ISA, I got feedback. We published it in a good journal. It was well-received, and we got great feedback. And then, we discussed and decided to turn it into a book, into a larger project, and we worked on it for like five, six years. It was a blast, because it kept giving.”
Also in 2023, Canbolat completed his Ph.D. at UConn. He’s now serving as the inaugural director of Abrahamic Programs at UConn Global Affairs, and he’s teaching as a postdoctoral lecturer in the Department of Political Science.
He says he tells all his students about ISA – how it’s headquartered at UConn and how they can access the programs and opportunities ISA has to offer.
And he tells other faculty at UConn as well.
“I was surprised that some faculty don’t know that ISA is here at UConn,” Canbolat says. “I strongly suggest for anyone to try and at least give ISA a shot. Attend one year, and actually, they will be hooked.”
To learn more about or connect with the International Studies Association, headquartered at UConn Storrs, visitisanet.org. To stay up-to-date on the latest ISA virtual programs, sign up for ISA Connected atisanet.org/Programs/Virtual-Programs/ISA-Connected.
For more information about global learning, research, and entrepreneurship opportunities available through UConn’s Office of Global Affairs, visitglobal.uconn.edu.
The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $70.4 billion in August, down $8.5 billion from $78.9 billion in July, revised.
U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
Deficit:
$70.4 Billion
–10.8%°
Exports:
$271.8 Billion
+2.0%°
Imports:
$342.2 Billion
–0.9%°
Next release: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
(°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, October 8, 2024
Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)
August exports were $271.8 billion, $5.3 billion more than July exports. August imports were $342.2 billion, $3.2 billion less than July imports.
The August decrease in the goods and services deficit reflected a decrease in the goods deficit of $8.4 billion to $94.9 billion and an increase in the services surplus of $0.1 billion to $24.4 billion.
Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $47.1 billion, or 8.9 percent, from the same period in 2023. Exports increased $79.0 billion or 3.9 percent. Imports increased $126.1 billion or 4.9 percent.
Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)
The average goods and services deficit decreased $1.6 billion to $74.1 billion for the three months ending in August.
Average exports increased $3.7 billion to $267.8 billion in August.
Average imports increased $2.0 billion to $342.0 billion in August.
Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $11.1 billion from the three months ending in August 2023.
Average exports increased $13.3 billion from August 2023.
Average imports increased $24.4 billion from August 2023.
Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)
Exports of goods increased $4.4 billion to $179.4 billion in August.
Exports of goods on a Census basis increased $4.9 billion.
Industrial supplies and materials increased $0.9 billion.
Nonmonetary gold increased $1.5 billion.
Crude oil decreased $1.1 billion.
Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $0.8 billion.
Passenger cars increased $0.6 billion.
Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.5 billion.
Exports of services increased $0.9 billion to $92.3 billion in August.
Travel increased $0.5 billion
Government goods and services increased $0.2 billion.
Transport decreased $0.2 billion.
Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)
Imports of goods decreased $3.9 billion to $274.3 billion in August.
Imports of goods on a Census basis decreased $3.8 billion.
Industrial supplies and materials decreased $3.9 billion.
Nonmonetary gold decreased $1.2 billion.
Finished metal shapes decreased $1.0 billion.
Crude oil decreased $1.0 billion.
Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines decreased $1.3 billion.
Passenger cars decreased $1.1 billion.
Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.2 billion.
Imports of services increased $0.7 billion to $67.9 billion in August.
Travel increased $0.4 billion.
Charges for the use of intellectual property increased $0.4 billion.
Transport decreased $0.3 billion.
Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)
The real goods deficit decreased $8.6 billion, or 8.9 percent, to $88.6 billion in August, compared to an 8.5 percent decrease in the nominal deficit.
Real exports of goods increased $5.5 billion, or 3.8 percent, to $150.1 billion, compared to a 2.9 percent increase in nominal exports.
Real imports of goods decreased $3.2 billion, or 1.3 percent, to $238.7 billion, compared to a 1.4 percent decrease in nominal imports.
Revisions
Revisions to July exports
Exports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
Exports of services were revised down $0.1 billion.
Revisions to July imports
Imports of goods were revised up $0.1 billion.
Imports of services were revised down $0.1 billion.
Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)
The August figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($5.5), South and Central America ($4.0), Australia ($1.9), Hong Kong ($1.6), Brazil ($0.8), Singapore ($0.5), and United Kingdom ($0.3). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with China ($24.7), European Union ($19.1), Mexico ($14.3), Vietnam ($9.8), Ireland ($8.0), Taiwan ($7.3), Germany ($6.6), Japan ($4.9), South Korea ($4.9), Canada ($3.9), Italy ($2.9), India ($2.7), Switzerland ($2.5), France ($1.7), Malaysia ($1.1), Israel ($1.0), Belgium ($0.6), and Saudi Arabia ($0.1).
The deficit with Canada decreased $3.8 billion to $3.9 billion in August. Exports increased $1.1 billion to $28.5 billion and imports decreased $2.7 billion to $32.3 billion.
The deficit with China decreased $2.6 billion to $24.7 billion in August. Exports increased $1.1 billion to $12.6 billion and imports decreased $1.5 billion to $37.3 billion.
The balance with Belgium shifted from a surplus of $1.0 billion in July to a deficit of $0.6 billion in August. Exports decreased $0.1 billion to $2.8 billion and imports increased $1.5 billion to $3.4 billion.
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
October 07, 2024
WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism, on Monday released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel.
“One year ago today, on the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, Hamas terrorists launched a brutal attack on Israel, mercilessly killing 1,195 people and taking 251 others hostage. What happened on October 7th was unconscionable, and Hamas must be held accountable. My heart remains with those grieving the loss of their family members and friends, and those still waiting for their loved ones’ return, as well as every member of the Jewish community, which has faced a disgusting rise in antisemitism over the past year. The United States will always stand with the people of Israel against any and all threats. The path to long-term security for the Israeli people remains a diplomatic solution that ensures the safe return of the hostages, an end to this war, and a two-state future.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11)
Dear enewsletter.salutation_for_merging.merge,
Here’s to hope: 6,586 people have been rescued, evacuated or assisted by search and rescue teams since Hurricane Helene hit, including 39 survivors being rescued on Saturday, October 5, over eight full days into rescue efforts.
More than 4,000 first responders, national guardsmen, and active-duty military are in Western North Carolina looking for your friends, your family, or if you’re still stranded waiting for help – they’re looking for you. And they won’t stop until every missing person is accounted for.
I’m sure many of you have heard that there is a second hurricane brewing on the coast of Florida. It is not expected to hit Western North Carolina, but if it maintains it’s intensity as a Category 4 hurricane, it is expected to be catastrophic. I’m here to tell you that we will support Florida in any way we can, but I am also committed to making sure Western North Carolina does not get left behind in place of the newest natural disaster.
The resources and help I have listed over the last nine days are here to stay.
Today is update number 10 and includes details on where to find critical health care services including orthopedic care, dialysis treatments, and oxygen tanks, and an updated timeline on power restoration for individuals in the hardest hit areas. More information is to come in the following days.
As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family.
Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews.
84 water systems are on a boil advisory.
24 treatment plants have reported having no power and 33 systems are out of water.
Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date.
FEMA has shipped 13 million meals and 13 million liters of water utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit.
Of the shipped food and water, more than 6 million liters of water and 4 million individual meals have already been delivered to Western NC communities.
Walmart is hosting activities at the following locations:
Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily
Arden, NC Store 1179
60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704
Portable restrooms
Laundry
Showers
Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations
Buncombe County
Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.:
Pack Square Park – you MUST bring your own container for this site
80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801
William W. Estes Elementary School
275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
Sand Hill-Venable Elementary
154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806
North Windy Ridge Intermediate School
20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787
Fairview Elementary
1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730
The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities:
Biltmore Baptist Church
35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704
Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members
Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies
Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m.
First Baptist Church – Weaverville
63 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787
Hot showers available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Unlimited clean drinking water is available, bring your own container.
Supplies and bottled water.
Hot lunch served at 1:30 p.m.
Food and drinking water are available from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily at the following locations:
Asheville Middle School
211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801
Ingles
550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711
This location also has handwashing stations and portable restrooms
Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
121 Shiloh Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
Lucy Herring Elementary
98 Sulphur Springs Rd., Asheville, NC 28806
Oakley Elementary School
753 Fairvew Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
Haywood County
The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays:
Fines Creek Community Center
190 Fines Creek Rd., Clyde, NC 28721
Open every day until 6:00 p.m.
Pigeon Community Center
450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786
Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m.
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cruso Community Center
13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716
Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
First United Methodist Church
566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786
Includes shower access.
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Maggie Valley Pavilion
3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751
Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Woodland Baptist Church
545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Bethel Elementary School
4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Jonathan Valley Elementary School
410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church – in the Parish Hall
234 Church St., Waynesville, NC 28786
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Monday to Friday
Hot food available from 4:00 p.m. to 7 :00 p.m. daily.
St. Barnabas Catholic Church
109 Crescent Hill Rd., Arden, NC 28704
Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Reynolds Baptist Church – Family Life Center
520 Rose Hill Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
This location also has potable water available to residents who bring their own vessels to fill.
The following location offers hot meals daily:
Maggie Valley Fire Department
2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751
The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.:
Calvary Baptist Church
2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751
Henderson County
Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available.
Distribution will be taking place daily from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6 at the following locations:
Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729
East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726
North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759
Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available.
Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process.
Jackson County
In partnership with the Red Cross, the following is available for citizens of Jackson County:
The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau are providing shelf-stable meals at the following location:
558 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717
Hours of operation to come.
The Canada Fire Department is distributing emergency supplies at the following location:
149 Charleys Creek Rd., Tuckasegee, NC 28783
Hours of operation to come.
Madison County
The following locations are offering food, water, and some supply distribution in Madison County:
Beech Glen Community Center
2936 Beech Glen Rd., Mars Hill, 28754
Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time.
Center Community Center
1300 Grapevine Rd., Marshall, NC 28753
Daily hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Ebbs Chapel Community Center
281 Laurel Valley Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754
Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Enon Baptist Church
174 Ammons Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753
Open Sunday 12:00-4:00 p.m.
Freedom Christian Church
7350 US 25/70 Bypass, Marshall, NC 28753
Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This location offers additional resources such as hygiene products, blankets, clothes, cleaning supplies, diapers, pet food, etc.
Laurel Community Center – also has supplies
4100 NC 212 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28753
Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Revere-Rice Community Center
3980 Revere Rd., Marshall, NC 28753
Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (Mon-Sat)
Spring Creek Community Center
13075 NC 209 Hwy., Hot Springs, NC 28743
Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This location also has additional resources such as pet food, livestock feed and hay.
Walnut Community Center – also has supplies
46 School Rd., Marshall, NC 28753
Daily hours: Unable to locate daily hours at this time.
N.C. Cooperative Extension – Madison County Center
258 Carolina Ln., Marshall, NC 28753
Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
This location is offering drive-thru food distribution only.
McDowell County
McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels.
Distribution takes place daily at the following locations:
Former TJ’s Discounts – North Cove
8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752
Old Fort Town Hall
38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762
New Manna Baptist Church
225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752
Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church – Dysartsville
7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761
Zion Hill Baptist Church
1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion, NC 28752
Hot meals are also being provided at the following location:
Grace Community Church
5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752
Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m.
First Baptist Church of Marion is offering hot showers, air conditioning, and areas to charge devices.
Current hours: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 2:00-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday.
Polk County
The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need from 1:00-5:00 p.m.:
Mill Spring/Green Creek Community
25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756
Columbus Community
95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722
Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot
214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773
Tryon Community
301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782
Sunny View
86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756
Rutherford County
The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies:
Thomas Jefferson High School
2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114
Florence Baptist Church
201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043
Rutherford County Health Department
221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160
Gilkey Church of God
255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office
658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746
Lake Lure Baptist Church
6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746
Ingles at Lake Lure – meals only
276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746
Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Also offers showers, restrooms, a mobile health van, a tool trailer, a charging station (please bring your own charging cord), and wi-fi.
Father’s Vineyard – also has shower and charging stations
724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160
Spencer Baptist Church – water distribution only
187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160
United Way of Rutherford County – water distribution and charging stations only
668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043
The Church at Sapphire – through October 10
620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774
Daily hours: 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Little River Baptist Church – through October 11
51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766
Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m.
Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Transylvania County
The following locations are providing hot meals to county residents:
The Church at Sapphire – through October 10
620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774
Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m.
Little River Baptist Church – through October 11
51 Little River Church Rd., Penrose, NC 28766
Breakfast hours: 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Lunch hours: 12:30-2:00 p.m.
Dinner hours: 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Cedar Mountain Community Center
10635 Greenville Hwy., Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
Breakfast hours: 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Lunch hours: 12:00-2:00 p.m.
Dinner hours: 4:00-6:00 p.m.
Balsam Grove Community Center – daily until power is fully restored
8732 Parkway Rd., Balsam Grove, NC 28708
Daily hours: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted:
Bottled water is available daily at local fire departments and 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Anchor Baptist Church located at:
3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Water filling stations can be found at the following locations:
City Sports Complex
824 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712
Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Cedar Mountain Outpost
8431 Greenville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712
No posted daily hours.
Territory Brevard
43 S. Broad St, Brevard, NC 28712
No posted daily hours.
DD Bullwinkles
60 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712
No posted daily hours.
First United Methodist Church
325 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712
Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Pisgah Forest Baptist Church
494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Daily hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Newfound Artisan
22 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC 28712
Through today, October 6.
Hours: 12:00-5:00 p.m.
Food, water, and other supplies such as hygiene products are being distributed at the following locations:
Anchor Baptist Church
3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Church at Sapphire
620 Whitewater Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774
Through October 10.
Daily hours: 12:00-4:00 p.m.
Yancey County
Yancey County has transitioned to one centralized distribution site for water, food and ice located at the following address:
Altec
150 Altec Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714
Mobile laundry facilities are available in the GO Grocery parking lot located at the following address:
631 W Hwy. 19E Bypass, Burnsville, NC 28714
Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste.
Buncombe
Curbside collection will begin Monday for City of Asheville sanitation customers.
There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational.
Residents can use both recycling and trash carts for household waste.
The following materials cannot be collected at this time: Mud, construction debris, concrete and other bulky or hazardous items.
Debris collection is estimated to start in mid-October.
The Town of Black Mountain Public Works Department has secured four 15-yard dumpsters located in two sites for Black Mountain residents to throw away household trash ONLY:
Tractor Supply: 125 Old US Hwy. 70 E., Black Mountain, NC 28711
Ingles: 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Please Note: Yard waste, bulk item, separate recycling and debris collection are not available at this time.
Waste Pro collection service will resume today, October 7, for regular Monday route customers.
Recycling services are currently suspending while repair work is underway at the recycling process facility.
Haywood
Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110.
White Oak Landfill has reopened.
Henderson
Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees.
Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service.
The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property.
Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc.
Please be patient.
The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible.
Madison
The Hot Springs collection center is operating on normal hours for household trash ONLY:
Monday: 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Hot Springs trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual.
Please only use this pickup service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself.
The pickup service is being led by volunteers at this time.
Polk
The Polk County landfill is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
322 Landfill Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756
The service fee is waived through October 8.
Beginning on October 9, drop off of residential trash will be $10.
GFL trash services will continue on the regular schedule. However, certain areas may be inaccessible due to ongoing power outages from Hurricane Helene.
Two dumpsters are located on Gibson Street for immediate trash disposal due to road inaccessibility.
Transylvania
The City of Brevard has resumed regular trash pickup.
Yancey
The Riverside and East Yancey Recycling Centers were expected to resume operations by yesterday, October 5.
No update has been published, but I will keep you posted once I have received confirmation that the facilities have been reopened.
The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election.
To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link.
The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location, county board of elections, office closures and more.
For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections.
Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered.
I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election.
USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads.
There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions.
No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below.
The following sites are closed with no retail or delivery:
Barnardsville – 28709
Cedar Mountain – 28718
Hot Springs – 28743
Rosman – 28772
Swannanoa – 28778
The following site is closed with no retail, but delivery is being attempted where it is safe to do so:
Newland – 28657
The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed:
Alexander – 28701
Alternative location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787
Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Bat Cave – 28710
Alternative location: 1800 Four Season Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739
Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Chimney Rock – 28720
Alternative location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746
Alternative location: 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739
Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Gerton – 28735
Alternative location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730
Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Green Mountain – 28740
Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714
Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Marshall – 28753
Alternative Location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787
Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Micaville – 28755
Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714
Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Montreat – 28757
Alternative location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770
Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Penland – 28765
Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
All remaining locations are attempting delivery where it is safe to do so.
Due to internet outages and connectivity issues, the following sites are providing retail services with cash only, PO Box only:
Dana – 28724
Enka – 28728
Flat Rock – 28731
Hendersonville MPO – 28739
Lake Lure (OIC) – 28746
Little Switzerland – 28749
Mountain Home – 28758
Naples – 28760
Pisgah Forest – 28768
Ridgecrest – 28770
Skyland – 28776
Zirconia – 28790
Bostic – 28018
Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles.
The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings in North Carolina are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators.
Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily.
The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4.
The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene.
Through the program, uninsured residents can:
Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active.
Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics.
Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy.
Prescription Pad is open from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and filling prescriptions for Yancey County residents at the following location:
730 E. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714
For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2:
324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704
505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806
371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712
3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792
111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786
You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county.
How to Acquire a Prescription:
If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions.
Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs.
There is a field hospital with physicians, nurses and paramedics who can treat patients at the Burnsville Fire Department. The address is as follows:
305 Pineola St., Burnsville, NC 28714
The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries:
Locations open between 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.:
Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville
61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787
Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville
1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806
Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville
120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786
Locations open between 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.:
Mercy Urgent Care Brevard
22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712
Locations open between 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.:
Mercy Urgent Care Columbus
140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722
Locations open between 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.:
Mobile Urgent Care Clinic
12 Florida Ave., Black Mountain, NC 28711
Mental Health & Basic Medical Support Center
130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711
Pardee Urgent Care
45 Hendersonville Hwy., Ste. A, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Locations open from 12:00-5:00 p.m.
Hot Springs Elementary School – Art Room (mental health services only)
63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743
The following emergency orthopedic offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily:
800 Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791
2585 Hendersonville Rd., Arden, NC 28704
9 Haywood Office Park, Ste. 102 and 103, Waynesville, NC 28785
Please Note: Emergency orthopedic phone services are down so patients will be seen on a walk-in basis without appointment.
The following location is open and available for dialysis treatments in NC-11:
Pardee Hospital
800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville, NC 28791
This location can dialyze 30 patients a day.
DaVita Kidney Care nurses are reaching out to their patients to coordinate treatment, but the following DaVita locations are available:
DaVita Greer South Dialysis
3254 Brushy Greek Rd., Greer, SC 29650
Contact Number: (864) 801-2065
DaVita Saluda River Dialysis
8080 Augusta Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673
Contact Number: (833) 378-2702
DaVita Wofford at Home
8024 White Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29303
Contact Number: (864) 583-4788
DaVita Boiling Springs Dialysis
196 Sloane Garden Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316
Contact Number: (833) 458-4809
Hendersonville High School
1 Bearcat Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28791
Must be assessed through Pardee Hospital.
Lincare is only serving established patients.
Patients must bring in empty tanks to one of the following locations:
Asheville Lincare
103 Elk Park Dr., Asheville, NC 28804
Fax number: (866) 234-6698
Greenville Lincare
355 Woodruff Rd., Ste. 204 and 205, Greenville, SC 29607
Fax Number: (864) 288-0339
The following locations are available for oxygen refills, but patients must bring their own oxygen equipment – fire departments are available 24/7:
Boiling Springs Fire Department
186 Rainbow Lake Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316
Reidville Fire Department
7450 Reidville Rd., Woodruff, SC 29388
Inman City Fire Department
6 Humphrey St., Inman, SC 29349
First Presbyterian Church
393 E. Main St., Spartanburg, SC 29302
Daily hours: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Greer Relief Indigo Hope Neighborhood Impact Center
113C Berry Ave., Greer, SC 29651
Daily hours: 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Croft Fire Department
370 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29302
Arkwright Fire Department
1070 Southport Rd., Spartanburg, SC 29306
Roebuck Fire Department
2639 Stone Station Rd., Roebuck, SC 29376
North Spartanburg Fire Department
8767 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg, SC 29316
Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion.
Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000.
Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000.
To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link.
Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024.
The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services.
Veterans can:
Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or:
Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives.
Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply.
Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly.
Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity.
Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce.
The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members.
If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs.
About 117,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina.
Customers whose properties are inaccessible or not able to receive power may be without electricity for an extended period of time as Duke Energy works to rebuild critical infrastructure.
Restoration of service for all other customers in the heavily impacted areas is anticipated within a week, by Sunday, October 13.
Crews are working around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible.
As work on substations conclude, Duke Energy is moving personnel to work on the power grid’s thousands of miles of lines and poles that serve individual homes and businesses.
This work can feel slower because the same amount of work restores fewer customers.
For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links:
A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina.
Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities.
Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes.
Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties.
USDOT approved an initial $100 million in Emergency Repair funds to NCDOT.
Damage to our mountain roads exceeds $100 million but USDOT’s investment is a significant and most welcome start.
A total of 2,050 DOT employees are working to restore and repair road access in WNC.
NCDOT also has:
DOT also has:
1,100 pieces of heavy equipment for debris clearance and road repairs in affected areas, including dump trucks, backhoes, loaders, graders, etc.
More than 50 personnel from neighboring states on the ground providing assistance.
NCDOT is reporting about 650 road closures, 106 of which are to primary routes.
Now that communications have been largely restored, NCDOT has a more comprehensive picture of debris blocking roadways, road damage, and necessary repairs in our mountains.
At least 100 bridges are irreparable and will require replacement.
All roadways in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Caldwell, and Wilkes counties are accessible, although some are requiring four-wheel drive.
While none of the above-listed counties are in NC-11, they are a welcome sign of what’s to come.
Progress has been made on NCDOT and Tennessee DOT’s plans for reconstruction of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge.
Bids for stabilization of the westbound lanes of I-40 where the eastbound lanes no longer exist will be opening today, October 7.
A contract will be awarded shortly after the bid closes.
NCDOT is working to expedite the necessary repairs to restore mobility to the area as soon as possible.
Air traffic has sustained at 300 percent above pre-hurricane levels in Western NC.
NCDOT’s aviation division continue to work to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by:
Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents.
Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air.
Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts.
The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management.
If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks.
NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border.
You can access the map here.
Internet providers are working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina.
Restoration timelines are not available at this time.
Internet providers including Optimum and Spectrum are working around the clock to restore service for customers. However, part of the network’s infrastructure was destroyed by mudslides and collapsed bridges making restoration a lengthy process.
As a result, some impacted areas will require a rebuild of the network from scratch.
To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations:
717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792
1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
The following locations are offering free public wi-fi:
First Baptist Church – Weaverville
63 N. Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787
Downtown Franklin
The Town of Franklin has free wi-fi on the town hill area in downtown.
Transylvania County Library – 24/7
212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712
Newfound Artison through today, October 6
High-speed internet and charging outlets
Available 12:00-5:00 p.m.
The Yard Brevard
284 Railroad Ave., Brevard, NC 28712
Brevard Visitor Center
175 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712
Available daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Communications in the region are improving rapidly.
Cell service providers reported significant gains in service coverage on Sunday, October 6.
Roughly 80 percent of access to cell service has been restored in Western North Carolina.
More than 100 temporary network assets have been deployed across all service providers in NC-11 to assist with service quality.
Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users.
Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down.
This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out.
If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again.
UpCycle Tech in Transylvania County is offering free computers and phones for use at the following location:
470 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712
AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location:
Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806
The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi.
The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones.
Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts.
Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use.
Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations:
A-B Technical Community College
340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
Asheville YMCA
30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801
Family Justice Center
35 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801
Groce United Methodist Church
954 Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC 28805
Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations:
YMCA of Western North Carolina
348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752
Two charging stations at this location
WNC Agricultural Center
761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732
Three charging stations at this location
A-B Technical Community College
340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
One charging station at this location
T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs), providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations:
Asheville Middle School
211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801
Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center
285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801
First Baptist Church
130 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711
Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee.
Almost 1,800 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far.
The total number of deployed guardsmen will continue to increase over the coming days.
The National Guard has more than 700 vehicles and 50 helicopters from six states and two active-duty units in Western NC for rescue and recovery, debris clearing, and other missions.
So far, the National Guard has:
Delivered more than 2,614 tons of commodities to affected areas
Cleared 1,052 obstacles
Rescued nearly 1,000 individuals
The Guard’s key tasks continue to be search and rescue of impacted civilian personnel, followed by:
Delivery of essential relief supplies to points of need
Clearing of routes to gain access to isolated communities
Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities.
If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators.
On October 2, the Secretary of Defense authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg).
Nearly all 1,000 of the authorized active-duty soldiers have been mobilized to support the residents and affect counties devastated by Hurricane Helene in Western NC.
These soldiers are providing additional manpower and logistics capabilities to reach the hardest hit areas as quickly as possible.
In addition to the 1,000 previously authorized soldiers, another 500 troops with advanced technological assets were approved for deployment to Western NC to provide greater situational awareness on the ground.
These troops are not yet in NC-11, but coordination is taking place for rapid deployment over the coming days.
The Department of Defense has also committed 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations.
Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG:
HOTLINE: 888-892-1162
Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300
Donated goods: 919-825-2474
These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling.
Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding.
Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed.
If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news – none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine.
Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able.
PLEASE NOTE:
No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel.
Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA.
FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel.
Federal Nutrition Programs
SNAP
North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane.
This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits.
Child Nutrition
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs.
Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may:
Serve meals in a non-congregate setting
Adjust the time of meal service
Allow parent pick-up
Allow service of meals at school sites
Food and Nutrition Services Program
People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food.
This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3.
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC)
Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to:
Have a new eWIC card issued
Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps
Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene
If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again.
The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon.
More information to follow.
The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available:
Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene
Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene
For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered.
My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours.
North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies.
Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST.
To date, FEMA has paid out more than $30 million in housing and other types of assistance and more than 96,000 Western North Carolinians have registered for Individual Assistance.
Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check.
People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations.
If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status.
The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties.
Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form.
Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts.
United Way is also fielding missing person/welfare check requests.
Text PERSON to 40403 to add a loved one to search and rescue efforts or fill out this form.
For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated.
Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome)
Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards
Medical and insurance claims
Home repair contracts
Utility disputes related to restoration of services
Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft
Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures
Bankruptcy
Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title
Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster)
If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline:
(866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262
The hotline is available from:
8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays.
Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday.
IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes.
Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses:
IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments – like government assistance payments – are generally excluded from gross income.
For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 5:
Buncombe
A-B Technical Community College
340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
Gold’s Gym
801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
WNC Agricultural Center
1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
Haywood
Haywood County Government Armory
285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781
Henderson
Edneyville Elementary School
2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
Henderson County Recreation Center
708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792
Madison
Madison Early College High School
5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755
McDowell
Glenwood Baptist Church
1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)
Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Joe Wilson (SC-02), and Lois Frankel (FL-22) introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023 and calling attention to the ongoing atrocities nearly one year since that deadly day.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists infiltrated Israel and brutally murdered, raped, and burned alive more than 1,200 individuals. They took 251 hostages, including Americans and citizens of more than 40 countries.
Today, Hamas still holds 101 hostages, including seven Americans: Edan Alexander, Itay Chen, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Gadi Haggai, Judith Weinstein Haggai, Omer Neutra, and Keith Siegel. Several young women remain in Hamas captivity, subjected to sexual violence and held in dark tunnels.
“Hamas’s brutal terrorist attack against our ally Israel on October 7, 2023 put the worst of evil on display for the world to watch. We will not forget the darkness of that day that will live in infamy,” said Rep. Young Kim. “One year later, the United States cannot waver in standing with our freedom-loving allies and against terrorism – wherever it rears its ugly head. On the Foreign Affairs Committee, I’ll keep working to bring Americans held hostage back home safely and to hold the Iran regime and its terrorist proxies Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis accountable for their unfathomable violence and disregard for human decency.”
“As we commemorate one year since October 7, we honor the memory of the innocent civilians who were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists and we stand with our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel in its efforts to secure the safe return of the remaining hostages. We can never forget that Hamas terrorist terrorists launched a devastating attack against Israel, brutally murdering more than 1,200 people, and kidnapping more than 240 people. 101 people remain captive, including 7 Americans,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “We must continue to combat the surge in antisemitism that has followed and ensure that Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), Hezbollah, and the Houthis, are held accountable. This bipartisan resolution reaffirms America’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and to the release of all the remaining hostages, including American citizens.”
“On October 7th, 2023, the world watched in horror as Iranian puppet Hamas attacked Israel and committed mass murder and other atrocities on innocent men, women, and children. One year later, the U.S. remains steadfast in its support of the Israeli people and its commitment to securing the safe release of the remaining hostages,” said Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-2).
“Today, we mark a devastating and somber anniversary—one year since Hamas terrorists unleashed the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. On October 7, 2023, the world witnessed in horror as Hamas murdered, raped, and maimed thousands of innocent civilians, while taking 240 hostages—unknown how many remain alive captive in Hamas’s dark tunnels, enduring unimaginable suffering,” said Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22). “More than ever, it is important that there is no separation in the bond between the United States and Israel and that Hamas release the hostages.”
The resolution is supported by ADL (Anti-Defamation League); American Jewish Committee (AJC); FDD Action; Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Jewish Federations of North America; Jewish Women International; and, National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW).
“On October 7, 2023 the world witnessed the largest antisemitic event perpetrated against the Jewish people since the Holocaust,” said Anti-Defamation League (ADL) CEO and National Director Jonathan Greenblatt. “These horrific terrorist attacks led by Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and others, have ultimately led to the targeting of Jewish communities around the globe and a groundswell of antisemitic rage unseen in decades. We thank Reps. Gottheimer, Kim, Frankel, and Wilson for leading this bipartisan resolution, calling for the return of all hostages still in Gaza, and condemning the Hamas terrorist attacks and the ensuing global antisemitic wave that continues to present new threats to communities and students on campuses around the world each day.”
“As we approach one year since the mass murder, torture and kidnapping of men, women and children by Hamas, the world must understand that Hamas’ atrocities did not stop after October 7, 2023. Hamas continues to launch rockets into Israel, uses Palestinian civilians as human shields, and worst of all, is still holding 101 hostages from 21 nations. But this is not the only threat facing Israel as Iran’s proxies, including Hezbollah, continue to show. The world must continue to condemn these brutal acts and support Israel’s right to defend itself from ongoing terrorism. This is why I am deeply grateful to Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Young Kim (R-CA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Joe Wilson (R-SC) for speaking out forcefully and reminding the world of Hamas and other Iranian proxies’ demonstration of pure evil. As October 7, 2024 nears, we must recommit ourselves to doing everything possible to bring the remaining hostages home and ensure the safety and security of Israel prevails over the death and destruction chosen by Hamas, Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee.
“Hadassah supports Reps. Josh Gottheimer, Lois Frankel, Young Kim, and Joe Wilson’s efforts through this resolution to commemorate one year since Hamas’ brutal October 7, 2023, attack against Israel, honor the victims of Hamas’s murderous terror and rampant sexual violence, and demand the immediate, safe return of the hostages. The massacres that day and the devastating events that have followed continue to have a profound impact on Jewish communities around the world,” said Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz.
“The bipartisan resolution reflects Congress’s moral clarity about the genocidal atrocities committed by Hamas against Israel on Oct 7. It underscores the enduring threat posed by the terrorist organization to American citizens and citizens of scores of other countries. The resolution could not be more important at a time when there are those who seek to normalize Hamas’s actions and justify its brutality in an inversion of reality. Congress rightly puts on the record Israel’s right to defend itself against the actions of the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies. FDD Action supports this resolution and honors the lives of those killed by Hamas and supports the unconditional release of all remaining hostages,” said FDD Action.
“National Council of Jewish Women applauds Representatives Josh Gottheimer, Lois Frankel, Joe Wilson, and Young Kim for introducing this crucial resolution to ensure that October 7 remains at the forefront of our collective memory,” said National Council of Jewish Women CEO Sheila Katz. “As we approach the one-year mark since Hamas terrorists brutally attacked nearly 1,200 lives, took hundreds of innocent people hostage, and used sexual violence as a tool of war, we echo this call to unconditionally condemn these atrocities of October 7. We are also grateful that this resolution addresses the alarming rise in global antisemitism. Everyone deserves to live free from violence and discrimination.”
“Nearly one year ago, Hamas terrorists changed the lives of Jews around the globe – how we act, how we are treated, and how we live. But Jews refuse to live in fear or be cowed from living our full Jewish lives in community. That’s why Jewish Federations will be marking the anniversary with more than 100 events that will remember the victims, honor the heroes, and stand in solidarity with Israel. That is why we strongly support a bipartisan Congressional resolution commemorating the events of October 7th, as it condemns Hamas for their atrocities, calls for Hamas to surrender and return the hostages, and reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense. We are proud that the sponsors realize the importance of this day and want it to be recognized by the rest of the United States,” said Jewish Federation of North America President and CEO Eric Fingerhut.
“As the most documented atrocity in history, including Go-Pro video uploaded by the terrorists themselves in order to amplify the terror and trauma, intentional campaigns of distortion have led to denial that Hamas and their allies committed sexual atrocities, or far worse, that the rapes of Israelis and others were deserved as acts of resistance,” said Meredith Jacobs, CEO of Jewish Women International. “At JWI, we hold fast to the tenets of our work — victims are never blamed, survivors are believed, rape is never justified. Acknowledging the truth, attributing the strategic and systemic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war to Hamas, is a critical first step in giving some sort of historic justice to the victims and survivors. We thank Representatives Gottheimer, Frankel, Wilson, and Kim for their leadership in introducing this resolution.”
Source: The White House
This morning President Biden spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the solemn occasion of the one-year anniversary of the horrific Hamas October 7 terrorist attacks.
President Biden expressed his deepest condolences to the people of Israel and to the families of the 1,200 innocent people – including 46 Americans – massacred by the terrorist group Hamas on a day of unspeakable brutality. He stressed that the United States will never give up until we bring all of the remaining hostages home safely.
President Biden conveyed his commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and its right to exist, and reaffirmed his support for Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks from Iran and all Iranian-backed terrorist groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis.
The President also expressed deep sadness for the loss of innocent life in Gaza and the ongoing suffering of Palestinian civilians as a result of the war that Hamas unleashed. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a deal in Gaza that brings the hostages home, secures Israel, alleviates the suffering of Palestinian civilians, and paves the way for a lasting peace with Hamas never again able to control Gaza or reconstitute its military capabilities.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13)
WASHINGTON, DC — Last week, Representative Ronny Jackson (TX-13) introduced legislation to rename the U.S. Post Office in downtown Amarillo, Texas as the “Mayor Jerry H. Hodge Post Office Building” to honor the life and legacy of Jerry Hodge. Jerry Hodge was a businessman, rancher, and philanthropist who died peacefully in Amarillo, TX at the age of 81 on July 25, 2024.
Jackson said: “Jerry Hodge’s legacy is a testament to his remarkable journey. His dedication and passion for Amarillo was unparalleled. From being elected as the youngest mayor in Amarillo’s history, to turning Maxor Drug into a national leader in pharmacy services, to playing a crucial role in bringing the Sod Poodles, the Texas Tech School of Pharmacy, and the Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine to Amarillo, Jerry Hodge’s leadership and vision left a permanent mark on the city. Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry cared deeply for his wife Margaret, his family, friends, and community, and I am proud to have called him a friend. His generosity and commitment to excellence were evident to all, which is why I am honored to introduce this legislation to rename the downtown post office as the “Mayor Jerry H. Hodge Post Office Building.”
Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., Chancellor of the Texas Tech University System said: “Jerry was an extraordinary leader, businessman, and philanthropist who made an incredible impact on the people of Amarillo and the surrounding area. A true trailblazer, he took risks and never hesitated to stand tall for the causes he believed in. Jerry and his wife, Margaret, have been instrumental supporters of the Texas Tech University System and our universities. Without the Hodges, Texas Tech University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center would not have such a crucial presence in Amarillo today. I want to thank Congressman Jackson for his efforts to recognize Jerry’s tremendous contributions to this community.”
Vance Reed, Chairman of Reed Beverage said: “Jerry Hodge was a man of many facets – a lover of land and longhorns, an admirer of good horses, and above all, a person with sincere devotion to mankind. His legacy is etched not only in the businesses he built, but also in the lives he touched. The impact of Jerry and his wife Margaret’s generosity is visible across Amarillo and the states of Texas and Oklahoma, with numerous buildings bearing their names. In a fitting tribute, thanks to District 13 Congressman Ronny Jackson, there are plans to rename the Downtown Post Office in Jerry’s honor. This gesture will serve as a lasting reminder of Jerry Hodge’s contributions and his choice to call Amarillo, Texas his home.”
Alex Fairly, Executive CEO of the Fairly Group said: “Jerry Hodge was an extraordinary human being. He loved his community and he shared his time, influence, and wealth in a passionate pursuit of improving it. Amarillo is better because of Jerry’s unselfish leadership and generosity, and Congressman Jackson is right to mark Jerry’s impact on our community with this honor so that we do not forget his example and impact.”
Richard Ware, Chairman of Amarillo National Bank said: “Amarillo has been blessed and honored to have Jerry Hodge as our leading citizen since the inception of the town. Jerry has served successfully in more positions than anyone – each of these bringing growth and advancement to Amarillo. He was a man of his word and a true friend to many. The Post Office would be a fitting memorial to all that Jerry has done for Amarillo and West Texas.”
The legislation can be found here.
Biography of Jerry H. Hodge: Jerry Hodge was born onSeptember 7, 1942, in Carnegie, OK. His family moved to Amarillo in 1957 where he went on to graduate from Tascosa High School in 1960. He earned a pharmacy degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1965. At 23, he purchased Maxor Drug, over the next 49 years, he grew Maxor from a single downtown location in Amarillo to a nationwide producer of pharmacy services across the country. At 30, Jerry was elected to the Amarillo City Commission and served two terms. At 34, he was elected as the youngest Mayor of Amarillo in 1977 and later won reelection by one of the most substantial total votes in the history of the city.
In 1991, Jerry met Margaret, the love of his life. Jerry persuaded Margaret to move to Texas following their marriage on July 29, 1994. With Margaret by his side for nearly 30 years, they were an unstoppable team positively influencing the City of Amarillo. Jerry’s passions also included ranching, owning High Card Ranch in Clarendon, TX and Dos Rios Ranch outside of Springer, NM. Jerry was involved in the Coors Ranch Rodeo since it first began in 1988, and the High Card Ranch competes in the Coors Ranch Rodeo to this day.
After 49 years, Jerry retired as CEO of Maxor in 2016 but continued to serve on the board for an additional 7 years. In 2019, he fulfilled a longtime passion by leading the effort to bring minor league baseball to Amarillo, resulting in the creation of Hodgetown Stadium, named in his honor. In Amarillo, Jerry also played a key role in establishing the Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, which is named in his honor, as well as the Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine. Additionally, he published his memoir, You’re On, Cowboy, in which he shared life lessons both good and bad with honesty and humor.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Margaret Hodge, stepmother, Dolores Hodge, his children Heath Hodge (Donna), Ryan Hodge (Kim), Sunny Hodge-Campbell (Michael Flowers), Angela Serio Harney (Seth), former son-in-law Andrew Campbell, grandchildren Jerry Heath, Jordan, and Jacob Hodge; Josh Hodge; Ellen Campbell; Imogene, Geneva, and Violet Harney, and great-grandchildren Hollis, Lawrence, Cecille, Lola, Jett, Jayton, and River.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kathy Manning (NC-06)
Manning Remembers October 7th Victims, Calls for the Release of all Hostages, and Reaffirms Commitment to Israel’s Security
Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Kathy Manning (NC-06), Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s brutal October 7th attack against Israel, which killed over 1,000 innocent civilians in the deadliest single day for Jews since the Holocaust, and saw hundreds taken hostage.
“The events of October 7th continue to weigh heavily on Israel and the countless families devastated by Hamas’s brutal attack. The profound pain of those who lost loved ones, coupled with the trauma survivors have endured, cannot be overstated. The incomprehensible atrocities Hamas has inflicted on innocent civilians, alongside its ongoing torment of hostages, should shock the conscience of the entire world.
“Since October 7th, Hamas terrorists have brutally murdered over forty American citizens, and four remain held hostage, including Keith Siegel from my home state of North Carolina. Today, I renew my call for the immediate release of all remaining hostages. Their freedom is essential for the international community to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza and to bring about a stable government that is willing to live in peace with Israel.
“Israel is our strongest, most dependable, and only democratic ally in the Middle East, and the United States must unwaveringly stand by Israel as it faces relentless attacks from Iran and its proxies. From the unprecedented missile attacks Iran has launched against Israel to the ongoing barrage of rockets from Hamas and Hezbollah, these actions aim to destabilize the region and undermine Israel’s security. The international community must hold Iran and its proxies accountable for their continued provocations.
“As we reflect on the horrors of October 7th, I join others in reaffirming America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel. The unimaginable cruelty of Hamas’s assault must never be repeated, and I urge Congress to ensure that Israel receives the support it needs to protect its citizens.”
Watch Congresswoman Manning’s House Floor remarks on the October 7th anniversary here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)
HULL, IOWA— Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th terror attacks in Israel:
“One year ago today, the world watched in horror as Hamas terrorists invaded Israel and murdered more than 1,200 people in the worst attack on Jews since the Holocaust. To this day, Hamas continues to hold captive innocent civilians and escalate tensions in the region with the backing of Iran. The violence against Israel is horrific and must come to an end. As our strongest ally in the Middle East, the United States will always stand with Israel against vicious terrorists and evil regimes.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)
Houston, TX – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the horrific October 7th attacks in Israel:
“A year ago today, Israel was the target of a heinous terrorist attack carried out by Hamas—the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Today, I stand with Israel as it marks this somber moment.
“I pray for every innocent person killed and those still being held hostage by Hamas. May we all come together today to reaffirm our commitment to a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict that ensures stability and security for Israel, Gaza, and all throughout the Middle East.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)
Pressley to Spend Day With Impacted Families, Faith Leaders, Advocates to Honor Thousands of Israeli & Palestinian Lives Stolen In Past Year
WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement on the anniversary of the horrific October 7th attack by Hamas and Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. This evening, Congresswoman Pressley will join impacted families, faith leaders, and advocates to observe and commemorate the 1,200 Israelis killed by Hamas, the hostages killed and still kidnapped, and the over 41,000 Palestinians in Gaza killed by the Israeli military over the past year.
“In this moment, from Massachusetts to the Middle East, the grief and trauma runs deep in our communities. For a year now, families in Israel and Palestine have grieved for the murder of their loved ones. We have witnessed devastating losses and held space for the vulnerability that so many grapple with daily.
“On the anniversary of the horrific October 7, 2023 attack, I am thinking of the 1,200 Israelis murdered by Hamas. I am thinking of the Israeli hostages who have been killed and those still held captive. I am thinking of the more than 41,000 Palestinians killed by the Israeli military in the last year. I am thinking of the massacres and starvation that Palestinian children, elders, and families have endured.
“As we reflect on the horrors of the past year, we must remember that we are one human family and our destinies are tied. Death and destruction beget death and destruction. As policymakers, we have a moral, humanitarian, and righteous mandate to save lives, and saving lives—in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and beyond—must remain our priority.
“For each family member, doctor, and survivor who has sat beside me and shared their personal story in the midst of unimaginable grief this past year, I thank you for your courage and your advocacy. Your loved ones and your patients have been through horrific atrocities, and I carry each of their stories with me daily.
“On this anniversary, with the violence in the Middle East escalating, I urge the United States and the international community to leverage every diplomatic tool available to push for a lasting ceasefire to save lives, return the hostages, and surge humanitarian aid to the region. The bloodshed must end.
“Today and always, may we continue to pray for peace, to call for peace, and to pursue a more just, safe, and equitable community, country, and world.”
Since the horrific October 7th attack, Congresswoman Pressley has consistently and stridently called for a ceasefire to save lives, return all hostages, and surge humanitarian aid to Gaza. To date, over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli airstrikes and over 100 hostages are still held captive by Hamas in Gaza. Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she called for urgent de-escalation in the Middle East and renewed her calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and Israel to prevent a broader regional war. Rep. Pressley has also introduced an amendment to place a one-year moratorium on the transfer of offensive weapons to the Israeli military.
Throughout the Israel and Hamas conflict, Rep. Pressley has been a vocal and consistent advocate of diplomacy, de-escalation, and saving lives.
Rep. Pressley joined Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) and their colleagues on a resolution condemning Hamas’ brutal attack and hostage-taking, and demanding Hamas immediately release all hostages.
Rep. Pressley joined Reps. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), James P. McGovern (MA-02), and 50 colleagues on a letter condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas on the people of Israel, calling for Israeli military operations to follow the rules of international humanitarian law, and continuing to work toward peace in the region.
Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues in announcing a resolution urging the Biden Administration to call for an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, to send humanitarian aid and assistance to Gaza, and to save as many lives as possible. She later joined her colleagues and a multi-faith, multiracial coalition of faith leaders and organizers for a prayer and press conference to renew their calls for a ceasefire. Rep. Pressley also joined dozens of rabbis and Members of Congress for a press conference to renew calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Instead of attending Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress, Rep. Pressley spent the day centering people directly impacted by Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza
Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she condemned antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hate on college campuses.
Rep. Pressley joined a coalition of nearly 100 interfaith clergy and faith leaders on a joint statement on Martin Luther King Jr. Day calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Rep. Pressley joined Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), and nearly 150 colleagues in urging the State Department to use all tools at its disposal help get Americans out of Israel and back home to the United States. She applauded the State Department for heeding her calls on October 12, 2023 and continues to press for the urgent evacuation of Americans in Gaza.
Rep. Pressley issued a statement following the safe evacuation of Massachusetts constituents Wafaa and Abood Okal and their one-year-old Yousef from Gaza.
Rep. Pressley and Rep. Jamie Raskin led a group of 60 House lawmakers in urging the State Department to affirm the United States’ strong opposition to the forced and permanent displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, and to support an increase in humanitarian aid to the region.
Rep. Pressley joined Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Mark Pocan (WI-2), Betty McCollum (MN-4) and 20 of their colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden, asking him to support a bilateral ceasefire in Gaza to protect the one million children living there.
Rep. Pressley joined a coalition of interfaith clergy and faith leaders for a vigil to mourn the tens of thousands of Palestinians, Israelis, and innocent civilians killed since October 7th, and to renew calls for a ceasefire to save lives, return all hostages, and deliver humanitarian aid to the region.
Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues at a press conference to condemn the Israeli government’s pending invasion of Rafah and continued her calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues in calling for full funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to provide urgent humanitarian relief to Gaza.
Rep. Pressley joined Representatives Joaquín Castro, Jamie Raskin, Jan Schakowsky and 33 House Democrats to President Biden urging him to prevent an Israeli ground invasion of Rafah.
Rep. Pressley, amid heightened tensions in the region, delivered a floor speech in which she called for urgent de-escalation in the Middle East and renewed her calls for a ceasefire in Gaza to prevent a broader regional war.
Rep. Pressley filed a pair of amendments to increase funding to global humanitarian assistance and place a one-year moratorium on the transfer of offensive weapons to the Israeli military. The amendments were not adopted in the final legislation.
Rep. Pressley voted against HR 8034 to send more offensive weapons and funding to the Israeli military, citing the Israeli military’s callous disregard for human life in Gaza and significant human rights violations.
Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the peaceful student protests taking place in Massachusetts and across the country.
Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Boston City Council for passing a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Rep. Pressley joined Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and 54 additional lawmakers in calling on the Biden Administration to use all tools possible to dissuade the Israeli government from moving forward with an offensive invasion into Rafah.
Rep. Pressley issued a statement in response to the escalating situation in the Middle East.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman
October 07, 2024
Today, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on the one year anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attack on Israel:
“October 7, 2023, was one of the most horrific days in modern world history. It was the single deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust. On that day, 1,195 men, women and children lost their lives, 251 were kidnapped and taken hostage, 101 of whom are still being held today. It made me sick to my stomach what was done by Hamas and other terrorist groups.
“Here at home, we awoke that morning in shock and horror, as videos of the atrocities spread across the internet. Young people at a music festival — dancing, singing, spreading joy and love, ambushed, murdered, kidnapped, and worse. Parents and children killed in their homes as they sat down to eat. It shocks the conscience of any decent human being.
“My Jewish constituents expressed their terror in the wake of October 7th. The ever-present specter of antisemitism rose its ugly head once again. I have seen pain in the eyes of my fellow New Jerseyans. That pain has manifested in many ways, from a deep fear, to an inconsolable grief, and an acute anger.
“I’ve been heartbroken and disgusted by the stories of hate that have been shared with me: Rabbis fear for the safety of their congregations, children afraid to wear the Star of David, and parents worried about safety and security. No one should have to live with that fear – not anywhere, but especially not in the United States.
“In the year since that heinous attack, I’ve worked with my colleagues, Democrats and Republicans, to secure our places of worship through expansion of the nonprofit security grant program, and to fight the rise in antisemitism through efforts to implement a U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism as introduced by my colleague, Congressman Jerry Nadler of New York.
“I join my constituents in prayer for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in the region, one that returns all the remaining hostages and guarantees safety, security, and self determination for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
Prime Minister Keir Starmer made an oral statement to the House of Commons on 7 October anniversary and the Middle East.
Delivered on:
Thank you Mr Speaker. Today we mark a year since the horrific attack on Israel by the terrorists of Hamas.
It was the bloodiest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. A day of sorrow, a day of grief. Over a thousand people were massacred.
Hundreds taken hostage in an attack borne of hatred. Targeted not just at individuals but at Jewish communities, at their way of life and at the state of Israel – the symbol of Jewish security to the world.
Mr Speaker, 15 British citizens were brutally slain that day, another has since died in captivity. Our thoughts today are with Jewish people around the world, the Jewish community here in the UK and all those we lost a year ago.
For so many, the pain and horror of that day is as acute today as it was a year ago. They live it every day.
Last week I met the families of British hostages and those killed on the 7th of October. I sat with them as they told me about their loved ones. I will never forget their words.
Mandy Damari spoke about her love for her daughter, Emily. She said – and I quote: “My personal clock stopped at 10:24 on the 7th of October…” the moment when Emily sent a desperate, unfinished message as Hamas attacked her Kibbutz. She is still held captive today.
We can hardly imagine what hostages like Emily are going through. Nor what the families are going through, the agony, agony – day after day.
So, I say again, the hostages must be returned immediately and unconditionally. They will always be uppermost in our minds.
And I pay tribute again to the families for their incredible dignity and determination.
Mr Speaker today is also a day of grief for the wider region as we look back on a year of conflict and suffering.
The human toll among innocent civilians in Gaza is truly devastating. Over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed. Tens of thousands orphaned. Almost two million displaced. Facing disease, starvation, desperation without proper healthcare or shelter. It is a living nightmare, and it must end.
We stand with all the innocent victims in Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon and beyond. And we stand with all communities here in the UK against hatred – of Jews or Muslims. Because any attack on a minority is an attack on our proud values of tolerance and respect – and we will not stand for it.
Mr Speaker, with the Middle East close to the brink and the very real danger of a regional war, last week the Iranian regime chose to strike Israel. The whole House will join me in utterly condemning this attack.
We support Israel’s right to defend herself against Iran’s aggression in line with international law.
Because let’s be very clear this was not a defensive action by Iran. It was an act of aggression and a major escalation in response to the death of a terrorist leader. It exposes once again Iran’s malign role in the region.
They helped equip Hamas for the 7th of October attacks. They armed Hizballah who launched a year-long barrage of rockets on northern Israel forcing 60,000 Israelis to flee their homes and they support the Houthis who mount direct attacks on Israel. And continue to attack international shipping.
Mr Speaker, the whole House will join me in thanking our brave servicemen and women who have shown their usual courage in countering this threat. But make no mistake the region cannot endure another year of this. Civilians on all sides have suffered too much. All sides must now step back from the brink and find the courage of restraint. There is no military solution to these challenges so we must renew our diplomatic efforts.
Together with My Rt Hon Friend the Foreign Secretary I had discussions with the leaders of Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority, the G7 and the EU and made the case at the United Nations for political solutions to end the fighting.
In the weeks ahead we will continue this work focused on three areas.
Firstly, Lebanon where our immediate priority is the safety of British citizens, our team is on the ground helping to get people out. We have already brought over 430 people home on chartered flights. We stand ready with additional evacuation efforts, as necessary.
And I say again an important message to those British citizens still in Lebanon: you must leave now.
Mr Speaker, we are also working to ease the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. Last week we provided £10 million of vital support in addition to the £5 million we’re already providing to UNICEF.
But the situation cannot go on. We will continue to lead calls for an immediate ceasefire and the return to a political plan for Lebanon based on Security Council Resolution 1701, which requires Hizballah to withdraw north of the Litani River.
They must stop firing rockets and end this now so that people on both sides of the border can return to their homes.
Second, Mr Speaker, we must renew efforts for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. But we cannot simply wait for this to happen. We must do more now to provide relief to the civilian population. That’s why we have restarted aid to UNRWA, we’re supporting field hospitals and the delivery of water, healthcare and treatment for malnourished children.
But the ongoing restrictions on aid are impossible to justify. Israel must open more crossings and allow life-saving aid to flow. Crucially, they must provide a safe environment for aid workers – too many have been killed, including three British citizens.
Israel must act now so that, together with our allies, we can surge humanitarian support ahead of winter.
Third, Mr Speaker, we must put in place solutions for the long term to break the relentless cycle of violence. The ultimate goal here is well understood it must be the two state solution. There is no other option which offers stability and security. So we need to build a political route towards it so that Israel is finally safe and secure alongside the long-promised Palestinian state.
This requires support for the Palestinian Authority to step into the vacuum in Gaza. It requires an urgent international effort to support reconstruction and it requires guarantees for Israel’s security.
We will work with our allies and partners to that end. But the key to all of this remains a ceasefire in Gaza now. The unconditional release of the hostages, the unhindered flow of aid. That is the fundamental first step to change the trajectory of the region.
Mr Speaker, nobody in this House can truly imagine what it feels like to cower under the bodies of your friends, hoping a terrorist won’t find you, mere minutes after dancing at a music festival.
Nobody in this House can truly imagine seeing your city, your homes, your schools, your hospitals, your businesses obliterated, with your neighbours and family buried underneath. It is beyond our comprehension and with that should come a humility.
It is hard even to understand the full depth of this pain but what we can do is remember. What we can do is respect and listen to the voices that reach out to us at these moments. And what we can do, Mr Speaker, is use the power of diplomacy to try and find practical steps that minimise the suffering on the ground and work towards that long-term solution, so that a year of this terrible and bloody conflict can never happen again.
That is what we have done on these benches, it’s what the whole House has done and it’s what this Government will continue to do.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Prime Minister Keir Starmer made an oral statement to the House of Commons on 7 October anniversary and the Middle East.
Delivered on:
Thank you Mr Speaker. Today we mark a year since the horrific attack on Israel by the terrorists of Hamas.
It was the bloodiest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. A day of sorrow, a day of grief. Over a thousand people were massacred.
Hundreds taken hostage in an attack borne of hatred. Targeted not just at individuals but at Jewish communities, at their way of life and at the state of Israel – the symbol of Jewish security to the world.
Mr Speaker, 15 British citizens were brutally slain that day, another has since died in captivity. Our thoughts today are with Jewish people around the world, the Jewish community here in the UK and all those we lost a year ago.
For so many, the pain and horror of that day is as acute today as it was a year ago. They live it every day.
Last week I met the families of British hostages and those killed on the 7th of October. I sat with them as they told me about their loved ones. I will never forget their words.
Mandy Damari spoke about her love for her daughter, Emily. She said – and I quote: “My personal clock stopped at 10:24 on the 7th of October…” the moment when Emily sent a desperate, unfinished message as Hamas attacked her Kibbutz. She is still held captive today.
We can hardly imagine what hostages like Emily are going through. Nor what the families are going through, the agony, agony – day after day.
So, I say again, the hostages must be returned immediately and unconditionally. They will always be uppermost in our minds.
And I pay tribute again to the families for their incredible dignity and determination.
Mr Speaker today is also a day of grief for the wider region as we look back on a year of conflict and suffering.
The human toll among innocent civilians in Gaza is truly devastating. Over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed. Tens of thousands orphaned. Almost two million displaced. Facing disease, starvation, desperation without proper healthcare or shelter. It is a living nightmare, and it must end.
We stand with all the innocent victims in Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon and beyond. And we stand with all communities here in the UK against hatred – of Jews or Muslims. Because any attack on a minority is an attack on our proud values of tolerance and respect – and we will not stand for it.
Mr Speaker, with the Middle East close to the brink and the very real danger of a regional war, last week the Iranian regime chose to strike Israel. The whole House will join me in utterly condemning this attack.
We support Israel’s right to defend herself against Iran’s aggression in line with international law.
Because let’s be very clear this was not a defensive action by Iran. It was an act of aggression and a major escalation in response to the death of a terrorist leader. It exposes once again Iran’s malign role in the region.
They helped equip Hamas for the 7th of October attacks. They armed Hizballah who launched a year-long barrage of rockets on northern Israel forcing 60,000 Israelis to flee their homes and they support the Houthis who mount direct attacks on Israel. And continue to attack international shipping.
Mr Speaker, the whole House will join me in thanking our brave servicemen and women who have shown their usual courage in countering this threat. But make no mistake the region cannot endure another year of this. Civilians on all sides have suffered too much. All sides must now step back from the brink and find the courage of restraint. There is no military solution to these challenges so we must renew our diplomatic efforts.
Together with My Rt Hon Friend the Foreign Secretary I had discussions with the leaders of Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority, the G7 and the EU and made the case at the United Nations for political solutions to end the fighting.
In the weeks ahead we will continue this work focused on three areas.
Firstly, Lebanon where our immediate priority is the safety of British citizens, our team is on the ground helping to get people out. We have already brought over 430 people home on chartered flights. We stand ready with additional evacuation efforts, as necessary.
And I say again an important message to those British citizens still in Lebanon: you must leave now.
Mr Speaker, we are also working to ease the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. Last week we provided £10 million of vital support in addition to the £5 million we’re already providing to UNICEF.
But the situation cannot go on. We will continue to lead calls for an immediate ceasefire and the return to a political plan for Lebanon based on Security Council Resolution 1701, which requires Hizballah to withdraw north of the Litani River.
They must stop firing rockets and end this now so that people on both sides of the border can return to their homes.
Second, Mr Speaker, we must renew efforts for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. But we cannot simply wait for this to happen. We must do more now to provide relief to the civilian population. That’s why we have restarted aid to UNRWA, we’re supporting field hospitals and the delivery of water, healthcare and treatment for malnourished children.
But the ongoing restrictions on aid are impossible to justify. Israel must open more crossings and allow life-saving aid to flow. Crucially, they must provide a safe environment for aid workers – too many have been killed, including three British citizens.
Israel must act now so that, together with our allies, we can surge humanitarian support ahead of winter.
Third, Mr Speaker, we must put in place solutions for the long term to break the relentless cycle of violence. The ultimate goal here is well understood it must be the two state solution. There is no other option which offers stability and security. So we need to build a political route towards it so that Israel is finally safe and secure alongside the long-promised Palestinian state.
This requires support for the Palestinian Authority to step into the vacuum in Gaza. It requires an urgent international effort to support reconstruction and it requires guarantees for Israel’s security.
We will work with our allies and partners to that end. But the key to all of this remains a ceasefire in Gaza now. The unconditional release of the hostages, the unhindered flow of aid. That is the fundamental first step to change the trajectory of the region.
Mr Speaker, nobody in this House can truly imagine what it feels like to cower under the bodies of your friends, hoping a terrorist won’t find you, mere minutes after dancing at a music festival.
Nobody in this House can truly imagine seeing your city, your homes, your schools, your hospitals, your businesses obliterated, with your neighbours and family buried underneath. It is beyond our comprehension and with that should come a humility.
It is hard even to understand the full depth of this pain but what we can do is remember. What we can do is respect and listen to the voices that reach out to us at these moments. And what we can do, Mr Speaker, is use the power of diplomacy to try and find practical steps that minimise the suffering on the ground and work towards that long-term solution, so that a year of this terrible and bloody conflict can never happen again.
That is what we have done on these benches, it’s what the whole House has done and it’s what this Government will continue to do.
Rwanda is in the midst of its first outbreak of Marburg virus – an often fatal disease with symptoms similar to Ebola. So far, 46 cases have been recorded and 12 deaths. The source of the outbreak is still not known.
Seven hundred doses of an experimental vaccine against the virus have just been shipped from the US to Rwanda. The vaccine is currently being administered, largely to healthcare workers, who have made up the bulk of the victims so far.
The roll out is part of a clinical trial, so it will be a while before the vaccine’s efficacy is known.
Marburg virus is named after the town in Germany where it first emerged. In 1967, there were simultaneous outbreaks at laboratories in Marburg and Belgrade in Serbia (then part of Yugoslavia). The outbreak was caused by African green monkeys imported from Uganda for use in experiments. Seven people died.
Since then, there have been several Marburg virus outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa, including in countries bordering Rwanda.
Previous outbreaks have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Tanzania. The most recent outbreaks were reported in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania between February and June 2023, where nine cases were reported and six deaths.
Other countries that previously reported outbreaks include Angola, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya and South Africa. The outbreak in Angola in 2005 killed 300 people.
Outbreaks typically occur when people come in contact with infected green monkeys, pigs or Egyptian rousette bats (a type of Old World fruit bat) – a common carrier of the virus. These bats are often found in mines and caves. Once the disease jumps from an infected animal to a human – so-called zoonotic spillover – it can spread from person to person through bodily fluids or by contact with contaminated surfaces, such as bedding.
There are no antiviral drugs to treat patients. People infected with Marburg virus are kept hydrated and any blood loss is replaced through transfusion.
The incubation period, which is the time between the exposure to Marburg virus and the start of symptoms, is five to ten days. Symptoms of Marburg virus disease can appear suddenly and include fever, muscle pains, diarrhoea and vomiting.
The virus damages blood vessels and interferes with the ability of blood to clot, which can lead to uncontrolled bleeding from the nose, eyes, gums, rectum and, in women, the vagina. The disease has a very high “case fatality rate”. Between 24 and 88% of people infected with Marburg virus die – usually through extreme blood loss and shock.
Marburg virus disease is not an airborne illness and is not thought to be contagious before symptoms appear. However, people can remain infectious for months after they have recovered, and pass the disease on through bodily fluids. Men are advised to wear a condom for a year after symptoms first appear.
Looking for clues
The Rwandan authorities are working to identify the source of the outbreak, how far it has spread and when the first case occurred.
Although Marburg virus disease has been reported in seven of 30 districts in the east African nation, the readiness of unaffected districts is also being ensured to mitigate the spread and quickly identify any spillover.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is working with Rwanda’s neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, to review their readiness to respond to the outbreak.
The WHO assesses the risk of the Marburg virus outbreak as “very high” at the national level and “high” at the regional level. However, at a global level, the risk remains low.
Manal Mohammed does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)
Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley(IL-05) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel:
“One year ago today, the world witnessed the greatest assault on the Jewish people in Israel’s history. Hamas carried out the brutal murder of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 251 innocent people. The attack horrified people across the globe and alarmed all nations who value international law and human rights. For the hostages still being held by Hamas and their families, the nightmare is not over. Today, over 60 hostages and the remains of over 30 more are still being held in Gaza. To the victims, the hostages, and their families, we will not give up until all hostages are returned.
“Here in the United States, I have been disheartened to see the rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia over the past year. We can and must find ways to disagree about policy without attacking and degrading entire groups of people. Antisemitic language and conspiracy theories have no place in our communities.
“I continue to support Israel’s right to self-defense as well as its goal of dismantling Hamas and bringing the hostages home. There is a clear path forward to reach these aims.
“The ceasefire deal President Biden proposed earlier this year is our best course of action. It outlines a clear path to peace for Israelis and Palestinians after a year of war. A ceasefire agreement is in Israel’s best interest, as it will ensure their long-term security and stabilize threats from outside actors. Recent escalation in the region has increased the urgency of reaching an agreement – for Israel and for all of the Middle East.
“The path forward must also consider the conditions impacting the Palestinian people. For them, a two-state solution remains the only tenable diplomatic resolution to this crisis. The Arab states have an obligation to oversee reforms to the Palestinian Authority, so Palestinians have a legitimate governing body that works on their behalf. This is critical if we are to ensure lasting peace for not just Palestinians, but for Israelis. Israelis and Palestinians both have a right to exist peacefully and the United States must work toward that end.”
DENVER – Today, Governor Polis released the following statement, one year after the horrific October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel.
“Today, we commemorate and reflect on one year since the horrific Hamas attacks against Israel. October 7 is seared in memory as the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. A day when families were attacked in their homes and in their daily lives, shattering the basic right to safety. A day when mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children, neighbors, friends were taken hostage in Gaza.
These heinous attacks ignited a year of war, pain, loss, and devastation. And one year later, we continue to fight for the urgent release of the remaining one hundred or so hostages, including seven Americans, from captivity, and plea for greater peace and respect for human rights in the region.
The hostages still in captivity today include Ariel Bibas who was 9 months old when he was taken hostage, and 86 year old Shlomo Mantzu. It is time to bring them and all those in Hamas captivity home now.
Since October 7, we’ve seen antisemitism as well as Islamophobia rear its ugly head across the world. In Colorado, we stand strong against antisemitism and Islamophobia. Hate and violence have no home in Colorado. Not today, not one year ago, not ever.
We continue the work to build a Colorado for All where every person can live safely and thrive.
Just as we mourn the memory of those killed in Israel, we also mourn the heartbreaking loss of life in Gaza and Lebanon. May their memory be for a blessing. And may we soon know the safe return of the hostages and peace for the region.
It is imperative that all sides strive for a negotiated, diplomatic end to the devastating violence, and a return of all hostages to their homes.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)
LOS ANGELES – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attacks in Israel.
“Today marks one year since Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Hamas terrorists systematically brutalized, raped, and maimed scores of innocent Israelis, killing more than 1,200 people in what was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas also killed Americans who were in Israel. Hamas kidnapped 251 people, and we desperately await the return of the 101 hostages still being held captive today. I share in the grief of so many who experienced or were horrified to witness what transpired that day.
“Compounding the grief has been the alarming surge in antisemitism we’ve seen this year. Following October 7, Jewish people around the world have been subjected to an unprecedented increase of hate and vitriol. My own Jewish constituents have been the victims of abhorrent acts of violence and bigotry, and it breaks my heart that people in our communities are being targeted or made to feel unsafe because of their faith. As a co-Chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, I am committed to rooting out antisemitism and the insidious ways hate spreads in our communities. Like any form of bigotry, antisemitism should be condemned in the strongest terms.
“As we reel from a profoundly difficult year, we cannot lose sight of how the horrors of October 7 have destroyed families and reshaped communities forever. I mourn all the innocent civilian lives lost that day and throughout the ensuing conflict. I share President Biden and Vice President Harris’ view that Israel has the absolute right to defend itself. The United States will continue to work with Israel to bring home the hostages, protect innocent lives, and achieve durable peace in the Middle East.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03)
Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement marking one year since the Hamas terrorist attacks that resulted in the loss of 1,195 Israeli lives, hundreds of hostages held by Hamas, and has spurred the ongoing conflict in the region:
“On October 7, Israel faced the most devastating terrorist attack in its history. My heart breaks for the lives lost and the families torn apart. Earlier this year, I went to Kibbutz Be’eri and saw the homes where so many were massacred, to the site of the supernova Sukkot Gathering music festival that Hamas attacked, and met repeatedly with families of those taken in the Hostage Square. I continue to stand with Israel and support its right to defend itself from threats – whether it be Hamas’s terrorist violence, Hezbollah’s aggression, or Iran’s ballistic missile attacks. October 7th also brought an unacceptable rise in antisemitism that we must fight.
“It is time we finally bring the remaining hostages held by Hamas home. All future actions must respect Palestinian lives and keep open a two-state solution as the only route to peace. As I have said previously, the United States stands firmly with our ally Israel, and it will have what it needs to ensure its security.”
President Metsola marked the one-year anniversary of terrorist attacks in Israel at the opening of the 7-10 October plenary session in Strasbourg.
Recalling the horror of that day “that will live in infamy”, President Metsola said nothing could ever justify the indiscriminate mass murder, rape, kidnapping and torture that occurred one year ago. Since then, too few have been able to make it back to their loved ones – “this house will continue to do what we can to help bring them all home”, she said.
The 7 October attacks triggered a cycle of war, death and devastation that has seen thousands killed in Gaza, and instability across the region, President Metsola stated. In remembering all those lost and taken, the President added that “Parliament’s calls for the immediate release of the remaining hostages will remain steadfast, our calls for ceasefire will remain resolute, and our efforts towards de-escalation will remain strong.” The work for real, dignified, long-term and sustainable peace will remain unwavering, she concluded.
MEPs held a minute of silence in memory of all the innocent lives lost.
Changes to the agenda
Monday
The sitting is extended to 23:00.
Tuesday
The Question Time on the Situation of animal health in Europe: how to prevent and prepare for future sanitary crises in agriculture is postponed. As a consequence, the sitting will finish at 21:00.
Wednesday
The Parliament statements on The recent devastating floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with one round of political groups’ speakers, is added as the first point in the afternoon.
The title of the debate and resolution under Rule 150 on The case of Bülent Mumay in Turkey is adapted to The case of Bülent Mumay in Türkiye.
Information concerning the distribution of votes is available under the section “Priority information”.
Outgoing MEPs
Marcin Kierwiński (EPP, Poland) as of 25 September
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement marking one year since Hamas’s terrorist attacks against Israel: “Today we commemorate one year since Hamas’s horrific terrorist attack on October 7.
October 7, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement marking one year since Hamas’s terrorist attacks against Israel:
“Today we commemorate one year since Hamas’s horrific terrorist attack on October 7.
“One year since innocent people were murdered only because they were Israeli in what constituted the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Nothing can justify the violence and terror unleashed that day, and nothing can take away the pain from that day.
“We remember those who were murdered, as well as those injured and those taken hostage. Canada mourns victims of our own among the innocent people killed by Hamas: Judih Weinstein, Vivian Silver, Ben Mizrachi, Netta Epstein, Shir Georgy, Alexandre Look and Adi Vital-Kaploun, as well as those with strong ties to Canada, including Tiferet Lapidot.
“We also remember those who suffered horrific acts of sexual and gender-based violence by Hamas, and we remember those who bore witness to those unspeakable acts of violence.
“It has been one year, and innocent people are still being held hostage by Hamas. Their friends and families await their return in unimaginable pain.
“Canada will not stop calling for the immediate release of each person who is still unjustifiably held hostage by terrorists. This includes returning the bodies of those brutally killed while in captivity: families must be able to bury their loved ones in peace and dignity.
“We must all stand up to the rising tide of antisemitism and hate we see in our own country that has only worsened since October 7.
“Canada continues to unequivocally condemn Hamas, a listed terrorist organization backed by Iran, in the strongest possible terms. Far too many civilians have been killed in this conflict, and Canada will continue to work tirelessly with its partners to bring peace and security to the Middle East and remain committed to working towards an irreversible path to achieving a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live securely within internationally recognised borders.
Today, as we remember and reflect let us not lose sight of our shared humanity and the future that is possible for this generation and those who will follow.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, provided an update to the House of Commons on the conclusion of negotiations on the exercise of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory.
Location:
House of Commons
Delivered on:
With permission, Mr Speaker, I will make a statement on the conclusion of negotiations on the exercise of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory.
On Thursday the third of October, my Right Honourable Friend the Prime Minister and Mauritian Prime Minister Jugnauth made an historic announcement.
After two years of negotiations,…
…and decades of disagreement,…
…the UK and Mauritius have reached a political agreement on the future of the British Indian Ocean Territory.
Mr Speaker, the treaty is neither signed nor ratified.
But I wanted to update the House on the conclusion of formal negotiations at the earliest opportunity.
Members will appreciate the context.
Since its creation, the Territory and the joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia has had a contested existence.
In recent years, the threat has risen significantly.
Coming into office, the status quo was clearly not sustainable.
A binding judgement against the UK seemed inevitable.
It was just a matter of time before our only choices would have been abandoning the base altogether.
Or breaking international law.
If you oppose the deal, which of these alternatives do you prefer?
Doing this deal – on our terms – was the sole way to maintain the full and effective operations of the base into the future.
Mr Speaker, this must be why, in November 2022, the then Foreign Secretary, the Right Honourable Member for Braintree, initiated sovereignty negotiations.
It’s also why my immediate predecessor, Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton, ultimately continued with those talks.
Under the previous Government there were eleven rounds of negotiations, the last one held just weeks before the General Election was called.
So, in July, this Government inherited unfinished business.
Where a threat was real, and inaction was not a strategy.
Inaction posed several acute risks to the UK.
First, it threatened the UK-US base.
From countering malign Iranian activity in the Middle East to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, it is critical for our national security.
Without surety of tenure, no base can operate effectively – nor truly deter our enemies.
Critical investment decisions were already being delayed.
Second, it impacted on our relationship with the US,…
…who neither wanted nor welcomed the legal uncertainty,…
…and strongly encouraged us to strike a deal.
I am a trans-Atlanticist.
We had to protect this important relationship.
And third, it undermined our international standing.
We are showing that what we mean is what we say on international law and desire for partnerships with the Global South.
This strengthens our arguments when it comes to issues like Ukraine or the South China Sea.
Mr Speaker, further legal wrangling served nobody’s interests but our adversaries’.
In a more volatile world,…
…a deal benefited us all,…
…the UK, US and Mauritius.
This Government therefore made striking the best possible deal a priority.
We appointed Jonathan Powell.
As the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for these negotiations, he has worked closely with a brilliant team of civil servants and lawyers.
Their goal was a way forward which serves UK national interests,…
…respects the interests of our partners,…
…and upholds the international rule of law.
This agreement fulfils these objectives.
It is strongly supported by partners,…
…with Present Biden going so far as to ‘applaud’ our achievement within minutes of the announcement!
Secretary Blinken and Secretary Austin have also backed this ‘successful outcome’ which ‘reaffirms [our] special defence relationship’.
And the agreement has been welcomed by the Indian government and commended by the UN Secretary-General.
In return for agreeing to Mauritian sovereignty over the entire islands, including Diego Garcia,…
…the UK-US base has an uncontested long-term future.
Base operations will remain under full UK control well into the next century.
Mauritius will authorise us to exercise their sovereign rights and authorities in respect of Diego Garcia.
This is initially for 99 years, but the UK has the right to extend this.
And we have full Mauritian backing for robust security arrangements…
…including preventing foreign armed forces from accessing or establishing themselves on the outer islands.
The base’s long-term future is therefore more secure under this agreement than without it.
If this were not the case, I doubt the White House, State Department or Pentagon would have praised the deal so effusively.
This agreement will be underpinned by a financial settlement that is acceptable to both sides.
Members will be aware the Government does not normally reveal payments for our military bases overseas.
And so it would be inappropriate to publicise further details of these arrangements at this stage.
Mr Speaker, the agreement also recognises the rights and wrongs of the past.
The whole House would agree that the manner in which Chagossians were forcibly removed in the 1960s was deeply wrong and regrettable.
Mauritius is now free to implement a resettlement programme to islands other than Diego Garcia.
The UK and Mauritius have also committed to support Chagossians’ welfare,…
…establishing a new Trust Fund capitalised by the UK…
…and providing additional Government support to Chagossians in the UK.
And the UK will maintain the pathway for Chagossians to obtain British Citizenship.
Furthermore, Mauritius and the UK will now establish a new programme of visits to the archipelago for Chagossians.
This agreement also ushers in a new era in our relations with Mauritius.
A Commonwealth nation and Africa’s leading democracy.
We have agreed to intensify cooperation on our shared priorities, including security, growth and the environment.
The agreement ensures continued protection of these islands’ unique environment, home to over two hundred species of coral and over eight hundred species of fish.
Finally Mr Speaker, I want to reassure the House,…
…and all members of the UK family worldwide,…
…that this agreement does not signal any change in policy to Britain’s other Overseas Territories.
British sovereignty of the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar and the Sovereign Base Areas is not up for negotiation.
The situations are not comparable.
This, Mr Speaker, has been acknowledged across our Overseas Territories.
Fabian Picardo, Chief Minister of Gibraltar, vocally supported this agreement…
…stating that there is “no possible read across” to Gibraltar on the issue of sovereignty.
Similarly, the Governor of the Falklands has confirmed that the historic contexts of the Chagos Archipelago and Falklands are “very different”.
The Government remains firmly committed to modern partnerships with our Overseas Territories based on mutual consent.
After Mauritian elections, the Government will move towards treaty signature.
And it is then our intention to pursue ratification in 2025,…
…by submitting the Treaty and a Bill to this House for scrutiny.
This is a historic moment, a victory for diplomacy.
We have saved the base.
We have secured Britain’s national interests for the long-term.
Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – One year since the October 7th terrorist attacks that killed dozens of Americans, Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), along with the entire Senate Republican Conference, introduced a resolution fully condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages.
“Israel is America’s closest ally in the Middle East and our partner for peace in the region. They have faced vicious attacks since their founding in 1948, but in the past year the attacks have reached a level never seen in the last half century of Israel. Terror attacks on the streets, rockets and missiles from all four directions and innocent hostages in Gaza have tested Israel’s strength. But, Israel still stands. The United States should stand with Israel in their battle for peace and existence, just as Israel has always stood with us in our battle against terrorism,” said Lankford.
“This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
Lankford is co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Abraham Accords Caucus and the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism.
The resolution affirms that America remains united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. It also reiterates Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasizes the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated.
Click here to view the full resolution.
