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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Van Hollen, Cardin, Trone Announce $7.7 Million for Airport Infrastructure Projects in Western Maryland)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Trone

    October 30, 2024

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 30, 2024

    Van Hollen, Cardin, Trone Announce $7.7 Million for Airport Infrastructure Projects in Western Maryland

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) announced $7,705,850 in federal funding for infrastructure and expansion projects at the Hagerstown Regional Airport and Garrett County Airport. The funding, provided through the Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program and Airport Terminal Program, will increase the airports’ capacities to meet operational needs and safety standards.

    “Hagerstown Regional and Garrett County airports help connect Western Maryland with greater economic opportunity. We fought for these investments to provide both airports with resources to continue to serving Maryland’s businesses, residents, and visitors in the years to come,” said the lawmakers.

    The federal grants have been awarded as follows:

    • $6,786,262 to Hagerstown Regional Airport to remove a building and relocate fencing identified as obstructions by the FAA and to renovate and expand the existing terminal building to accommodate existing and projected airline passenger demand
    • $919,588 to Garrett County Airport to rehabilitate 7,300 square yards of the existing Terminal Apron pavement

    The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds various types of airport infrastructure projects across the country, including repairs and upgrades to runways, taxiways, airport signage, lighting and markings – all while creating thousands of good-paying, local jobs. The members have consistently fought to provide funds for airports and terminal operators, including through the fiscal year 2024 appropriations process, which makes $3.35 billion available from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund and an additional $532 million from the general fund for AIP projects.

    The Airport Terminal Program was created in 2021 through the lawmakers’ efforts to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Funded at $1 billion in fiscal year 2024, the Airport Terminal Program supports safe, sustainable, and accessible airport terminals, on-airport rail access projects, and airport-owned airport traffic control towers.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Researcher Melissa Gish Bridges Chemistry and Physics To Improve Solar Energy Technologies

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Researchers Bryon Larson, Melissa Gish, Ross Larsen, and Reilly Seban (left to right) are collecting and analyzing data on organic solar cells in the NREL Energy Systems Integration Facility’s Insight Center. Their research is part of a large-scale effort to quantify organic photovoltaics for incorporation into machine learning tools. Photo by Joe DelNero, NREL

    Melissa Gish approaches physics and chemistry problems like puzzles: Control this or that variable, and work out how the jigsaw pieces fit together.

    “I didn’t really like biology because I felt like there were too many variables to adequately control,” said Gish, a chemistry researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

    The journal Trends in Chemistry recently honored Gish in a special issue designed to highlight emerging leaders in chemistry who are innovating in their respective fields, as well as to celebrate Trends in Chemistry’s fifth anniversary and Cell Press’ 50th anniversary.

    That inclination toward controlling variables to chart a path to discovery led her from high school biology experiments on the breeding behavior of mosquitoes to majoring in chemistry in college. In her senior year, Gish studied quantum mechanics and worked in a physical chemistry lab—and that work led her to pursue a Ph.D. in experimental physical chemistry.

    “The intersection of physics and chemistry just made sense to me in a way that other disciplines hadn’t,” she said. “It just clicked.”

    At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Gish immediately started working in ultrafast spectroscopy, where pulsed lasers are used to study ultrafast events after a system absorbs light—within solar energy research—and her renewable energy research interests then led her to NREL, first as a postdoctoral researcher and now as a chemistry researcher.

    “NREL has world-class fundamental research and amazing physical chemists,” she said, “so I could continue working with ultrafast spectroscopy and solar energy research.”

    Leading on Transient Spectroscopy

    Gish began her work in transient spectroscopy—studying the properties of short-lived excited states of molecules and materials—at UNC and continues that work at NREL.

    “We were studying dye-sensitized photoelectrosynthesis cells, which involved the absorption of light to kick off an electron transfer cascade that would lead to catalysis to generate solar fuels,” she said. “These systems often had two-to-three-plus components, each with its own photophysics that needed to be parsed out with careful control experiments. These problems are puzzles—each puzzle is unique and fun to solve, with the added bonus of working toward new renewable energy technologies.”

    At NREL, Gish has become a leader in using transient spectroscopy to study pathways to more efficient solar cells and solar energy production and uncovering the photophysics of complicated molecular and materials systems, often connecting that information to photochemical reactions. Her work spans much of the periodic table, from organic molecules and polymers to transition and rare earth metal-organic complexes to silicon nanoparticles to semiconductor materials and more. Gish’s recent investigations extend across the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Office of Science Basic Energy Sciences research portfolio at NREL and have targeted the short excited-state lifetimes of conjugated polymers, tuning of singlet fission at mesoporous interfaces, and development of a strategy to differentiate rare earth elements.

    Gish is presently interested in connecting ultrafast photophysics on the very small scale—femtoseconds, picoseconds, and nanoseconds—to photochemical transformations on the seconds-to-hours time scale.

    “Understanding the initial processes after light absorption that may affect the photochemistry or photocatalysis that happens many decades later can help us design better systems for solar energy harvesting or light-induced separations,” Gish said. “I’ve been working on in situ methods to spectroscopically determine intermediates and products on longer time scales to connect the ultrafast experiments.”

    As she looks to the immediate future in her research, Gish is thinking about the photophysics of product selectivity in photocatalysis, in which solar energy is converted to chemical energy.

    “To make usable, storable solar fuels, we need to be able to generate the product that we want—for example, methanol—and there’s a lot we don’t understand about how to drive solar fuel production and photocatalysis to the final product of our choosing,” she said.

    Gish’s work extends to safety in the lab. She is a technical and safety leader for laser-based spectroscopy at NREL, stewarding several ultrafast laser systems and mentoring users of all experience levels in best safety practices for alignment, designing experiments, and operating systems to obtain high-quality data and rigorous data analysis. She has also played an integral part in NREL’s Laser Safety Panel, helping improve the laser operator qualification process and defining the laser system supervisor’s roles and responsibilities.

    Kyle Crabb, Rob Hammond, and Melissa Gish (left to right) pose for a photo in front of the Pride flag at NREL’s South Table Mountain Campus in 2023 after the second annual Full Spectrum Network-organized Pride flag raising at NREL. Photo by Joe DelNero, NREL

    Supporting and Mentoring Others

    Good leaders give back to their communities, and Gish gives back through mentorship and building community.

    At NREL, Gish cofounded two employee resource groups for NREL staff: the Full Spectrum Network (LGBTQIA+ employees and allies) and the Postdoc and Graduate Student Network.

    “My involvement in Full Spectrum and, in particular, my role in starting Pride Month events at NREL means a lot to me,” Gish said. “What I’m most proud of is how the group has continued as I and the initial steering committee passed the torch to the current leadership. Running an employee resource group is a lot of work and requires a lot of dedication and passion, and it’s amazing to see how each iteration of Full Spectrum continues our initial traditions and builds on them. For example, the annual Pride flag raising at the South Table Mountain Campus is something that started after my time and was extended to the Flatirons Campus this year.”

    Full Spectrum has helped bring together the LGBTQIA+ community at NREL and helped them feel seen and embraced.

    “I think it’s important for NREL to show LGBTQIA+ staff that our contributions are recognized and celebrated, which is a legacy I am proud of,” Gish said. “I have had new employees reach out to me and say that our work in Full Spectrum and the visibility it has provided to LGBTQIA+ staff has influenced their decision to come work at NREL because of the safe space that has been created.”

    Gish is also proud of her work with the Postdoc and Graduate Student Network, where she mentors early-career researchers from undergraduate and graduate students to postdoctoral researchers.

    “Postdocs and students are in a unique position where they are actively looking for their next job while producing high-quality scientific research and learning the advanced techniques we have here at NREL,” she said. “We wanted the network to provide professional development opportunities, soft-skills workshops, and networking opportunities to alleviate some of that stress that these early-career folks feel. I have also had opportunities to mentor postdocs, grad students, and undergrads as a staff scientist.

    “I really enjoy watching students and postdocs grow and become confident scientists,” Gish continued. “As the NREL principal investigator of a Reaching a New Energy Sciences Workforce (RENEW) project in collaboration with Metropolitan State University of Denver, I’ve had the pleasure of mentoring undergraduate students with limited lab experience who are motivated and passionate about learning spectroscopy as well as what it is like to be a scientist and explore this career as an option.”

    Gish’s RENEW project focuses on understanding spin dynamics of first row transition metal photosensitizers.

    She is continuing her career trajectory by actively solving chemistry puzzles—developing spectroscopic capabilities to answer new questions about next-generation solar energy technologies—and building her portfolio as a principal investigator while mentoring and serving her community.

    “Melissa has developed quickly into a key team member of several of our DOE Office of Science Basic Energy Sciences projects and was recently successful as an NREL principal investigator on a RENEW project focused on harnessing spin physics to drive photochemical reactions,” said NREL’s Andrew Ferguson, spectroscopy and photoscience group manager. “I have been particularly impressed by her resilience, exemplified by her response to the restrictions imposed by the COVID pandemic on her postdoctoral work; her vision to develop the spectroscopic tools to connect ultrafast photophysical processes to much slower photochemical reactivity; and her commitment to effective training and mentoring of early-career researchers. She is certainly worthy of recognition as an emerging leader in chemistry, and I am excited to see where her career goes from here.”

    Learn more about Melissa Gish’s research and NREL’s solar energy research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Are Carbon-Free Energy Systems Possible? NREL Has a Way To Find Out

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Live Power Experiments Using NREL’S ARIES Platform Solve Future Energy Challenges in the Present

    Aerial view of NREL’s Flatirons Campus, where researchers demonstrate clean energy solutions for large-scale systems using the ARIES platform. Photo by Josh Bauer and Taylor Mankle, NREL

    Renewable energy generation has risen for years, now supplying 22% of U.S. electricity. But the next gains will not come easy. Looming obstacles include a lack of energy storage, increasing cybersecurity threats and outages, possible electrical instabilities, and sectors that are hard to electrify.

    It’s a heavy list, but those exact obstacles are well known within NREL’s Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES) platform. In fact, researchers replicate these obstacles in both physical and virtual environments every day to vet large-scale energy solutions in action.

    Like constellations that once guided explorers, ARIES helps users to orient their clean energy decisions. Following recent expansions in grid control, hydrogen, and cyber resilience, the platform can help researchers explore the greatest challenges to achieving a clean energy transformation.

    Fine Control Over Experimental Power

    One challenge for clean energy is the integration of diverse technologies. Power systems are becoming hybrid, distributed mixtures of solar, wind, storage, and many other energy resources. Electrically, they are nothing like we’ve had in the past, especially at the sub-second timescales.

    To develop solutions with enough detail, engineers need the real deal for experiments: electricity like it exists in homes, between cities, and during disasters. They need to customize electricity to recreate the big research questions.

    ARIES has that customizability, thanks to the controllable grid interface (CGI), which acts as an envelope on incoming power, shaping it according to scenarios, such as an oil-fired generator failing on an island full of renewables or faults affecting a wind-powered microgrid.

    Past uses include:

    • Validating next-generation transformers that add transmission flexibility in the U.S. Department of Energy project Grid Application Development, Testbed, and Analysis for MV SiC (GADTAMS)
    • Piloting a grid-forming wind turbine with an industry partner
    • Exploring hybrid power plants that mix water, wind, storage, and solar in the multi-laboratory project FlexPower.

    In 2024, the CGI quadrupled in power, and it is better able to answer the many unknowns of clean energy deployed at scale.

    With ARIES, researchers construct fully realistic energy systems to explore solutions for clean energy integrations, both near term and long term. This photo shows a photovoltaic array at right, and just above the array is the CGI, which customizes power flow throughout the research platform. The trailers and boxes in the center are batteries, hydrogen tanks, electrolyzers, fuel cells, direct current devices, and more. Photo by Josh Bauer and Taylor Mankle, NREL

    Clean Energy Demonstrations Get Larger and More Integrated

    With the CGI upgrade, the interface can run two custom scenarios in parallel at 7 megavolt-amperes and 20 megavolt-amperes, and the researchers are taking advantage.

    “It’s bigger, a little faster, and it gives us bandwidth,” said Przemyslaw Koralewicz, an architect of the interface. Prior to CGI2’s completion, projects were bottlenecked by the interface’s availability. Now researchers can switch between two different machines when experiments stack up, or they can even use both in the same experiment.

    “In one interesting experiment as part of the SuperFACTS project, we placed a battery on one interface and a photovoltaic array on the other. Artificially, they were made to act as if they were 1,000 miles away, individually contributing to stability on the same electric grid,” Koralewicz described.

    Przemek Koralewicz, third from left, and colleagues present the latest additions to the CGI. The CGI is housed in a trailer full of power electronic switches that allow researchers to customize real energy system scenarios. Photo by Josh Bauer, NREL

    A top research goal of ARIES is to successfully integrate diverse technologies. The CGI is designed for this purpose, making it possible to catch problems of instability or unreliability within uncommon energy combinations. One example is direct current (DC) microgrids.  

    “It’s becoming popular to explore DC microgrids. I’m pretty excited about the possibility,” Koralewicz said. “DC microgrids could avoid transformers and inject power directly into the grid bus. The CGI uniquely allows us to try this.”

    The DC bus could charge heavy-duty vehicles directly from solar or wind resources, and it could power electrolyzers directly to produce hydrogen, possibilities that ARIES researchers are eager to study for their simpler architectures and unique pathways.

    Although a DC bus is not yet available, other pathways are ready for research at ARIES. Thanks to additional infrastructure, hydrogen energy integration research is underway in a big way.

    From Clean Electricity to Gas and Back

    Hydrogen could singly abate several challenges in future energy systems. It’s a solution for energy storage, a force for grid flexibility, and an energy-dense fuel to rival carbon compounds. It’s a resource with real potential to integrate clean power, but it is lacking in experimental run time. That’s why the ARIES integrated hydrogen capabilities have expanded.

    NREL research technicians Tavis Hanna and Daniel Leighton tighten flanges on a pump for integrated cooling systems. This hardware helps make ARIES a hub for large-scale hydrogen-grid research. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL

    From storage tanks to fuel cells, and from water deionizers to electrolyzers, ARIES features a full circle of clean hydrogen assets. These capabilities are set apart by their close integration with other renewable assets. At a megawatt capacity, ARIES is also the proper size to pilot hydrogen pathways before going to the full grid scale, the target of the U.S. Department of Energy’s H2@Scale initiative.

    This capability appeals to mining companies and downstream ore processing facilities that want to decarbonize their operations, as well as to automotive companies that are curious about stationary power from fuel cells as an opportunity to enlarge their customer base.

    “We commissioned and built this new equipment, and now we want to answer questions about electrolysis at the relevant scale,” Daniel Leighton, NREL technical lead, said in a public presentation.

    Leighton and colleagues added the new assets so that researchers can explore the options around renewably produced hydrogen.  

    “We’ll have a pipeline that will connect to future underground storage, and we are currently validating a metal hydride storage system for low-pressure hydrogen. To validate electrolysis technologies and how they support other areas, we’re building out a full balance of plant at 6 megawatts for partners to do drop-in validation,” Leighton said.

    Of course, none of this—neither the hybrid power plants nor the underground hydrogen caverns—means anything if integrated energy systems are not secure. It might not be as visible as pipelines, but as another core aim of ARIES, cybersecurity is increasingly everywhere and for good reason.

    Sharper Cybersecurity: Attacking a Wind Turbine, Cloud Security, and Microgrid Communications

    Modern organizations face a daily barrage of cyberattacks and scams, and the situation is similarly problematic for energy systems.

    “We’re seeing hacking software become very cheap and nation states facilitating attacks. At the same time, we see our energy systems becoming much more complex—for example, an increase in the quantity of devices operating as part of the grid,” said Dane Christensen, manager of the Cyber System Assessment group at NREL.

    “A loss of exclusive utility ownership over grid-interactive devices. Less tractable supply chains. A mix of legacy and modern hardware,” Christensen explained. “How do we retain the benefits of all this connectivity and achieve mutual cybersecurity?”

    It’s a question that Christensen and colleagues are answering using the ARIES Cyber Range, which virtualizes, cosimulates, and visualizes energy system experiments.

    An early demonstration of the ARIES Cyber Range was, logically, to attack a wind turbine on NREL’s Flatirons Campus.

    NREL researchers staged a self-cyberattack on a research wind turbine to show a confluence of ARIES capabilities, including cyber-physical emulation, real-time interactivity, power hardware-in-the-loop, and visualization. Photo by NREL

    In front of a live industry audience, NREL researchers established a facsimile of a distribution utility, transmission utility, and independent wind power producer, which the researchers disabled by accessing the wind power plant’s control center through vulnerabilities.

    Using ARIES, they launched an attack to shut down one full-scale turbine at NREL’s Flatirons Campus and an emulated wind power plant. This triggered automated safeties to impact the surrounding transmission system.

    In seconds, NREL’s mock attackers reduced the plant production to zero, cutting power to thousands of (simulated) people, showcasing what consequences could occur if vulnerabilities are left unpatched in energy systems and showing the usefulness of ARIES tools in addressing those vulnerabilities.

    “We leverage the cyber range to employ much more realistic systems and to be able to scale our research,” Christensen said. “We couple the physical and virtual in real time and track it visually. In this way, we can help mitigate the risk inherent in both newly adopted technologies and in the trusted relationships that exist across the energy sector.”

    The cyber-physical union at ARIES has redefined clean energy research. This is evident in a 5G microgrid platform, where utilities can assess wireless operations, and in CloudZero, where they can assess the cloud management of complex energy systems.

    Like all challenges ahead for clean energy systems, cybersecurity becomes surmountable when researchers can have the real systems right in front of them, using ARIES.

    Stay Tuned, Reach Out, Learn More

    New opportunities continually appear for clean energy, which suits the underlying build of ARIES: Its hardware is reconfigurable and with digital simulators, scalable. ARIES researchers have a versatile electric grid at their fingertips, and they are just breaking the surface of what is possible on this research platform.

    Variability in the physical size of new energy technologies being added to the system

    Securely controlling (millions to tens of millions of) interconnected devices

    Integrating multiple diverse technologies that have not previously worked together

    Three key technical challenges guide ARIES research. Partners facing these same challenges can use the ARIES capabilities to evaluate and explore their options.

    Nearing five years of being online, ARIES is equipped for another generation of experiments, and it continues to grow. If you are interested in partnering with NREL, contact ARIES@nrel.gov. These partnering examples are open now:

    Visit nrel.gov/aries to learn more.

    The ARIES platform is supported by the Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Murphy Joins NJ TRANSIT to Showcase Brand New Multilevel Rail Car

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    174 New Rail Cars Will Help Mechanical Reliability

    Vehicle Maximum Speed Will Increase to 110 Miles Per Hour

    Latest Generation Features New Customer Amenities Such as USB Charging Ports

    KEARNY, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy and NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett today previewed the next generation of multilevel rail cars, modernizing the fleet which will significantly improve reliability, capacity and customer comfort. The latest generation of multilevel rail cars was unveiled at an event at NJ TRANSIT’s Meadows Maintenance Complex (MMC) in Kearny.

    “Providing modern, reliable equipment is a critical component to improving New Jersey’s infrastructure, particularly with regard to public transit,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “These multilevel rail cars are equipped with innovative features that meet the everyday needs of our commuters. Upon their completion, these upgraded rail cars will expand access to reliable and comfortable transportation for NJ TRANSIT riders.”

    “These 174 new multilevel rail cars being unveiled today will enhance the experience for NJ TRANSIT riders by increasing capacity, utilizing cutting-edge technology, and ensuring the safety and reliability of New Jersey’s transportation system,” said Senator Cory Booker. “This investment to modernize our transit system along the busiest rail corridor in the country will encourage more New Jerseyans to opt for public transit over driving, resulting in reduced congestion and lower emissions across our state.” 

    “Since day one of his administration, Governor Murphy has been committed to improving NJ TRANSIT to ensure New Jersey residents have a reliable public transit experience. Today marks another milestone in that mission,” said Senator George Helmy. “These Multilevel III cars propel us into a new generation of NJ TRANSIT. The modern, state-of-the-art fleet will ensure customers who rely on this service daily have a faster, more comfortable, and convenient experience.” 

    “With the purchase of these new multilevel rail cars, we’re taking another step toward a more reliable, efficient, and modernized public transit system,” said Congressman Rob Menendez. “Commuters deserve the best possible experience when traveling through our region, and I’m grateful that our federal and state leaders will continue partnering with NJ Transit to help make that a reality.” 

    “The FTA is proud to support NJ TRANSIT as it introduces 174 new multi-level railcars into service,” said Michael Culotta, Regional Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration. “The new fleet, supported by $567.5 million in federal funds, includes state-of-the-art technologies providing improved accessibility, safety, and efficiency, which will leave an indelible mark on riders and align seamlessly with the goals of the FTA and the Biden-Harris Administration.” 
     
    “As we unveil NJ TRANSIT’s new Multilevel III rail cars, we are taking a significant step forward in sustainable transportation and government efficiency,” said Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese, Chair of the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee. “These electric, self-propelled vehicles should not only enhance capacity and comfort for commuters but also significantly enhance mechanical reliability. Their energy efficiency and reduced emissions underscore our commitment to sustainability and minimizing environmental impact. By embracing this advanced technology, we are positioning New Jersey as a national leader in clean energy transportation, addressing both the immediate and long-term goals of a greener, more efficient, and more connected state.” 

    “NJ TRANSIT is committed to improving every aspect of the customer journey, and the 174 new multilevel rail cars will help achieve that by significantly improving reliability, increasing capacity and enhancing the onboard experience,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “NJ TRANSIT is grateful to Governor Murphy, the New jersey legislators and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for delivering the necessary funding to ensure our system continues to meet the growing demands of our region, and the expectations of our customers.” 

    “Alstom is proud to help meet the vision and leadership of Governor Murphy and NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin Corbett to provide transit users in New Jersey with a more modern and comfortable ride,” said Alstom Vice President, Head of Rolling Stock David Van der Wee. “Innovative new trains with 21st century amenities will give commuters, students, sports fans, every kind of NJ TRANSIT customer, the high-quality experience they have been demanding and deserve. Our employees in Upstate New York couldn’t be prouder to deliver these new trains.” 

    Governor Murphy and Corbett previewed the first of 174 Multilevel III cars during an event at the agency’s Governor Murphy and Corbett previewed the first of 174 Multilevel III cars during an event at the agency’s MMC in Kearny. They highlighted many of the new car’s amenities, including USB charging ports and onboard information displays. The new cars, manufactured by Alstom Transportation in Plattsburgh, NY, will offer a range of benefits over the older, 40+ year-old single level cars they will replace, including dramatic improvement in mechanical reliability. The vehicle maximum speed will increase to 110 miles per hour. The cars, which will begin entering service mid-next year, will be compliant with the latest federal regulations, including Positive Train Control.

    The Multilevel III Power Cars are Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), meaning they are self-propelled and don’t require a separate locomotive. Electric motors are incorporated within one or a number of the vehicles on the train. They are the first of their kind in North America.

    In December of 2018, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors approved a rail rolling stock vehicle procurement award to Bombardier Transit Corporation (now Alstom Transportation Inc.) for 113 Multilevel III rail vehicles to replace the single-level, self-propelled Arrow III rail vehicles manufactured more than 40 years ago. In February 2022, the NJ TRANSIT Board approved the purchase of an additional 25 Multilevel III vehicles. In July 2024, the Board approved the purchase of an additional 36 Multilevel III vehicles, bring the total number of new cars to 174 since 2018.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Members of Transnational Money Laundering Organization Plead Guilty to Laundering Millions of Dollars in Drug Proceeds

    Source: US State of California

    A Georgia man pleaded guilty today to his involvement in a conspiracy to launder tens of millions of dollars in drug proceeds on behalf of foreign drug trafficking organizations, including the Sinaloa Cartel and Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (the Jalisco Cartel). Earlier this year, on Aug. 5, a foreign national residing in Illinois pleaded guilty for his role in the same money laundering scheme.

    According to court documents, Li Pei Tan, 46, of Buford, and Chaojie Chen, 41, a Chinese national residing in Chicago, worked for an organization that laundered millions of dollars in proceeds related to the importation of illegal drugs into the United States, primarily through Mexico, and the unlawful distribution of these drugs. Tan, Chen, and their co-conspirators traveled throughout the United States to collect proceeds derived from trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine, and other drugs. They communicated and coordinated with co-conspirators in China and other foreign countries to arrange for the laundering of these proceeds through financial transactions that were designed to conceal the illicit source of the drug proceeds, including through a sophisticated trade-based money laundering scheme involving the purchasing of bulk electronics in the United States and the shipping of these electronics to co-conspirators in China.

    On multiple occasions prior to Chen’s May arrest, law enforcement seized hundreds of thousands of dollars in bulk cash drug proceeds from Chen at locations across the United States. Additionally, Tan was intercepted by law enforcement in South Carolina while attempting to transport over $197,000 in drug proceeds.

    According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s National Drug Threat Assessment, the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels are at the heart of the fentanyl crisis in the United States.

    Tan and Chen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. As part of their pleas, Tan and Chen agreed to forfeit numerous assets to the government, including a residence, a firearm, body armor, and more than $270,000 in seized currency. Additionally, they agreed to the imposition of money judgments totaling over $23 million. Chen is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 14 and Tan is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 7, 2025. Chen and Tan each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia; and DEA Administrator Anne Milgram made the announcement.

    The DEA’s Special Operations Division, Bilateral Investigations Unit is investigating the case, with assistance from the DEA’s Office of Special Intelligence, Document and Media Exploitation Unit; DEA offices in Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina; and the Anderson County, South Carolina, Sheriff’s Office.

    Trial Attorney Mary K. Daly of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edgardo J. Rodriguez for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President Trump During Hurricane Helene Briefing

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    For Immediate Release                           January 24, 2025
    REMARKS BY PRESIDENT TRUMPDURING HURRICANE HELENE BRIEFING Airport Fire and Rescue FacilityFletcher, North Carolina
       11:34 A.M. EST
         THE PRESIDENT:  Well, thank you very much.  It’s a little cold outside, but you’re getting used to the cold.
    And one of the things that are very important to me and one of the reasons I’m happy that we won so convincingly is to help North Carolina get fixed up.  They supported us in record numbers, and I’m supporting them in record numbers too.
    And they had me set — I wanted to go to Los Angeles and see what was going on with California, why they aren’t releasing the water.  Millions and millions of gallons of water, they’re sending it out to the Pacific.  Someday, somebody’s going — going to explain that one.  In the meantime, they have no water in Los Angeles, where they had the problems. But — so, we’re going there.  But I said, “Well, what about North Carolina?”  “Well, you could do that la-” — “no, I can’t.”  I said, “We’re stopping in North Carolina first, and then we’re going to Los Angeles.” And we just appreciate the outpouring of love that we’ve had here.  Lara was, as you know, very instrumental in the campaign, and she lived here and is loved, and we appreciate it.  And Michael Whatley has been incredible — wherever Michael is — hello, Michael.  Michael Whatley has been great.  And your congressmen have been great.  And what we thought we’d do is take a quick look around.  First, we wanted to do this.  I — I want to say that we’re very disappointed in FEMA.  Your new governor, it’s not his fault.  He’s brand-new to the whole situation.  But we’re going to work together with the governor.  We’re going to work together with the — your senators, but, really, we’re going to work a lot with your congressman, especially the three that are in the area, and Michael Whatley.  And I’d like to put Michael in charge of making sure everything goes well.  And Franklin Graham has been unbelievable.  We’ve made a big contribution to Franklin, and we’ll continue to do so.  But I — I’ve been hearing nothing but praise for the job that Samaritan’s Purse has done with Franklin, and we appreciate it.  Where is Franklin?  He’s around here someplace.  (Laughter.)  And — that good-looking guy.  He’s always been a good-looking guy.  His father was a good-looking guy, too, I’ll tell you.  We loved his father, right?  I saw his father in the latter years, and I said, “Well, he — he doesn’t have long to go.”  He was having a hard time, and he lived about three, four years after that, right?  REVEREND GRAHAM:  That’s right. THE PRESIDENT:  He — he was — they call — they say he was “good stock.”  He had the ultimate good stock.  But I want to thank you, Franklin.  You were — you’ve been fantastic here.  And everywhere he goes, he — he’s always — he’s always the first one I see.  Does — people don’t realize it, how — how good it is.  A lot of people, they go, “Well, maybe it’s for the people that he’s got.”  And you guys know, because you’re here, but the people that he’s got have done amazing work.  So, I just want to thank everybody.  We’re going to get over and take a look.  We’ll say a few words.  I want to just — I do want to introduce some of the people that we have.  And our first lady — we’ll start with our first lady.  She wanted to be here because of North Carolina.  And then I said, “Well, you can do that, but you’re going to have to come to California too.”  (Laughter.)  THE FIRST LADY:  That’s okay. THE PRESIDENT:  And she said, “That’s okay.”  (Laughter.) And we got to fix that one up too.  That’s — who — do you ever see anything like that one?  It’s — who would have — who would have thought that could have happened.  So, Governor Josh Stein, thank you very much.  We appreciate it.  And we’re going to have a — a very long and good relationship.  Representatives — maybe stand up, if you would, so we — the press can see.  Representatives Chuck Edwards — Chuck, thank you.  Thank you, Chuck.  Tim Moore.  Virginia.  You know Virginia Foxx, a legend — she is such a powerful woman.  Pat Harrigan.  Pat, thank you very much.  Your agriculture commissioner, who I hear is excellent, Steve Troxler — Steve, thank you very much.  Good job, Steve.  You’ve got plenty to do, right? MR. TROXLER:  (Inaudible.) THE PRESIDENT:  (Laughs.)  More than you ever thought.  North Carolina Speaker Destin Hall.  Thank you, Destin.  Thanks, Destin.  Very good.  House Majority Leader Brenden Jones.  Brenden, thank you very much.  We’re making progress, Brenden.  State Representatives Dudley Greene, Karl Gillespie, thank you very much, fellas.  Good, good.  Thank you very much.  State Senators Kevin Corbin, Warren Daniel, thank you.  Thank you very much, Kevin, Warren.  And County Commissioner Jennifer Best, thank you.  Jennifer, thank you. So, Hurricane Helene was one of the worst natural disasters in American history.  It was far worse than it was even billed.  I have never seen such water damage.  It was largely water damage — wind damage, but water damage nobody has ever seen.  I’ve been here, as you know, numerous times, but now I’m here in a position where we can do something, meaning I’ve been in — in office for four days.  And I wanted to come sooner, but actually, they had a little problem with getting, logistically, in here, but I would have been ev- — here even sooner. One oh four — a hundred and four North Carolinians have — at least — have lost their lives.  Is that now a fairly firm number, or are they still finding people?  You know?  Is — what do you think?  They’re still finding people?  Pretty much, okay?  It’s a lot of people.  A hundred and four people lost their lives.  Seventy-three thousand homes were severely damaged or destroyed.  And I’ll tell you, I’ve been to a lot of them, and this was a — this was like lots of hurricanes in one.  I’ve never seen such damage done by water.  And the — the water came, it was violent, and it left, and there was, like, nothing left.  It’s really pretty amazing.  At one point, half of the emergency calls to FEMA went unanswered.  That’s real bad.  FEMA was not doing their job.  The city of Asheville went without running water for two months.  A whistleblower testified that some FEMA employees refused to help people who displayed Trump signs on their properties.  I think that’s true, isn’t it?  I read that.  That’s not nice.  That’s not too nice, is it? But whoever those property people were, thank you very much.  Michael, is that true? MR. WHATLEY:  (Inaudible.) THE PRESIDENT:  That’s not good — huh? — about the property owners.  You put a Trump sign on it, they wouldn’t help — FEMA.  Earlier this year, FEMA kicked 2,000 North Carolinians out of their temporary housing into below-freezing temperatures.  What was that all about?  Is that — do you know about that?  What happened?  Tell me. STATE SPEAKER HALL:  We had an incompetent administration under Biden.  And we had a disaster, and then we call it “the disaster after the disaster” — that was the FEMA response. THE PRESIDENT:  You had nothing but disaster since then.  I — it doesn’t matter at this point.  Biden did a bad job.  Some residents still don’t have hot water, drinking water, or anything else.  And m- — many of them don’t have quarters.  They don’t have anything.  They got a stipend for what they lost, and we’re going to take care of it.  This is totally unacceptable, and I’ll be taking strong action to get North Carolina the support that you need to quickly recover and rebuild.  We’re working on it very hard. And I think if Michael Whatley does half as good a job for North Carolina as he did for my campaign, we’ll be very happy.  (Laughter.)  Him and Lara were a very powerful team.  So, you think you can handle it, Michael?  I don’t know.  I’m not sure, Michael.  (Laughter.)  I think this is maybe, in many ways, easier.  Okay?  Maybe easier.  But you’re going to lead the team.  Do you want to say who the — who the congressmen are that you want to appoint?  Do you want to introduce them? MR. WHATLEY:  So, we — we have Virginia Foxx and Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore — THE PRESIDENT:  And — MR. WHATLEY:  — whose districts encompass the area (inaudible) — THE PRESIDENT:  And they are the districts that were most severely impacted, right?  You were — you were affected, then, Virginia? REPRESENTATIVE FOXX:  Yes, sir.  Lost my own property. THE PRESIDENT:  Really?  Well, I’ll also be signing an executive order to begin the process of fundamentally reforming and overhauling FEMA or maybe getting rid of FEMA.  I think, frankly, FEMA is not good.  I think when you have a problem like this, I think you want to go and — whether it’s a Democrat or a Republican governor, you want to use your state to fix it and not waste time calling FEMA.  And then FEMA gets here, and they don’t know the area, they’ve never been to the area, and they want to give you rules that you’ve never heard about, they want to bring people that aren’t as good as the people you already have.  And FEMA has turned out to be a — a disaster.  And you could go back a long way.  You could go back to Louisiana.  You could go back to some of the things that took place in Texas.  It — it turns out to be the state that ends up doing the work.  It just complicates it.  I think we’re going to recommend that FEMA go away and we pay directly — we pay a percentage to the state.  But the state should fix this.  If the state did this from the beginning, it would have been a lot better situation.  I think you guys agree with that, right? So, I just want to tell that Ash- — say that Asheville — I know it well.  It’s a great place, and we’re going to have it be a great place again.  That was the one that was most severely affected.  But North Carolina is going to come back bigger, better, stronger than ever before, and you’re going to be very thankful.  And you’ve already seen — I know that it really began four days ago, but you’ve already seen more action than you have in the last three months.  And we’re going to get it together.  We’re informing the Army Corps of Engineers to get going, because you have a lot of river breaks and a lot of areas that you’re going to need some pretty big work.  And they’re on their way.  They’re going to be working very — much harder than they’ve been working in the past.  And we’re going to take care of it.  Any questions from the press of any of the congressmen, governor, anybody? Q    Sir, are you going to sign an executive order on FEMA — getting rid of it?  Can you explain more about signing the executive order to get rid of FEMA, please? THE PRESIDENT:  FEMA has been a very big disappointment.  They cost a tremendous amount of money.  It’s very bureaucratic, and it’s very slow.  Other than that, we’re very happy with them.  Okay?  (Laughter.) And I think it’s — I think when there’s a — when there’s a problem with the state, I think that that problem should be taken care of by the state.  That’s what we have states for; they take care of problems.  And a governor can handle something very quickly. You know, one of the things I’ve noticed, because I’ve been doing this for a while, and we had a pretty good FEMA.  But I also noticed that when they come, they end up in arguments of — they’re fighting all the time over who does what.  It’s a — just a — it’s just not a good system. This system is so beautifully designed over 250 years, approximately, you know, and we’ll soon be celebrating the 250th year.  It’s going to be a very big celebration.  But it’s been designed very well, and we’re going to leave it that way. When North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, when — everybody knows the governor of Tennessee, I think — everybody.  Do you — do you know everybody here, pretty much?  He’s o- — GOVERNOR LEE:  I — I’ve introduced myself.   THE PRESIDENT:  I never thought of it, but you’re right over the ridge, right? GOVERNOR LEE:  Right over the hi- — right over the hillside. THE PRESIDENT:  So — so, you’re here to help.  That’s great. GOVERNOR LEE:  These here, thi- — the people in this region, including Tennessee — the people of Appalachia are grateful that you are here and that you haven’t forgotten them.  THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah. GOVERNOR LEE:  And that there are other disasters, but this one was enormous for both North Carolina and Tennessee.  So, thank you. THE PRESIDENT:  You know, I’ve seen a lot of disasters, and this — when I came — I came here right after, the day after.  And when I came here, I couldn’t believe it, actually.  I couldn’t believe the damage.  I — and I’ve seen a lot of them.  This was — this was more like a tornado than it was — what we witnessed.  So, we’re going to get it very much — very much taken care of.  Good job.  That’s nice that you came. GOVERNOR LEE:  Thank you, sir. THE PRESIDENT:  And so, you call it right — you’re right over the ridge, right?  Tennessee. GOVERNOR LEE:  Right over the ridge, yes, sir. THE PRESIDENT:  I like Tennessee, too.  Let’s see.  Where did I get more votes — Tennessee or North Carolina?  I hate — (laughter) — I hate to tell you, North Carolina, it was Tennessee.  GOVERNOR LEE:  There’s one of the counties in this disaster that had 88 percent for you.  So (inaudible) — THE PRESIDENT:  Eighty-eight percent, yeah?  That’s — the people are just incredible people. GOVERNOR LEE:  Yeah. THE PRESIDENT:  So, do you have any questions, press? Q    Yes, Mr. President, you talked about conditions being placed on aid to California — voter ID and the like.  Are there any conditions that you’re going to put on aid to North Carolina? THE PRESIDENT:  Oh, we’re going to do a lot for North Carolina.  You know, they’ve been very slow.  I don’t know why it’s been so bad.  This has been one of the worst I’ve seen.  Katrina, of course, you know, was somebo- — something that — obviously, that was a long time ago — that was not good.  But this has been very slow.  I don’t know if that was for political reasons because they lost the state.  You know, Biden lost the state.  Maybe he felt — he doesn’t care.  Maybe there were other reasons.  I don’t know. But this has been very slow.  By any standard, this has been very slow.  And we’re going to — we’re going to make up for lost time. Q    But no conditions you’re going to push for aid, just full stop? THE PRESIDENT:  Well, in California, I have a condition.  In California, we want them to have voter ID so the people have a voice, because right now, the people don’t have a voice because you don’t know who’s voting and it’s very corrupt.  And we also want them to release the water.  If they release the water, they wouldn’t have had a problem.  If they released the water when I told them to — because I told them to do it seven years ago — if they would have done it, you wouldn’t have had the problem that you had.  You might have — you might not have even had a fire. So — but here, I don’t have that.  It’s a different thing.  You got hit by a storm.  The people are incredible.  They worked really well.  Franklin was fantastic, and other groups — by the way, other groups came in that were also fantastic.  And other states came in; Tennessee and a couple of others came in, and they really helped.  That’s the way it’s supposed to be. No, this is a different kind of a thing. Q    Mr. President, have you decided how much funding you would allocate for disaster relief in North Carolina? THE PRESIDENT:  About what? Q    Have you decided how much funding you would allocate for disaster relief? THE PRESIDENT:  I haven’t de- — I have to see what it is. Q    Mr. President — Q    Are — are — are you disappointed that Senator Schiff hasn’t joined you on this trip?  It’s reported that you invited Senator Schiff to join you on this trip, and he was too busy.  Are you disappointed by that? THE PRESIDENT:  I don’t know, I — I was told that Schiff was going to travel with us to California.  I wasn’t thrilled, to be honest with you.  (Laughter.)  And I saw him last night on television.  It looks like he got hit with a baseball bat or something.  What happened to him?  Something happened to him. Q    Are you still — THE PRESIDENT:  It was a little — it looked like he got hit.  It looked like he got beat around, but — Q    So, did — did you invite him or — THE PRESIDENT:  But I’ll ask Karoline to find out what happened to him.  No, if he wanted to come out, I would have done that.  But I don’t know.  I — somebody said that he wanted to come on the plane, but I think he’s staying back for the votes.  There’s some pretty good votes going on. Yeah. Q    Mr. President, what is your timeline for getting rid of FEMA? THE PRESIDENT:  I — I woul- — for the — for this one?  For this one?  Well — Q    For — you just talked about possibly getting rid of FEMA.  What timeline are you looking at, and how would you do that? THE PRESIDENT:  Well, we’re looking here — here, you’re talking about.  To start — we’re going to start immediately — timeline.   And to finish, it’s going to be a period of time.  You know, people are also rebuilding their houses.  How long does it take to build a house, right?  It takes a time. And I want them to build houses bigger, better, nicer than they had before, so they can have — at least they get something out of this disaster.  This was a real disaster. No, timeline will be fast.  In terms of infrastructure, I think very fast.  I want to thank Elon, because Elon was able to get us communication systems, as you know — Starlink.  We had no communication.  The first day I got here, I was asked by one of the people, one of the really great representatives, professionals that — “Is there any way you could get Starlink here,” because they had no communication whatsoever.  And I called up Elon Musk, and he had, you know, hundreds of units brought here — like, brought immediately.  And it’s hard to get; they couldn’t get them before.  And that made a lot of difference.  I think it saved a lot of lives, actually. Yeah.  Infrastructure-wise, we’ll do it quickly. Q    Sir, can you just talk about how long you might — do you think it might take to get rid of FEMA?  What’s the timeline on that if you’re going to roll it back? THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  I would say, look, as far as I’m concerned, I’m not really thinking about FEMA right now here.  I’m thinking about Michael Whatley, and I’m thinking about the three congresspeople that you just heard from and also the other people in Congress.  And they’ll be working with the governor.  They’ll be working with the governor.  So, that’s what I see. Q    Change of subject real quickly.  The Laken Riley Act was signed by Mike — Speaker Johnson yesterday.  When do you — THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah. Q    — when do you anticipate to put — to sign that in the Oval Office?
    THE PRESIDENT:  Well, we’re honored by that.  Laken Riley — I was there at the time, and we had a big meeting with the parents right after that horrible thing took place.  And we have a — an act.  You all know what that act represents.  And it was a bipartisan bill.  Many Democrats signed — signed on to it.  That’s something that is a tribute to Laken, a beautiful young lady who was killed viciously by an illegal alien.  And we passed a very powerful bill, and it was just approved.  And we’ll have a ceremony sometime very shortly. I’ll be signing it.  In other words, if you’re asking, I will definitely be signing it.  Okay? Yeah. Q    Mr. President, the security detail for Anthony Fauci was terminated last night, and I’m wondering if you have any comment on that? THE PRESIDENT:  About what? Q    The security detail for Anthony Fauci was terminated last night, sir.  Do you have a comment? THE PRESIDENT:  No, I think, you know, when you work for govern- — government, at some point, your security detail comes off.  And, you know, you can’t have them forever.  So, I think it’s very standard.  If it would be for somebody else, you wouldn’t be asking the question.  The question is very fair, but, you know, you work for government — we took some off other people too — but you can’t have a security detail for the rest of your life because you worked for government. Q    Did you ask for it to be taken off, sir? THE PRESIDENT:  Well, we’ll see what happens. Q    Would you feel partially responsible if something were to happen to, say, Dr. Fauci — THE PRESIDENT:  No. Q    — or John Bolton? THE PRESIDENT:  No.  You know, they all made a lot of money.  They can hire their own security too.  All the people you’re talking about, they can go out — I can give them some good numbers of very good security people.  They can hire their own security.  They all made a lot of money.  Fauci made a lot of money.  They all did.  So, if they, you know, felt that strongly, I — I think that — certainly, I would not take responsibility. Q    North Carolina is a state that relies on trade and manufacturing.  Are you going to have an announcement on new tariffs coming soon?  Is there a timeline now? THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah, the tariffs are going to make our country rich.  We’re going to be a rich, rich country very soon.  Tariffs are going to make it rich.  And competence — we have common sense, competence, and tariffs.  The word “tariff” is one of the most beautiful words in the dictionary.  Q    Jonathan Reynolds, the — the business secretary of the United Kingdom, said that there’s an even trade between the U.S. and — and the UK, so they shouldn’t have tariffs.  Does trade imbalances or a balanced trade affect tariffs and your decisions? THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah, ba- — unbalance and balance, and also deficits, like with Canada.  We lose $200 billion a year with Canada.  That’s because we allow them to make cars.  We allow them to take lumber.  We don’t need their cars.  We don’t need their lumber.  We don’t need their food products because we make the same products right on the other side of the border.  It’s sort of crazy.  So, we’ve just allowed that — you know, bad management has allowed it, over the last four years, in particular, to become very imbalanced.  And I said to — I call him “Governor Trudeau,” but he’s Prime Minister Trudeau — when he was prime minister, I asked him, “Why would we do that?  Why?”  And he was unable to give me an answer.  He said, “I don’t know.”  And I said, “Do you think it’s fair that we’re paying $200 billion to keep Canada going?”  “And what would happen” — I said — I asked him, “What would happen if we didn’t do that, if we didn’t subsidize Canada?”  He said, “We’d be a failed nation.”  And I said, “Then you should be a state,” because why are we paying all of that money to Canada when, you know, we — we could use it ourselves, right? So, we take care of their military.  You know, we ordered — we’re going to order about 40 Coast Guard big icebreakers.  Big ones.  And all of a sudden, Canada wants a piece of the deal.  I say, “Why are we doing that?” I mean, I like doing that if they’re a state, but I don’t like doing that if they’re a nation. Also, they’ve been very nasty to us on trade.  Historically, Canada has been very, very bad to us, very unfair to us on trade.  So, we’ll see how it all works out. Q    So, the United Kingdom — THE PRESIDENT:  I would — Q    — might be in a better spot? THE PRESIDENT:  I would love to see Canada be the 51st state.  The Canadian citizens, if that happened, would get a very big tax cut — tremendous tax cut — because they’re very high- — highly taxed.  And you wouldn’t have to worry about military.  You wouldn’t have to worry about many of the things.  You’d have better health coverage.  You’d have much better health coverage.  So, I think the people of Canada would like it, you know, if it’s explained.   But I — just to start off, they’d have a very — they’d have a massive tax cut, and they’d have a lot more business, because then we’d let business go to Canada routinely.  And there’d be no tariffs.  You know, if we did that, there’d be no tariffs. Q    So, the United Kingdom might be in a better spot, then? Q    Can you talk about Samaritan’s Purse?  Reverend Franklin Graham has been a great asset to this state.  Talk a little bit about the way the Samaritan Purse has helped North Carolinians. THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah, say it once again.  The first — Q    Reverend Franklin Graham has been a big part of Samaritan Purse and their aid to North Carolina.  I just want to get your thoughts on that.
    THE PRESIDENT:  Yeah.  Well, Franklin Graham has been a big asset to the state.  His father was a big asset to the state, to the country — both of them.  I just think this: I think Franklin and — and other people that are doing what Franklin have done — but I — you know, I’ve known Franklin so long.  He was at the inauguration.  He made a speech, beautiful speech; beautiful prayer.  He just — he does a great job.  And we gave — we made a big donation, and it was — it was money well spent.  Sometimes you make donations, it’s not well spent.  He’s done a great job here.  He’s done a really great job. So, I want to thank you.  We’re going to the site now, and — one of the sites — and we’ll — I think you’ll — for those that haven’t seen it, you won’t even believe it, but not enough work was done.  We’ll get it done fast.  And I can speak for the Republican congressmen, we’re going to knock it out, right?  We’re going to knock it out.  And I think we take it very personally, because it was — North Carolina was very unfairly treated — very, very unfairly treated.  And it was obvious.  It was too obvious.  And we’re going to make up for lost time.  So, thank you to the people of North Carolina.  
    Thank you, everybody. 
    END                11:57 A.M. EST

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Directs Administration to Advance Lumbee Tribe Recognition

    Source: The White House

    DIRECTING PLAN FOR RECOGNITION OF LARGEST TRIBE EAST OF MISSISSIPPI RIVER: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum to the Secretary of the Interior to submit a plan to advance full federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.

    • The memorandum establishes that it is the policy of the United States to support federal recognition and full tribal benefits for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.
    • It directs the Secretary of the Interior to submit a plan to assist the Lumbee Tribe in obtaining full federal recognition through legislation or other available mechanisms, including the right to receive full federal benefits.  

    FULL FEDERAL RECOGNITION IS LONG OVERDUE:The Lumbee have long been recognized at the state and federal level, but further federal action is required for full federal recognition and the accompanying benefits and protections.

    • The State of North Carolina recognized the Lumbee Tribe in 1885, and in 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the 1956 Lumbee Act, which recognized the Lumbee but denied them some federal benefits.
    • Tribes can gain federal recognition by: (1) Act of Congress; (2) the Department of the Interior’s Office of Federal Acknowledgement process; or (3) federal court decision.
      • President Trump’s memorandum directs the Secretary of the Interior to analyze these legal pathways for advancing Lumbee recognition.
    • Federal recognition grants tribes’ certain governmental autonomy, land protections, and access to federal programs and services, like health care through the Indian Health Service.

    DELIVERING ON PROMISE TO SUPPORT RECOGNITION: President Trump promised to support federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe.

    On September 23, 2024, President Trump stated: “Today, I’m officially announcing that, if I am elected in November, I will sign legislation granting the great Lumbee Tribe federal recognition that it deserves.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gloucester County Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Gloucester County, New Jersey, man was sentenced to 72 months in prison for narcotics trafficking and firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    Javier Osorio, 44, of Deptford, New Jersey, was convicted on July 19, 2023, of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a trial before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti, who imposed the sentence on Oct. 29, 2024, in Newark federal court.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    Osorio conspired with others to distribute cocaine and over one kilogram of heroin, which was recovered from his apartment. Osorio was arrested while driving with his conspirators from New Jersey to Brooklyn to sell an additional quantity of heroin, which was recovered from the vehicle. In addition to the drugs recovered from his apartment, law enforcement also recovered a loaded stolen firearm from under Osorio’s mattress.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Martinotti sentenced Osorio to three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz, with the investigation leading to the conviction. He also thanked the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney George L. Brandley of the Office’s Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kendall Randolph of the Office’s Organized Crime/Gangs Unit in Newark.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: East Helena man sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREAT FALLS — An East Helena man who trafficked thousands of fentanyl pills and pounds of methamphetamine while also possessing firearms was sentenced on Oct. 29 to 11 years and four months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.

    The defendant, Thomas Anthony Conley, 37, pleaded guilty in June to possession with intent to distribute meth and fentanyl.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

    “Thousands of fentanyl pills, pounds and pounds of meth, and multiple guns. A majority of the cases we prosecute include those elements, and I’m pleased to say virtually all of our cases result in federal prison sentences. This case is no different, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute dangerous drug traffickers with the goal that they have the same fate as Conley,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.

    In court documents, the government alleged that Conley possessed multiple firearms and was responsible for importing more than 20,000 fentanyl pills and dozens of pounds of meth into the state. In March and April 2023, law enforcement learned from sources that Conley was supplying meth and fentanyl in the Helena area. The investigation led to search warrants for Conley’s home and vehicles. Officers located several firearms and ammunition in one of his vehicles along with more than 17,000 fentanyl pills. Conley admitted he had worked with others to traffic large quantities of fentanyl pills and several dozen pounds of meth into Montana in the preceding months.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Missouri River Drug Task Force, Southwest Drug Task Force, Montana Highway Patrol and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.

    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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Man Convicted for Stealing COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TRENTON N.J. – A New York man was convicted for conspiring to illegally obtain over $570,000 in COVID-19 unemployment benefits, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.

    Jose Tavares, 37, of Englewood, New Jersey, was convicted on Oct. 28, 2024, on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Tavares was convicted after a five-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Robert Kirsch in Trenton federal court.

    Tavares’ conspirators, Yanira Abreu, 43, of Keasby, New Jersey, and Christopher Valerio, 34, of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, have each previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced by Judge Kirsch in the same scheme. 

    According to documents filed in this case:

    From July 2020 through February 2021, Tavares, Valerio, Abreu and others submitted fraudulent applications for unemployment insurance benefits to the New York Department of Labor (NYDOL) through fictitious online profiles that they created using personally identifiable information, including names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers, of other individuals without their consent. Once the NYDOL processed and approved the fraudulent applications, Tavares and his conspirators obtained debit cards with illegally obtained funds totaling over $570,000, which they used for personal gain, including vacations, luxury retail purchases, and cosmetic surgery. 

    The wire fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain to the defendant or gross loss to the victim, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for March 4, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas; special agents of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone, and postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division, with the investigation leading to the verdict.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Stark and Benjamin D. Bleiberg of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

    The District of New Jersey COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. 

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lawrence Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Lawrence man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to distributing fentanyl.

    George Jimenez, 31, pleaded guilty to distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for Feb. 5, 2025. Jimenez was initially charged by criminal complaint in October 2023.

    On Sept. 27, 2022, Jimenez sold 99 grams of fentanyl to a cooperating witness in Methuen which was captured on video by a recording device.

    The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit 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 gun violence and other violent crime, 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.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN..

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hartford Man Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal Prison for Gun Possession Offense

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

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced ANTHONY SANTOS, also known as “A-1,” 36, of Hartford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 63 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 17, 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and Hartford Police Department conducted a court-authorized search of Santos’ apartment on Park Street in Hartford.  When investigators entered the apartment, Santos ran to the window and threw a loaded Draco 7.62x39mm assault-style firearm with a high-capacity magazine containing 30 rounds of ammunition.  The firearm landed on a rooftop below and was recovered.  Inside the apartment, investigators seized, three firearm magazines, ammunition, a small amount of fentanyl, large bags containing bulk quantities of marijuana, thousands of bags of marijuana in pre-packaged sleeves, drug processing and packaging materials, jewelry, and approximately $4,070 in cash.

    A search of two vehicles associated with Santos that were parked near the apartment revealed a loaded Smith &Wesson .357 revolver and a loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol, both of which had been reported as stolen.  The Glock was fitted with an illegal “switch” that converted the pistol to a fully automatic weapon.  One of the vehicles contained a backpack with numerous bags of marijuana and approximately $3,290 in cash.

    Santos’ criminal history includes state convictions for narcotics distribution offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    Santos has been detained since October 17, 2023.  On August 6, 2024, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms by a felon.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has assisted the investigation.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reed Durham and Geoffrey Stone.

    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 gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  In May 2021, the Justice 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.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team arrest male in stolen vehicle

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On July 25, 2024, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) arrested and charged one male after finding him driving a stolen vehicle.

    Members of Red Deer RCMP CRT were making patrols when they observed an SUV that had been reported to police as stolen, being driven by a male. Red Deer RCMP Police Dog Services (PDS) deployed tire deflation device and police followed the vehicle until it entered a ditch. The male suspect exited the car and ran away. With the assistance of PDS and the Blackfalds RCMP, the male suspect was located and arrested.

    A 41-year-old individual, a resident of Rocky Mountain House, Alta., has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of property obtained by crime x3
    • Resist peace officer
    • Fail to comply with release order x4

    Following a judicial interim release hearing, the individual was remanded in custody to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer with a next appearance is scheduled for September 25, 2024.

    Red Deer RCMP remains fully committed to building safe communities and enforcing laws to the fullest extend. Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team is committed to reducing crime in Red Deer and encourages members of the public to report their concerns, as the information provided to police is instrumental in maintaining safety in the community.

    If you have information regarding this event or any other suspicious or illegal activity within the city of Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team arrest male following investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On July 23, 2024, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) arrested and charged one male following an investigation into drug trafficking.

    On July 21, 2024, a member of the Red Deer RCMP CRT observed a male engaging in activities commonly associated to drug trafficking while responding to an unrelated call at a downtown business.

    With the assistance of the Red Deer RCMP Downtown Patrol Unit (DPU) and General Investigation Section (GIS), Red Deer RCMP CRT launched an investigation, which resulted in the arrest of the male on July 23, 2024. Police subsequently executed a search warrant for the male’s residence. During this investigation, police seized suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine and crystal methamphetamine as well as an electric scooter and Canadian currency.

    A 33-year-old individual, a resident of Red Deer, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking x2
    • Trafficking of a controlled substance
    • Possession of controlled substance
    • Possession of property obtained by crime
    • Resist Peace Officer
    • Fail to comply with Probation Order x2

    Following a judicial interim release hearing, the individual was remanded in custody and next appears at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer on October 3, 2024.

    Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team are committed to public safety and reducing crime in Red Deer.

    If you have information regarding this event or any other suspicious or illegal activity within the City of Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team arrest male and search residence

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On July 19, 2024, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) arrested and charged one individual following an investigation into a stolen vehicle.

    On July 19, 2024, Red Deer RCMP CRT were conducting patrols in the city when they located a motorcycle known to police to be stolen. CRT observed the driver of the stolen motorbike remove their helmet, at which time police were able to identify the individual as they are known to police. The individual ran away, dropping a backpack and cellphone. After a brief foot chase, police arrested the individual and seized the dropped items. As a result of the investigation, CRT obtained a search warrant for the suspect’s residence.

    At approximately 1:30 a.m., on July 20, 2024, Red Deer RCMP CRT, with the assistance of Red Deer RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS), Traffic Services, and Police Dog Services (PDS) executed a search warrant at a residence in the Waskasoo neighbourhood. As a result of the search, police seized two rifles, ammunition, multiple ID cards in various names, credit cards and fake ID cards.

    A 34-year-old individual, a resident of Red Deer, has been charged with 16 offences, including the following:

    • 6 various criminal weapons offences (possession of weapon contrary to order, unsafe storage of firearm, possession of firearm knowing unauthorized, possession of restricted firearm without licence)
    • Illegal possession or trafficking in government documents
    • Possession of property obtained by crime x4
    • Possess break-in instruments
    • Operation of a motor vehicle while impaired
    • Drive carelessly
    • Drive uninsured motor vehicle on highway

    Following a judicial interim release hearing, the individual was remanded in custody to appear in court at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer with a next scheduled appearance was on Sept. 25, 2024.

    Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team is committed to public safety and reducing crime in Red Deer through intelligence-led policing and proactive enforcement.

    If you have information regarding this event or any other suspicious or illegal activity within the City of Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: A study in tropical disease prevention for this Navy Medicine physician

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    In the bitter fighting that raged across the jungle island of Guadalcanal during World War II, more Marines were lost to disease – malaria, dengue fever, dysentery – than enemy bullets.

    Lt. Cmdr. Lauren Kalodner, MD, MPH, is doing her best to ensure such a casualty count won’t happen again.

    Kalodner, a Rose Valley, Pennsylvania native, was part of a Uniformed Service University educational assignment to the equatorial West Africa nation of Ghana for two weeks of in-depth field work. The Military Tropical Medicine field mission provided an ideal natural environment for increasing her knowledge to confront and prevent endemic, infectious diseases prevalent in a tropical setting.

    “Participating on a field mission in Ghana is crucial for the understanding of tropical diseases because it allows for direct observation of the conditions that facilitate their spread. Local ecosystems, climate, animal and human behaviors plays a significant role in disease transmission. Immersing in the community helps healthcare workers understand cultural practices, health beliefs, and the social determinants of health that influence disease prevalence and management. The firsthand experience is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies tailored to the context from which the disease arises,” said Kalodner, stationed with 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, as an emergency medicine physician.

    Kalodner and others went to Accra, capital and largest city of Ghana, as well as Kumasi, the second largest city. They received instruction on how to recognize, diagnose and treat disease agents, understand mitigation strategies to help control and limit disease transmission, identify transmission modes, and understand the overlapping connection of the natural and animal environments and human disease.

    Being able to help stop the spread of infectious tropical diseases which continue to cause untold casualties as well as fatalities – there were 608,000 malaria deaths in 2022 alone estimated by the World Health Organization – is significant in the light of Rear Adm. Darin Via, Navy Surgeon General and chief, BUMED recently affirming that Navy Medicine’s focus is readiness, especially with expeditionary medicine capabilities. Those capabilities call for a ready medical force ensuring there is a medically ready force.

    Kalodner noted that there were several key lessons which emerged relevant to Navy Medicine’s expeditionary medicine emphasis, such as “Adaptability, the ability to quickly adjust to vary environments and resource limitations is crucial for effective medical care in the field,” she explained.

    Other valuable insight gained included being culturally knowledgeable by “understanding local customs and health practices enhances trust and improves patient outcomes to function as part of a multi-national medical force. Collaboration [with] working closely with a diverse healthcare team is essential for a successful mission. Preventive care emphasizes education and preventive measures which can significantly reduce the burden of tropical diseases. Logistics management for effective planning for supply chain challenges is vital for maintaining readiness and ensuring the medical teams can operative efficiently in remote areas,” stressed Kalodner.

    “These lessons enhance the Navy’s expeditionary medicine capabilities and promote a more holistic and integrated approach to healthcare in diverse environments,” continued Kalodner, adding that the training proved to be invaluable. “Unmatched. This is the best training opportunity offered to prepare military healthcare workers to prepare for tropical disease and DNBI [disease and non-battle injury].”

    Her interest in Navy Medicine was fostered by the opportunity to combine her passion for healthcare with a commitment to put service before self. After completing Strath Haven High School in 2003, Kalodner graduated from Davidson College in 2007, followed by George Washington University Milken School of Public Health in 2012 and the Uniformed Services University, F Edward Herbet School of Medicine in 2018. She then completed her four-year residency in emergency medicine at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in 2022.

    “The chance to work in diverse environments, address unique medical challenges, and contribute to global health initiative was particularly appealing,” Kalodner said. “The emphasis that Navy Medicine puts on teamwork and the ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of service members and communities inspired my decision to join the Navy.”

    Fast forward to the summer of 2024. When the prospect of traveling to Ghana for the Military Tropical Medicine mission became known, it was easy for Kalodner to make the commitment.

    “While I was studying at Davidson College, I started taking French classes. I knew I wanted to study abroad in a unique place where I could grow my French language skills and experience a new culture,” she related. “I selected to go to Dakar, Senegal, where I studied and lived for eight months of my sophomore year of college. I loved the people and culture of West Africa. I thought doing my tropical medicine field mission in Ghana would be a great way to experience new cultures within West Africa while also furthering my knowledge of tropical medicine and international medicine.”

    Before being immersed in the field, Kalodner and other students had four-weeks of virtual instruction to help prep their knowledge.

    “The knowledge of disease processes and skills earned through hard work and study during the classroom allowed you to become an active participant in patient care,” said Kalodner. “The field experience helps solidify the classroom lessons through patient interaction.”

    From coastal rainforest to rural village, the itinerary of Kalodner and others had them conducting water and environmental sampling and field collecting of mosquito and tick vectors. They met with Ghanian Armed Forces 37 Military Hospital physicians and medical residents to discuss treating patients with diverse illnesses from cerebral malaria to tuberculosis, as well as reviewing parasitology and microscopy of infectious diseases at the Ghana Entomology Center of Excellence. There was valued time also spent with the Ghana Military Police National Dog Academy to learn about dealing with canine-related disease transmission(s) and veterinarian services in their country.

    Kalodner and others worked with Navy Medical Research Unit 3 Accra staff and U.S. embassy. They met with representatives from a host of organizations including U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Peace Corps and U.S. Agency for International Development to learn about interagency cooperation and partnership as it relates to global health engagement.

    There were challenges, which provided an instructive framework for future planning and problem solving.

    “I think the elegant part of this experience was that many of the challenges I faced during my field mission in Ghana are similar to those I will face in a deployed environment. One of the biggest challenges was limited access to resources, including medical supplies and equipment. There were logistical issues, such as patient transportation difficulties and infrastructure limitations that hinder the delivery of healthcare. Additionally, navigating cultural differences and ensuring effective communication are barriers to overcome,” exclaimed Kalodner.

    Yet there was fulfillment in encountering and coping with the trials.

    “The most gratifying aspect was seeing the direct impact our work had on the local community and knowing that the knowledge, skill, and abilities I learned from my time in the field could have the same direct impact on American servicemembers and allies in future combats zones,” stated Kalodner.

    When asked to sum up her experience Navy Medicine – which also includes having her conduct clinical sustainment shifts at NMC Portsmouth – in one sentence, Kalodner replied, “My experience with Navy Medicine has been a profound journey of service, learning, and collaboration, dedicated to enhancing health outcomes in diverse and challenging environments.”

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Smoky Lake — Smoky Lake RCMP arrest and charge a male after break and enter and theft

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    n Sept. 20, 2024, at 9 a.m., Smoky Lake RCMP was dispatched to a break and enter in progress on Township Road 600, in Smoky Lake County. It was reported that multiple individuals were smashing in the door to a residence and stealing property.

    An officer attended the location and witnessed the suspects leaving the property in two vehicles. Both vehicles tried to evade the officer by turning in different directions. The officer followed one vehicle and continued until it was ditched in a back trail near Township Road 620 and Highway 36. All three individuals from that vehicle attempted to flee on foot. The officer arrested two of the suspects while the third fled on foot into the bush.

    Resources were called in to assist, and with the help of Lac La Biche RCMP, St. Paul RCMP, RCMP Police Dog Services, Crime Reduction Unit and the police airplane, the third suspect was taken into custody. As well, a search of the vehicle resulted in a firearm being located under the seat.

    A 27-year-old individual, a resident of Janvier, Alta., was charged with:

    • Break and Enter
    • Flight from Police
    • Operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited
    • Resist peace officer
    • Possession of stolen property over $5000
    • Unauthorized possession firearm
    • Possession of a firearm knowing it was unauthorized
    • Possession of firearm in motor vehicle
    • Fail to comply with order

    After a judicial interim release hearing, the 27-year-old individual remanded into custody.

    A 21-year-old individual, a resident of Janvier, had multiple warrants from Wood Buffalo, Alta., and Edmonton and was released for a future court date.

    The third suspect was released without charges. The investigation continues into the identity of the occupants of the second suspect vehicle.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team conducts Targeted Response to Auto Theft operation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    In the month of August, Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) completed a Targeted Response to Auto Theft (TRAP) operation.

    Red Deer RCMP CRT led this TRAP operation, which was focused on recovering stolen vehicles and apprehending those responsible for the thefts. The initiative was successful with the assistance of Red Deer RCMP General Investigation Section, General Duty members, Traffic Services, Police Dog Services, Emergency Response Team, Integrated Gang Enforcement Team and RCMP Air Services.

    As a result of the operation:

    • 2 stolen vehicles were recovered
    • 4 vehicles seized/towed
    • 18 new Criminal Code charges laid
    • 6 new CDSA possession for the purpose of trafficking charges laid
    • 3 new CDSA possession charges laid
    • 4 TSA charges
    • 1 Tobacco Tax Act charge
    • 2 arrested for outstanding warrants
    • Seizure of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine and illegally obtained prescription pills
    • 1 knife seized
    • 1 extendable baton seized
    • 2 bear spray seized
    • 1 shotgun seized
    • Ammunition seized
    • Canadian currency seized

    Red Deer RCMP CRT is committed to the safety of Red Deer. By using an intelligence-led strategy, CRT is able to focus on identifying repeat offenders and conduct targeted enforcement initiatives such as TRAP, in an effort to reduce crime within Red Deer.

    Red Deer RCMP remind the public that crime prevention is a shared responsibility. Members of the community are reminded of their role in preventing criminal activity:

    • Lock up houses, sheds, vehicles and any other property that is easily accessible.
    • Never leave running vehicles unlocked. Nearly half of the vehicle thefts in Alberta over the past year have had the keys left inside.
    • Take photos and record serial numbers of property.

    If you have any information regarding criminal activity in Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200, call 911, or contact your local Police Service. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Labour’s first budget plugs £40 billion spending gap – experts react

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Linda Yueh, Fellow in Economics/Adjunct Professor of Economics, University of Oxford

    For the first time in 14 years, it was a Labour chancellor who delivered the UK budget. And for the first time ever, that chancellor was a woman. But Rachel Reeves faces an almighty task: plugging a £40 billion spending gap in the knowledge that pre-election promises not to raise the main taxes are still fresh in people’s memories.

    Growth was the buzzword of the election campaign – Reeves now had to lay her cards on the table. So here’s what our panel of experts made of the plans:

    More challenges for employers and small businesses

    Shampa Roy-Mukherjee, Associate Professor in Economics, University of East London

    The budget introduces £40 billion in tax hikes and, in some areas, spending cuts that will put pressure on the economy and business in particular. But it also reflects the government’s focus on economic growth, with policies intended to stabilise finances while addressing some of the concerns of small businesses.

    The chancellor has retained her commitment to preserve the rates of income tax, employee national insurance and VAT. But a notable change is the increase in employers’ national insurance contributions (NICs) from 13.8% to 15%.

    There was also a reduction in the secondary threshold, which is the amount at which the employer starts paying NI on each employee, from £9,100 to £5,000. Altogether this will raise £25 billion annually but will significantly impact many businesses that will now face higher wage bills.

    The national living wage is also rising by 6.7% to £12.21 per hour in April 2025, boosting incomes for about three million workers but again increasing costs for many businesses. These rising taxes and wage increases, alongside incoming employment regulations, will strain businesses, particularly in sectors with high labour demands.

    To offset some of these pressures, the employment allowance, which allows some smaller employers to reduce their NICs, has been raised from £5,000 to £10,500. The chancellor said that over 1 million employers will not see their NICs bill rise as a result.

    Small businesses in retail, hospitality and leisure, where profits have been hit as consumers struggle with the cost of living, will benefit from a 40% business rate relief on properties up to £110,000. Other supportive measures include a continued freeze on fuel duty, which will aid logistics and transport costs. Corporation tax remains fixed at 25%.

    A downpayment on growth – but probably not quickly

    Linda Yueh, Adjunct Professor of Economics, University of Oxford

    The chancellor declared that the government will “invest, invest, invest”. This is an important enabler of economic growth.

    But, the country’s creditors need reassuring, so Reeves also announced two new fiscal rules that aim to achieve that balance of allowing the government to borrow to invest (and generate growth), but not to pay for day-to-day spending.

    Specifically, the investment rule permits borrowing to invest and the stability rule requires day-to-day spending to be paid for by taxes. Both rules support the government’s growth aims while trying to reassure the country’s creditors that the borrowing will pay off by generating future growth – and also higher tax receipts with which to repay that borrowing.

    But spending watchdog the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has downgraded the UK’s GDP growth outlook from 2% to 1.8% in 2026, and to 1.5% in 2027 and 2028. The OBR’s forecast of slower growth highlights the impact of the £40 billion of tax increases, which dampens economic activity.

    This underscores the government’s challenge of investing to grow while at the same having to raise taxes to balance the books when it comes to its daily spending. In particular, the OBR’s assessment of slowing growth towards the middle of this parliament raises questions about how long it will take for the investment-fuelled growth to materialise.

    It may be that five years is still too short a period. Many physical investments require planning and those reforms could also take a while. Moreover, getting investment projects under way requires scoping, and private investors will want time to assess before joining the government in energy projects.

    But this budget is certainly a start on a much-needed growth strategy.

    Good news on public investment – emerging industries could benefit

    Phil Tomlinson, Professor of Industrial Strategy, University of Bath

    The key budget change related to the chancellor’s fiscal rules. By redefining how public debt is calculated, Reeves has been able to increase public investment by around £100 billion. The new fiscal rules have gone not as far as some economists have advocated – but they are a welcome step in the right direction.

    Investment was the core focus of the budget. For decades, the UK has suffered from low investment and weak productivity compared to other leading economies. Since 1990, the UK’s investment gap with the average across rich countries in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has been around £35 billion a year – the UK now ranks 28th of 31 OECD countries on business investment. British workers are using outdated kit and so are less productive. This has meant a stagnant economy and lower living standards.

    So, the budget’s plans to boost investment in the UK’s crumbling infrastructure and public services and to support the new industrial strategy are a positive move. The latter should see additional funding to support emerging tech industries, such as artificial intelligence, cyber and clean energy. And this public investment should “crowd in” additional private investment.

    Clean energy boost?
    StudioFI/Shutterstock

    In the long run, these investments should pay for themselves. For instance, the Office for Budget Responsibility estimates that a sustained increase in public investment of 1% of GDP increases that GDP by 0.5% after five years and more than 2% after ten to 15 years.

    The rise in employer national insurance contributions will increase business’s operating costs, especially those in the care and hospitality sectors. But paradoxically, in the long run, it may encourage some businesses (in sectors where it is feasible) to invest in new labour-saving capital equipment.



    Read more:
    Rachel Reeves is the UK’s first female chancellor. Here’s why that’s so significant

    More reaction to be published soon.

    Karen Bloor receives funding from the NIHR policy research programme to conduct responsive analysis for the Department of Health and Social Care,

    Phil Tomlinson receives funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) for Made Smarter Innovation: Centre for People-Led Digitalisation.

    Rachel Scarfe is a member of the Labour Party.

    Jonquil Lowe, Linda Yueh, and Shampa Roy-Mukherjee do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Labour’s first budget plugs £40 billion spending gap – experts react – https://theconversation.com/labours-first-budget-plugs-40-billion-spending-gap-experts-react-242509

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sugemalimab approved to treat adult patients with non-small cell lung cancer     

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today, 30 October, approved the medicine sugemalimab (Eqjubi) to treat adult patients with a type of lung cancer called ‘non-small cell lung cancer’. 

    Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common form of lung cancer, accounting for around 80 to 85 out of 100 cases. It can be one of three types: squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma or large-cell carcinoma. 

    Sugemalimab is a monoclonal antibody (a type of protein designed to recognise and attach to a specific target in the body). It works by attaching to the target called programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Cancer cells with PD-L1 may switch off some cells of the immune system. By blocking PD-1, sugemalimab stops the cancer switching off immune cells and increases the immune system’s ability to kill cancer cells.  

     Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

    Enabling safe access to high quality, safe and effective medicines is a key priority for us. 

    We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards of safety, quality and effectiveness for the approval of this new formulation have been met. 

    As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review.

    Sugemalimab is given to the patient in a hospital or clinic under the supervision of an experienced doctor. The patient’s doctor will give them sugemalimab through an infusion (drip) into a vein over 60 minutes every 3 weeks.  

    Clinical trials showed that sugemalimab in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy was more effective than placebo (a dummy treatment) in patients with Stage 4 metastatic lung cancer. The main measure of effectiveness was survival without worsening (progression) of the cancer. Patients who had sugemalimab treatment lived on average 9.0 months without the disease getting worse, compared with 4.9 months for patients who did not receive sugemalimab.  

    During clinical studies, common side effects included a decreased number of red blood cells that carry oxygen around your body, increased blood levels of liver enzymes, sugar, triglycerides, and cholesterol, decreased blood levels of calcium, potassium, sodium and thyroid hormone, increased levels of protein in the urine, and numbness, tingling or decreased sensation in part of the body. 

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of sugemalimab under close review.  Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.    

    Notes to editors    

    • The new marketing authorisation was granted on 30 October 2024 to CStone Pharmaceuticals  

    • This product was submitted and approved via a National procedure.  

    • More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.  

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.  

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.  

    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

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    Published 30 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Testifies Before Senate Judiciary Committee on the Role PBMs Play in Driving Prescription Drug Costs and Independent Pharmacy Closings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    CHICAGO – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary during a field hearing in Chicago on lowering prescription drug costs for Americans. Chaired by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-IL), the hearing included several members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation along with state and local leaders discussing how stronger industry oversight, fairer market competition, and increased cooperation between the government and health care sector can make prescription drugs more affordable for patients. During his testimony, Congressman Krishnamoorthi highlighted how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) act as middlemen between patients and drug companies, driving up prices and squeezing out local and independent pharmacies.

    “Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are raising drug costs for Americans and shutting down countless independent pharmacies,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “The egregious business practices of PBMs harm patients and make it more difficult for our constituents to access the medications they need. I will continue to do everything in my power to pass much-needed PBM reform legislation. I want to thank Senator Durbin for his leadership in holding today’s hearing and all my colleagues who participated for their shared commitment to lowering prescription drug costs for all Americans.”

    In recent years, PBMs have tightened their grip on the prescription drug market, positioning themselves as middlemen between drug companies and patients. This position allows them to negotiate drug prices that maximize their profits and drive up medication costs for Americans. PBMs also undermine local and independent pharmacies by imposing clawbacks and direct and indirect remuneration (DIR) fees, specifically targeting the roughly 20 percent of pharmacies not owned by a PBM. These practices have left 73 percent of Illinois counties in a pharmacy desert, forcing patients to travel farther for essential medication. In 2024 alone, over 2,000 local and independent pharmacies across the U.S. have closed due to these pressures. 

    Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been a leader in fighting against PBMs during his time in Congress, including introducing the bipartisan Pharmacist Audit and Compensation Transparency (PhACT) Act this month that would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to investigate PBMs and make recommendations to increase transparency and fairness that benefit patients. Congressman Krishnamoorthi has also introduced several other bipartisan pieces of legislation aimed at reigning in the power of PBMs, such as the PBM Sunshine and Accountability Act and the Neighborhood Options for Patients Buying Medicines (NO PBMs) Act. Both of these bills would establish new public reporting requirements and increase transparency into how PBMs set prices.

    The Congressman’s full testimony is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky Statement on West Rogers Park Shooting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    EVANSTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement on Saturday’s shooting in the West Rogers Park neighborhood:

    The news that an Orthodox Jewish man was shot on the way to his synagogue for Shabbat morning prayers is deeply alarming and unacceptable.

    “I’m relieved to hear that the victim has been released from the hospital and is back at home. I’m sending him and his family strength and support during this extremely difficult time.

    “I support all efforts by law enforcement to get to the bottom of this senseless shooting. It is imperative that we know the motive of the shooter to determine whether hate crime charges are applicable.

    “I have heard from several of my Jewish constituents who are scared to walk to school or synagogue, go to the grocery store, or wear anything that could convey their Jewish identity. This cannot become the norm. With antisemitism on the rise in America, we must recommit ourselves to rooting it out. All Americans deserve to feel safe in this country, and I will not rest until this ancient hatred is cast aside once and for all.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Leads National Security Trip to Middle East

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

    Washington, D.C. – Amid rising threats and instability, House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) led a bipartisan delegation to the Middle East in support of strengthening America’s defense and reinforcing partnerships with allies. Cole and his colleagues met with heads of state and other leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel to enhance their tactical understanding of ongoing conflicts caused by Iran’s proxies and discuss mutual objectives to achieve peace and security in the region.

    Cole was joined by House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Representatives John Rutherford (R-FL), Ed Case (D-HI), and Mark Alford (R-MO).

    During visits with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, King of Jordan Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, and Saudi officials, the U.S. lawmakers held productive, high-level meetings on reinforcing strategic alliances, the importance of increased regional cooperation, and our shared commitments to supporting global security and the safety of our citizens.

    Diplomacy is crucial to protecting American interests around the world, and the deepening of our engagement and security partnerships through these visits is a key element to that objective. The group agreed to unite to bolster peace and security during this difficult time.

    In Israel, Congressman Cole and the rest of the group reiterated the unbreakable bond the United States shares with our friend and ally. While meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Foreign Minister Israel Katz, the Members received briefings on military operations, continued efforts to rescue hostages, including American citizens, and the malign activities of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other Iranian-regime proxies. Just over a year after the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust, the Members concluded their time in Israel with a visit to Mount Herzl to honor the tremendous stories of heroism and tragedy. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives, they laid a wreath at the cemetery in solemn remembrance of those lost.

    Their final stop of the trip was to visit with officers and crew of a U.S. warship doing dangerous and heroic work in the eastern Mediterranean. These outstanding sailors defend our country and allies and make all Americans proud every day.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse, Fentanyl Task Force Release Final Report

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse, Fentanyl Task Force Release Final Report

    This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) led the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force in a meeting and released the taskforce’s final report outlining guidance to help mitigate the ongoing fentanyl crisis.

    “We are proud to release a report which outlines our comprehensive work over the last year and a half to help stop the influence of the fentanyl crisis in our community,” said Rep. Newhouse.

    Newhouse continued, “From individuals who have firsthand experience in substance recovery, law enforcement officers, tribal representatives, and medical professionals, this task force represents all of us who have been impacted by this issue in one way or another. I am proud of the work we have accomplished.”

    Meeting on a quarterly basis, the task force identified four categories to assess the problem and execute solutions: data, funding, policy, and education, at the federal, state, tribal, and local levels.

    In each meeting, the task force compiled datasets to assess current trends of the crisis, mapped out funding mechanisms and resources available, discussed current laws and available programs, both for enforcement as well as prevention and treatment services, and finally, contributed to the all-hands-on-deck education campaign in Central Washington to combat this crisis.

    This report reflects the task force’s collective efforts, recommendations, and conclusions.

    Background

    Enough fentanyl was interdicted by U.S. law enforcement last year to kill every American 66 times, 97% of it originates from China, 90% of it enters through U.S. Ports of Entry by vehicle, and 17% of meth, 41% of cocaine, 72% of heroin, and 74% of xylazine tested positive for fentanyl. The Task Force has evidence that shows 7 out of 10 fentanyl pills off the street in the U.S. possess a potentially deadly dose.

    The fentanyl, mental health, and substance use disorder crisis is a multifaceted problem that requires all members of the community, both in the public and private sectors, to bring together their expertise, perspectives, and efforts to execute tangible and attainable solutions. The Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force was formed to bring together all voices of the community to discuss the complex problem of the fentanyl crisis and identify and implement attainable solutions.

    Watch the full announcement here.

    View the full report here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Visits ABCD Head Start in Jamaica Plain, Highlights Threat of Project 2025 to Early Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    During National Book Month, Pressley Toured ABCD and Read to Head Start Children

    Project 2025 Would Eliminate Head Start and Deny 11,000 Massachusetts Children Childcare Access and Other Services

    Photos (Dropbox)

    BOSTON – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Founder of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force, visited ABCD Jamaica Plain Head Start & Children’s Services to highlight the threat of Project 2025 to early education in Massachusetts and across the country. Congresswoman Pressley, whose visit comes during National Book Month, read to Head Start children and joined ABCD leadership and staff for a tour of the center.

    Project 2025, a bucket list of extreme right-wing policies, would completely eliminate the Head Start program, which provides access to no-cost childcare and other services for nearly 11,000 children in Massachusetts, including 2,500 children in the Massachusetts 7th Congressional District, and serves more than 833,000 children living in poverty nationwide.

    “I was proud to visit ABCD Head Start in JP to read to our babies and highlight how impactful and life-changing the work they do is,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “While Republicans try to eliminate Head Start, raise costs for families, and exacerbate the childcare crisis, I’ll keep pressing to expand these essential programs, raise the wages of our early educators, and invest in affordable, high-quality childcare for all. Thank you to President Scott-Chandler, Executive Director Haimowitz, and everyone at ABCD and Head Start Massachusetts for all that you do support our families.”

    Joining Rep. Pressley at the event were Sharon Scott-Chandler, ABCD President and CEO; Kim Weldon, Jamaica Plain Head Start Center Director; Josh Young, VP of Field Operations & Legislative Affairs; Michelle Haimowitz, Executive Director, Massachusetts Head Start Association; and Head Start children and staff.

    “Congresswoman Pressley has been an ally, an advocate, and, when necessary, a warrior for children and families when access to vital resources is at risk—as is the case if proponents of Project 2025 are able to enact its draconian policies. We are grateful for Rep. Pressley’s resolve to keep Head Start in place and, indeed, expand it,” said Sharon Scott-Chandler, President and CEO of Action for Boston Community Development.

    “We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Pressley for fighting for early childhood education and care programs such as Head Start. She is a longtime advocate who understands that paying qualified teachers and staff equitably is essential; wages are an investment in families and this country’s future,” said Flossy Calderon, Vice President of ABCD Head Start & Children’s Services.

    “Head Start’s comprehensive services provide a vital lifeline to vulnerable families in the Massachusetts 7th and across the Commonwealth. We are so fortunate to have Congresswoman Pressley as a champion for Head Start in Congress, leading the charge for our Head Start families, educators, and programs. We look forward to continuing to partner with the Congresswoman to see that every vulnerable family has access to the high-quality Head Start services they deserve,” said Michelle Haimowitz, Executive Director, Massachusetts Head Start Association.

    Photos from the event can be found here.

    In Congress, Rep. Pressley has consistently sounded the alarm about Project 2025 and made the case for robust federal investments in childcare, living wages for early educators, support for the Head Start program, paid leave, and other policies that support families across the country.

    Last year, Congresswoman Pressley welcomed Jaqueline Sanches, a Mattapan resident, early educator, and mother of two, as her guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Address on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. In 2022, Rep. Pressley’s virtual guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Addres was Christina Morris, a Hyde Park resident, union carpenter, and mother of four who has advocated for affordable childcare so working parents like herself can make ends meet and take care of their families.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Statement on the Tragic Death of Josseli Barnica

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    Houston, TX – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) issued the following statement based on ProPublica’s recent reporting on the death of Josseli Barnica, a 28-year-old mother who lost her life in 2021 due to Texas’ extreme abortion restrictions:

    “The heartbreaking death of Josseli Barnica is a tragic reminder of how Texas’ extreme abortion restrictions put women’s lives at risk. These laws, pushed by Greg Abbott and his MAGA cronies, don’t just limit choices—they actively endanger Texans by delaying or denying them critical medical care.

    “This is not healthcare; it’s a war on women’s rights and their lives. We must fight to repeal these dangerous policies and replace them with compassionate, common-sense laws that ensure women can access the care they need without fear or delay.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks of Commissioner Summer K. Mersinger at ISDA’s Annual Legal Forum

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Good morning and thank you to ISDA for inviting me to join today’s conference.  It is an honor to speak to all of you this morning.  Before I begin, I need to provide my standard disclaimer:  The views I express are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of my fellow commissioners, of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC” or “Commission”), or of the United States Government.

    As the fall weather begins to set in, the days become shorter and colder, and the leaves change colors, it is a time to reflect on how far we have come throughout the year and to prepare for where we must go as winter and the new year approach.  In that vein, I want to speak today about enforcement and a few ideas for improvement.

    Expressing Dissent

    Over the past few weeks, I have had several opportunities to speak with professionals from a variety of industries on numerous topics.  While I always value these discussions, I was surprised by how many times people asked me:  “Are you enjoying the job?”  Usually, I am quick to answer, “Of course I enjoy the job.”  The work we do at the CFTC is interesting, impactful, and important.  I am constantly learning, and there is never a dull day.

    I started to wonder, though, if there was a reason people were frequently asking me this question.  Maybe it was my body language; maybe I was not smiling enough; or maybe I have spent too much time with my teenage daughters and have adopted their surly demeanor.  But then it occurred to me—maybe they read my recent dissenting statements.  I have issued quite a few dissenting statements in the past few weeks[1], and I guess you could say I sounded a little frustrated, maybe even disgruntled.

    Well, I am here to tell you that despite my dissenting statements, I do enjoy my job, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as a commissioner at the CFTC—even on Friday afternoons when multiple enforcement matters appear in my inbox, and I realize that the shortest memo is a mere hundred plus pages long.

    I read every page of every document upon which I am asked to vote.  As one of five Presidentially-nominated and Senate-confirmed commissioners, I believe that it is my responsibility to do so because my fellow commissioners and I are the ones ultimately accountable for the charges we bring, the cases we settle, and the results of the CFTC’s enforcement program—and for balancing enforcement with all the other critical daily functions performed by the agency.

    As was wisely stated in the 51st Federalist Paper, “If men were angels, no government would be necessary.”[2]  And we all know that men (and women) are not angels.  Thus, government—including its enforcement function—is necessary.  Vigorous enforcement is a vital part of carrying out the CFTC’s mission.

    I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the agency’s enforcement team and reaffirm my commitment to a robust enforcement program.  I am proud of the tireless work of the CFTC’s Division of Enforcement (“DOE”), whose experienced and conscientious attorneys, investigators, and other staff members are dedicated to identifying, prosecuting, and sanctioning those who violate the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”) and the CFTC’s rules.  But, like everything we do in life, we should look for opportunities to improve.

    Chasing Trendlines

    As most of you know, a large number of the CFTC’s enforcement actions are settled during the month—sometimes the week—before the end of the government’s fiscal year on September 30th.

    This September crunch is frustrating to all involved and potentially harmful to the agency’s agenda.  First, it diverts the agency’s attention from its other important responsibilities, as matters requiring Commissioners’ attention from other divisions are postponed and deferred.  Second, it incentivizes those hoping to settle with the CFTC to wait until the fiscal year-end, knowing the agency will be eager to get another point on the board before the clock runs out and that the resulting settlement will draw less public attention as just one of the myriad cases being announced at the same time.  Third, such a crunch diminishes the time for decision making and increases the risk of promulgating faulty interpretations of the CEA and CFTC regulations.  Wrongdoing occurs year-round.  Our enforcement docket should reflect that.

    After the close of each fiscal year, the CFTC’s Division of Enforcement publishes an Annual Report that typically proclaims success based on “headline stats,” such as the number of cases filed and the amount of monetary sanctions imposed during the previous fiscal year.[3]

    I believe it is time for the agency to stop prioritizing volume.  Rather than focus on making the current fiscal year statistics better than the previous year’s, the agency should concentrate on where improvements can be made in our regulatory oversight functions to prevent pervasive violations and should devote more resources to educating market participants and the general public on how to avoid becoming victims of fraudulent behavior.

    Enforcement Should be a Last Resort

    That said, I believe there is certainly a role for enforcement.  But enforcement should be the last resort to achieving compliance, not the first.  Yes, in cases of fraud, manipulation, and other willful violations of the law, enforcement is critical to punish wrongdoers and to deter misconduct by others.  But in other cases, oversight of the derivatives markets and market participants by the agency’s Division of Clearing and Risk (“DCR”), Division of Market Oversight (“DMO”), and Market Participants Division (“MPD”) can achieve compliance more effectively and efficiently than bringing a costly, time-consuming, resource-intensive, and backward-looking enforcement action.

    Clear and Workable Rules as the Foundation

    Where CFTC regulations are vague, the agency should not leverage these provisions to drive annual statistics.  Instead, we must communicate our expectations by writing clear, sensible, and workable rules, so that we can fairly require compliance with those obligations.

    Enforcement is but one tool available to the agency.  Our ability to achieve compliance with the CEA and the CFTC’s rules will be enhanced if we consider the underlying reasons for non-compliance and contemplate the most effective means of addressing that non-compliance, in particular cases.  Where the underlying reason is an unclear expectation, the onus is on the CFTC to revise its regulations accordingly.

    Appropriately Employing Settlement Authority

    It is no secret that most CFTC enforcement actions settle without litigation.  While such settlements enable us to achieve our enforcement objectives while conserving our scarce resources to root out and prosecute other violations, vague settlements cause confusion and undermine our efforts to achieve compliance.

    When settling, the CFTC issues an order that sets out the agency’s findings about what the settling party did and how it violated the law.  These orders are not binding precedents as a matter of law.  However, since they reflect a statement of the agency’s thinking, the public may understandably consider them as precedents—and the agency often cites them as persuasive authority in future cases, too.

    But remember:  No court has decided on the legal theories as applied to the particular facts that the CFTC includes in its settlement orders.  The legal theories advanced in settlement orders should not push the bounds of the agency’s authority.  Such orders should avoid theories that are novel, that are arguably beyond the limits of the CEA and its implementing regulations, or that are likely to raise additional questions or issues.  Otherwise, the agency risks creating regulatory expectations that become difficult to follow.

    Incentivizing Cooperation

    To foster voluntary compliance with the law and to provide transparency into certain aspects of enforcement determinations regarding penalties, we must further unwind the layers around how we recognize and credit those who self-report, offer cooperation during the enforcement process, and undertake remediation.

    First, a company is currently only eligible for a civil monetary penalty (“CMP”) credit for self-reporting if it makes its disclosure to DOE rather than to one of the CFTC’s oversight divisions (i.e., DCR, DMO, or MPD).[4]  This requirement is an unnecessary layer that unduly restricts self-reporting credit.  A self-report to an oversight division serves the agency’s interests by enabling that division to work with the company on compliance on a going-forward basis, while also referring the matter to DOE where appropriate to investigate whether an enforcement action is warranted for any violations that may have been committed.  To limit self-reporting credit to disclosures directly to DOE is to elevate form over substance.

    Second, if a company self-reports, substantially cooperates, and appropriately remediates, a reduced CMP should not be the only potential outcome.  Where a company has identified the problem, disclosed it to CFTC staff, analyzed the situation, provided a report of its findings to CFTC staff, and engaged in steps to address the problem—it has essentially performed many of the CFTC’s functions.  And such cooperation and remediation often come at a significant expense, which may include hiring an independent compliance consultant or monitor to investigate the company’s practices and procedures, to recommend improvements, and to ensure that remediation is completed.

    Of course, an enforcement action may be appropriate in these cases to assure that the company will complete its remediation and will report to DOE on the status of those remediation efforts.  But given that compliance objectives are being achieved often with fewer agency resources, substantial penalties may not be necessary.

    The Way Forward

    As I mentioned earlier, I am committed to strong enforcement at the CFTC, and I am proud of our Enforcement Division.  The agency’s enforcement professionals do an exemplary job in safeguarding the integrity of U.S. derivatives markets and those who use them.  However, there are opportunities for strategic reform.

    My hope is that today begins a conversation about the path ahead for enforcement at the CFTC.

    Thank you so much for your time today, and I wish you all a safe and fun Halloween.

    I would like to thank ISDA once again for inviting me and would be happy to answer audience questions.

    [1] Dissenting Statement of Commissioner Summer K. Mersinger Regarding cryptoiminerstrade.com, Expert Stocks Zone, FalconForexBot, and swiftminingexpert.com (Sept. 24, 2024), available at https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/mersingerstatement092424; Dissenting Statement of Commissioner Summer K. Mersinger Regarding Settlement With Piper Sandler Hedging Services, LLC (Sept. 23, 2024), available at https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/mersingerstatement092324; Dissenting Statement of Commissioner Summer K. Mersinger Regarding Settlement with Uniswap Labs (Sept. 4, 2024), available at https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/mersingerstatement090424.

    [2] The Federalist Papers, No. 51 (Feb. 8, 1788).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Long Island Lake — Westlock RCMP investigate stabbing

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Sept. 7, 2024, Westlock RCMP received a report of a stabbing near the Long Island Lake RV Park in Westlock County. Upon arrival, emergency crews assisted an 18-year-old victim suffering from serious life-threatening injuries. The victim was taken to local hospital and then taken by STARS to an Edmonton hospital for further treatment. She is expected to survive the assault.

    Westlock RMCP supported by the Eastern Alberta District General Investigations Section took carriage of the investigation. On Sept. 7, 2024, the victim had transported the accused’s out to the Westlock area when the suspects suddenly attacked the victim in an attempt to kill her and leave her in the forest.

    As a result of the investigation, RCMP have identified four suspects involved in this serious assault. With the assistance of the Eastern Alberta Crime Reduction Unit as well as officers from the Edmonton Police Service, three suspects, all youth and residents of Edmonton, have been arrested and charged with a multitude of criminal offences including:

    • Attempted murder
    • Robbery
    • Aggravated assault and more

    The three youth have been taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with future court dates at the Alberta Court of Justice in Westlock, Alta.

    RCMP currently have a warrant for the arrest of the fourth youth, and efforts are underway to locate this individual.

    As the offenders in this case are youth their names cannot be released.

    “The Alberta RCMP dedicated a large number of investigators to quickly solve this priority investigation,” says Staff Sergeant Jeff Sehn, “the ongoing safety of the victim was and remains as our primary concern.”

    If anyone has any information about this investigation or those responsible, please contact the Westlock RCMP at 780-349-4492. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www. P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitecourt — White Court RCMP traffic stop leads to significant drug seizure

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Oct. 3, 2024 at around 3 p.m., Whitecourt RCMP Traffic Services entered into an investigation of a flight from police after an attempted traffic stop for speeding on Highway 43. The vehicle had been captured on radar in excess of speeds of 200 km/hr.

    Whitecourt RCMP soon located the vehicle and the driver at a local gas station. The lone male occupant, was arrested and a subsequent investigation conducted on scene. Through the collaboration of the White Court RCMP, Traffic Services and GIS, a significant quantity of dangerous drugs were seized at the scene and prevented from infiltrating the community.

    As a result of the investigation an estimated $100,000 worth of items were seized:

    • A loaded 9mm hand gun & ammunition;
    • Handcuffs;
    • Various bags suspected to contain methamphetamine, cocaine & psilocybin’s;
    • Numerous unstamped tobacco products.

    A 36-year-old individual, a resident of Edmonton. Has been charged with:

    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Dangerous driving;
    • Unlawful possession of tobacco products;
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon & several other firearms related offences.

    The individual was taken before a justice of the peace and subsequently remanded with a next court appearance set Oct. 8, 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Whitecourt.

    Your Alberta RCMP is committed to fighting the importation and creation of drugs within the province and do so through various units and duties. If anyone has information about illegal activity regarding illicit drugs, please contact your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3TIPS.com or by using the “P3 Tips” available through Apple App or Google Play Store.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sherwood Park — Strathcona County RCMP Crime Reduction Unit proactive patrol leads to two arrests

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Oct. 5, 2024, at approximately 12:47 a.m., members of the Strathcona County RCMP Crime Reduction Unit were conducting proactive patrols in the area of Pembina Road when they engaged in a traffic stop with a suspicious vehicle.

    During the police interaction with the occupants of the vehicle, officers observed the driver hiding a small bag in the vehicle. Both occupants were arrested.

    Subsequently, the vehicle was searched, and police located and seized several imitation firearms, prohibited weapons and a small quantity of drugs.

    A 48-year-old individual Leigh-Anne Grace McKay (48), a resident of Edmonton, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of a controlled substance – Methamphetamine
    • Unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon
    • Unauthorized possession in a motor vehicle
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

    A 61-year-old individual a resident of Tofield, Alta., has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of a controlled substance – Methamphetamine
    • Unauthorized possession of a weapon (x2)
    • Unauthorized possession in a motor vehicle (x2)
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose (x2)

    Both individuals were taken before a justice of the peace and were released from custody. They are scheduled to appear on Oct. 23. 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Sherwood park, Alta.

    Your Strathcona County RCMP is committed to keeping our community safe. If you have information regarding any illegal activity within the Strathcona County detachment area, please contact Strathcona County RCMP at 780-467-7741. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
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