NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Posts Public Notice for Tennessee Counties Affected by Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Posts Public Notice for Tennessee Counties Affected by Helene

    FEMA Posts Public Notice for Tennessee Counties Affected by Helene

    A public notice has been posted that describes FEMA’s proposed funding for Tropical Storm Helene work projects that may adversely affect historic properties, floodplains or wetlands, or may result in continuing vulnerability of these areas to flood damage.By law, FEMA is required to announce its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities under its Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program after the Oct. 2 major disaster declaration for Tropical Storm Helene.The public notice is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at DR-4832-TN Public Notice 004 | FEMA.gov and on the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website at FEMA-4832 Public Notice. The major disaster declaration authorizes FEMA to provide financial assistance and direct services to individuals and households affected by the Sept. 26-30 storms in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties.The declaration also authorizes FEMA to provide, under its Public Assistance program, reimbursement or direct federal assistance for emergency and permanent work to eligible state and local agencies and certain private nonprofits. Counties authorized under the Public Assistance program are: Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sevier, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties.Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.For more information about these actions or a specific project, write to FEMA Region 4, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, GA 30341-4112. You may also email FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Include in the email subject line, “DR-4832-TN EHAD.” Comments should be sent in writing within 30 days of the date of the public notice.
    kwei.nwaogu
    Tue, 10/29/2024 – 19:44

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Questions Witnesses During Senate Judiciary Committee Field Hearing In Chicago On Reducing Prescription Drug Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    10.29.24
    CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during the Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing in Chicago, Illinois, entitled “Reducing Prescription Drug Prices:  How Competition Can Make Medications Affordable for Patients.” The hearing included two witness panels, including Members of Congress from Illinois and advocates for prescription drug pricing reform, to examine recent legislative successes to address anti-competitive tactics that make medications unaffordable for patients.
    Durbin first questioned Dr. Anthony D. Douglas II, General Surgery Resident at the University of Chicago, about the Medicare negotiation of Jardiance, a medication to treat people with diabetes, including his father. Jardiance’s manufacturer steadily raised the drug’s price over the last five years, from around $450 to nearly $600 for a 30-day supply.  Under the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare is finally able to negotiate the price it pays for certain prescription drugs, including Jardiance. And the Biden-Harris Administration was able to negotiate the price for Jardiance down to $197 per month—a 66 percent discount.
    “Tell me what that price reduction means to your patients?” Durbin asked.
    Dr. Douglas responded that having this necessary medicine reduced in price will mean “saving lives” thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration.
    Durbin then asked Dr. Douglas about direct-to-consumer (DTC) drug advertising.  The pharmaceutical industry spends $6 billion per year to flood the airwaves with direct-to-consumer drug ads.  Durbin and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced the Drug-price Transparency for Consumers (DTC) Act, a bill that would require price disclosures on advertisements for prescription drugs, in order to empower patients and reduce excess spending on medications.
    “It strikes me that there are a handful of drugs which we are bombarded with when it comes to advertising—you cannot watch a football game or anything on your television without getting an ad for a drug… The fact that we can pronounce and even spell Xarelto is proof positive that we have been trained by these ads.  I am assuming and tell me if I’m wrong, that the pharmaceutical companies basically decided if we can convince the ultimate consumer to go into the doctor’s office and say, ‘I need this’ or whatever it happens to be, that the doctor is going to prescribe it as opposed to questioning whether or not it is necessary or if there is an affordable generic.  Is that true?”  Durbin asked.
    Dr. Douglas responded that he believes that is the drug companies’ strategy when targeting consumers through DTC ads.  He continued to say, “Not only do they advertise directly to physicians to prescribe the medications but also patients to go into the clinics and hospitals to ask,” for example, Ozempic. 
      Durbin also asked Dr. Michael Sandsmark, Director of Pharmacy, Iroquois Memorial Hospital (IMH), about the long wait lines at pharmacies, including at Walgreens, and even closures. 
    Dr. Sandsmark responded that there, “is a lot of burnout” among pharmacists right now and corporations are having trouble finding staff.  Dr. Sandsmark also commented on the rigorous and expensive price of pharmacy school and training.  
    Durbin then asked Rachel Sachs, Professor of Law, Washington University in St. Louis, and Kwame Raoul, Attorney General, State of Illinois, about pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)—middlemen that manage drug benefits for insurance plans. 
    Dr. Sachs responded, “we should think broadly about opportunities at the federal level and state level for PBM reform.”  In February 2024, Attorney General Raoul along with 38 other attorneys general, sent a letter to Congress expressing support for reforming how PBMs operate.  In June, he joined an amicus brief asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take up a case addressing the states’ authority to regulate PBMs.
    Durbin then asked Dr. Sachs about claims from the pharmaceutical industry and its allies that the Inflation Reduction Act’s common-sense reform to enable Medicare to negotiate for lower prices will “freeze innovation,” and potentially prevent new drugs from coming to the market.  The cancer drug Keytruda had $25 billion in sales last year.  The revenue for this single medication is on par with what Mastercard or the McDonald’s Corporation earn per year.
    “How can it possibly be that a penny less in profit to Big Pharma will stifle innovation?” Durbin asked.
    Dr. Sachs responded, “in my view, what we really care about is the value of innovation to patients.  It is about delivering real [and] new clinical value and reforms that preserve and protect that value rather than the amount of innovation are what matters.”
    Durbin then asked Dr. Douglas about pharmaceutical companies often spending more in sales and marketing than on research and development.  Dr. Douglas responded he is aware of the uneven spending.  He continued to say we need to put profits over people.  In 2020, Johnson & Johnson spent nearly twice as much on sales and marketing—$22 billion—as it spent on R&D. 
    Video of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.
    The United States has the highest prescription drug prices in the developed world, on average nearly four times higher than what other countries pay for some of the most common brand-name medications. Despite claims that these prices are necessary to fund research and development into the next generation of drugs, research suggests that the majority of innovation is driven by smaller companies, as well as taxpayer funding through the National Institutes of Health. The Committee has jurisdiction over competition issues and the intellectual property system, which play critical roles in incentivizing true innovation and protecting a healthy market that keeps prices for prescription drugs within reach of the patients that need them.
    Durbin, Senate Democrats, and the Biden-Harris Administration have taken numerous steps to lower the costs of prescription drugs. Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Actprovided the Administration the authority to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma, which has already resulted in price reduction of up to 79 percent for 10 of the most expensive and frequently-dispensed prescription drugs for seniors.
    Earlier this Congress, a package of bills advanced unanimously out of the Committee to lower prescription drug prices and are awaiting a vote in the full Senate, including the Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Additionally, Durbin held a full committee hearing in May that scrutinized pharmaceutical companies’ abuse of the Orange Book and examined prescription drug prices, competition, and how to ensure medications are accessible and affordable for patients.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Montgomery County Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Fentanyl And Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Possessed more than 900 pills purporting to be Oxycodone Hydrochloride in his home, with the intent to distribute them. 

    Greenbelt, Maryland – Today, the Honorable Lydia K. Griggsby sentenced Darnell Palmer, 23, Germantown, Maryland, to 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

    Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty verdict with Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Washington Division, and Chief Marc R. Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department.

    According to the guilty plea, in April 2022, law enforcement received information that Palmer was distributing fentanyl in Montgomery County, Maryland.  Law Enforcement officers observed Palmer selling 10 round blue pills purporting to be Oxycodone Hydrochloride, and actually contained fentanyl, to an individual in front of Palmer’s residence.  On June 1, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Palmer’s residence. 

    In Palmer’s bedroom, law enforcement located approximately 918 fentanyl pills (appearing as Oxycodone Hydrochloride ), distributed within several zip-top bags; a plastic bag containing three bags of marijuana and a black digital scale; a loaded Glock 27 handgun; four firearm magazines, including an empty Glock magazine; a clear magazine containing six rounds of ammunition; a loaded drum magazine; and a packaged Glock magazine; and approximately $3,611 in U.S. currency, among other items.  Palmer possessed the fentanyl pills with the intent to distribute them.  The 928 fentanyl pills recovered in the investigation weighed more than 100 grams.  The pills Palmer distributed, and that were seized from his bedroom, purported to be Oxycodone Hydrochloride in that they were small light blue pills stamped with “M” and “30” to match legitimate Oxycodone Hydrochloride 30 milligram pills when in fact, they contained fentanyl instead of Oxycodone Hydrochloride.

    U.S. Attorney Barron commended the DEA and the Montgomery County Police Department for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Wright and Christopher Sarma, who prosecuted the federal case.

    For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Turtle Creek Man Indicted on 18 Counts of Violent Robberies of Multiple Businesses, Carjackings, and Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Hobbs Act robbery, carjacking, and firearms violations, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    The 18-count Indictment named Jamal Martel Brooks, 33, as the sole defendant. Brooks was previously prosecuted and convicted in the Western District of Pennsylvania in 2019 for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and sentenced to 17 months of incarceration.

    According to the Indictment, from January 3, 2023, to January 2, 2024, Brooks committed numerous violent crimes, including robberies of multiple businesses in the greater Pittsburgh area and two carjackings. Brooks is alleged to have brandished and possessed a firearm in connection with each of these crimes.

    The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than seven years and up to life in prison for each count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and the sentence on each such count must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence. Due to the number of robberies alleged to have been committed by Brooks, he is facing a maximum total sentence of not less than 63 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $4.5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Brooks also is currently facing charges in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas in relation to his alleged shooting of a Monroeville Police Sergeant on January 3, 2024.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Douglas C. Maloney and DeMarr W. Moulton are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Monroeville Police Department, and Robinson Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Stifel Declares Quarterly Common Stock Cash Dividend and Declares Preferred Stock Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ST. LOUIS, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend on shares of its common stock of $0.42 per share, payable December 16, 2024, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 2, 2024.

    The Board of Directors also declared a quarterly cash dividend on the outstanding shares of its 6.25% Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B (the “Series B Preferred Stock”), 6.125% Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C (the “Series C Preferred Stock”), and 4.50% Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D (the “Series D Preferred Stock”). The declared cash dividend on the Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock, and Series D Preferred Stock is for the period from September 17, 2024, up to, but excluding, December 16, 2024. The declared cash dividend equated to approximately $0.390625 per depositary share, or $390.625 per share of the Series B Preferred Stock outstanding. The declared cash dividend equated to approximately $0.3828125 per depositary share, or $382.8125 per share of the Series C Preferred Stock outstanding. The declared cash dividend equated to approximately $0.281250 per depositary share, or $281.250 per share of the Series D Preferred Stock outstanding. The cash dividends are payable on December 16, 2024 to shareholders of record on December 2, 2024.

    The Company’s Series B Preferred Stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “SF PrB”, the Company’s Series C Preferred Stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “SF PrC”, and the Company’s Series D Preferred Stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “SF PrD.”

    Stifel Company Information
    Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that conducts its banking, securities, and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries. Stifel’s broker-dealer clients are served in the United States through Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, including its Eaton Partners and Miller Buckfire business divisions; Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.; and Stifel Independent Advisors, LLC; in Canada through Stifel Nicolaus Canada Inc.; and in the United Kingdom and Europe through Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited. The Company’s broker-dealer affiliates provide securities brokerage, investment banking, trading, investment advisory, and related financial services to individual investors, professional money managers, businesses, and municipalities. Stifel Bank and Stifel Bank & Trust offer a full range of consumer and commercial lending solutions. Stifel Trust Company, N.A. and Stifel Trust Company Delaware, N.A. offer trust and related services. To learn more about Stifel, please visit the Company’s website at www.stifel.com. For global disclosures, please visit https://www.stifel.com/investor-relations/press-releases.

    Stifel Investor Relations Contact
    Joel Jeffrey, Senior Vice President
    (212) 271-3610 direct
    investorrelations@stifel.com                                

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New insights from Shakespeare’s England reveal striking parallels to contemporary climate change

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Madeline Bassnett, Professor of Early Modern English Literature, Western University

    Unprecedented storms and devastating drought. Flash floods and wildfires ignited by the air’s dry heat. This is the experience for many in our modern world. But it was also the experience for those living amid England’s Little Ice Age.

    The Little Ice Age is a period from around 1300 to 1850, when global temperatures dropped significantly. While the exact cause of this phenonemon is unknown, theories range from volcanic eruptions to European colonization of the Americas.

    Our research into England’s Little Ice Age during the 16th and 17th centuries has unearthed more than 1,800 unique pieces of weather observations, hidden in documents like diaries and letters. Local and national chronicles embedded reports of extreme weather among accounts of war and monarchs. Extreme weather pamphlets publicized tragic effects of earthquakes, floods and storms, much like our media today.

    Our team has created an open access database called the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700. This database visually maps both extreme and temperate weather in the age of Shakespeare and can help to advance modern climate science.

    More fundamentally, these experiential accounts provide a fascinating window into a world not too different from our own. While the causes of the climate change of today are well known, and likely different from that of the Little Ice Age, the experiences of living through both events are at times eerily similar. Understanding these past experiences can help us to better understand our present day and to develop more robust policies in the here and now.



    Read more:
    The Canadian Arctic shows how understanding the effects of climate change requires long-term vision

    Frosts and freezes

    Frost fairs on the River Thames have become a familiar cultural reference point for England’s Little Ice Age. Our data shows that the river froze over a mere four times in the 16th century — in 1516, 1537, 1564 and 1590 — and there were only intermittent observations of unusual cold or snow.

    The 17th century was markedly different. Reports of cold came thick and fast, with the exception of a few years between 1620 and 1643.

    Title page from The Great Frost: ‘Cold doings in London, except it be at the lotterie. With newes out of the country. A familiar talk betwene a country-man and a citizen touching this terrible frost and the great lotterie, and the effects of them.’ Printed at London: For Henry Gosson, 1608. Attributed to Thomas Dekker.
    (Houghton Library, Harvard University)

    This was the century of frost fairs on the Thames. With the first 17th century fair in 1608, these events were celebrated by English playwright Thomas Dekker in his pamphlet The Great Frost.

    Drinking, barbering and games were on display as London’s citizens marvelled at the novelty of entertainment on the ice. The freezes were frequent enough to become an institution.

    By the winter of 1683-1684, the frost fair had become a city within a city, expanding across the ice with avenues of booths, bear and bull-baiting rings and boats-turned-chariots pulled by enterprising watermen across the now solid river.

    But these iconic events were just one aspect of Little Ice Age weather in England.

    Storms and floods

    In the 16th century, severe rain storms were far more common than cold snaps.

    On Oct. 5, 1570, “a terrible tempest of wind and raine” caused flooding from Lincolnshire to London as rivers overflowed their banks, drowning towns, fields, crops and cattle. Storm surges inundated the coastline.

    Four years later, towns from Newport to St. Ives suffered “raging floods,” and a “giant sea fish” (whale) washed up in the Thames from a massive surge up river. In May 1594, “soddane showres of haile [and] raine” destroyed houses, iron mills, crops and cattle in Sussex and Surrey. September of that year saw another deluge, with bridges taken down in Cambridge and Ware.

    This all changed in the 17th century, following the Great Flood that struck Bristol and surrounding areas in 1607. Extreme cold spells then became more frequent, and major storm events were less common. The winter of 1612-1613 saw a number of violent storms recorded in the pamphlet Wonders of this Windie Winter, with livestock lost from Newcastle to Dover and bodies from shipwrecks washing aground in the Thames.

    In the next 40 years, though, only the years of 1626 and 1637 contain reports of significant storm events causing loss of life or livestock. Instead of extreme storms, this century was marked more by regular but moderate rainfall, consistent with colder, wetter conditions normally associated with the Little Ice Age.

    Fire and heat

    If colder, wetter weather was a new normal for 17th century Britons, the hot, dry spring of 1666 caught Londoners unprepared. The Great Fire of London was one of the worst disasters of the age, and diarist John Evelyn recounts that “the heate … had even ignited the aire,” a comment reminiscent of descriptions of wildfire spread today.

    Yet periods of extreme heat were surprisingly frequent during the previous century, especially in the England that Shakespeare knew. More than a dozen droughts were recorded across England in the 16th century, usually broken by extreme storms or floods. It never rained, it seems, but it poured. The Thames dried up completely in 1592.

    As Thomas Short wrote in his Chronological History of English Weather, “an excessive drought, great death of cattle from want of water; springs and brooks were dried up; horsemen could ride the Thames.” Locals went into the mud to retrieve items long lost to the river.

    Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon was nearly destroyed by fire twice, in 1594 and 1595, due to severe drought and heat. The warning signs were there for Londoners to beware of hot spells in the next century, but frost fairs and wet weather may have bred complacency.

    Lessons for today

    The Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 database is revealing a picture of the world of Shakespeare and early modern England that upends a simplified picture of the Little Ice Age. More than just a world of frosts and freezes, the English Little Ice Age could be known as well as an age of fire and rain.



    Read more:
    The B.C. election could decide the future of the province’s species at risk laws

    The documents in our database are the reports of people who lived in a climatically changing world and saw its shifts firsthand. It shows how important weather crowd-sourcing can be, even centuries later. Contemporary projects like the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, or the Northern Tornadoes Project, continue in the spirit of this work.

    But our data could also provide insight into today’s extreme weather. Historical flooding patterns might provide reference points to better manage and understand the unstable weather experienced in the British Isles today.

    Madeline Bassnett has received funding from SSHRC for the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 project.

    Laurie Johnson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. New insights from Shakespeare’s England reveal striking parallels to contemporary climate change – https://theconversation.com/new-insights-from-shakespeares-england-reveal-striking-parallels-to-contemporary-climate-change-240755

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Meet the Whitebait | Conservation blog

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Freshwater Ranger Suze Harris is based in Hokitika and studies migratory galaxiids on the West Coast. Here she explains a summary of what whitebait grow up into, and what habitats you can find them in.

    There are 5 whitebait species in the Galaxiidae family (excluding smelt/cucumber fish, which are not a true galaxiid). Each have their own habitat preferences and unique behaviours! They do not have scales and tend to be nocturnal to feed on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates while avoiding predation by bigger fish.

    Īnanga (Galaxias maculatus)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    The most famous of the whitebait species, making up 90% of any whitebait fritter (depending on the river). Highly fecund (produce a lot of eggs) and live close to the coast. They are weak swimmers and cannot climb, so they stick to slow-moving waters such as wetlands, swamps and lowland streams. Their greatest threats are fish passage barriers (such as overhanging, perched culverts or structures with high velocities running through them), habitat loss, and introduced species. Īnanga spawn in autumn on spring tides on the sides of creeks and rivers. Generally, they live 1-2 years, some spawn twice. Like the rest of the whitebait species, they can live a lot longer in captivity.

    Giant kōkopu (Galaxias argentus)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    Giants are the largest of the whitebait species, with the record length being 450mm, and were the first Galaxiidae to be described in 1789. The golden spots are very distinctive, and its colour pattern inspired the generic name of Galaxias to the whitebait family – referring to the profusion of stars in the galaxy. They are territorial in nature, usually lurking in slow-flowing waters in lowland runs and pools, and feast on large insects like cicadas and wēta. Their spawning ecology is still being unravelled by ecologists, a recent study suggests there are freshwater migrations to and from their domain to spawn.

    Eggs are deposited in floods during autumn on the banks of dense canopy cover. They usually run later in the whitebait season. Because they require instream cover with overhanging vegetation, they are disappearing from the east coasts of both islands. Some can live beyond 20 years, up to 40 years in captivity.

    Banded kōkopu (Galaxias fasciatus)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Alfonso Siciliano

    Bandeds are common throughout the coast, and are the smallest in the whitebait stage, often golden in colour. They are difficult to differentiate from the other kōkopu when they are young, but the key feature in larger fish are stripes connect over their backs, which is easiest to see towards their tail. They rely on terrestrial insects and are sensitive to intensive land development and sedimentation, hence why they are less common on the east coasts of both islands. They are happy in any type of forests, including pine, beech, and rainforests.

    Shortjaw kōkopu (Galaxias postvectis)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    The rarest of the whitebait species, shortjaws are named due to their overbite. They do not have distinct markings other than a black patch behind their gill plate, a blue-green eye, and a dark fringe on their fins. Territorial in nature, they like rocky streams with stable pools to live out their adult lives, likely ranging between 7-15 years. Little is known about these fish due to their solitary nature, but like the other kōkopu species, they spawn in autumn floods on the banks of streams, eggs develop in moist leaf litter and get carried away by floods out to sea. They tend to not coincide with beech forests, so are very rare south of Ōkārito.

    Smoothwater River is the furthest southern record on the West Coast, and none have ever been recorded in Fiordland. They are now thought to be extinct from Canterbury. The West Coast is the densest area for shortjaws nationally due to habitat availability and decent water quality.

    Kōaro (Galaxias brevipinnis)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    Also called climbing galaxias, Kōaro are the best climbers of the galaxiid family. They have elongated bodies with similar golden markings to a leopard. Their enlarged pectoral fins are ribbed, helping them climb any wet vertical surface. They can be found at the headwaters of rivers such as the Arahura and the Haast, even in the heart of the Southern Alps, which makes their larval migration out to sea incredible. There are lake-locked populations in NZ, including Lake Wānaka. They like rocky, tumbling streams and can be seen “moon bathing” on top of wet rocks in streams at night, which is likely a tactic to avoid tuna (eel) predation.

    Whitebait season

    Remember if you’re unsure of what the whitebait fishing regs are or would like to know more about the whitebait fishery go to our DOC website Whitebaiting: Things to do (doc.govt.nz). If you’re wanting to speak to one of our local rangers, please contact your local DOC office for more information or email whitebait@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tisdale — Update: RCMP investigating school bus collision 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    October 29, 2024
    Tisdale, Saskatchewan

    News release

    Tisdale RCMP continue to investigate the collision that occurred near the intersection of Township Road 424 and Range Road 2160 with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist. As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide additional information about any potential cause or details of the collision at this time.

    At the time of the collision, 27 children approximately 14-17 years old and an adult bus driver were on the bus. All the bus occupants were from the Tisdale detachment area. 26 children and the bus driver were transported to hospital by EMS and parents. One child was taken to hospital in Saskatoon by STARS Air Ambulance. 21 children have injuries described as non-life threatening and 6 children have injuries described as serious in nature. The adult driver of the bus has injuries described as serious in nature. We are not able to share further details of their injuries or treatment/status at the hospital, as this is considered their personal health information.

    Tisdale RCMP thanks the first responders who assisted in the response to the collision, including Melfort RCMP and Melfort, Tisdale and Naicam EMS. Thank you to the teachers, parents, and community members of Kinistin Saulteaux Nation who offered their support at the scene.

    –30–

    Backgrounder

    RCMP investigating school bus collision 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale

    2024-10-29

    Tisdale RCMP are currently on scene and investigating a single vehicle collision involving a school bus that occurred at approximately 3:55 p.m. on October 28, 2024. The collision occurred near the intersection of Township Road 424 and Range Road 2160, approximately 22 kilometers southwest of Tisdale, SK. Local fire and EMS also responded.

    The investigation is in its preliminary stages and at this time we do not have details to provide about the collision. The bus is currently upright in the ditch.

    The adult driver of the school bus has injuries described as non-life threatening in nature. The school bus was transporting children at the time of the collision– we cannot confirm the number or ages of the children at this time. Some children are being treated for various injuries – we do not have specific details about their injuries or how many children require hospital treatment at this time.

    The children’s families have been notified and we are asking news partners and the public to please respect their privacy at this time.

    Tisdale RCMP continue to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist. We do not anticipate further updates this evening.

    A road closure is in place between Range Road 2160 and Range Road 2155 for an undetermined amount of time. Detours are in place but motorists should expect delays in the area. Please slow down and follow the instructions of emergency personnel on scene. Please visit the Highway Hotline for road closure updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Belzoni Man of Conspiracy for Role in Firearms Trafficking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Aberdeen, MS – A federal jury convicted Belzoni resident Jarvis Hood, 23, of conspiring to transfer firearms to Chicago, Illinois residents and making false statements to federal firearms licensees during the purchase of multiple firearms.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the investigation began after agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives noticed a high volume of firearms recovered in crimes in the City of Chicago, Illinois had been purchased in the Northern District of Mississippi. Some of the firearms involved in new crimes had been purchased as recent as one day prior to use in a new offense.

    Several of the firearms were recovered in violent crimes and had machinegun devices attached that converted the firearms to be able to fire automatically.  In total, investigators identified over 60 firearms that were purchased illegally and transported to Chicago for resale. Five defendants previously pled guilty for their roles in the offense.

    Hood was charged with conspiracy to transfer firearms to out-of-state residents and to make false statements to federal firearms licensees during firearms purchases. After a five-day trial, a federal jury returned a verdict Monday finding Hood guilty of the offense. Sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2025.

    “This defendant and his cohorts profited and contributed to the gun violence plaguing Chicago by  illegally trafficking in firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “AUSAs Julie Addison and Sam Stringfellow led an interagency team that has helped to stem the flow of illegal firearms from Mississippi to Chicago while also ensuring that the defendant will be held accountable for his criminal actions.”

    “Machine gun conversion devices threaten the safety of our communities and law enforcement officers, and this verdict reinforces the urgent need to dismantle trafficking networks bringing these dangerous devices and firearms to the streets of Chicago,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon of the Chicago Field Division. “I thank the ATF Oxford Mississippi Field Office and the Northern District of Mississippi United States Attorney’s Office for their continued partnership.”

    The case was investigated by the Chicago Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the ATF Oxford, Mississippi Field Office. Valuable contributions were made by the Chicago Police Department, Wilmette Police Department, and Amtrak Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Addison and Samuel Stringfellow prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program Following Hurricanes Francine, Helene, Milton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Rick Scott (R-FL) announced plans to introduce the Restoring an Economic Lifeline with Immediate Emergency Funding (Relief) Act that would replenish the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program. On October 15th, the SBA announced the Disaster Loan Fund had run out of money. The senators plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returns to session.
    “Hurricanes Francine, Helene, and Milton hit us hard, but Louisianans and Americans are resilient,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding is essential to help small businesses recover from these storms and support our local economies.”
    “The SBA Disaster Loan Program running out of funds risks delays in processing the loans of those affected by Helene and Milton and their ability to get their lives back on track,” said Senator Tillis. “That is why I am leading legislation to replenish this fund when Congress returns to Washington, and I look forward to working across the aisle to pass a long-term disaster aid package that will provide additional resources to help make the victims of these hurricanes whole again. ”
    “The citizens of Western North Carolina are some of the toughest and most resilient people in this country,” said Senator Budd. “As they recover and rebuild their communities, they must be able to access disaster loans from SBA. This recovery will take many years, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to cut through the delays and provide WNC with the resources they need as quickly as possible.”
    “Hurricane Helene brought a level of devastation to South Carolina we haven’t seen since Hugo. With a natural disaster of this magnitude, Congress should take the opportunity to show leadership and help ease the pain of those who have lost everything,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Communities back home and in surrounding states have come together to recover, but it will take every possible effort to get us back to where we were.”
    “We cannot allow frontline federal agencies, like the SBA, to run out of disaster relief funds. This is especially important in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton which devastated Florida, North Carolina and communities across the Southeast U.S,” said Senator Rick Scott. “I continue to call on Leader Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate so we can fund disaster relief functions at FEMA, the SBA, USDA and other agencies to get folks what they need and deserve. I won’t stop fighting to get this done and am proud to join my colleagues to introduce a bill that funds SBA disaster loans and makes sure the federal government is a reliable partner as families continue their recovery.”
    The Relief Act would appropriate $550 million to fund the SBA Disaster Loan Program Account, which would provide $2.475B in lending capacity projected to last until the end of 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Protecting the Pahurehure Inlet and Manukau Harbour East coastlines

    Source: Auckland Council

    At its most recent meeting, the Policy and Planning Committee endorsed the latest two Shoreline Adaptation Plans – Pahurehure Inlet and Manukau Harbour East. Collectively, these plans cover the coast from Karaka Point in the south to Onehunga.

    Shoreline Adaptation Plans are living plans that focus on how we manage Auckland Council-owned coastal land and assets. This includes reserves, public facilities, transport and water infrastructure, as well as any associated coastal defence structures like seawalls.

    Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee welcomes these Shoreline Adaptation Plans and emphasises their importance as a strategic guide.

    “We’ve seen the impacts of climate change on our coastlines, public assets and our coastal communities have directly experienced the effects. This is about working with mana whenua and Aucklanders to plan for the future of our shorelines,” says Cr Hills.

    “It’s great to see more and more of these plans adopted and encouraging to see the level of involvement from the community as we have these important conversations.”

    What is included in these plans?

    Our Shoreline Adaptation Plans recommend one of four adaptation strategies for each stretch of shoreline and can apply a mix of these strategies. These are:

    Hold the line

    • The coastal edge is fixed at a certain location.
    • Defence of the coastal edge may be through nature-based options (like beach nourishment) or engineered hard structures (like sea walls).

    Limited intervention

    • Generally focussed on maintaining and making the area safe.
    • The coastal edge does not need to be fixed and can be altered.

    No active intervention

    • Natural processes are allowed to continue.
    • No investment into coastal hazard protection or flood protection and reserved for coastlines that are not exposed or vulnerable to coastal hazards.

    Managed retreat

    • Assets and the way the land is used are relocated or realigned to reduce risk.
    • Any relocation is planned and undertaken over time.
    • Managed retreat does not signal abandonment of ‘at risk’ areas – it is about identifying a process to reconfigure council assets to accommodate natural coastal processes and build a more resilient shoreline.

    Strategies are recommended over short-term (now to 20 years) medium-term (20 to 60 years) and long-term (60 to 100+ years) timeframes reflective of projected sea level rise over the coming decades of 0.5 to 1m. This long-term view of our changing coastal areas is a first step in adaptive planning and lays a foundation for consistent coastal management.

    Paul Klinac, Auckland Council General Manager, Engineering, Assets and Technical Advisory explains that these high-level strategies provide guidance on how council-owned coastal land and assets can be adapted over time to sustainably manage the escalating impacts of coastal hazards and climate change.

    “The development of shoreline adaptation plans across the region is funded through the Long-term Plan 2024-2034 as part of the climate action investment package,” says Mr Klinac.

    “Shoreline Adaptation Plans – like the ones for the Pahurehure Inlet and Manukau Harbour East – will help guide us in future decision-making around these public assets. This could be reserve management, operational maintenance and renewal of coastal structures or initiation of new capital works projects. This will be alongside ongoing monitoring of council-owned coastal assets and the surrounding coastal environment.”

    Pahurehure Inlet Shoreline Adaptation Plan

    The Pahurehure Inlet Shoreline Adaptation Plan includes the area of the coastline from the Puhinui Creek in the north up to Karaka Point south. This coastline covers the Manurewa, Papakura and Franklin local board areas.

    It recommends limited and no active intervention for many areas of the Pahurehure Inlet shoreline over the next 100 years.

    It also suggests a ‘hold the line’ approach for specific areas, including Karaka Harbourside, Conifer Grove and Keith Park, due to an increased risk from coastal inundation over time. This is to maintain existing infrastructure and highly valued coastal connections from coastal erosion.

    Lastly, it states a ‘managed retreat’ approach to support proactive adaptation planning in the mid to long-term for Waikirihinau / Bottle Top Bay, Youngs Point and in the Drury Creek area should be adopted. This is as the increasing risk from coastal hazards will impact the long-term use of the land in these areas.

    Manukau Harbour East Shoreline Adaptation Plan

    The Manukau Harbour East Shoreline Adaptation Plan includes the area of the coastline from the Puhinui Creek in the south to Taumanu Reserve in the north. This coastline includes the Ōtara-Papatoetoe, Māngere-Ōtāhuhu and Maungakiekie-Tāmaki local board areas.

    It states that limited intervention is the best approach for many areas of this shoreline over the next 100 years and continuing to maintain existing coastal management practices.

    It also recommends a ‘hold the line’ approach for specific areas due to the highly modified shoreline and the location of significant (council-owned) infrastructure like the Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant.

    This also reflects iwi values and aspirations and the importance of ensuring we are managing past land use decisions and asset owner requirements alongside community values and uses.

    Managed retreat (in the longer-term) is identified where space is constrained and there will be a need to ensure that valued community activities avoid hazard areas to remain safe and functional.

    Get involved

    The remaining shoreline adaptation plans are continuing to be developed and will be completed in 2025. Plans will continue to be presented to the Policy and Planning Committee for approval.

    Tell us what you think over the course of 2024 and for some areas, we’re also asking for your feedback on our draft adaptation strategies – head to akhaveyoursay.nz to see what plans are currently open for feedback.

    You can also help by joining the conversation and telling us what you value about your local coastline today by visiting our regional interactive map – drop pins to leave comments on coastal areas not yet open. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeLauro Statement on Israel Banning UNRWA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03)

    Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement in response to Israel’s parliament passing legislation to ban the United Nation’s Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA):

    “The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is indispensable in addressing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, as well as maintaining stability in the West Bank. Israel’s decision to enact legislation to halt UNRWA operations and cease all cooperation is dangerous, short-sighted, and would leave innocent Palestinians even more vulnerable to the devastating impacts of this war. At a time when we are already failing to meet the urgent needs of Gazans, this action further undermines UNRWA, fosters distrust in our international institutions, and fuels animosity toward Israel from its neighbors. This crisis is costing far too many innocent lives, including at least 60 people – mostly women and children – killed in a single strike on Tuesday in northern Gaza. The toll on civilian lives is tragic and underscores the need for uninterrupted humanitarian support.

    “As nearly 2 million Gazans continue to face starvation, this action would intensify an already dire crisis. It further threatens the health of Gazans, interrupting vital healthcare efforts, such as the World Health Organization’s polio vaccination campaign, which depends on UNRWA infrastructure and support and Israeli cooperation. Further destabilized Palestinian communities and friction with the United Nations jeopardizes regional security and isolates Israel globally.

    “UNRWA must be able to continue its lifesaving work. The agency has expressed commitment to working with Israel to ensure that its operations are not used by Hamas.  Our focus should be placed on the proposed reforms laid out in the Colonna Report to ensure the organization’s neutrality in a difficult working environment, not scapegoating a critical humanitarian actor.

    “Achieving peace and stability in the region requires an immediate ceasefire, a dramatic increase in humanitarian aid reaching civilians in need, and the release of the hostages held by Hamas.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Continues Recovery Efforts Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, over $1.2 Billion in Direct Assistance to Survivors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Continues Recovery Efforts Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, over $1.2 Billion in Direct Assistance to Survivors

    FEMA Continues Recovery Efforts Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, over $1.2 Billion in Direct Assistance to Survivors

    Federal, state and local partners remain throughout the Southeast to help survivors affected by recent stormsWASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has approved more than $1.2 billion in direct assistance to Hurricanes Helene and Milton survivors. These funds help survivors with housing repairs, personal property replacement and other essential recovery efforts. Additionally, over $1.1 billion has been approved for debris removal and emergency protective measures, which are necessary to save lives, protect public health and prevent further damage to public and private property.Today, Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks is in North Carolina meeting with state and local officials and supporting federal response efforts. FEMA personnel remain on the ground in communities across the Southeast conducting damage assessments, coordinating with local officials, and helping individuals apply for disaster assistance programs. More than 1,400 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members are in affected neighborhoods helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.Applying for assistance is a critical first step towards recovery. Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida (Helene), Florida (Milton), North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. Federal assistance for individuals may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Applicants may be eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance, which provides survivors with a safe, temporary place to stay, like a hotel or motel, until they can find a short or longer-term housing solution. To date, more than 23,000 households have checked into FEMA provided hotels.Individuals affected by the hurricanes are encouraged to apply as soon as they are able to by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, which is the fastest way to get an application started. Individuals can also apply using the FEMA App, calling 1-800-621-3362 or in person at a local Disaster Recovery Center. Disaster Recovery Centers can provide survivors in-person help with their applications. FEMA now has 75 Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the hurricane affected communities. Center locations can be found at FEMA.gov/DRC. FEMA also has Disaster Survivor Assistance team members in the field supporting survivors and helping them with the application process. Support for North CarolinaFEMA has approved over $185 million for over 116,000 households and other types of assistance. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $189 million for debris removal and reimbursement of emergency protective measures for the state.More than 6,300 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. There are 411 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also 21 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Asheville (Mobile), Bakersville, Boone, Brevard, Bryson City, Burnsville, Charlotte, Conover, Fairview, Hendersonville, Jefferson, Lake Lure, Lenoir, Marion, Marshall, Morganton, Newland, Old Fort, Sparta, Sylva, and Waynesville where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.Support for Florida  In response to Helene, FEMA has approved over $413 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 125,000 households. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $335 million in Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency work. In response to Milton, FEMA has approved over $252 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 174,000 households. Additionally, FEMA has approved more than $631 million in Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency work.More than 13,200 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.  There are 486 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities to provide support. There are also 20 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Bartow, Branford, Brooksville, Carrabelle (Mobile), Dale City (Mobile), Fort Pierce, Homosassa, Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Old Town, Orlando, Palmetto (Mobile), Perry (2), Punta Gorda (Mobile), Sarasota, Stuart and Vero Beach supporting survivors from Debby, Helene and Milton where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  Support for South CarolinaFEMA has approved over $196 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 198,000 households. More than 3,400 households have checked into FEMA-funded hotels and lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program.There are 155 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also nine Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Abbeville, Anderson, Columbia, Edgefield, Graniteville, Greenville, Greenwood, Spartanburg and Winnsboro where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133. Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information. Support for GeorgiaFEMA has approved over $190 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 160,000 households.There are 267 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also 12 Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Augusta, Baxley, Douglas, Lyons, McRae–Helena (Mobile), Midway, Ocilla (Mobile), Sandersville, Savannah, Thompson, Valdosta and Waycross (Mobile) where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene. Support for Virginia  To date, FEMA has approved over $8 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 2,700 households.There are about 79 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are also eight Disaster Recovery Centers open in Christiansburg, Damascus, Dublin, Independence, Marion, Pembroke, Tazewell and Wytheville where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at: Recover – Hurricane Helene | VDEM (vaemergency.gov).Support for Tennessee FEMA has approved more than $15.9 million in housing and other types of assistance for more than 4,700 households. There are more than 58 Disaster Survivor Assistance members in communities providing support. There are now five Disaster Recovery Center open in Elizabeth, Erwin, Greenville, Morristown and Newport where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.
    amy.ashbridge
    Tue, 10/29/2024 – 21:15

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Katie Hobbs Announces $1.5 Million Grant to Help Protect the San Pedro River

    Source: US State of Arizona

    SIERRA VISTA, AZ — Yesterday, Governor Katie Hobbs joined the Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy, environmental advocates, and officials from Sierra Vista, Cochise County, Fort Huachuca and the Bureau of Land Management to announce a $1.5 million grant for Cochise County to complete a water recharge project on the San Pedro River. 

     

    “The San Pedro River is a one-of-a-kind desert river that plays a critical role in the habitat and ecosystem of the region,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “This funding isn’t just dollars and cents, it’s a down payment on the state’s long-term commitment to securing Arizona’s water future. Important water conservation projects like this, alongside efforts to reform rural groundwater management will bring real solutions to build a sustainable future across the entire state.”

    With the support of the grant, the Coyote Wash Stormwater Management Project will capture additional precipitation and stormwater to recharge the aquifer, protect flows in the San Pedro River, and improve water quality. 

    “Thank you to Governor Hobbs for recognizing the efforts we have made to protect our San Pedro River,” said Sierra Vista Mayor Clea McCaa. “As the major migratory corridor for wildlife, the San Pedro River is crucial for both the health of our environment and for the vitality of our communities here in Cochise County. The City of Sierra Vista has worked with our partners at the local, state, and federal levels to implement innovative and responsible water management for decades and we continue to work on that today.”

    “We have to protect the Fort, as well as the people, as well as the river,” said Cochise County Supervisor Ann English. “This is the last mile and last dollar we needed to finish this project. We’ve been working on this project, as well as many other conservation projects for years because we knew it needed to happen. Our flood control department and our staff in the supervisors office all have been and are committed toward working toward a better water future for Cochise County.”

    “The Nature Conservancy is thankful for the investment by Governor Hobbs in the Cochise Conservation and Recharge Network’s Coyote Wash Project,” said Kim Schonek, The Nature Conservancy’s Arizona Water Program Director. “Long-term collaboration with state, local, and federal partners combined with sound science led to the development and design of this project. These efforts are key examples of how water managers can plan for a resilient future that balances water needs for communities and nature.”

    Prior to the announcement, the Governor joined local advocates and stakeholders for a tour of the river to see its current condition and the wildlife it supports. This grant is part of the Hobbs Administration’s efforts and commitments to protect Arizona’s water supplies and improve sustainable water management practices.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement Regarding Fires at Ballot Boxes

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    The following statement may be attributed to U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman and Greg Austin, acting special agent in charge of the FBI Seattle field office:

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI want to assure our communities that we are working closely and expeditiously together to investigate the two incendiary fires at the ballot boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and the one in Portland, Oregon, and will work to hold whoever is responsible fully accountable.”

    Anyone with information is asked to contact the nearest FBI office, provide information through tips.fbi.gov, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Holding firearms offenders to account

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    The sentencing of Matua Parkinson in the Whakatāne District Court today marks the completion of a collaborative effort by Police and the Firearms Safety Authority-Te Tari Purēke to hold firearms offenders to account.

    Parkinson is a former firearms licence holder who pleaded guilty in June to unlawful possession of five Alfa Carbine rifles which he supplied to an unlicensed person.

    Parkinson, aged 49, admitted travelling from his Tauranga home to two Gun City stores in Auckland where he paid almost $11,000 in cash for five Alfa Carbines in June 2022. The firearms have not been recovered.

    Detective Inspector Albie Alexander said Parkinson’s offending put the public and Police at risk.

    “Parkinson has held high positions of responsibility in the community, including an elected health board official and been captain of the All Blacks Sevens. Alongside such roles he was also required to meet the legal obligations to be a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence,” DI Alexander says.

    “Any diversion of lawfully purchased firearms to unlicensed people, potentially gang members, criminals or extremists, poses a significant safety threat to the public and to frontline Police officers.

    “The National Organised Crime Group is aware of multiple examples of sawn-off Alfa Carbine rifles being used to commit crimes, including homicides. More than 70 percent of firearms seized from offenders are standard rifles and shotguns, easily obtained by a so-called ‘A-Category’ licence holder.

    “Today’s sentencing brings an end to court proceedings involving Parkinson, but the full impact of his offending is ongoing as the Alfa Carbines he supplied to unlicensed people remain in circulation and are most likely in the hands of criminals.

    DI Alexander says Police and colleagues from the Firearms Safety Authority-Te Tari Purēke collaborated to revoke Parkinson’s firearms licence and remove all firearms from his possession when his alleged offending became known in 2023.

    Firearms Safety Authority Executive Director Angela Brazier says the law requires licence holders to act in the interests of personal and public safety and maintain their fit and proper status at all times.

    “Holding a firearms licence is a privilege reserved for those who follow the law. The vast majority of licence holders are law abiding who have no trouble meeting their responsibilities.

    “For a criminal few, offending will become a lot harder over time with the new Firearms Registry. When fully rolled out it will help flag unusual patterns of firearms purchasing in real time and help to reduce the flow of lawfully held firearms to the illegal market,” says Angela Brazier.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Surface-to-air missile systems in live-fire training

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      Surface-to-air missile systems attached to a brigade under the Chinese PLA 74th Group Army fire missiles at simulated air targets during a round-the-clock live-fire training exercise on August 6, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Yu Xiao)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Reducing aircraft noise over Brisbane

    Source: Airservices Australia

    Aircraft noise is set to reduce for Brisbane communities with upcoming changes to increase the use of Simultaneous Opposite Direction Parallel Runway Operations (SODPROPS) at Brisbane Airport from 28 November 2024.

    SODPROPS is a runway mode that enables aircraft to arrive and depart Brisbane Airport over Moreton Bay. With these changes, SODPROPS will become the priority operating mode when traffic and weather conditions allow, resulting in increased use on weekends, and on weekday evenings from 9pm.

    Airservices Head of Community Engagement, Donna Marshall, said aircraft on the departure flight paths used during SODPROPS will remain over water for longer and will be higher before they cross the coastline, resulting in lower noise levels for communities.

    “The flight path changes being delivered are part of the measures outlined in Airservices Noise Action Plan for Brisbane and consistent with the Ministerial Direction issued to Airservices in September. They will support an increase in SODPROPS use from the current 2% of all operations to around 5% in 2025,” Ms Marshall said.

    This will mean for every flight using this procedure, there will be a reduction of the total population overflown by between 300,000 to 500,000 people compared to standard parallel runway operations.

    “The changes are a result of extensive consultation with the people of Brisbane and respond to Redlands community concerns about aircraft noise impacts.

    “Under these changes the height of aircraft operations over the Redlands area will increase from 8,000ft to above 12,000ft to reduce the noise impact.

    “To facilitate this change, we also need to make some minor adjustments to the arrival flight paths over North Stradbroke Island that are used during SODPROPS.

    “While this involves lowering the paths so aircraft remain separated from daytime arrivals to Gold Coast Airport, we do not believe this will be noticeable to communities but a noise monitor will be installed on North Stradbroke Island so we can monitor these operations.”

    For more information on the Brisbane flight path changes go to: https://engage.airservicesaustralia.com/nap4b/news_feed/november-2024-changes

    ENDS

    For more information please contact Airservices Australia:
    Phone 1300 619 341 or email media@airservicesaustralia.com

    About Airservices
    Airservices Australia is the Federal Government-owned organisation responsible for the safety of 11 per cent of the world’s airspace and the provision of aviation rescue fire fighting services at Australia’s busiest airports. We work closely with our customers and industry to support the long-term growth of the aviation industry and are investing in technologies to position Australia at the forefront of innovation in the global aviation industry.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: South Sudan

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 30 October 2024, 14:28 NZDT
    • Still current at: 30 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Do not travel to South Sudan due to ongoing armed conflict, inter-ethnic violence and violent crime (level 4 of 4).

    New Zealanders currently in South Sudan are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so.

    South Sudan

    Armed Conflict/Civil Unrest
    Pockets of armed conflict between government and various opposition forces remain and the security situation in Juba has the potential to deteriorate with little or no warning. Land routes into and out of South Sudan may be blocked and flights may be cancelled at short notice. The political and security situation throughout South Sudan remains volatile.

    Inter-ethnic violence and cattle raiding continues to occur throughout the country, with significant loss of life. There is a complete absence of rule of law outside of the capital Juba and even in Juba, the capacity of the authorities to uphold law and order is very limited.

    Areas within 40 kilometres of South Sudan’s northern border with Sudan are also particularly dangerous and vulnerable to armed incursions and violence.  Parts of the border remain disputed and military forces are deployed in these areas.

    The border areas with South Sudan’s other neighbouring countries, including Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, the Central African Republic, and Uganda are extremely dangerous due to armed conflict, military activity and other violence. There are regular reports of attacks by armed groups on vehicles travelling on the main road connecting Juba to Uganda (Jiba-Niomule road).

    We recommend you avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings in South Sudan as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings.

    Violent Crime
    Violent crime, including kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, home invasions, car-jacking, and sexual assault is a significant problem throughout South Sudan, both in urban and rural areas. The economic situation has led to a significant increase in both petty and violent crime. Criminals are often armed as weapons are readily accessible.

    The government has limited capacity to deter crime and maintain law and order throughout South Sudan. Banditry and lawlessness is an issue in rural areas. Humanitarian workers have been the targets of killings and violence in the past.

    New Zealanders in South Sudan should exercise a very high degree of personal security awareness at all times. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. For security reasons we recommend against travelling alone, at night, or to isolated areas.

    Petty crime, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, also occurs and is often accompanied by violence. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

    Road Travel
    We strongly advise against using public transport due to safety concerns.

    If travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up.

    Official checkpoints are frequently set up by security forces and have been known to become hostile or violent. Individuals staffing checkpoints have been known to solicit bribes. Criminals who pose as police officers have also set up roadblocks. At checkpoints, remain in your vehicle and produce requested documents through a raised window. We recommend carrying colour photocopies of your passport and identity documents and producing these when requested, not the originals.

    Landmines
    There is a risk from landmines, which are reportedly present throughout South Sudan, including in Juba. We advise you not to stray off well-used public roads and paths.

    General Travel Advice
    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in South Sudan, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to South Sudan should consider.

    We advise New Zealanders in South Sudan to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety, including by seeking professional security advice. You should have a contingency plan in place for departure, monitor developments closely through the media and other local information sources. As a precautionary measure, we recommend ensuring adequate supplies of food, water, fuel, cash and essential medications are always on hand and travel documents are kept up to date.

    New Zealanders travelling or living in South Sudan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.  You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel to South Sudan – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in South Sudan. 

    The rainy season typically runs from April to November, during which flooding often occurs. Flooding impacts transport and communications infrastructure, as well as lead to shortages of drinking water and food. Severe flooding has led to displacement, property damage and loss of life.

    Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty.

    New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in South Sudan to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion is recommended for both dress and behaviour.

    Photography, including from a mobile phone, without a permit from the Ministry of Information in South Sudan is illegal. Taking photographs without a permit will immediately attract suspicion, and could lead to detention. Even with a permit, it is illegal to take photos of airfields, military installations or personal, government buildings and infrastructure.

    New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in South Sudan against our advice are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

     

    Travel tips

    See our regional advice for Africa

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: School suspended due to rainstorms in Chinese island province

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Classes have been suspended and roads waterlogged in some cities and counties in south China’s island province of Hainan due to heavy rainfall starting Monday, which was induced by a combination of the remnants of Typhoon Trami and cold air, local authorities said.
    In the city of Sanya, many roads in the urban area were waterlogged, while some sections experienced a power outage. Primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens in Sanya suspended classes at noon on Monday, and continued to suspend classes on Tuesday morning. Classes were resumed on Tuesday afternoon as the rainfall weakens. The city of Qionghai and the Tunchang and Chengmai counties also issued class suspension notices on Tuesday.
    The provincial disaster prevention, reduction and relief commission has upgraded its emergency response for flood control and typhoon prevention from Level III to Level II on Tuesday.
    At 9 a.m. on Tuesday, the provincial government issued a Level-II rainstorm warning, saying heavy rain in excess of 250 mm is expected to fall in the cities of Wanning and Danzhou and the Qiongzhong Li and Miao Autonomous County during the next 24 hours.
    The province on Tuesday morning also issued a meteorological risk warning for geological disasters.
    From Saturday to Monday, Typhoon Trami rotated over the waters off the southern coast of Hainan and the Xisha Islands.
    China has a four-tier emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe response, and a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe level, followed by orange, yellow and blue. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Detailed fiscal package set to be unveiled

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Detailed stimulus policies, including proactive fiscal expansion, are likely to be rolled out to address China’s local government debt issue and facilitate a steady economic recovery, as China’s top legislature is set to convene a highly anticipated session next month.

    The Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress will convene its 12th session from Nov 4 to 8 in Beijing, and analysts said the meeting is widely expected to flesh out details of the fiscal package, including a swap program for local government hidden debt, and sales of government bonds to inject capital into banks.

    Vice-Minister of Finance Liao Min said during the World Bank’s 110th Development Committee meeting on Friday in Washington, DC, that China will leverage more fiscal firepower to strengthen its countercyclical adjustments.

    Countercyclical adjustments are macroeconomic tools used to neutralize possible negative effects of economic cycles.

    Liao said that details of China’s fiscal initiatives would be announced after the conclusion of the meeting of the NPC Standing Committee, as fiscal policy in China requires going through legislative procedures.

    Through government spending, China aims to catalyze investment from the private sector and shore up consumer spending, thereby increasing effective demand, Liao said, adding that the country is confident of achieving its annual growth target of around 5 percent.

    In October last year, China’s top legislature approved a plan to increase treasury bond issuance by 1 trillion yuan ($140 billion).

    Moreover, earlier this month, Finance Minister Lan Fo’an said at a news conference that the central government plans to significantly increase the debt ceiling to conduct a one-time swap of local governments’ existing hidden debt.

    This policy is the largest support measure introduced in recent years to aid the debt resolution process, and is pending legislative approval, Lan added.

    Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International, said, “This means that the local government debt quota, currently at around 46.79 trillion yuan, will be raised substantially this year.”

    The quota increase will pave the way for the issuance of large-scale special local government refinancing bonds in the fourth quarter, which is estimated to reach around 2 to 3 trillion yuan and will be used to swap out the existing hidden local debt. This process is unlikely to be slow, Wang added.

    The government’s debt restructuring program has extended repayment periods and reduced financing costs, enabling local authorities to free up more funds for current economic development and public service provision, said Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities.

    Furthermore, the easing of local government debt helps optimize the local business environment, which is a significant boon for foreign companies investing in China, Luo added.

    Meanwhile, analysts said the current round of fiscal initiatives also includes measures to replenish bank capital, which will boost the lending and bond-purchasing abilities of large commercial banks, with the aim of driving these major banks to further enhance support for the real economy.

    The volume of special treasury bonds issued to replenish the core tier 1 capital of State-owned commercial banks could potentially reach around 1 trillion yuan, said Wang of Golden Credit Rating International.

    “As a result, new yuan-denominated loans in the fourth quarter are expected to reverse the previous trend of slowdown and return to a growth trajectory, which is an important focus area for the current economic stabilization efforts,” Wang added.

    While Lan, the finance minister, has hinted at the considerable headroom the central government has to raise debt levels and increase the fiscal deficit, analysts said that increases in the government deficit and treasury bond issuance are likely to be outlined in next year’s Government Work Report.

    Tao Chuan, chief economist at Minsheng Securities Research Institute, said that given the relatively slower pace of issuance of special treasury bonds and local government bonds at the moment, the current fiscal policy thinking is likely tilting more toward effectively utilizing existing policy tools and larger-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: All nations should ensure universal, consistent application of int’l humanitarian law: Chinese ambassador

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    All nations should translate their political commitments under the Geneva Conventions into concrete actions, ensuring the universal and consistent application of international humanitarian law, China’s permanent representative to the UN Office in Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland said on Tuesday.

    Chen Xu made the remarks at the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent held from October 28 to 31. Chen highlighted the unprecedented severity of the current global humanitarian situation, stressing that all parties should uphold genuine multilateralism and jointly advance the cause of global peace and progress for humanity.

    Addressing the Palestine-Israel conflict, he emphasized that achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire is crucial to alleviating humanitarian suffering, urging major powers with influence over the parties involved to play a constructive role.

    He also underscored that civilians and civilian infrastructure must not be targets in military operations, and that safe, unimpeded humanitarian access should be ensured in conflict areas to protect humanitarian organizations and their staff.

    Developed countries should take on greater responsibilities in providing support and assistance to developing countries, he said.

    Chen reaffirmed China’s longstanding commitment to upholding and implementing international humanitarian law, its active involvement in global humanitarian aid, and its consistent role as an advocate, participant, and contributor to international humanitarian efforts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hamas says open to agreements on permanent ceasefire in Gaza

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Hamas expressed on Tuesday its openness to any agreements or ideas for establishing a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

    Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior Hamas official, said in a televised speech that the movement is open to any agreements or ideas that would end the suffering of the people in Gaza and establish a permanent ceasefire.

    Abu Zuhri added that the agreements or ideas should include the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the entire Gaza Strip, the lifting of the blockade, and the provision of relief, support, and shelter for the population, as well as reconstruction and a serious prisoner swap deal.

    He added that the movement has responded to mediators’ requests to discuss new proposals regarding a ceasefire and prisoner exchange. The Hamas official noted that his group has already held some meetings on this topic and that additional meetings will follow.

    On Sunday, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi announced a proposal for a two-day ceasefire in Gaza to exchange four Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, with plans for negotiations within ten days to work toward a permanent truce.

    Sisi’s announcement came as efforts continue to resume Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Recently, a Hamas delegation discussed “ways to overcome obstacles” blocking the truce in Cairo.

    Since the outbreak of the conflict between Hamas and Israel in October last year, Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been working to mediate a ceasefire in Gaza.

    Several rounds of talks in this regard have been held in Doha and Cairo over the past months but failed to produce any serious agreements to end the yearlong conflict.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Guatemala

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 30 October 2024, 15:01 NZDT
    • Still current at: 30 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Avoid non-essential travel to the following areas due to violent crime (level 3 of 4):

    • within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing
    • to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenangodue.

    Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Guatemala due to violent crime and civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

    Guatemala

    Violent Crime
    Guatemala has a high violent crime rate. Criminal acts often involve firearms and may include armed robbery, kidnapping, sexual assault and murder. The majority of this crime is drug and gang-related, however, violence can be indiscriminate and occur in areas frequented by tourists.

    New Zealanders in Guatemala should remain security conscious and exercise a high degree of caution at all times. This includes in Guatemala City and other major cities, public areas and tourist destinations including Tikal, Petén, Antigua, Volcán de Pacaya and Lake Atitlán.

    Sexual assault remains a risk. There have been incidents of drink spiking in tourist areas such as Antigua. We advise New Zealanders to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid travelling alone, especially at night.

    Pickpockets and bag snatchers are prevalent in major cities and tourist sites, especially in central markets. We advise New Zealanders to take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

    “Express kidnappings” have also been reported in Guatemala, where criminals abduct a victim for a short amount of time and force them to withdraw funds from their bank account. To reduce the risk of this occurring we recommend you use ATMs that are located within bank branches and during daylight hours only. We also recommend you avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Victims have been killed and injured attempting to resist perpetrators.

    When travelling to remote areas, including to volcanoes, it may be safer to travel with others or a reputable tour company. The Guatemalan Government PROATUR service offers tourist advice and security escorts for travel around the country.

    Road Travel
    Inter-city travel can be dangerous, particularly after dark. There have been reports of armed robbery and bus/carjackings affecting tourists on a number of travel routes, including along main highways and the road to and from the international airport in Guatemala City. Armed criminals have been known to set up roadblocks and pose as police officers. If travelling by road, you should keep doors locked, valuables out of sight and windows up at all times. Wherever possible travel in a convoy and avoid all travel after dark.

    Travel on local public buses (“chicken buses”) should be avoided for safety and security reasons as they are usually overloaded and there have been armed attacks by gangs and incidents of crime against foreigners on buses. Radio-dispatched or hotel taxis are the safest option as there have been robberies and assaults associated with unofficial taxis. Prepaid vouchers can also be purchased from the INGUAT (tourist office) in the arrivals terminal.

    Borders
    Special care should also be taken in border areas with Belize, Mexico, Honduras and El Salvador and at border crossings due to organised crime and drug-related violence. Allow enough time for border formalities so that you can arrive at your destination before dark.

    Seismic Activity
    Guatemala lies in a seismically active zone with four active volcanoes, and the possibility of an eruption always exists. Previously volcanic activity has forced evacuation of nearby visitors. Tremors are common, so familiarise yourself with earthquake safety measures. Travellers should be aware of the possibility for travel disruptions in the event of seismic or volcanic activity. Monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media, and follow any alerts or instructions from local authorities.

    Civil Unrest
    Protests and demonstrations, including strike action and roadblocks, occur across Guatemala and have the potential to turn violent with little notice. They can cause disruptions to traffic and essential services. We recommend you avoid large gatherings, monitor the local media for updated security information and follow any instructions issued by local authorities, including curfews. Participation in demonstrations by foreigners is illegal and may result in detention and expulsion from the country.

    General Travel Advice
    Carry a photocopy or certified true copy of your passport as a form of personal identification when travelling.

    Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

    Do not take photographs of children without permission. Many people in Guatemala fear that children are being kidnapped for adoption or for theft of vital organs, and foreigners have been caught up in violent incidents related to accusations and fears of child kidnapping. Photography of government buildings, airports and military establishments is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

    Medical facilities are limited outside Guatemala City. New Zealanders in Guatemala should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provisions for adventure activities and medical evacuation by air.

    New Zealanders in Guatemala are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

     

    Travel tips

    The New Zealand Embassy Mexico City, Mexico is accredited to Guatemala

    Street Address Jaime Balmes No 8, 4th Floor, Los Morales, Polanco, Mexico D.F. 11510 Telephone +52 55 5283 9460 Fax +52 55 5283 9480 Email nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/mexico Hours Mon – Fri 0930 – 1400

    New Zealand Honorary Consulate Guatemala City, Guatemala

    Street Address 13 Calle 7-71, Zona 10, Guatemala City 01010, Guatemala Telephone (+502) 2360-8276 Alternate Telephone (+502) 2360-4961 Fax +502 2431 3742 Email kiwiguatemala@gmail.com

    See our regional advice for Central/South America

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Approves $500 Million Loan to Support Climate and Disaster Resilience in Pakistan

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (29 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $500 million policy-based loan to support climate change and disaster risk reduction and resilience in Pakistan.

    The Climate and Disaster Resilience Enhancement Program (CDREP) will strengthen Pakistan’s institutional capacity for planning, preparedness, and response; increase inclusive investment in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience; and support the scale up of disaster risk financing using a risk-layered approach.

    Pakistan is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and disasters triggered by natural hazards in Asia and the Pacific. Average losses from disaster events exceed $2 billion per year. Women and other vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected by climate change and disaster events.

    “This program builds on ADB’s longstanding work in Pakistan to understand and reduce climate and disaster risks and support effective disaster response,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov. “We are proud to support an integrated and comprehensive approach to climate and disaster risk management, including a portfolio of disaster risk financing instruments for timely and adequate funding for disaster response.”

    The program supports enhanced capacity for disaster risk mapping and modeling for investment and development decisions. It enhances coordination for disaster monitoring and response. It supports enhanced planning and prioritization of gender-sensitive and resilient public investments, including integrated flood risk management and nature-based solutions. 

    The program supports mobilization of climate finance from public and private sources. This includes issuance of a domestic green sukuk (Islamic bond). A key innovation of the program is the use of ADB’s Contingent Disaster Financing option for the first time in the Central and West Asia region. This will provide quick disbursing budget support in the event of a disaster.

    The program will support the establishment of a solidarity fund to facilitate the uptake of risk transfer solutions such as agriculture insurance. The program also supports shock-responsive social protection to deliver cash assistance in the event of a disaster.

    ADB has also approved a technical assistance grant of $1 million to support implementation of the program.

    Pakistan was a founding member of ADB. Since 1966, ADB has committed over $52 billion in public and private sector loans, grants, and other forms of financing to promote inclusive economic growth in Pakistan and improve the country’s infrastructure, energy and food security, transport networks, and social services.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB to Improve Rural Livehoods, Ecosystems and Climate Resilience in Qixia City, Shandong, PRC

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $150 million loan to enhance the ecological and climate resilience, as well as rural livelihoods in Qixia City in Shandong Province, the People’s Republic of China (PRC).  

    “The Shandong Qixia Ecological Function Conservation Demonstration Project will provide a model of integrated city ecosystem management,” said ADB Country Director for the PRC Safdar Parvez. “The project will benefit more than 429,000 residents through enhanced natural resources, environmental living conditions, and livelihood opportunities. The practices and experiences in this ecologically sensitive area could be replicated in other parts of the PRC, as well as in other countries.”

    Qixia City serves as the primary water source for coastal Yantai municipality in northeast Shandong Province, a major apple-growing area. However, intensive use of agricultural chemicals and plastic has damaged soil and water quality in the vicinity. Climate change is also increasing the frequency and magnitude of weather-related disasters. The degradation of natural capital in the city is disrupting agriculture and food security.

    To improve sustainability practices for agriculture and rural livelihoods, the project will conduct soil testing and apply organic fertilizers and soil conditioners to improve soil quality, as well as promote ecotourism to provide a sustainable source of income for local communities, while also raising awareness about the importance of conserving the ecosystem.

    The project will pilot a smart orchard system that will have modern and environment-friendly practices, such as sensors, data analytics, automation, optimized fertigation, and pest control. It will also strengthen rural solid waste collection management. All contribute to more sustainable production systems with reduced chemical fertilizer and pesticide use.

    To protect natural capital, the project will rehabilitate degraded river courses through bank protection, flood control, and excavation of river blockages. It will also construct forest fire prevention pathways and implement sustainable forest pest control. Institutional capacity and coordination on integrated ecosystem management will also be strengthened.

    As part of ADB’s Yellow River Ecological Corridor Program, aligned with the PRC’s Yellow River Basin Ecological Protection and High-quality Development Plan, the project aims to adopt a model of integrated ecosystem management and building climate resilience. It has significant regional benefits, as it addresses the complex ecological and environmental challenges in the Yellow River region.

    The total project cost is estimated to be $362 million, with $212 million counterpart financing from the government, which includes $85 million cofinancing from the Agricultural Development Bank of China. More than $99 million of the ADB financing is earmarked for climate adaptation and mitigation. It is expected to be completed in 2030.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police target organised crime group and seize significant quantity of cannabis

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Last week Police across Counties Manukau, Auckland City and Waitemata Districts executed over 30 search warrants at addresses around the Districts, targeting an organised crime group using residential properties to set-up sophisticated indoor cannabis growing systems.

    The termination has resulted in a significant seizure of illegal drugs and the arrest of 11 people. 3,385 cannabis plants at various growth-stages have been seized and destroyed, along with 48 kilograms of dried cannabis. The estimated total value of the seizures, based on estimated yield of the plants, is $18 million.

    The majority of those arrested were in New Zealand illegally and a result, Immigration New Zealand has deported 11 Vietnamese nationals. All 11 have left New Zealand and are back in Vietnam.

    Enquiries are ongoing utilising intelligence gathered during the operation and Police cannot rule-out the possibility of further arrests.

    Acting Detective Inspector Greg Brand of Auckland City Police says the arrests come as a result of an investigation that has spanned Tamaki Makaurau and which targeted a sophisticated and profit-driven criminal syndicate.

    “This group were cultivating and dealing in large amounts of cannabis and their actions mirror similar operations recently uncovered in Australia where criminal groups, primarily of Vietnamese descent, were running a large number of indoor cannabis growing operations,” says Acting Detective Inspector Brand.

    “Make no mistake, these syndicates are well connected to gangs and this cannabis is a large source of income for their illegal operations.

    “Often the properties used by these groups will appear innocuous and will not really attract neighbours’ attention. However the operations that are set-up within are capable of producing large quantities of cannabis to sell.

    “These individuals are significantly modifying rental properties to cultivate cannabis with extremely dangerous electrical installations.

    “Not only is this extremely dangerous and creates a significant fire risk, we’d estimate millions of dollars’ worth of electricity is being stolen every year to run these operations.”

    Police is working alongside Immigration New Zealand in relation to the foreign nationals involved in this investigation, as we want to ensure migrant communities are kept safe from those who would exploit the conditions of their work visas.

    WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

    Police are reminding landlords to be vigilant when renting out their properties.

    • Ensure there are regular property inspections.
    • Carry out thorough vetting: get two forms of photo ID and sight the original document, compare the photo with the applicant.

    It’s important for the community to remain vigilant as well.

    If you see suspicious activity, such as deliveries of easy grow and fertilizer bags being dropped off, or signs that an electricity meter has been tampered with, please contact Police.

    • Report any information you have by calling 105
    • Go online to make a report at www.police.govt.nz/use-105
    • Contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
    • If migrant communities are concerned with possible exploitation, contact MBIE on 0800 20 90 20

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    Note for media: a small number of video clips are available for release to media outlets, please contact Police Media team for download details.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Reminds Louisiana Residents to Maintain Flood Insurance Coverage

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA is reminding flood survivors who received a temporary Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) of the need to purchase an individual flood insurance policy. The three-year GFIP expired Monday, October 28, so policyholders must plan now to switch to a standard flood insurance policy to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage.
    It’s important that GFIP holders purchase a new flood insurance policy when the GFIP expires, to not only be covered in the event of flood damage, but to remain compliant with the obligation to get and keep flood insurance as a condition of past FEMA disaster assistance. To learn more about the requirement, visit https://agents.floodsmart.gov/disaster-assistance-flood-insurance-requirement.
    Following Hurricane Ida, FEMA purchased over 500 GFIPs for eligible disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. This helped those survivors meet the obtain and maintain flood insurance requirement for households that receive FEMA flood disaster assistance when their home is in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). 
    Part of the eligibility requirement for receiving future federal financial assistance after a flood is that household get and keep flood insurance. For homeowners: Even if the property is transferred or sold, the requirement stays with the address, so the new owners are required to have flood insurance as well. For renters: They need to get and keep flood insurance as long as they remain at the rental address. Those that don’t buy a flood insurance policy will likely not receive federal disaster assistance for home repairs or personal property replacement if they experience another federally declared flood event.
    Steps to Take Now
    Purchase an individual flood insurance policy through a local insurance agent or from the NFIP Direct at NFIP Direct – Sign In before your GFIP expires. GFIPs are not renewable. However, policyholders have a 30-day renewal grace period offered through standard NFIP flood insurance policies. This means that even though a GFIP expires on October 28, 2024, policyholders have 30 days to pay in full for a standard NFIP policy without experiencing a lapse in coverage. For example, if they purchase a standard NFIP policy before the 30-day window ends on November 26, 2024, the effective date for their new policy would be October 28, 2024. They would not have to wait the typical 30 days for a new policy to go into effect and could be covered for any flood losses during that time. Don’t delay.

    For more information regarding GFIPs and purchasing a Standard Flood Insurance Policy, call the NFIP Direct at 800-638-6620 and select option number 2.
    Call the FEMA Disaster Assistance line at 800-621-FEMA (3362) to verify how much assistance you previously received. By law, you must purchase at least as much flood insurance coverage as the amount of federal home repair and personal property assistance you received for flood damages. Consider purchasing more coverage than required, as flood insurance claims can be made at any time.

    FEMA sends GFIP certificate holders a welcome packet when they first receive the policy, annual reminders, a reminder letter 45 days before the GFIP expires, as well as a final expiration notice.
    Flooding is the nation’s most common and costly natural disaster.  Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage. Visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more.
    Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station celebrates successful ewe breeding season

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    30 Oct 2024

    The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station has experienced one of its most successful breeding seasons to date.

    Building on six years of strong lamb marking and weaning results, this year’s success can be largely attributed to flock and pasture management despite the slow early winter pasture growth and the cold, wet and windy winter conditions experienced in late June and early July. It was also enhanced by tactical use of forage crops and optimal use of pregnancy scanning data.

    This year’s lamb marking results for the Merino flock at the research station have been nothing short of exceptional, with lamb marking rates between 130% and 140% per ewe joined.

    This impressive performance is well above the national lamb marking average of 90% for Merinos, which can vary significantly due to local conditions such as; cold temperatures, wet conditions, windy weather or drought.

    NSW DPIRD Livestock Systems Senior Research Scientist Dr Gordon Refshauge said the excellent results showcase the effectiveness of the ongoing research and management practices implemented by the Department’s research team.

    “The Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station staff’s dedictation and expertise are driving performance well above the industry average, ” Dr Refshauge said.

    “Staff categorised pregnant ewes into groups based on litter size of singles, twins, and multiples and provided feed quality and quantity tailored to each group’s specific needs.

    “The combination of these strategic practices, alongside a healthy and well-managed flock, led to a successful lambing season, showcasing the Station’s commitment to maximising lambing potential.”

    This season, the Station’s flock exhibited lower pregnancy rates than normal but also an unusually high number of triplets and quadruplets.

    Dr Refshauge said this unusual occurence can be attributed to the ewes being in excellent condition prior to mating and continuing to gain weight during the mating period.

    “Due to limited pasture growth, and high feed demands, the ewes were placed in their lambing paddocks earlier than usual, after finishing grazing mixed species forage crops or dual-purpose canola,” Dr Refshauge said.

    “These pre-lambing management decisions were critical for lambing, as pastures had been rested from grazing for 4 – 6 weeks prior to the commencement of lambing and the ewes were in the right body condition for lambing.

    “By integrating these precision management strategies with optimal feeding practices, we’ve exceeded our lambing goals for 2024, showcasing the capability of our flock and team and hoping to continue this for years to come.”

    For more information on the NSW DPIRD Cowra Agricultural Institute, please visit our website

    Media contact:
    For more information, please contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Martha Stewart paved the way for influencers. But not everyone finds her brand empowering

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Di Yang, Doctoral student, School of Economics, Finance, and Marketing, RMIT University

    From showing us how to cook the perfect turkey to mastering the art of folding a fitted sheet, Martha Stewart’s name has long been a byword for doing things well at home – “how very ‘Martha Stewart’ of you”.

    New Netflix documentary, Martha, promises insights into her extraordinary life – from a teenage model to the original influencer and America’s first self-made female billionaire, with a prison stay and friendship with Snoop Dogg along the way.

    Behind the expertly folded linens and immaculately set tables lies something more.

    Martha Stewart created a brand empire that redefined the domestic lifestyle, monetised it and paved the way for others.

    Beginnings and barriers

    Stewart’s connection to the domestic arts began early.

    Raised in New Jersey, she learned essential homemaking skills like cooking and sewing from her mother, while her father introduced her to gardening.

    She studied art and architectural history yet Stewart started her career as a stockbroker. But her passion for the domestic realm led her to entrepreneurship.

    As she once reflected, “the life of the homemaker was more interesting to me than the life of Wall Street”.

    In 1972, she launched a catering business from the suburbs of Connecticut. It soon gained recognition for its elegant food presentations. A publisher client led to her 1982 book, Entertaining. It included notes for how to prepare a clambake for 30, a cocktail party for 200 and ranked presentation as highly as the food itself.

    Book success sealed a partnership with Kmart in 1987 and eventually took her homewares brand into millions of American homes.

    By 1999, she took her company, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (which encompassed her television show, magazines, websites and merchandising product lines) public, becoming America’s first self-made female billionaire – albeit momentarily.

    A few years later, Stewart was embroiled in scandal. She received a five-month prison sentence for insider trading and obstruction of justice. Many expected this to mark the end of her career – but Stewart defied the odds.

    Breaking new ground

    After her release from prison, she didn’t shy away from her past. Instead, she continued sharing skills including those she honed during her time at prison camp – whether it was crocheting or experimenting with new recipes. As always, Stewart seized every opportunity to expand her brand.

    Her genius lies in her ability to “sense a void in the culture” and turn a personal touch into commercial success.

    Since selling her namesake brand, Stewart has stayed in the spotlight, sometimes sharing it with rapper Snoop Dogg. The unlikely duo struck up a seemingly genuine friendship that produced a television potluck series, appearances and prison jokes.

    She continues to connect with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where her long-term influence is perhaps most evident.

    The OG influencer

    Stewart’s living legacy is unmistakable in today’s digital world. Scrolling through social media, you’ll find traces of her in meticulously arranged tablescapes or perfectly organised cabinets.

    Popular “cleanfluencers” like Mrs Hinch and Australia’s Mama Mila have built massive followings by turning domestic tasks into visually captivating content.

    Minimalist tidy maven Marie Kondo took the world by storm, with her philosophy of keeping only what “sparks joy”. Her global brand follows Stewart’s signature collection model. Stewart’s clean and white aesthetic and multichannel branding can be seen in Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop too.

    When housework is repackaged as life-changing and transformative, it transcends private duty to become a public, respected and potentially profitable business.

    But is this feminism?

    Yet, the rise of domestic lifestyle influencers also raises critical questions in feminist circles.

    As far back as Simone de Beauvoir’s The Second Sex, published in 1949, housework has been seen as part of the trap of domestic femininity.

    Figures like Stewart may represent success stories in economic terms. But their ventures risk reinforcing the stereotype that homemaking is inherently women’s work, often packaged alongside an ever-growing array of consumer products designed to perfect it.

    Stewart’s vision of domestic success – immaculate homes, flawless dinners, and perfect organisation – sets a standard that is unattainable for most. Scholars argue her media empire presents an upper-class fantasy, where the appearance of a wealthy lifestyle is emphasised over the reality of it.

    Focusing on domesticity is not inherently regressive, but what happens when the standards of success are too high to reach?

    The “solution” is often hidden in the consumerism trap, with women endlessly buying goods to chase an idealised lifestyle.

    Stewart’s embrace of perfectionism fuelled her success. In her words, “being a perfectionist can be profitable”. Yet for women and consumers, the pursuit of “Martha Stewartness” often feels out of reach.

    Martha is streaming on Netflix from today.

    Di Yang does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Martha Stewart paved the way for influencers. But not everyone finds her brand empowering – https://theconversation.com/martha-stewart-paved-the-way-for-influencers-but-not-everyone-finds-her-brand-empowering-241802

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –