NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investing in infrastructure to support growth

    [. Maintaining and expanding the provincial road and bridge network is vital for growing communities and expanding market access for local industry.  

    If passed, Budget 2025 would invest more than $8.5 billion for the Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors’ three-year Capital Plan, a $333.7-million increase compared with Budget 2024. This total includes more than $4 billion over three years for transportation infrastructure projects to benefit rural communities across the province, as well as $2.1 billion over three years for projects in the Calgary region, and $2 billion for projects in the Edmonton region.

    “We are investing in the transportation and water infrastructure our communities need to address rapid growth, promote economic development and support a high quality of life. These investments help ensure our province remains the best place in Canada to live, work and raise a family.”

    Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors

    The total capital investment in this year’s budget includes $2.6 billion for planning, design and construction of major highway and bridge projects. This work will create thousands of jobs across Alberta, improve traffic flow, and support the development of major trade corridors through projects such as twinning Highway 3 and Highway 11, and major improvements to Deerfoot Trail and Highway 881. Capital investment funding also includes more than $186 million over three years for more than 50 engineering projects to address future infrastructure needs as the province continues to grow.

    “These investments in Calgary’s roads and bridges are critical to supporting our growing city. Improved infrastructure means safer commutes, better connections for businesses and a stronger foundation for future growth.”

    Myles McDougall, MLA, Calgary-Fish Creek

    If passed, Budget 2025 would also include a $1.7-billion investment over three years for capital maintenance and renewal, which extends the life of the province’s existing road and bridge network, keeping the highway network safe and helping industry create and maintain well-paying jobs.

    “Building and fixing roads and bridges improves the productivity of Alberta’s economy. Budget 2025 continues investing in critical infrastructure using local materials and labour. The ARHCA applauds Alberta’s leadership and commitment to all modes of trade-enabling transportation.”

    Ron Glen, CEO, Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association

    In addition to improving and maintaining the provincial highway network, Alberta’s government has allocated $3.9 billion for capital grants to municipalities over the next three years. This includes funding for LRT projects in Edmonton and Calgary, as well as $5 million in new funding to support planning work for a new transit solution connecting the Calgary airport terminal with the future Blue Line LRT extension station.

    “Investing in infrastructure is critical to establishing a solid foundation for economic growth, sustainability and thriving communities. As our population continues to grow, we must make smart investments in roads, bridges, water and transportation infrastructure to ensure our communities and businesses remain vibrant, connected and ready for the future.”

    Deborah Yedlin, president and CEO, Calgary Chamber of Commerce

    If passed, targeted investments in Budget 2025 would also support the growth and prosperity of rural communities by providing $126.8 million over three years to municipalities through the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program. This program helps smaller municipalities improve critical local transportation infrastructure.

    Additionally, ongoing capital grants totalling $519.7 million over three years in water and wastewater infrastructure will ensure Albertans in every community have reliable access to clean drinking water and effective wastewater services.

    Finally, Budget 2025 would provide $240.1 million to build and repair water management infrastructure, including dams, spillways, canals and control structures. This investment provides irrigation for the agriculture sector and flood mitigation for Alberta communities.

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick Facts

    Regional Highlights

    North region

    • Budget 2025, if passed, invests $1.25 billion over three years in road and bridge construction projects to benefit the North region, including:
      • $101 million for Highway 63 twinning, north of Fort McMurray
      • $141 million for Highway 881 safety and road improvements
      • $87 million for construction of the La Crete bridge
      • $69 million for Highway 40 grade widening between Hinton and Grande Cache
      • $7 million for the La Loche Connector road – extending Highway 956 from La Loche, Saskatchewan to Fort McMurray
      • $4 million for twinning Highway 40 south of Grande Prairie
      • $127.5 million for Highway 60 Capital Improvements

    Central region

    • Budget 2025, if passed, invests $1.4 billion over three years in road and bridge construction projects to benefit the Central region, including:
      • $208 million for Highway 11 twinning between Sylvan Lake and Rocky Mountain House
      • $98 million for the Vinca Bridge replacement on Highway 38 (near Redwater) as part of work to enhance the high-load corridor

    South region

    • Budget 2025, if passed, invests $363 million over three years in road and bridge construction projects to benefit the South region, including:
      • $106 million for Highway 3 twinning (between Taber and east of Burdett)
      • $92 million for the Highway 2 Balzac Interchange Replacement
      • $24 million for the Highway 1A upgrade (Stoney First Nation)
      • $9 million for the QEII Highway and 40th Avenue interchange ramp (near Airdrie)

    Calgary

    • Budget 2025, if passed, invests $2.1 billion over three years in road and bridge construction projects, and municipal grants to benefit the Calgary region, including:
      • $173.1 million for the Calgary Rivers District and Event Centre
      • $484.8 million for Deerfoot Trail upgrades
      • $62.4 million for the Springbank Off-stream Reservoir (SR1) project
      • $11.9 million for the Bow River Reservoir (Ghost Reservoir Infrastructure Project)
      • $100 million for the Calgary Ring Road (West Stoney Trail)
      • $8 million for the completion of the Highway 201 Bow River Bridge on the southeast Stoney Trail
      • $26.5 million for the completion of the Stoney Trail and Airport Trail interchange

    Edmonton

    • Budget 2025, if passed, invests $2 billion over three years in road and bridge construction projects to benefit the Edmonton region, including:
      • $31.9 million for the Ray Gibbon Drive expansion
      • $31 million for the Terwillegar Drive widening from Rabbit Hill Road to Windermere Boulevard
      • $52.7 million for the Terwillegar Drive Expansion improvements to the interchange at SW Anthony Henday Drive.
      • $20.3 million for Highway 16A and Range Road 20 Safety Improvements
      • $17.2 million for Highway 19 twinning
      • $40.2 million for the Highway 2 and 65 Avenue Interchange in Leduc

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Charlevoix

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 14, 2025 – Charlevoix, Quebec – Global Affairs Canada

    1. We the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, met in Charlevoix on March 12 to 14, 2025.

    Ukraine’s long-term prosperity and security

    2. We reaffirmed our unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its territorial integrity and right to exist, and its freedom, sovereignty and independence.

    3. We welcomed ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire, and in particular the meeting on March 11 between the U.S. and Ukraine in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We applauded Ukraine’s commitment to an immediate ceasefire, which is an essential step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with the Charter of the United Nations.

    4. We called for Russia to reciprocate by agreeing to a ceasefire on equal terms and implementing it fully. We discussed imposing further costs on Russia in case such a ceasefire is not agreed, including through further sanctions, caps on oil prices, as well as additional support for Ukraine, and other means. This includes the use of extraordinary revenues stemming from immobilized Russian Sovereign Assets. We underlined the importance of confidence-building measures under a ceasefire including the release of prisoners of war and detainees—both military and civilian—and the return of Ukrainian children.

    5. We emphasized that any ceasefire must be respected and underscored the need for robust and credible security arrangements to ensure that Ukraine can deter and defend against any renewed acts of aggression. We stated that we will continue to coordinate economic and humanitarian support to promote the early recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine, including at the Ukraine Recovery Conference which will take place in Rome on July 10-11, 2025.

    6. We condemned the provision to Russia of military assistance by DPRK and Iran, and the provision of weapons and dual-use components by China, a decisive enabler of Russia’s war and of the reconstitution of Russia’s armed forces. We reiterated our intention to continue to take action against such third countries.

    7. We expressed alarm about the impacts of the war, especially on civilians and on civilian infrastructure. We discussed the importance of accountability and reaffirmed our commitment to work together to achieve a durable peace and to ensure that Ukraine remains democratic, free, strong and prosperous.   

    Regional peace and stability in the Middle East  

    8. We called for the release of all hostages and for the hostages’ remains held by Hamas in Gaza to be returned to their loved ones. We reaffirmed our support for the resumption of unhindered humanitarian aid into Gaza and for a permanent ceasefire. We underscored the imperative of a political horizon for the Palestinian people, achieved through a negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that meets the legitimate needs and aspirations of both peoples and advances comprehensive Middle East peace, stability and prosperity. We noted serious concern over the growing tensions and hostilities in the West Bank and calls for de-escalation.

    9. We recognized Israel’s inherent right to defend itself consistent with international law. We unequivocally condemned Hamas, including for its brutal and unjustified terror attacks on October 7, 2023, and the harm inflicted on the hostages during their captivity and the violation of their dignity through the use of ‘handover ceremonies’ during their release. We reiterated that Hamas can have no role in Gaza’s future and must never again be a threat to Israel. We affirmed our readiness to engage with Arab partners on their proposals to chart a way forward on reconstruction in Gaza and build a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace.

    10. We expressed our support for the people of Syria and Lebanon, as both countries work towards peaceful and stable political futures. At this critical juncture, we reiterated the importance of Syria’s and Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We called unequivocally for the rejection of terrorism in Syria. We condemned strongly the recent escalation of violence in the coastal regions of Syria, and called for the protection of civilians and for perpetrators of atrocities to be held accountable. We stressed the critical importance of an inclusive and Syrian-led political process. We welcomed the commitment by the Syrian interim government to work with the OPCW in eliminating all remaining chemical weapons.

    11. We stressed that Iran is the principal source of regional instability and must never be allowed to develop and acquire a nuclear weapon. We emphasized that Iran must now change course, de-escalate and choose diplomacy. We underscored the threat of Iran’s growing use of arbitrary detention and foreign assassination attempts as a tool of coercion.

    Cooperation to increase security and resilience across the Indo-Pacific  

    12. We reiterated our commitment to upholding a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific, based on sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes, fundamental freedoms and human rights.

    13. We remain seriously concerned by the situations in the East China Sea as well as the South China Sea and continue to oppose strongly unilateral attempts to change the status quo, in particular by force and coercion. We expressed concern over the increasing use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippines and Vietnamese vessels as well as efforts to restrict freedom of navigation and overflight through militarization and coercion in the South China Sea, in violation of international law. We emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues and reiterated our opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. We also expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in appropriate international organizations.  

    14. We remain concerned with China’s military build-up and the continued, rapid increase in China’s nuclear weapons arsenal. We called on China to engage in strategic risk reduction discussions and promote stability through transparency.

    15. We emphasized that China should not conduct or condone activities aimed at undermining the security and safety of our communities and the integrity of our democratic institutions.16. We expressed concerns about China’s non-market policies and practices that are leading to harmful overcapacity and market distortions. We further called on China to refrain from adopting export control measures that could lead to significant supply chain disruptions. We reiterated that we are not trying to harm China or thwart its economic growth, indeed a growing China that plays by international rules and norms would be of global interest.

    16. We demanded that the DPRK abandon all its nuclear weapons and any other weapons of mass destruction as well as ballistic missile programs in accordance with all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. We expressed our serious concerns over, and the need to address together, the DPRK’s cryptocurrency thefts. We called on DPRK to resolve the abductions issue immediately.

    17. We denounced the brutal repression of the people of Myanmar by the military regime and called for an end to all violence and for unhindered humanitarian access.

    Building stability and resilience in Haiti and Venezuela

    18. We strongly denounced the ongoing horrifying violence that continues to be perpetrated by gangs in Haiti in their efforts to seize control of the government. We reaffirmed our commitment to helping the Haitian people restore democracy, security and stability, including through support to the Haitian National Police and Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission and an increased role for the UN. We expressed support for Haitian authorities’ efforts to create a specialized anti-corruption jurisdiction that complies with the highest international standards.

    19. We reiterated our call for the restoration of democracy in Venezuela in line with the aspirations of the Venezuelan people who peacefully voted on July 28, 2024, for change, the cessation of repression and arbitrary or unjust detentions of peaceful protestors including youth by Nicolas Maduro’s regime, as well as the unconditional and immediate release of all political prisoners. We also agreed Venezuelan naval vessels threatening Guyana’s commercial vessels is unacceptable and an infringement of Guyana’s internationally recognized sovereign rights. We reaffirmed respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations as an enduring value.

    Supporting lasting peace in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    20. We unequivocally denounced the ongoing fighting and atrocities in Sudan, including sexual violence against women and girls, which have led to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and the spread of famine. We called for the warring parties to protect civilians, cease hostilities, and ensure unhindered humanitarian access, and urged external actors to end their support fueling the conflict.

    21. We condemned the Rwanda-backed M23 offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the resulting violence, displacement and grave human rights and international humanitarian law violations. This offensive constitutes a flagrant disregard of the territorial integrity of the DRC. We reiterated our call for M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force to withdraw from all controlled areas. We urged all parties to support the mediation led by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community, to promote accountability for human rights abuses by all armed actors, including M23 and the FDLR, and to commit to a peaceful and negotiated resolution of the conflict, including the meaningful participation of women and youth.

    Strengthening sanctions and countering hybrid warfare and sabotage

    22. We welcomed efforts to strengthen the Sanctions Working Group focused on listings and enforcement. We also welcomed discussions on the establishment of a Hybrid Warfare and Sabotage Working Group, and of a Latin America Working Group.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New supports will strengthen community firefighting capacity

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) supports projects that strengthen the resilience of local governments and First Nations in responding to and preparing for disasters and climate change. This funding is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

    Volunteer and composite fire departments, local governments and First Nations will receive more than $9 million from the CEPF as follows:

    100 Mile House – Structure Protection Unit Equipment
    Amount: $38,055

    Adams Lake Indian Band – Breathing apparatus purchase and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District – Protective equipment and training for the volunteer fire departments of the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District
    Amount: $109,226

    Alert Bay – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $37,725

    Armstrong – Structural firefighting turnout gear and turnout gear dryer
    Amount: $40,000

    Ashcroft – Firefighter training
    Amount: $36,447

    Atlin Community Improvement District – Equipment upgrades and firefighter training
    Amount: $39,250

    Barriere – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $37,000

    Blue River Improvement District – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $24,709

    Bow Horn Bay Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement of bunker gear
    Amount: $40,000

    Bowen Island – Gear racking, pressure washer and personal protective equipment (PPE) dryer
    Amount: $40,000

    Bralorne Fire Protection Association – Fire protection equipment and wildland protective gear 
    Amount: $35,354

    Burns Lake – Structural protection equipment 
    Amount: $21,500

    Burton Community Association – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Capital Regional District – Personal protective equipment and fire equipment 
    Amount: $275,303

    Cariboo Regional District – Emergency response improvement project: Equipment and training
    Amount: $501,321

    Central Coast Regional District – Fire training 
    Amount: $80,000

    Central Kootenay Regional District – Equipment and training 
    Amount: $503,802

    Central Okanagan Regional District – Equipment upgrades 
    Amount: $88,661

    Cherry Creek Improvement District – Personal protective equipment and operational equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Chetwynd – Equipment upgrades
    Amount: $39,829

    Chimney and Felker Lakes Volunteer Fire Department – Firefighter training, personal protective equipment and firefighting equipment upgrades 
    Amount: $39,996

    Clearwater – Fire department training props and equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Cluculz Lake Volunteer Fire Department – Training and equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Columbia Shuswap Regional District – Health, safety and personal protective equipment
    Amount: $559,280

    Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) – CVRD Fire Departments: Equipment and training
    Amount: $275,200

    Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – Cook’s Ferry Fire and Emergency Services: Equipment and personal protective equipment  
    Amount: $40,000

    Cortes Island Fire Fighting Association – Wildfire-response capacity building
    Amount: $24,554

    Cowichan Tribes – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Cowichan Valley Regional District – Cowichan Valley Fire Department 2024 Grant Project for six volunteer- and one society-run regional fire departments: Equipment and personal protective equipment     
    Amount: $271,015

    Cranberry Improvement District – New and replacement equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Cumberland – Phase 3 training ground for Cumberland Fire Rescue
    Amount: $40,000

    Deep Bay Improvement District – Equipment and training 
    Amount: $40,000

    Duncan – Interior and exterior operations training 
    Amount: $40,000

    East Kootenay Regional District – 2024 Regional District of East Kootenay Rural Fire Services: Equipment, training and personal protective equipment  
    Amount: $308,141

    Edgewood Volunteer Fire Department – Personal protective equipment, and equipment upgrades and replacements 
    Amount: $28,562

    Elkford – Equipment modernization  
    Amount: $40,000

    Enderby – Purchase of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) 
    Amount: $39,880

    Errington Volunteer Fire Department – Decontamination washing machine and dryer
    Amount: $38,452

    Erris Volunteer Fire Association – SCBA purchase 
    Amount: $40,000

    Extension Volunteer Fire Department – Personal protective equipment upgrade and replacement 
    Amount: $39,520

    Fernie – Fire training and equipment replacement 
    Amount: $40,000

    Fraser Lake – Breathing apparatuses 
    Amount: $39,714

    Fraser Valley Regional District – Firefighting equipment 
    Amount: $253,740

    Fraser-Fort George Regional District – Emergency-response equipment
    Amount: $511,600

    Gabriola Fire Protection Improvement District – Live fire-training facility upgrades 
    Amount: $40,000

    Gold River – SCBA upgrades 
    Amount: $40,000

    Granisle – Fire department training and equipment upgrades  
    Amount: $40,000

    Greeny Lake Volunteer Fire Department – Update equipment and training 
    Amount: $33,813

    Hayes Creek Firefighters’ Association – Equipment improvements 
    Amount: $13,548

    Heiltsuk Nation – Fire department equipment supply 
    Amount: $40,000

    Highlands – Digital fire-training system  
    Amount: $34,812

    Hope – Structure protection equipment and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Houston – Protective clothing and equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Hudson’s Hope – Replacement fire hose and SCBA cylinders 
    Amount: $37,485

    Invermere – Firefighter survival training and equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Iskut First Nation – Kluachon emergency services equipment upgrade 
    Amount: $37,115

    Kent – Personal protective equipment and pump training 
    Amount: $40,000

    Kootenay-Boundary Regional District – Fire Department Grant: Equipment, training and live fire training facility upgrade 
    Amount: $134,955

    Ladysmith – Turnout gear decontamination cleaning equipment 
    Amount: $33,737

    Lake Country – New and replacement thermal imaging cameras 
    Amount: $40,000

    Lake Cowichan – Equipment and training
    Amount: $34,495

    Mackenzie – Live fire training 
    Amount: $39,350

    Masset – Fire safety gear, equipment renewal and training upgrade 
    Amount: $39,364

    McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department – Fire department equipment
    Amount: $12,847

    Merritt – Upgrading equipment: Breathing air compressor
    Amount: $40,000

    Metchosin – Hose and equipment upgrades and replacement 
    Amount: $39,635

    Midway – Training facility improvements 
    Amount: $24,837

    Mill Bay Fire Protection District – Turnout gear replacement
    Amount: $39,694

    Mount Waddington Regional District – Training and equipment improvements
    Amount: $157,095

    Mountain Fire Protection District – Updating equipment and training  
    Amount: $40,000

    Nakusp – Equipment upgrades 
    Amount: $40,000

    Nanaimo Regional District – Equipment for regional training facility and training props 
    Amount: $200,000

    Nelson – Personal protective equipment and Fire Officer II training
    Amount: $39,864

    North Cedar Improvement District – FireSmart structure protection equipment and personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    North Coast Regional District – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    North Cowichan – Wildland firefighting equipment 
    Amount: $11,050

    North Okanagan Regional District – Equipment and Training
    Amount: $120,000

    North Saanich – Equipment upgrade 
    Amount: $23,048

    Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District – Volunteer Fire Department Enhancement Project: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $274,414

    Oliver – Enhancing the Oliver Fire Department: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $40,000

    Parksville – Decontamination equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Paul Lake Community Association – Paul Lake Community Fire and Emergency Preparedness and Resiliency: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $24,976

    Peachland – Wildland protective clothing and firefighting equipment
    Amount: $39,040

    Pemberton – Turnout gear for firefighters
    Amount: $37,291

    Pender Harbour Fire Protection District – Structure fire and wildfire essential equipment upgrade and training 
    Amount: $39,470

    Pinantan Lake Fire Association – Structural protection equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Alice – SCBAs
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Edward – Fire service equipment  
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Hardy – Structure firefighter training
    Amount: $40,000

    Pouce Coupe – Communication upgrade  
    Amount: $31,821

    Princeton – PPE, Equipment and training
    Amount: $38,500

    qathet Regional District (Powell River) – The qathet Regional Districts’ Volunteer Fire Department Equipment 2024 intake: Equipment and training 
    Amount: $160,000

    Quadra Island Fire Department – Wildland response preparedness training
    Amount: $21,336

    Radium Hot Springs – Wildland personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $28,007

    Salmon Arm – Equipment and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Saturna Island Fire Protection Society – Breathing air compressor replacement 
    Amount: $39,844

    Savona Improvement District – Equipment upgrade 
    Amount: $40,000

    Sayward – Fire department equipment
    Amount: $39,870

    Seabird Island Band – Equipment and tools 
    Amount: $40,000

    Sechelt Fire Protection District – Turnout gear replacement 
    Amount: $40,000

    Ships Point Improvement District – Structure protection equipment  
    Amount: $37,739

    Sicamous – Equipment and training  
    Amount: $40,000

    Sidney – Personal protective equipment, training and fire suppression equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Skeetchestn Indian Band – Fire department equipment 
    Amount: $40,000

    Skwláx te Secwepemcúl?ecw (Little Shuswap Lake) – New Structural Protection Unit 
    Amount: $36,245

    Smithers – Radio communications upgrade
    Amount: $40,000

    SnPink’tn (Penticton Indian Band) – Expanding fire rescue capabilities 
    Amount: $34,150

    Sooke – CEPF Funding for Volunteer and Composite Departments: Hoses and racks 
    Amount: $28,351

    Southside Volunteer Fire Department – Radio equipment and training 
    Amount: $14,650

    Spences Bridge Improvement District – Fire department equipment
    Amount: $40,000

    Squamish-Lillooet Regional District – Regional District Fire Services Modernization: Training and equipment 
    Amount: $183,025

    Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek) – Firefighting equipment
    Amount: $17,437

    Summerland – Structure firefighting equipment  
    Amount: $39,185

    Sun Peaks – 2024 Sun Peaks Fire Rescue Health and Safety Improvement Project 
    Amount: $39,937

    Tahsis – Tahsis Volunteer Fire Department – BC Structure Firefighter Minimum Training Standards Supplies 
    Amount: $40,000

    Taylor – Taylor Fire Rescue 2025: Training and equipment 
    Amount: $30,690

    Telkwa – Equipment and gear  
    Amount: $40,000

    Thetis Island Improvement District – Fire equipment update 
    Amount: $27,356

    Thompson-Nicola Regional District – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $360,000

    Tl’azt’en Nation – Project “Be Prepared!”: Equipment
    Amount: $38,463

    Tla’amin Nation (Sliammon) – Personal protective equipment 
    Amount: $35,620

    Tofino – Firefighter personal protective equipment and other firefighting equipment replacement 
    Amount: $38,866

    Tomslake and District Volunteer Fire Department – Structure Protection Initiative: Hoses, Water Tanks, Sprinklers and Wildland Turnout Gear
    Amount: $24,167

    Tsay Keh Dene Nation – Outfitting firetruck  
    Amount: $19,199

    Ucluelet – Fire Rescue Turnout Gear and Equipment
    Amount: $38,711

    Vanderhoof – Hands-on training and personal protective equipment renewal 
    Amount: $40,000

    View Royal – Wildfire firefighting portable pump equipment 
    Amount: $25,100

    Watch Lake – North Green Lake Volunteer Fire Department: Turnout gear replacement, safety equipment upgrades and training programs 
    Amount: $39,800

    Williams Lake – Structural turnout gear cleaning system 
    Amount: $37,064

    Williams Lake First Nation – Fire Prevention and Interface Response Supports: Turnout gear replacement, mandatory safety equipment upgrades and prescribed training programs  
    Amount: $11,415

    Witset First Nation (Moricetown) – Fire department gear and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Yaq?it ?a·knuq?i ‘it (Tobacco Plains) – Fire department equipment and training
    Amount: $40,000

    Zeballos – Zeballos Volunteer Fire Department Capacity Enhancement: Training and personal protective equipment
    Amount: $39,951

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Colorado Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Summer Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Colorado of the April 14, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning Aug. 6, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Adams, Boulder, Broomfield, Gilpin, Grand, Jefferson, Larimer and Weld.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than April 14.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Kansas Private Nonprofits Affected by April Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas of the April 15, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring April 25-30, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Elk, Greenwood, Linn, Morris, Neosho, Pottawatomie, Wilson and Woodson.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature who suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. Examples of eligible non-critical PNPs include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.” 

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% and terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications no later than April 15.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mountain America Credit Union Donates $17,500 to the American Red Cross of Utah

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANDY, Utah, March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mountain America Credit Union continues its tradition of supporting the American Red Cross of Utah with a recent $17,500 donation. Since 2018, Mountain America has contributed annually to the American Red Cross, reinforcing its commitment to helping communities in times of need. As part of the ongoing effort, Mountain America adds $50 to the total donation amount for every three-point shot made by the Brigham Young University (BYU) men’s basketball team. This latest gift brings the total funds donated to the American Red Cross of Utah since 2018 to $157,000.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    “Every three-pointer represents more than just points on the board—it symbolizes our commitment to leave a lasting mark on the communities we serve,” said Nathan Andersen, chief operating officer and executive vice president at Mountain America. “With the American Red Cross and BYU, we are turning on-court success into meaningful community impact.”

    The American Red Cross will use the funds to assist Utah communities in preparing for, preventing, and responding to emergencies, including house fires. They have been serving the state for more than 100 years, delivering services across the Greater Salt Lake Area chapter, Northern Utah chapter, and Central Southern Utah chapter.

    “We’re so grateful for the yearslong support of Mountain America Credit Union,” said Adam S. Whitaker, chief development officer for the Utah Nevada Region of the American Red Cross. “Their partnership with BYU athletics is inspiring and exciting in the way it lifts people in real and measurable need here at home and around the country. Mountain America’s generosity does that, and we couldn’t do our work without them.”

    For more information about Mountain America’s community involvement activities, visit macu.com/newsroom.

    About Mountain America Credit Union
    With more than 1 million members and $20 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across multiple states, and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, Former NOAA Administrator and WA State NOAA Employees Fired for No Reason Slam Trump & Elon’s Destructive Mass Layoffs at NOAA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Statement on Mass Layoffs Beginning at NOAA
    WA state NOAA employee fired for no reason by Trump & Elon: “I’m here because I care. I care about the people and communities that are impacted by reduced or closed fisheries that my work supported. I care about the devastating effects a diminished NOAA may have on Washingtonians and Americans across our country… I care because I am a grandpa and a fisherman, and I want to ensure these resources are perpetuated for the generations following me.”
    ***WATCH HERE, DOWNLOAD VIDEO HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Dr. Rick Spinrad, and former NOAA employees in Washington state who were recently fired through no fault of their own and with zero justification as part of Trump and Elon Musk’s unprecedented assault on the federal workforce. About 650 NOAA employees have already been dismissed for no reason by Trump and Elon, with another round of job cuts targeting more than 1,000 additional employees expected.
    Joining Senator Murray for today’s press conference were: former NOAA Administrator Dr. Rick Spinrad, Dr. Rebecca Howard, former Research Fish Biologist at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle; Dennis Jaszka, former NOAA Investigative Support Technician for Office of Law Enforcement for the Alaska Division based in Seattle; and Mark Baltzell of Olympia, a former Fisheries Management Specialist at the Sustainable Fisheries Division in the Anadromous Harvest Management Branch at NOAA.
    “NOAA scientists play a crucial role protecting our waters, oceans, and our fisheries. The Puget Sound, the Columbia River, they all rely on NOAA. In Washington state, salmon are not just a pillar of our economy—and of the seafood industry that is so prominent in our state—it is also a way of life for our communities, for our tribes, and it’s part of our state identity, So NOAA’s work could not be more important when it comes to that. I think we all know that we can take the weather for granted, we can take our fish and water for granted. But this work is make or break—not just for Washington state, but for our entire country. So, it is beyond alarming to me that right now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are choosing ‘break’ and taking a wrecking ball to NOAA offices. They are firing public servants they’re firing our experts, they’re closing buildings, like at Port Angeles, and they’re throwing a lot of critical work into jeopardy,” Senator Murray said on today’s press call. “About half of the National Weather Service offices were already understaffed, and then came this hiring freeze and then came the mass firings—and that was just round one. Musk and Trump have already fired 650 NOAA workers—including dozens of people right here in Washington state—with no rhyme or reason, with no clue or concern how it will seriously harm our economy and our communities. And now we are hearing that NOAA intends to lay off another 10 percent of its workforce—that is more than a thousand critical jobs Trump and Elon are putting on the chopping block.”
    NOAA has a major footprint in Washington state, employing over 700 people—and communities across Washington state rely on the agency’s work, from providing storm warnings and weather forecasts to protecting and restoring marine resources that are essential to our state’s economy and culture. Senator Murray has been outspoken in calling attention to how Trump and Elon’s indiscriminate mass layoffs are hurting people across the country and will undermine services Americans everywhere rely on.
    “The firings, facilities closures, and program terminations currently ongoing by this Administration are misguided, ill-informed, often illegal, and just plain stupid actions.  They will also cause great harm. In short, this is ‘All cost, no benefit,’” said Dr. Rick Spinrad, a former NOAA Administrator, who abruptly lost his job because of the Trump administration’s mass firings.
    “Our branch is small but mighty. Our work is responsible for regulatory oversight of salmon and steelhead fisheries occurring in the EEZ off the West Coast, the Columbia River, and Puget Sound. An additional significant portion of our work involves implementing the relevant chapters Pacific Salmon Treaty. The work that my branch conducts enables hundreds of millions in economic activity around salmon fisheries coast-wide,” said Mark Baltzell from Olympia, who worked as a Fisheries Management Specialist at the Sustainable Fisheries Division in the Anadromous Harvest Management Branch, before he was abruptly fired for no reason by Trump and Elon on February 27th and given only 68 minutes to pack his office and leave. “I’m here because I care. I care about the people and communities that are impacted by reduced or closed fisheries that my work supported. I care about the devastating effects a diminished NOAA may have on Washingtonians and Americans across our country. I care about the tens of millions of dollars in Federal Money that is funneled through NOAA for salmon recovery, monitoring, hatchery improvements, and supporting fisheries that is in danger of going away. I care because I was in an Agency loaded with people who care and were devoted because they believed in the science and the mission. I care because I am a grandpa and a fisherman, and I want to ensure these resources are perpetuated for the generations following me. Gutting NOAA and the federal government puts all those things that I care about at risk.”
    “At the Alaska Fisheries Science Center, I was part of the groundfish bottom trawl survey team. This meant I was involved in the work needed to assess Alaska’s populations of shellfish and groundfish, which are fish that live near the seafloor like pollock, cod, and flatfish. These fish make up not only some of the largest and most valuable fisheries in the country, but also the world. The team I was part of was in the midst of preparing for the two bottom trawl surveys that are expected to happen this summer, as they have for the last four decades. We were busy staffing surveys, preparing scientific equipment and software, setting up staff and volunteer trainings, and making sure we have necessary supplies. This requires an immense amount of time and effort, and is done by a team that was very understaffed and stretched thin even before I was fired. Several NOAA employees who were supposed to participate in the survey were fired, including myself, making it even more challenging to find the necessary staff,” said Dr. Rebecca Howard, former Research Fish Biologist at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, who was fired from her dream job with NOAA for no reason by Trump and Elon on February 27. “If more employees from the bottom trawl teams retire or are fired in upcoming reductions in force, the surveys will be extremely difficult to pull off, if not impossible. And, we have recent examples of how important these kinds of data are. In 2020, the Bering Sea bottom trawl survey did not happen due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This led to a missing year of data and critically, missing information on the snow crab population. As many of you know, the snow crab fishery collapsed in 2021 and consequently, we don’t have a good idea of what their population looked like in 2020. We need these types of data to know how many fish and crabs we can catch each year, where those populations are going as the oceans changes, and to keep track of environmental trends. Firing people like me will make it incredibly hard for NOAA Fisheries to fulfill its mission and provide the best available science.”
    “The work I did was essential to Office of Law Enforcement’s efforts to ensure the safety of fisheries observers. While the Alaska Division is spread throughout coastal Alaska, the observer operations staff is mostly located in Seattle. Therefore, one of my main roles was to be the point of contact for enforcement officers. Having an enforcement representative in Seattle is essential to connect people and ensure fisheries observers are familiar with the enforcement arm of NMFS,” said Dennis Jaszka, former NOAA Investigative Support Technician for Office of Law Enforcement for the Alaska Division based in Seattle, who was with NOAA for 26 years before being abruptly fired by Trump and Elon as part of their massive indiscriminate staffing cuts. “The rapport between Alaska Division, the North Pacific Observers, and the Observer support staff is lauded every year as being the gold standard of partnerships between an enforcement division and a scientific division. It was an honor to play such a role in this partnership. But practically speaking, having someone in that position who is familiar with both observer and enforcement operations, is simply the most efficient way to do things. Without a person to represent and connect law enforcement to the observers in Seattle, NMFS loses an opportunity to continue building rapport with observers. Support staff will have no contact with an individual who can answer compliance-related questions. This will result in an excess of complaints being filed. Additionally, the task of reviewing, vetting, and sending documents falls on others who already have a high workload. The whole point of my job was to streamline and educate people in a very proactive way.”
    Senator Murray’s full remarks from today’s press conference are below and video is HERE:
    “Thank you all for joining me to talk about something people actually rely on every day, they take for granted, and they may not even know the name of—and that is NOAA. NOAA does work that is crucial to our safety, to our economy, and to our everyday lives.
    “People all across the state of Washington count on the National Weather Service, which is at NOAA, when you watch the weather forecast on the news and decide whether it’s a great week for hiking or you check the weather app on your phone and grab your umbrella in Seattle—you are relying on NOAA.
    “Farmers in Yakima Valley rely on NOAA for seasonal outlooks for crop advice—which means our groceries actually rely on it too. When pilots take off from Sea-Tac airport, or boats head out from our ports, they are consulting NOAA data to prepare for a safe journey.
    “When there is a dangerous storm coming, a blizzard, or flooding, or a tsunami, or high winds, local officials and disaster experts use NOAA’s data to help issue public safety guidance, to protect property, and most importantly—to save lives.
    “NOAA is also tracking data that is crucial to understanding climate change and showing us how serious this threat is. When we warn that 2024 was the hottest year on record—it’s NOAA that tracks that data so you can know that and people can raise the alarm.
    “NOAA scientists also play a crucial role protecting our waters, oceans, and our fisheries. The Puget Sound, the Columbia River, they all rely on NOAA. In Washington state, salmon are not just a pillar of our economy—and of the seafood industry that is so prominent in our state—it is also a way of life for our communities, for our tribes, and it’s part of our state identity—so NOAA’s work could not be more important when it comes to that.
    “I think we all know that we can take the weather for granted, we can take our fish and water for granted. But this work is make or break—not just for Washington state, but for our entire country. So, it is beyond alarming to me that right now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are choosing ‘break’ and taking a wrecking ball to NOAA offices.
    “They are firing public servants they’re firing our experts, they’re closing buildings, like at Port Angeles, and they’re throwing a lot of critical work into jeopardy.
    “About half of the National Weather Service offices were already understaffed, and then came this hiring freeze and then came the mass firings—and that was just round one.
    “Musk and Trump have already fired 650 NOAA workers—including dozens of people right here in Washington state—with no rhyme or reason, with no clue or concern how it will seriously harm our economy and our communities.
    “And now we are hearing that NOAA intends to lay off another 10 percent of its workforce—that is more than a thousand critical jobs Trump and Elon are putting on the chopping block.
    “Meanwhile—the problems this has already caused are already mounting. NOAA has already had to stop releasing weather balloons due to some staff shortages.
    “Here in Washington state, I have heard from fired NOAA employees who worked to support Tribal fish and infrastructure projects, another was an engineering technician who worked to make sure that our radar locations and our forecast offices could produce the data that we all need. Others were fired that worked to educate the public about our coast at the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary in Port Angeles—gone.
    “A NOAA employee of the year—someone who helped divert orcas from an oil spill off San Juan Island a few years ago—was fired as a result of the fact that she had been promoted in the last year.
    “And that is just the tip of the iceberg Trump and Musk are steering us into, as you will hear from the people on this call, who did really important work for our country only to have the rug pulled out from under them by a couple of billionaires without a clue. 
    “So, I want to again say personally thank you to each one of you. I am really grateful to your years of public service, what you have done for all of us, and I so appreciate you coming here today.
    “I know you’re all dealing with personal things as well as a result of being laid off—but I appreciate you coming here today to send one more forecast. And that is a forecast that warns a dark cloud is coming if Trump and Musk don’t reverse this course and reverse the unthinkable damage they are doing to NOAA.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Announces “NO” Vote on Dangerous Government Funding Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Announces “NO” Vote on Dangerous Government Funding Legislation

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statement on his intention to vote “NO” on the immensely harmful Continuing Resolution. This vote comes after Washington Republicans halted bipartisan negotiations and left two terrible options, both of which would cause pain for the people of Georgia.
    “This whole conversation is Washington at its worst. Instead of working together to actually improve people’s lives, craven politicians shut the door on bipartisan conversation and reemerged with an ultimatum: vote for a partisan government funding package or let the government shut down. Make no mistake, this government funding bill is bad policy: it would spike grocery prices, cut investments in education and health care, and defund care for servicemembers exposed to burn pits. More troubling, this legislation would give the President additional unchecked power to stifle Georgia’s economy.”  
    “I do not want to see a government shut down, but passing this legislation would cause pain to millions of Georgians. I will be voting “NO” on the Continuing Resolution.” 
    This continuing resolution would:
    Defund the PACT Act, which provides critical care for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances.
    Cut $27 million from health inspectors working to address the avian flu outbreak, which would continue to spike the price of eggs.
    Omit standard Congressional directives outlining how agencies should spend tax payer dollars, giving the President unchecked spending power to hurt Georgians.
    With this new power, the President could cut renewable energy investments, devastating Georgia’s advanced manufacturing economy or the President could choose which Army Corps of Engineers projects to fund, potentially halting the expansion of the Port of Savannah.

    Eliminate $130 million in funding, agreed to on a bipartisan basis in the draft Senate funding bill, for projects  in every corner of Georgia, including construction of new housing in LaGrange and Savannah, clean drinking water improvements in Dade County and Wrens, a new generator for a rural hospital in Appling County, improvements to Abraham Baldwin College’s nursing program, and much more.
    Cut nearly $1 billion from medical research on health conditions impacting service members and their families.
    Disrupts hurricane recovery efforts for South Georgians, who are still reeling from Hurricane Helene.
    Shuts off rental assistance for rural Georgians.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Demand Answers on Trump Admin’s Mass Firings of Federal Workers, Impact on Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Colorado is home to 57,000 federal employees who manage public lands, serve veterans, support wildfire mitigation, and more
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet and Representatives Brittany Pettersen, Diana DeGette, Joe Neguse, and Jason Crow demanded answers from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) about the Trump administration’s recent firings, layoffs, and resignations of federal employees in Colorado.
    “The consequences of mass firings of our federal employees will undermine the mission and services provided by each agency serving our state, harm the economy, and threaten our Colorado way of life,” wrote the Colorado lawmakers.
    The letter comes after the Trump administration illegally fired thousands of federal workers. These cuts threaten essential programs that millions of Coloradans rely on and have caused widespread uncertainty for the federal employees affected.
    Specifically, the lawmakers are requesting more information regarding:
    Federal Employee Firings in Colorado: The number of probationary and non-probationary federal employees fired since January 20, 2025, with breakdowns by agency, location, job level, veteran/disability status, and service length.
    Deferred Resignations: The number of federal employees in Colorado who accepted DOGE’s “deferred resignation” offer, with detailed lists and copies of signed contracts.
    Impact on Federal Lands: The effects of federal workforce downsizing on managing Colorado’s federal lands.
    Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Firings: How DOD civilian employee firings or resignations are affecting military operations at key Colorado bases, with detailed personnel data and signed contracts.
    Workforce Reductions & Public Services: How OPM is ensuring federal workforce cuts don’t disrupt essential programs like Social Security.
    Data Collection & Security: What worker/employer data DOGE is collecting and how it’s being secured, including any firings linked to Elon Musk or DOGE members.
    Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below.
    We write to request information regarding the recent firings, layoffs, and resignations of federal employees in Colorado. Our state is home to 57,000 federal employees who are critical to managing and protecting Colorado’s public lands, ensuring veterans receive their benefits, helping entrepreneurs start businesses, delivering our mail, forecasting weather, conducting research, and more.1 We are deeply concerned about the Trump Administration and Elon Musk’s efforts to indiscriminately cut the workforce in our state. The consequences of mass firings of our federal employees will undermine the mission and services provided by each agency serving our state, harm the economy, and threaten our Colorado way of life.
    In Colorado, we have a year-round wildfire season, and our Wildland Firefighters and other essential U.S. Forest Service employees are our frontline defense and stewards of our public lands. Layoffs of U.S. Forest Service employees threaten life-saving wildfire mitigation efforts, undercut our wildfire prevention and recovery efforts, and impede our robust outdoor recreation industry.
    Colorado is also home to more than 928,000 people over the age of 65—a number that is expected to grow to 1.2 million by 2030. Reductions in the number of Social Security Administration employees in our state could result in delays in processing the Social Security payments that seniors rely on. Additionally, as tax season is underway, IRS layoffs could delay
    hardworking Coloradans from getting their federal tax returns. These are just a few examples of how sweeping Reductions in Force (RIF) and other actions to arbitrarily cut the federal workforce will hurt the constituents we serve.
    Therefore, we request the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) share information about how, and to what extent, the Trump Administration’s actions are impacting our state. Specifically, please respond to the following questions:
    How many probationary federal employees in Colorado have been fired since January 20, 2025? Please share a complete list by agency, county, congressional district, GS level, veterans status, disability status, and average length of service.
    How many non-probationary federal employees in Colorado have been fired since January 20, 2025? Please share a complete list by agency, county, congressional district, GS level, veterans status, disability status, and average length of service.
    How many federal employees in Colorado have accepted the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) “deferred resignation” offer? Please include the following information:
    A complete list by agency, county, congressional district, GS level, veterans status, disability status, and average length of service.
    A copy of the final contract signed by all employees who accepted the “deferred resignation” offer to better understand their benefits and rights.

    How will federal workforce downsizing affect the management of federal lands in Colorado?
    To what extent are the firings of civilian Department of Defense employees impacting operations or military readiness at Peterson Air Force Base, Buckley Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, United States Air Force Academy, United States Northern Command, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, United States Space Command and Fort Carson? In your response, please include a list of DOD employees who have been fired or accepted a deferred resignation offer and include the following information:
    A complete list by military base, congressional district, GS level, veterans status, disability status, and average length of service.
    A copy of the final contract signed by all employees who accepted the “deferred resignation” offer to better understand their benefits and rights.

    How does OPM plan to work with agencies to ensure that the reductions in force do not result in delays or disruptions to the programs and benefits that constituents rely on? For example, is OPM working with the Social Security Administration to ensure that reductions in force do not result in delays or disruptions to individuals receiving their social security checks?
    What types of worker and employer data are being harvested or reviewed by DOGE?
    Additionally, what measures are OPM and DOGE taking to ensure that worker and employer data are secure? Please provide all documents and communications referring or related to each federal employee fired on orders, advice, or recommendation of Elon Musk, or any individual considered to be a member of DOGE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Crapo Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Establish Space National Guard

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Legislation would move space-related Air and Army National Guard members under Space Force
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Mike Crapo reintroduced the Space Guard Establishment Act to create a Space National Guard, incorporating current Air National Guard and Army National Guard members performing space-related duties within the Space Force command structure.
     “A dedicated Space Force reserve component will make sure our National Guard space experts have a clear path to continue their service to community and country,” said Hickenlooper. “It’s a win-win for service members and our leadership in space!”
    “Guardsmen and Reservists are often highly specialized and trained individuals tasked with combatting significant threats from global threats such as China and Russia, and those who work on our space capabilities are no different,” said Crapo. “Establishing a Space National Guard will better prepare and streamline the work of our existing space personnel to maintain readiness to respond to and thwart attacks from our adversaries.”
    When the Space Force was established in 2019, active-duty service members responsible for space missions were moved out of the Air Force and placed under the authority of the Space Force. No corresponding change was made to ensure that National Guard members working on space also fall under Space Force authority. The proposed legislation would correct this organizational inconsistency.
    “Air National Guard fighter wings operate at 1/3rd the cost of their active-duty counterparts but still provide the same ‘fight-tonight’ capability. By acting as a retention net for talent exiting active duty and serving as a cost-effective model to both develop and retain fighter pilots, the Air National Guard presents the nation with an unrivaled value proposition. Throw in the secondary uses of Air Guardsman domestically such as wildfire mitigation, homeland airspace defense, and manpower for civil support all for a fraction of the cost of an active-duty Wing; the Air Guard’s value proposition truly is unparallelled. By providing 30% of the fighter force, for 1/3rd the cost, Air National Guard fighter wings operate as a shining example of efficient and effective use of taxpayer dollars. It’s simple, we provide more for less, without sacrificing capability,” said Major General Clellan.
    The Department of the Air Force, Space Force, and the National Guard Bureau have already developed a plan to establish a Space National Guard, but that plan has yet to be implemented. There are more than 1,000 National Guard members performing space-related duties from within the Air National Guard. However, organizational problems consistently arise now that all other space service members fall under the Space Force.
    A dedicated National Guard for the Space Force would help talented active-duty Space Force personnel transition to civilian careers, ensuring they are able to continue serving their country as well as their states. This bill would also streamline funding, and allow for better implementation of the mobilization processes, inspection systems, and policies and culture of the Space Force.
    The bill would override Legislative Proposal (LP) 480, which moved Air National Guard units with space missions into the U.S. Space Force without obtaining a governor’s consent prior to the transfer.
    Hickenlooper led 124 members of Congress in a bipartisan letter urging the House and Senate Armed Services Committees to adopt language in the fiscal year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would preserve the authority of governors to oversee National Guard forces within their states. He also led another letter with 85 other members of Congress opposing the inclusion of LP 480 in the NDAA and joined in support of the National Governors Association Council of Governors calling on the Department of Defense to retract LP 480. In addition, Hickenlooper led 31 of his colleagues in submitting an amendment to the NDAA to permit the transfer only with gubernatorial approval. However, the amendment was not included in the final package for the Senate bill and did not have the opportunity for floor consideration.
    The Space Guard Establishment Act is supported by the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS).
    Representatives Crow and Boebert introduced companion legislation in the House.
    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein and Emergency Management Officials Encourage Western North Carolinians to Apply for Private Roads and Bridges Repair Program

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein and Emergency Management Officials Encourage Western North Carolinians to Apply for Private Roads and Bridges Repair Program

    Governor Josh Stein and Emergency Management Officials Encourage Western North Carolinians to Apply for Private Roads and Bridges Repair Program
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Stein and emergency management officials are encouraging western North Carolinians to apply for assistance to repair private roads and bridges. Hurricane Helene caused unprecedented damages due to western North Carolina’s unique topography, including to more than 8,000 private roads and bridges. This program aims to assist property owners repair privately owned roads and bridges to reinstate access to emergency services, school buses, and other transportation.

    “Helene caused significant damage to over 8,000 private roads and bridges that often serve as the only access route for many ambulances, fire trucks, mail delivery vehicles, school buses, and for people to get to school, work, and run errands,” said Governor Josh Stein. “If left unrepaired, these critical private roads and bridges pose a substantial risk to public safety, including preventing repairs to people’s homes. If you need bridge or road repair, I encourage you to apply through this portal.”

    Many private roads, culverts, pipes, and bridges were damaged or destroyed following Hurricane Helene’s impacts across North Carolina. On January 2, 2025, the Governor issued Executive Order #2, which directed North Carolina Emergency Management to administer state assistance for the repair of private roads and bridges. The North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB) was established to provide that assistance.  

    To address these issues, Governor Stein tasked North Carolina Emergency Management to administer state assistance to repair private roads and bridges, and state officials are working closely with the legislature to advocate for additional funding. NCEM is working to contract services from vendors to facilitate these repairs. To help expedite this program, NCEM has established a webpage and interest form to allow property owners to express their interest in the program.

    Disaster survivors are encouraged to also contact the North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program if they need other resources and assistance with their recovery. More information is available at www.ncdps.gov/helene/dcm .

    ### 

    Mar 14, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cutting-edge air quality monitoring strengthens public health nationwide

    Source: US Government research organizations

    A new, advanced air quality measurement network provides unprecedented details about the air we breathe

    The fires that devastated many in Los Angeles in January 2025 not only scarred the landscape but also changed the air.

    A day after the Eaton fire burned through Altadena, California, chlorine levels in the atmosphere reached approximately 40 times the normal amount, while lead peaked at over 100 times the usual level. Atmospheric chlorine can cause respiratory irritation and distress; lead can cause damage to the brain and central nervous system.

    “The Los Angeles fires burned homes and cars, which contain electronics, plastics and other synthetic materials that can give off toxic chemicals when they burn,” said Nga Lee “Sally” Ng, a professor at Georgia Tech.

    Ng leads the U.S. National Science Foundation-supported Atmospheric Science and Chemistry mEasurement NeTwork (ASCENT), which includes 12 air quality measurement sites nationwide. Each site has state-of-the-art instruments that help us understand aerosols, or tiny particles in the atmosphere. The network is constantly analyzing the chemical constituents of aerosols with a diameter smaller than 2.5 micrometers, referred to as PM2.5, which contribute to more than 90% of the adverse health impacts associated with air pollution.

    Researchers in the ASCENT team analyzed data from three locations across Southern California during and after the fire to reveal that certain aerosols carried a unique chemical signature associated with burning synthetic materials in urban fires.

    “We now have a very powerful magnifying glass to see what aerosols are entering the atmosphere and how those aerosols change as they travel across the landscape,” Ng said.

    A few months ago, in late September 2024, Ng and her team analyzed ASCENT data following a fire that broke out at the Conyers chemical plant in Georgia’s Rockdale County. The instruments showed a sharp rise in chlorine- and organic-containing aerosols associated with the chemical fire, although the PM2.5 levels did not rise above U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. The team was able to track those aerosols as they traveled to the Atlanta metro area and differentiate them from Atlanta’s usual aerosols.

    “We provide ASCENT data to the public in real time so that people know what’s in the air we’re breathing,” Ng said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Holi

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Holi:

    “B.C. will be a little brighter today as people throughout the province celebrate Holi.

    “The Hindu Festival of Colour welcomes the beginning of spring and celebrates good overcoming evil, new life and eternal love.

    “People around the world celebrate by having bonfires, enjoying traditional foods and playfully throwing coloured powder and water at each other.

    “B.C. is home to a vibrant and welcoming Hindu community, and there are several Holi events throughout the province that are open to all.

    “These celebrations offer the perfect opportunity to learn more about the Hindu faith and culture, have some fun with family and friends, and let the bright colours bring joy and peace to all.

    “I wish everyone who is celebrating a happy Holi.

    “Holi Hai!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eight GoodFellas Gang Members and Associates Charged with Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering, Including Attempted Murder

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    An indictment was unsealed yesterday in the Northern District of Georgia charging eight members and associates of the GoodFellas Gang for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in attempted murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking in and around Atlanta.

    According to the indictment, the GoodFellas are a violent gang that heavily recruits members in Atlanta neighborhoods, local jails, and Georgia Department of Corrections facilities. Members engage in violence to enhance the violent reputation of the gang.

    As alleged in the indictment, six of the defendants shot and attempted to murder four victims. Additionally, two GoodFellas members and associates allegedly attempted a carjacking and assaulted three victims with a dangerous weapon.

    Frank Hubbert, also known as Capo Frank, 38; Montavis Jones, also known as Nigel Woods, Jitt, and Git, 37; Darian Sheppard, also known as Lil D, 27; De’Andre Jackson, also known as Gen, Glock, and Glizzy, 22; Ephram Marshall, also known as Lil E, 24; Tahj Rankine, also known as Biggz, 26; and Leonunte Carson, also known as Lil Tae, 22, are each charged with multiple counts of attempted murder in aid of racketeering and with using a firearm during these crimes.

    Hubbert and Ahday Nelson-George, also known as Baby K, 25, are each charged with multiple counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking.

    Seven of the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison; Nelson-George faces a maximum penalty of 75 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia, and Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Fulton County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office; Georgia Department of Corrections; and the Atlanta Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Sarah J. Rasalam of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Renaud for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Eight GoodFellas Gang Members and Associates Charged with Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering, Including Attempted Murder

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    An indictment was unsealed yesterday in the Northern District of Georgia charging eight members and associates of the GoodFellas Gang for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in attempted murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking in and around Atlanta.

    According to the indictment, the GoodFellas are a violent gang that heavily recruits members in Atlanta neighborhoods, local jails, and Georgia Department of Corrections facilities. Members engage in violence to enhance the violent reputation of the gang.

    As alleged in the indictment, six of the defendants shot and attempted to murder four victims. Additionally, two GoodFellas members and associates allegedly attempted a carjacking and assaulted three victims with a dangerous weapon.

    Frank Hubbert, also known as Capo Frank, 38; Montavis Jones, also known as Nigel Woods, Jitt, and Git, 37; Darian Sheppard, also known as Lil D, 27; De’Andre Jackson, also known as Gen, Glock, and Glizzy, 22; Ephram Marshall, also known as Lil E, 24; Tahj Rankine, also known as Biggz, 26; and Leonunte Carson, also known as Lil Tae, 22, are each charged with multiple counts of attempted murder in aid of racketeering and with using a firearm during these crimes.

    Hubbert and Ahday Nelson-George, also known as Baby K, 25, are each charged with multiple counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted carjacking.

    Seven of the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison; Nelson-George faces a maximum penalty of 75 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia, and Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Fulton County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office; Georgia Department of Corrections; and the Atlanta Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Sarah J. Rasalam of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Renaud for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District Deputy Chief Donald R. Kammerich

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MARCH 14, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District Deputy Chief Donald R. Kammerich, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Cooper County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

    “Donald Kammerich’s life was dedicated to his family, hard work and giving back to his Cooper County community,” Governor Mike Kehoe said. “For over 35 years, he put himself at risk to protect others from fires and emergencies as a volunteer with the Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District. He rose to the rank of Deputy Chief because of his bravery, reliability, and unshakeable commitment to his neighbors and community. Claudia and I are keeping his family and fellow firefighters in our prayers.”    

    On March 10, Deputy Chief Kammerich, 64, and the Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District responded to and extinguished two different natural cover fires in the late morning and afternoon. Kammerich suffered a medical emergency in his home and passed away that evening.

    The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Deputy Chief Kammerich is laid to rest. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Rumble Announces Timing of Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings Release and Conference Call as well as Investor Conference Participation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Rumble’s Founder and CEO Chris Pavlovski to Hold a Post-Earnings Call Live Stream with Matt Kohrs 

    LONGBOAT KEY, FL, March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rumble Inc. (NASDAQ: RUM) (“Rumble” or the “Company”), the video-sharing platform and cloud services provider, today announced that it will release financial results for the fiscal quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024 before market open on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The Company will host a conference call on the same day at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

    Access to the live webcast and replay of the conference call, along with related earnings release materials, will be available here and on Rumble’s Investor Relations website at investors.rumble.com.

    Following the earnings call, Chris Pavlovski, Chairman, Founder and CEO of Rumble, will be interviewed by Matt Kohrs. The interview will be streamed live on the Matt Kohrs Rumble channel at rumble.com/MattKohrs using Rumble’s streaming platform, Rumble Studio. Viewers will be able to submit questions to Mr. Pavlovski in the comments section of the live stream.

    Upcoming Investor Conference

    Rumble management will attend the 37th Annual ROTH Conference which will be held March 16-18, 2025, at The Laguna Cliffs Marriott in Dana Point, CA and participate in a fireside chat on Monday, March 17 at 1:00 p.m. PT. The fireside chat will be available in the Company Events section of Rumble’s Investor Relations website at investors.rumble.com.

    ABOUT RUMBLE

    Rumble is a high-growth video platform and cloud services provider that is creating an independent infrastructure. Rumble’s mission is to restore the internet to its roots by making it free and open once again. For more information, visit: corp.rumble.com.

    For investor inquiries, please contact:

    Shannon Devine

    MZ Group, MZ North America

    203-741-8811

    investors@rumble.com

    Source: Rumble Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Champion Safe’s 2025 Triumph Series Gains Dealer Attention with Advanced Security Enhancements

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Provo, UT, March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The 2025 Triumph Series from Champion Safe Company, a leading manufacturer of premium safes and wholly-owned subsidiary of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), America’s Patriotic Brand (americanrebel.com), has been generating strong dealer interest since its January release, as retailers recognize the latest upgrades set it apart from competing high-security safes. Known for its elite-level security and fire protection, the Triumph Series is now even more formidable thanks to key feature enhancements.

    For 2025, the Triumph Series introduces several major upgrades, including:

    NEW Tempered Glass Relocker System – Now available on the Triumph Series, this advanced security feature automatically engages a secondary relock mechanism if the safe is attacked, significantly enhancing burglary resistance.

    NEW 3/16” Steel Body – A thicker steel body reinforces the safe’s durability and outperforms many competitor models.

    UPGRADED Fire Rating: 1750°F for Two Hours – Now offering some of the highest fire protection in its class.

    NEW Door Adjustment System – A more user-friendly mechanism that allows for precise fit and improved long-term security.

    The Triumph Series remains one of the strongest safes available, thanks to its 5½-inch-thick Double-Step™ door, four-way active boltworks, and Champion’s exclusive Diamond-Embedded Armor Plate™. The high-capacity gun racks, plush interior, adjustable shelving, and motion-activated LED lighting further enhance convenience and usability.

    “Dealers are recognizing that the Triumph Series offers superior security and build quality compared to similarly priced competitors,” said Tom Mihalek, CEO of Champion Safe Company. “By upgrading the steel body, adding the glass relocker, and increasing the fire rating, we’ve positioned Triumph as one of the most secure and feature-rich safes in its class.”

    With multiple sizes and finishes, including high-gloss Black, Ivory, and Platinum, the Triumph Series offers unmatched security, superior craftsmanship, and a refined design.

    For more information about the Triumph Series and to find a dealer, visit ChampionSafe.com.

    —

    About Champion Safe Company
    championsafe.com

    Champion Safe Company has been at the forefront of safe manufacturing for over 25 years, offering a range of high-quality safes designed for ultimate security and fire protection. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Champion Safes are trusted by homeowners, gun owners, and businesses across the nation.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of the 2025 product innovations, actual revenues for fiscal 2025, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contacts
    ir@americanrebel.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, law enforcement partners arrest more than 200 alien offenders during enhanced gang operation in Northern Virginia

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    CHANTILLY, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and law enforcement partners apprehended 214 illegal aliens during an enhanced targeted enforcement operation focusing on transnational organized crime, gangs, and egregious illegal alien offenders in Northern Virginia March 1 to 13.

    “Our communities in Virginia are safer today because our law enforcement officers stood between them and the danger. During this enforcement operation, ICE and our law enforcement partners targeted the most dangerous alien offenders in some of the most gang-infested neighborhoods in Northern Virginia, and this resulted in 214 arrests,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russ Hott. “Over 200 arrests in such a brief time is an impressive number by any measure. It is truly awe-inspiring to see what can be accomplished with the level of cooperation shared among our federal, state and local law enforcement partners. Everyone was truly invested in the success of this joint operation. ICE will continue our mission to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our Washington, D.C. and Virginia communities.”

    ICE and their law enforcement partners targeted transnational criminal organizations known to operate in the Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C. These organizations include the notorious MS-13 and 18th Street gangs.

    “The agents and officers involved in this enhanced operation truly made a difference in the Northern Virginia communities. The apprehension of 214 alien offenders is impressive and was only made possible through strong partnerships,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C. acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck. “The level of dedication to this operation by the entire team was impressive to witness. Each of our law enforcement partners brought their own expertise to the mission. This was truly a team effort. ICE will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle transnational criminal organizations working in our neighborhoods.”

    “The level of support ICE received from our partner law enforcement organizations was inspiring,” said Hott. “In the spirit of illicit gang activity, we are making gang members an offer they can’t refuse; leave the United States now. If you don’t, we will find you, and there will be consequences. We will arrest and prosecute you to the full extent of the law.”

    Among those arrested during the enhanced targeted operation include:

    • A 26-year-old Salvadoran alien and member of MS-13 previously convicted for malicious wounding and larceny.
    • A 46-year-old, previously removed Salvadoran alien and member of MS-13 previously convicted for carrying a concealed weapon, trespassing, illegal re-entry after removal, and disorderly conduct.
    • A 40-year-old Salvadoran alien and member of MS-13 who is wanted by authorities in El Salvador for aggravated extortion.
    • A 37-year-old Jamaican alien previously convicted for second-degree murder and use of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
    • A 46-year-old Mexican alien previously convicted for indecent liberties with a minor and soliciting a minor for prostitution.
    • A 27-year-old Honduran alien previously convicted for object sexual penetration. The alien is currently detained pending removal proceedings.

    Partner law enforcement participating in the operation were: U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia; FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Office of the Governor; the Office of the Attorney General; Virginia State Police; and Virginia Department of Corrections.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROWashington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Hiring Local Residents to Support Wildfires Recovery

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Hiring Local Residents to Support Wildfires Recovery

    FEMA Hiring Local Residents to Support Wildfires Recovery

    LOS ANGELES – FEMA has launched a hiring process to continue its support of California’s recovery from the Eaton and Palisades wildfires in Los Angeles County

    California residents who are interested in a temporary position with FEMA and a variety of emergency management functions can apply through USAJobs

    gov

    Applicants will be called for interviews, and those hired will join a recovery team already in place, composed of local and federal workers, voluntary agencies, and community organizations

    The following departments have positions available in Los Angeles County: Acquisitions, Civil Rights, External Affairs, Disaster Field Training Operations, Hazard Mitigation, Human Resources, Individual Assistance, Interagency Recovery Coordination, Information Technology, and Public Assistance and Planning

    Working for the federal government has many perks, including excellent benefits, flexible work schedules, opportunities for professional growth, stability, and lateral movement across agencies

    Interested applicants can visit USAJobs

    gov to apply

    For questions about a position or if you need additional information, please email: FEMA-DR4856-LocalHire@fema

    dhs

    gov

    FEMA does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor

    Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during any part of the hiring process, should contact FEMA-DR4856-LocalHire@fema

    dhs

    gov

    Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

    alberto

    pillot
    Thu, 03/13/2025 – 22:53

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Additional Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Additional Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

    Additional Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    — Additional counties in the commonwealth of Kentucky have been added to the major disaster declaration for the FEMA Public Assistance program for Kentucky’s severe storms and flooding in February

     Estill and Simpson counties added to the flooding disaster declaration for assistance under the Public Assistance program for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance

    Adair, Allen, Ballard, Barren, Bell, Boyd, Breathitt, Butler, Caldwell, Carlisle, Clay, Crittenden, Cumberland, Elliott, Floyd, Green, Hancock, Hart, Harlan, Hickman, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Letcher, Livingston, Marshall, Martin, McLean, Metcalfe, Monroe, Morgan, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle, Spencer, Union and Wayne counties added for all categories of Public Assistance, including direct federal assistance

    Commonwealth, local and territorial governments, and certain private-nonprofit organizations in these designated counties are eligible for assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities

     Learn more about the Public Assistance program

    For the latest information about Kentucky’s recovery, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4860

    Follow FEMA on X at x

    com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook

    com/fema

    sarah

    cleary
    Thu, 03/13/2025 – 20:46

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-42 CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL FIREWORKS RESULTS IN SENTENCING FOR TWO MEN; CHARGES FOR ONE WOMAN IN SEPARATE STINGS

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-42 CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL FIREWORKS RESULTS IN SENTENCING FOR TWO MEN; CHARGES FOR ONE WOMAN IN SEPARATE STINGS

    Posted on Mar 13, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

     

     

    CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL FIREWORKS RESULTS IN SENTENCING FOR TWO MEN; CHARGES FOR ONE WOMAN IN SEPARATE STINGS

     

    News Release 2025-42

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                               

    March 13, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – The Department of the Attorney General successfully prosecuted two men for selling illegal aerial fireworks in the community prior to the new year, following law enforcement sting operations to identify and arrest distributors of illegal fireworks.

     

    Wolfgang Clark pled no contest today and was granted a deferred plea to two counts of felony fireworks offenses, in violation of sections 132D-14 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. On February 19, 2025, Daniel C. Young pled no contest and was granted a deferred plea to two counts of felony fireworks offenses, in violation of sections 132D-14 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes.

     

    A violation for each offense currently is a class C felony offense that carries up to five years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine. Both defendants were granted a deferred plea over the state’s objection, are required to pay a fine of $5,000, and will be under court supervision for four years. 

     

    In addition to sting operations, the Illegal Fireworks Task Force is also working to interdict shipments of fireworks entering the state through Hawaiʻi’s ports. On March 11, 2025, Explicit Pyrotechnics, LLC., and its owner, Josephine Quintanilla, also known as Josephine Langas and Josephine Henderson, was charged with Importation of Fireworks Without a Valid License or Permit, a class C felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The requisite federal and state permits are required to import fireworks into the state. While in possession of a federal permit, Explicit Pyrotechnics, LLC., is alleged to have imported fireworks into the state without first obtaining a state permit. 

     

    “The judgments in these cases are a step in the right direction for holding distributors accountable,” said Mike Lambert, director of the Department of Law Enforcement. “If we are able to increase the penalties for fireworks distributors this legislative session, the Department of Law Enforcement is confident that we can reduce the availability of fireworks in our community.”

                                                         

    The cases were investigated by the Illegal Fireworks Task Force, which included the Hawaiʻi Department of Law Enforcement and the Honolulu Police Department.  The cases are prosecuted by the Criminal Justice Division of the Department of the Attorney General.

     

    “I want to extend my sincerest thanks to the law enforcement agencies involved in the Illegal Fireworks Task Force, as well as to my Criminal Justice Division staff, for all their hard work investigating these illegal operators and bringing them to justice,” said Attorney General Anne Lopez. “Together we will do everything in our power to enforce the law so that what happened on New Year’s Eve never happens again.”

     

    Criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

     

    # # #

     

    Media contacts:

    Dave Day
     Special Assistant to the Attorney General
     Office: 808-586-1284
     Email: [email protected]
     Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
     Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office:     808-586-1252
    Cell:     808-379-9249
     Email: [email protected] 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 3.13.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 13, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Andrew King, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Data Operations Strategy at the Office of Data and Innovation. King has been Manager of the Data Operations Section at the California Air Resources Board since 2023, and has held several positions since 2018, including Staff Air Pollution Specialist, Air Pollution Specialist for the Transportation Analysis Section, and Air Pollution Specialist for the Criteria Pollutant Inventory Section. He was an Economist at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control from 2017 to 2018. King was a Managing Consultant at Red Peak Economic Consulting from 2013 to 2017. He was a Senior Accountability Analyst at the California Charter Schools Association from 2012 to 2013. King earned a Master of Public Policy degree from the University of Southern California, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $168,468. King is a Democrat.

    Lavelle Parker, of Rancho Cucamonga, has been appointed Warden of California Institution for Women, where he has been serving as Acting Warden since 2024 and was Chief Deputy Warden in 2024. Lavelle was Chief Deputy Warden at California Rehabilitation Center from 2020 to 2024. He was Associate Warden at California Institution for Men from 2012 to 2020. Lavelle held several positions at California State Prison, Los Angeles from 1992 to 2012, including Correctional Counselor III, Correctional Captain, Correctional Counselor II Supervisor, Correctional Counsel I, and Correctional Officer. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $193,524. Parker is registered without party preference.

    Yolanda Franco-Clausen, of Hayward, has been appointed to the California Sex Offender Management Board. Franco-Clausen has served as a Police Officer for the City of Palo Alto Police Department since 2016. They were a Job Development Coordinator at Employment and Community Options in 2016. Franco-Clausen was the Co-Founder and Executive Director of PLAYNICE Productions, Inc., from 2013 to 2014. They are a member of the Palo Alto Police Officers Association. Franco-Clausen earned a Juris Doctor degree from Northwestern California School of Law. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Franco-Clausen is a Democrat.

    Sarah Metz, of Alameda, has been appointed to the California Sex Offender Management Board. Dr. Metz has been Director of the Division of Trauma Recovery Services in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco since 2019. She was a Staff Psychologist and Clinical Coordinator at the University of California, San Francisco Trauma Recovery Center from 2015 to 2019. Dr. Metz was a Clinical Psychologist at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System from 2011 to 2015, where she was previously a Healthcare Specialist from 2010 to 2011. She earned a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Loyola College in Maryland, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Towson University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Dr. Metz is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Mar 13, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is expanding its collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory to leverage cutting-edge technologies to protect public health and help Los Angeles rebuild.  LOS ANGELES – As part of the state’s ongoing actions to support…

    Mar 12, 2025

    News What you need to know: Californians are urged to take precautions now as severe weather sets in throughout the state. SACRAMENTO – With severe weather expected to impact much of California today through Friday, Governor Gavin Newsom and state emergency officials…

    Mar 12, 2025

    News What you need to know: California continues to lead in technology as home to the majority of the nation’s top AI companies. SACRAMENTO – Home to Silicon Valley and the birthplace of the tech industry, California continues to dominate this sector as the leader in…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-Maui and Kaua’i Streams Flowing at Record-Low Levels, March 13, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release-Maui and Kaua’i Streams Flowing at Record-Low Levels, March 13, 2025

    Posted on Mar 13, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    MAUI AND KAUA‘I STREAMS FLOWING AT RECORD-LOW LEVELS

    Recent Rain has Helped, but Drought Conditions Expected to Persist

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 13, 2025 

    ALAKA‘I PLATEAU, Kaua‘i – To the untrained eye the water level in Kawaikōī Stream, which drains a portion of the vast Alaka‘i Plateau on Kaua‘i, looks fine. The trained eyes and stream flow measurements by hydrologists with the state Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) tell a far different story.

    “This stream is flowing at record low flows for the last seven to nine months. Right now, we’re at about 20% of normal flow for this time of year, which does not bode well for the dry season. This is typically the wettest part of the year,” explains Dr. Aryon Strauch, CWRM’s lead hydrologist.

    Without significant rainfall between now and the start of the “normal” dry season, this winter’s drought conditions across much of Hawai‘i are expected to worsen significantly.

    “We are seeing record-low flows in terms of the entire period of record on Kawaikōī, that’s about 109 years. In some of the East Maui streams, 105 years. But we’ve not seen low flows like this across the state to this extent ever before,” Strauch said.

    Some streams are already completely dry and that’s affecting water availability for drinking water supplies, for traditional and customary practices, and for agriculture.

    Water managers like Mike Faye (pronounced fi-yah), of the Kekaha Agriculture Association, will be faced with distributing a dwindling supply of water to ag users and unless conditions improve, expect some to be left high and dry.

    “Our role is to take care of the infrastructure which consists of two ditch systems that come out of the mountains in Kōkeʻe – the Kekaha ditch and the in Kōkeʻe ditch,” Faye remarked. The association also operates two hydroelectric plants which it maintains, along with 30 miles of power lines and 30 miles of roads. If water flows continue to drop, the power they produce could cease along with water delivery to the nine leasees on mauka lands above Kekaha and the Mānā Plain. That is 13,000 acres in total, which formerly supported Kauaʻi’s plantation-era sugar industry. The agriculture tenants are licensed through the state’s Agribusiness Development Corporation.

    Strauch added, “One of the benefits of having long-term data sets is being able to talk about the severity of the drought conditions being observed relative to 100 years of record, and by explaining that these are unprecedented flows.”

    “For the last nine months, we’ve only had maybe 12 days of peak flow conditions, which is very unusual, and we can compare that to a normal year, where we might have 60 days of peak flow conditions. The availability of water is just severely limited. Despite the water flowing in the stream, it’s just not flowing very much,” Strauch said.

    While water from the Kōkeʻe ditch continues to spill into Pu‘u Lua Reservoir, even without measurements, Strauch and his team can tell the volume is quite low. Every day the shoreline expands as water levels in the popular trout-fishing spot continue to drop.

    Using sophisticated instruments and data from permanent stream flow measurement stations, the CWRM team regularly monitors conditions of 80 waterways statewide. The outlook is particularly bleak in west Kaua‘i and in east and west Maui.

    “Honokōhau Stream, in West Maui, the medium flow for this time of year is about 20 cubic feet per second (CFS), or about 12 to 13 million gallons per day,” Strauch said. Last week the stream was flowing at eight to nine CFS, or five and a half to six million gallons per day, which was, a third or 25% of normal flows. Recent rains have improved the Honokōhau Stream flow to 11.8 CFS.

    Wailuku River in ʻĪao Valley saw improved stream flow over the past week, moving from 15 CFS to 22 CFS. “Normal flow is about 25 and again, these flows are supplying water for drinking water supply. They’re supplying water for in-stream values, and it becomes a real challenge to manage water demand and water availability when we’re trying to protect a number of competing public trust uses,” Strauch said.

    Rain-rich East Maui is experiencing the same thing. Record-breaking low stream flows. Maui County has already imposed various stages of water conservation because of the current water shortage and for what’s predicted across the summer and into the next wet season.

    Strauch concluded, “Obviously this impacts people who are directly reliant on the streams. But long-term agriculture and other off-stream uses that may not be the priority of the public trust uses of water, they’re going to suffer, because we just don’t have enough water right now to meet the demands.”  He hopes late winter rains will continue to improve the water situation statewide, but in case that doesn’t happen, water conservation will be key, he said.

    # # #

     

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

    HD video – West Kaua‘i stream flow conditions (March 6, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ma0woqqwwcenbqlu4u2zy/Drought-West-Kaua-i-Stream-Flow-Conditions-March-6-2025.mov?rlkey=nfc61ohx8kbmrgd88n2yigqg3&st=s1rdzr7c&dl=0

    (Shot sheet/transcription attached)

    HD video – East Maui stream flow conditions (March 3, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/dpuw7g63xpx6chkstx692/Maui-Nui-stream-flow-conditions.mov?rlkey=1cks70yioim4sbw0au7neqvq1&st=d9y5ai26&dl=0

    Photographs – West Kaua‘i stream flow conditions (March 6, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/un2u70jhbuugru7d4pgw9/APw2XLO0V6pRkzGfqP1vzyI?rlkey=ej79e4oq6qxbga73zcs5n4p8h&st=yjnqgsay&dl=0

    Photographs – East Maui stream flow conditions (March 3, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/96ukxmrob9eeusd36k7vr/AB02qGEIHMfeR2P-I26zxkQ?rlkey=9rsl5gid0t5t7qktz2eeplkod&st=p2iuqx5p&dl=0

    U.S. Geological Survey water data:

    https://Dashboard.waterdata.USGS.gov

    Media Contact:

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396

    Email: Dlnr.comms@hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California deploys cutting-edge technologies for LA fires recovery with expanded NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory partnership

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 13, 2025

    What you need to know: California is expanding its collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory to leverage cutting-edge technologies to protect public health and help Los Angeles rebuild. 

    LOS ANGELES – As part of the state’s ongoing actions to support Los Angeles County’s wildfire recovery, Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that the state is expanding its collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to monitor air and water using cutting-edge technologies. 

    The collaboration will provide the state with additional data on water and air quality – helping California protect communities in and around the Palisades and Eaton fire areas.

    “California and JPL are once again demonstrating the power of science, technology and partnership to address real-world challenges. While JPL is known for exploring the farthest reaches of our solar system, their scientists – many directly impacted by these fires – have turned their attention toward helping their neighbors, demonstrating that innovation and collaboration are vital for accelerating recovery.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    JPL is the largest employer of those impacted by the Eaton Fire. In the weeks following the firestorm, the Governor visited the NASA JPL facility in La Cañada Flintridge for a conversation with employees impacted by the Eaton Fire. Nearly 200 JPL employees lost their homes or were displaced due to damage to their homes.

    How it works

    By harnessing advanced data and imaging tools, California and JPL are taking proactive steps to protect public health, strengthen resilience, and accelerate recovery efforts for Altadena and the Palisades communities. This work includes:  

    Monitoring air

    • Air quality monitoring: JPL is establishing a new monitoring site in Altadena to measure the size and composition of particulate matter (PM), including lead, black carbon arsenic, and other metals, in the ambient air, along with a wide variety of gaseous air pollutants. This new site complements an existing rooftop monitoring site on the JPL campus.
    • Collaboration with CARB: JPL and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) are collaborating on PM filter sample collection and analysis for metal contents.
    • Air quality sensor network: JPL is coordinating on a Caltech-led project, called PHOENIX, which is deploying a dense air quality monitoring network focused on measuring airborne dust and ash across Altadena and neighboring communities, including one on JPL’s campus. The network provides real-time observations of air quality in the region, giving community members and agencies leading clean-up efforts data that enable a continuous assessment of dust-mitigation and management efforts in the area. Data from these sensors will be shared with CARB.
       

    Monitoring water

    • Water sampling: JPL is providing satellite imaging to support ocean water quality monitoring efforts led by the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board and the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project. The satellite imagery helps to identify the location of runoff discharge plumes, ensuring effective monitoring.
    • X-band radar deployment: California and JPL are coordinating the deployment of X-band radar to gather data on storm structures, which can be used to protect watersheds and help monitor post-fire debris flows.
    • Aerial data collection: JPL has flown its Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer-3 (AVIRIS-3) over the burn scars to measure the distribution of ash in the air and on the ground. This data will guide future sampling and recovery efforts in impacted areas. 

    Track all of LA’s recovery at CA.gov/LAfires. 

    Expanding California and JPL’s ongoing partnership 

    Previous collaborations between California and JPL have produced innovative new technologies to address California’s natural resource and environmental challenges. In 2023, JPL, California, and other partners created VIRGO – Visualization of In-situ and Remotely-Sensed Groundwater Observations – an online mapping tool from NASA that enables water managers and end-users to explore groundwater changes in California.  

    The NASA facility also partnered with CAL FIRE to use soil moisture sensors to support the state’s fire management and prevention efforts. JPL helped California launch pollution-tracking satellites last year and partners with the state on drought monitoring.

    Building on existing air monitoring efforts

    The new collaboration builds upon existing efforts being carried out by the South Coast Air Quality Management District, with support from CARB, which includes deploying highly advanced mobile air monitors and community air monitoring for toxics to complement the robust regional monitoring network.

    Altogether, the district’s air monitoring stations in the Eaton and Palisades burn areas, along with other regulatory air monitors across the greater Los Angeles area are collecting vital air pollution and toxics data. Initial monitoring shows levels do not pose an immediate risk to public health. Track LA’s recovery, including the latest air quality results, at CA.gov/LAfires. 

    Recent news

    Mar 12, 2025

    News What you need to know: Californians are urged to take precautions now as severe weather sets in throughout the state. SACRAMENTO – With severe weather expected to impact much of California today through Friday, Governor Gavin Newsom and state emergency officials…

    Mar 12, 2025

    News What you need to know: California continues to lead in technology as home to the majority of the nation’s top AI companies. SACRAMENTO – Home to Silicon Valley and the birthplace of the tech industry, California continues to dominate this sector as the leader in…

    Mar 11, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Adele Burnes, of Berkeley, has been appointed Chief at the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Burnes has been Acting Chief at the Division of Apprenticeship Standards since 2024,…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Charged with Firearm Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment charging a Mexican national, in the United State illegally, with firearm and immigration crimes.

    Gerardo Lopez-Gutierrez, 44, of Salt Lake County, Utah, was initially charged by complaint on March 6, 2025.

    According to court documents, on March 4, 2025, Lopez-Gutierrez was approached by law enforcement for unlawful camping. During the interaction, Lopez-Gutierrez was in possession of a Ruger AR-556 rifle and a records check showed the firearm was reported stolen out of Moab, Utah.  Lopez-Gutierrez is restricted from possessing a firearm after he was convicted of re-entry of a previously removed alien in the District of Arizona. As a result, Lopez-Gutierrez was taken into custody.

    Lopez-Gutierrez is charged with felon in possession of a firearm, alien in possession of a firearm, and illegal re-entry of a previously removed alien. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for March 14, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    Assistant United States Attorney Victoria K. McFarland of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
     

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada Supports Increased Indigenous Participation in British Columbia’s Natural Resources Economy

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Natural Resources Canada has provided $6.2 million in investment to seven Indigenous-led projects in development in British Columbia through the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships (INRP) Program.

     

    Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships (INRP) program

    The INRP program aims to increase the economic participation of Indigenous communities and organizations in the development of natural resource projects that will increasingly be needed in the clean economy.

    Budget 2022 allocated $80 million over five years starting in 2022–2023 to contribute funding for projects that increase the capacity of Indigenous communities to engage in, benefit from, actively participate in and capitalize on economic development opportunities in the natural resource sectors; and increase investment and collaboration between Indigenous Peoples and other natural resource development stakeholders, including governments, industry and non-governmental organizations.

    Projects:   

    First Nations Climate Initiative/Nisga’a, Haisla, Metlakatla, Halfway River First Nations

    $3.75 million to the First Nations Climate Initiative (FNCI), a five-year strategic plan to deliver on the Climate Action Plan (with a total project cost of $9.8 million), which aims to position B.C. First Nations as leaders in the decarbonized natural resources economy.

    Fort Nelson First Nation            

    $1.2 million in funding to Fort Nelson First Nation to develop the Tu Deh-Kah (TDK) project. This 100-percent Indigenous-owned project will be the first geothermal facility in the province and among the first in Canada. The project aims to build a facility in Fort Nelson to power 10,000 homes and provide meaningful economic opportunities for the First Nation and neighboring communities, supporting the clean energy transition in the North. This project will also directly support Canada’s climate change efforts and goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

    First Nations LNG Alliance (FNLNGA)

    $364,100 in funding to First Nations LNG Alliance to continue delivering communications, media and community outreach services to First Nations and Indigenous communities involved in the liquefied natural gas industry. This includes supporting Indigenous communities’ ability to navigate the relevant policy analysis and research to plan for and adapt to changes in the industry.

    Seabird Island Band

    $358,336 in funding to Seabird Island Band. This funding will provide training for community members and offer paid internships in forestry. The training will include topics in scaling, timber cruising, sustainable harvesting plans, stewardship, work safety and value-added forestry products. The goal of the project is to increase this community’s capacity to manage new forest resources, improve stewardship and on economic opportunities in forestry.

    Gitga’at Development Corporation

    $53,942 in funding to Gitga’at Development Corporation to create a strategic forestry plan, which will help guide forestry decision making on its traditional territory. This project will engage the community, allowing it to understand the perception and intent of its forest resources resulting in an SFP for its use.

    Ka:’yu:’k’t’h7Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations Community

    $134,919 in funding to Ka:’yu:’k’t’h7Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations Community for engagement to create a lands and forest management and conservation plan. This project will guide development, land stewardship and conservation on the nation’s 6,300 hectares of treaty settlement lands.

    Williams Lake First Nation

    $377,685 in funding to Williams Lake First Nation to expand its ongoing wildfire risk reduction, through chipping and biomass harvest and understory burning operations. The First Nation will train community members on safety regarding chainsaw and brush saw use as well as understory burning treatments as part of a larger fuel management project.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hamas says positive signs emerge in negotiations for Gaza ceasefire’s 2nd phase

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Hamas said on Saturday that there were positive signs regarding negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

    Hamas spokesman Abdul Latif Al-Qanou said in a press statement that “the efforts of Egyptian and Qatari mediators are ongoing to finalize the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and initiate negotiations for its second phase, with positive indicators in that direction.”

    He emphasized Hamas’s readiness to engage in these negotiations in a manner that meets the demands of the Palestinian people.

    The spokesman also called for intensified efforts to provide humanitarian relief to the Gaza Strip and lift the Israeli blockade.

    Meanwhile, Taher al-Nunu, an advisor to Hamas’s political bureau chief, announced that a Hamas delegation, led by Mohammad Darwish, head of the movement’s leadership council, had arrived in Cairo.

    According to al-Nunu, the delegation will hold talks with Egyptian officials regarding the outcomes of a recent Arab summit and ways to implement them.

    Discussions will also focus on the necessity of moving forward with the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, al-Nunu said.

    A Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo on Friday for talks on implementing terms of the Gaza ceasefire deal and pushing forward negotiations on its second phase, Egypt’s State Information Service said in a statement.

    A three-phase Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, took effect on January 19. The negotiations for the second phase of the deal remain stalled after the initial 42-day phase expired on March 1.

    Egypt has been intensifying diplomatic efforts to achieve a Gaza ceasefire and advance the strip’s reconstruction. On Tuesday, Egypt hosted an emergency Arab summit and proposed a Gaza non-displacement reconstruction plan valued at 53 billion U.S. dollars.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China advances food security amid record grain output

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

    China’s grain supply and demand remain in a tight balance, and food security must remain a top priority despite record-breaking production, Agriculture Minister Han Jun said during an interview on the sidelines of the ongoing third session of the 14th National People’s Congress on Saturday.

    Although the country encountered severe weather challenges last year, including extreme heat, droughts and typhoons, its grain output reached a record 700 million metric tons, an increase of 11 million tons from the previous year, Han said.

    The per capita grain availability has exceeded the global average, with major staple crops like rice and wheat achieving a self-sufficiency rate above 95 percent.

    However, Han noted a structural gap in feed grains, which require imports to balance domestic demand, Han said.

    “While our food supply is generally stable, the balance remains tight,” he said, adding that total grain consumption will continue to grow.

    Han also highlighted the difficulty of increasing grain production, warning against complacency.

    “As a nation of 1.4 billion people, we must rely on ourselves to feed our population. We cannot depend on others,” he said. “Ensuring food security is a fundamental priority, and we must always remain vigilant.”

    According to this year’s Government Work Report, the grain output target is set at around 700 million tons as part of its key economic and social development objectives.

    “This goal can be achieved through scientific planning and policy implementation,” Han said.

    He also underscored the potential for yield improvements, particularly in corn and soybeans, outlining plans to enhance oil crop production and innovation in the seed industry.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transcript: Governor Hochul is a Guest on News 12

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on News 12. The Governor updated New Yorkers on the brush fires in Long Island, and declared a state of emergency to prioritize the deployment of resources toward fire suppression and necessary evacuations.

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Governor,  thank you for joining us this afternoon.

    Governor Hochul: No, thank you. A very, very serious situation we’re dealing with on Long Island, and I appreciate the great coverage that News 12 has been giving of this really difficult situation where the winds are just our enemy, and they’re creating havoc in the communities along — people in Brookhaven right now, and we’re seeing people having to be evacuated from the West Hampton area. Early on this afternoon, I had the DOT shut down a number of highways, and we’re just really very concerned.

    Our main focus has been really the immediate fire suppression and resource development: getting in the fighting personnel, the equipment, the National Guard is there — the National Guard, in fact, is in the air providing air support, and I’ve deployed, actually, four Blackhawks, and one right now is dumping 660 gallon buckets as we speak, because we’re going to do the very best we can to suppress this. That is our most urgent concern, as well as public safety; we may be involving people in more evacuations.

    So, for these reasons, I am declaring a state of emergency that will allow us to deploy resources as quickly as possible, and I’m working very closely with County Executive Ed Romaine. I’m working with our Supervisors, who I just spoke with, Panico and Moore. — they’re on the grounds right now and I’m getting images sent directly from them. So, it’s an “all hands on deck” approach here, and I have resources from the Office of Emergency Management, Office of Fire Prevention, the DOT, DEC, State Parks, State Police. We are putting everybody on this so we can get the fire under control and make sure that our public is safe.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Governor, what can you tell us about how many acres you know that this fire is? How much of it has been suppressed up until this point?

    Governor Hochul: It has not been suppressed. I mean, this is still out of control at this moment. The winds are just wreaking havoc on this situation, as you’ve been reporting. The winds could be upward of 36 miles an hour.

    And it doesn’t take much — we saw with the Southern Pine Beetle that just infested the Pine Barrens along the Sunrise Highway, and that’s the real area of vulnerability. But the problem is it’s not just that area. It is approaching the Gabreski Airport — we’ve had to evacuate, we’re starting evacuations there — and Amazon facility, and other facilities, and even a few homes that we’ve already lost, and that is the concern.

    I think everyone has the image of the Palisades in California just in the forefront of their minds, and, so, we have to do everything we can to prevent that scenario and be prepared for major evacuations. So I want to, again, thank you for keeping the public informed, but everybody needs to be staying tuned right now because the situation could change very quickly.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Absolutely. Governor, if I could just ask you to go back for a second. Did you say that some homes had been lost?

    Governor Hochul: At least one or two that I’m aware of already, and there are a number in harm’s way.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: This is just terrible news to hear as we’re taking a look right now at some of these images here. Governor, also tell us what does this state of emergency mean? How is this going to directly impact Long Islanders? What do they need to know about it?

    Governor Hochul: It allows us as a state, and localities, to be able to bypass traditional procurement measures. We can get resources on the ground immediately. I’m also very concerned about air quality. If you recall the Quebec fires — from a few years ago — New York City had the worst air quality on the planet for a number of days, and for people in nursing homes and children; I want to make sure that if we need to, we get masks out, we’re checking up on people in nearby nursing homes and senior facilities.

    So everybody needs to be thinking about themselves, their neighbors, but whatever they can do to protect their homes. This may be contained in the next day or two, but we also are very smart to prepare for the worst case scenarios so everybody can remain safe regardless of what happens.

    God bless our firefighters. Most of these people are volunteers, and they are just putting their lives on the line for their neighbors and this is why we just cherish them so much.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Absolutely, our hearts go out to these volunteers. Governor, can you tell us where that home was that was lost?

    Governor Hochul: I don’t have the exact location, but I know there’s communities in West Hampton that are vulnerable right now. We’ll work on getting that location for you.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Absolutely, we appreciate that. And you said there may be some more evacuations. Governor, let me ask you, as we start to get closer to it being dark, what are your concerns here as the day and night goes on?

    Governor Hochul: Oh, we don’t know if the wind is going to pick up or die down. Again, it is wildly unpredictable. The forecast may say it is decreasing, but it doesn’t take much wind to continue the spread and it just feeds on, again, these trees that have been taken down by the infestation of the beetles — we’ve seen that. I mean, every time I go there, it’s heartbreaking to see what has happened already, but now, that is just a cinder for a huge fire, and that is our concern that this could spread and spread to other areas.

    And the more individual fires we have — I believe there’s four right now — then it also diffuses our resources, right? We have to be focused on putting out each fire, but if they rise in different areas then we have to send other people there. But thank God we have about 50 volunteer fire companies working tirelessly and we have mutual aid agreements. I can bring in people from all over the state and even indeed other other states if we need them. But, right now we’re working closely in coordination with the Emergency Operations Center. I may be going there tomorrow depending on what the situation on the ground is, but we are there with everything from air support, to ground support, to whatever resources we can give to keep Long Islanders safe.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Governor, we appreciate that. As we watch this unfold, we saw one video from a helicopter that just shows how massive this fire is. What can you share with us about the acreage or just the expanse of this fire?

    Governor Hochul: It’s spreading very quickly. This started a few hours ago, and now it has multiple renditions of it. It’s not just one fire that we can keep an eye on, it is spreading to different pockets and all triggered by the high winds and the dry, dry conditions and, again, the many trees from the Pine Barrens area that are on the ground are cinder for this. So, we’re concerned about the Amazon facility, we’re concerned about Gabreski Airport right now, and a chemical plant in the area.

    So, these are the areas where we are aware of them. Everyone knows what’s in each building — this is what the fire companies do, the state knows this — and we have to be very careful. Again, air quality is of concern as well. People need to be sure that they’re taken care of. If they still have N95 masks from the pandemic, or there’s ways they can keep a wet towel around their mouth and protect themselves, their kids and their pets. If it starts getting closer, you need to start focusing on air quality and possibly an evacuation.

    So, everybody needs to be watching social media reports from government sources, watch for text messages, watch for all the emergency alerts — but, I have officially declared a state of emergency right now.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: And Governor Hochul, if I can ask you, we have seen some pictures and video from people who said they could see this smoke all the way from Connecticut. Have you been in touch with governors from any of the neighboring states? Have you heard from other people who have been impacted by this?

    Governor Hochul: I’m getting video from people right on the ground and it looks devastating. Elected officials are sending me videos; people that are getting up close to it; our supervisors are sharing this with myself and my team. So, if I need additional assistance from other states, I will absolutely call on them and we’re just assessing our needs right now. But, again, they’re looking at a fire that is close to our residents, and that is a dangerous, dangerous situation on many levels, and everybody has to be staying focused on their own homes, their families, and their communities.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Absolutely. New York Governor Kathy Hochul joining us live this afternoon. Governor, thank you for your time. We will continue to check back in with you, as hopefully this fire gets put out sooner rather than later.

    Governor Hochul: Absolutely. Thank you so much for all your attention. You’re doing a great job.

    Thema Ponton, News 12: Thank you, Governor, for your time. We’ll let you get back to work to help the people of New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –