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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO | Braun to Novo Nordisk CEO: “Why are Americans paying more for the same drug?”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Mike Braun (Indiana)

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mike Braun questioned Novo Nordisk CEO, Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, at the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing on Tuesday about the high prices of the company’s weight loss drug, Ozempic, in the United States.

    “This has everything to do with a system that’s broken with no transparency, no competition, barriers to entry, and by the way a consumer who doesn’t have the tools to really measure what the best value is.”—Sen. Mike Braun

    Partial Transcript of Senator Braun’s questions:

    Braun: “Are you making a profit on your Ozempic product when you’re selling it to Australia for $87 and you’re selling to the U.S. for $936? Are you making a profit at $87?

    Jørgensen: “Yes, we are and the price you mentioned in the U.S. is not what we get. That’s the list price.

    Braun: “So what are you getting in the U.S.? What price?”

    Jørgensen: “So I mentioned that on average for our products we give 74% in rebates to PBMs.”

    Braun: “And that was the chart that Senator Marshall held up that PBMs are making 74% and you’re getting 26%. So, you’ve got a screwed-up industry. Number one, when I’ve talked to other pharma folks, they regret that PBMs ever came into it. It would seem like since you make the product, that you could disassemble them or do something to go around it, if in fact this place won’t do something about it. Have you ever thought of that?”

    Jørgensen: “It’s very difficult Senator because they control what insurance is put in front of patients so they have integrated themselves with insurance companies and we negotiate against the PBMs, but they’re owned by the insurance companies so no matter what we do, they decide what products—”

    Braun: “Okay- and that’s kind of the conundrum, but you’re making a profit at $87 and of the $936, it would be the list price? Is that total being split between you and the PBM? I know you give big discounts to the PBM. Why do give them such large discounts for them to make that much money?”

    Jørgensen: “On this we have a high list price and give them rebates, we are not making it onto the insurance formulary. So, they make a fee based on the list price, you mentioned distribution, they don’t get a flat fee for the distribution.”

    Braun: “So, after you give the discounts, and you do everything, what is your revenue on Ozempic, roughly?”

    Jørgensen: “I don’t have that number from the top of my head.”

    Braun: “That is something that ought to be on the top of your head because most of us would want to see that so you could make the case against PBMs. That basic lack of transparency, that to me comes from the top, that cloaks the system, in general, is what is impacting the future of why in our own country it is 18% of our GDP and from Canada and Europe it is 12% of their GDP, Eastern Europe it is 6 to 7 %. And yes, rationing is maybe going to be one of the results, but it should never be to where something is going to cost that much more here versus there when you’re making a profit on it. Until you figure that out, everyone is going to think your industry is screwed up.”

    Senator Braun is the leader in the Senate on reforming PBMs and lowering drug prices through transparency:

    • Senator Braun’s landmark transparency legislation – the Health Care PRICE Transparency Act – would reveal all negotiated rates and cash prices between plans and providers so Americans can know the true cost of health care services before they pan, bringing down prices.
    • Senator Braun’s Drug Price Transparency Act would end the broken PBM system by requiring insurers and PBMs to pass rebates directly to consumers enrolled in commercial health plans and Medicare Part D. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Braun bill adds more oversight to protect American agriculture from foreign adversaries

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Mike Braun (Indiana)

    Braun, Tuberville, Manchin, Cotton, Tester, Marshall, Fetterman, Grassley, Blackburn, Ricketts, Barrasso, Britt, Baldwin, Young, Fischer, Ernst, and Lummis lead Senate version of bill expected to move in House this week

    WASHINGTON—Today, Senator Braun, Sen. Tuberville, Sen. Manchin, Sen. Cotton, Sen. Tester, Sen. Marshall, Sen. Fetterman, Sen. Grassley, Sen. Blackburn, Sen. Ricketts, Sen. Barrasso, Sen. Britt, Sen. Baldwin, Sen. Young, Sen. Fischer, Sen. Ernst, and Sen. Lummis introduced the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 to add the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to add another layer of scrutiny on foreign acquisitions of U.S. farmland and agricultural industries and, specifically, flag farmland purchases by foreign adversaries like China, North Korea, Russia and Iran for CFIUS. This will add much-needed extra oversight in this process. According to the USDA, over 43.4 million acres of U.S. agricultural land is foreign-owned. 

    Rep. Dan Newhouse introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives.

    The House of Representatives is expected to move on this legislation this week.

    The House Rules Committee met about this bill Monday, September 9. 

    “Chinese ownership of American farmland increased more than 20-fold in the past decade. The amount of American soil in the hands of our foreign adversaries will only go up if we do not implement restrictions and oversight, especially on nations that compromise our national security and agricultural supply chains. I’m proud to lead this effort to protect American farms and food security.”— Sen. Mike Braun

    “Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have bowed to China every chance that they get—even when it comes to our agriculture industry. In the last decade alone, we have seen a surge of over 35% in foreign land purchases—including in my home state of Alabama. We can’t give our adversaries like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran room to negatively influence our agricultural supply chains and food production. Food security is national security, which is why I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Senator Braun that ensures the Secretary of Agriculture has a seat at the table on CFIUS and the opportunity to push back on proposed foreign ag investments.” – Sen. Tommy Tuberville

    “Allowing foreign adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party to purchase American farmland and agribusiness poses an unacceptable risk to our food security and national security,” said Tester. “Congress needs to act, and our bipartisan bill will secure much needed oversight to help stop bad actors who want to undermine our country. I’ll keep working with my Republican colleagues to fully prohibit the Chinese Communist Party from purchasing a single inch of American farmland.”– Sen. Jon Tester

    “The purchase of American land by our adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party drains our country of resources and puts our national security at risk. We should not allow anyone working on behalf of hostile foreign powers to own a single inch of American soil.” – Sen. Tom Cotton

    “The Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 is an essential tool for safeguarding our nation’s agricultural resources from foreign threats. In recent years, we’ve witnessed a troubling surge in foreign ownership of American farmland, posing serious risks to both our national security and food security. This commonsense bill gives the Secretary of Agriculture a permanent review role on CFIUS to prevent adversaries who don’t share our values from gaining control over American agricultural assets, which will protect our farms in West Virginia and across the country.”—Sen. Joe Manchin

    “When adversarial foreign governments buy up U.S. farmland, it undermines economic opportunities for families across America’s Heartland and presents obvious national security threats. The federal government’s number one job is to protect its citizens. Our legislation would support that fundamental responsibility by taking commonsense actions to address current vulnerabilities.” – Sen. Chuck Grassley

    “The Chinese Communist Party has proven over and over again they cannot be trusted. They are our adversary, not our ally. All Americans should be alarmed by the amount of American farmland China and other foreign entities own. Giving our adversaries any control over our agricultural resources is a direct threat to our national and food security. Senator Braun’s legislation will help protect America’s farms and safeguard our food supply.” — Sen. John Barrasso

    “Food security is national security and that requires America’s farmland be protected from foreign adversaries, like China.I believe one acre of American farmland owned by the Chinese Communist Party is one acre too many,” said Senator Britt. “To protect Alabama and America’s farmland from being purchased by malign actors, the Secretary of Agriculture must have a seat at the table. This commonsense legislation ensures the Secretary of Agriculture is made a permanent member of CFIUS in order to weigh in on the needs of America’s agriculture industry when reviewing foreign investment and ownership.”—Sen. Katie Britt

    “Nearly two-thirds of land in Indiana – and more than half of all land in the United States – is farmland. Recent efforts by China and other adversaries to buy agricultural land across the country could present a national security threat. Indiana is a leader in restricting these purchases, but Congress must act to ensure permanent safeguards are in place in all fifty states.” – Sen. Todd Young 

    “Food security is national security, and for too long, the federal government has allowed the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to put our security at risk by turning a blind eye to their steadily increasing purchases of American farmland. It is not enough to just discuss this issue—we must take immediate action to stop the CCP from further encroachment. By adding the Secretary of Agriculture to CFIUS, we can ensure much-needed oversight of agricultural land purchases by foreign adversaries, which will protect American farmers and the industry as a whole. The Chinese Communist Party has long sought to undermine our institutions and very way of life, and I am proud to lead this effort to support farmers in Central Washington and across the nation.”— Rep. Dan Newhouse

    The Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 would: 

    1. Permanently include the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) with respect to covered transactions involving agricultural land, agricultural biotech, or the transportation, storage, and processing of agricultural products.
    2. Authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to report both agricultural land transactions that involve foreign persons of China, North Korea, Russia, or Iran, and transactions that require AFIDA reporting to CFIUS. 

    This bill is sponsored by the Indiana Farm Bureau, American Farm Bureau, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Indiana Corn Growers Association, and the National Cattleman’s Beef Association.

    Bill text here.

    ★★★

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: PASSED SENATE: The National Fossil Act to name the mastodon America’s fossil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Mike Braun (Indiana)

    WASHINGTON – The National Fossil Act has now passed the Senate. This bill names the mastodon as the U.S. national fossil, and was introduced by Senator Mike Braun and Senator Gary Peters and cosponsored by Senator Eric Schmitt and Senator Maggie Hassan.

    This is Senator Braun’s 5th standalone bill to pass the Senate just this year, and if signed into law will be his 10th in the 118th Congress (2023-2024) to become law, including provisions on veterans healthcare, opioids, and budget reform. 

    The National Fossil Act aims to celebrate the unique natural history of the United States, and encourage interest in paleontology.

    If the National Fossil Act is passed by the House and signed into law, the mastodon would join the bald eagle, bison, rose, and oak tree as enduring national symbols of the United States.

    The mastodon lived more than 13,000 years ago in the Pleistocene era, predominantly on land that would eventually become the United States of America. A fully grown mastodon was over 10 feet tall, weighed more than 11 tons, and was preceded by a pair of 16-foot-long tusks. Unlike its distant cousin, the mammoth, the mastodon was found exclusively in the United States, with its bones being unearthed in every state across the continental U.S.

    Mastodon fossils are frequently found in Indiana and Michigan.

    The mastodon was made the Indiana state fossil in 2022.

    Mastodons have been found in nearly every Indiana county, including notable discoveries in Hebron, Fort Wayne, and Seymour.

    “Mastodons embody the spirit of exploration, resilience, and strength that exemplifies our great nation. As a uniquely American symbol, mastodons inspire us to embrace our heritage and to protect our country’s natural treasures. I hope making Indiana’s state fossil our national fossil will inspire young Hoosiers to take an interest in our country’s rich natural history that may be in their own backyard.” – Senator Mike Braun

    “Michigan made history when we uncovered one of the most complete skeletons of the Mastodon ever found, and we continue to find traces of this prehistoric giant all throughout our state,” said Senator Peters. “The Mastodon represents a unique piece of both Michigan’s and our nation’s history. By establishing the Mastodon as our national fossil, we can better preserve that history and inspire a new generation of scientists and researchers to continue their pursuit of discovery.”

    The National Fossil Act:

    • Section 1 designates the bill as the National Fossil Act.
    • Section 2 establishes findings on the role of the Mastodon in American public life.
    • Section 3 designates the Mastodon as the national fossil under Title 36 U.S. Code, and makes necessary conforming amendments.

    Senator Braun’s legislative wins this Congress:

    As mentioned, this is Senator Braun’s 5th standalone bill to pass the Senate just this year, and if signed into law will be his 10th bill in the 118th Congress (2023-2024) to become law. 

    Some other Braun bills to become law or pass Senate in the 118th Congress (2023-2024) are:

    (Became Law) The Federal Prison Oversight Act

    • A bill to provide independent oversight to improve conditions for staff and prisoners in federal prisons like Terre Haute. 

    (Became Law) COVID-19 Origins Act

    • A bill that required the intelligence community to declassify important information about the origins of COVID, specifically the Wuhan Institute of Virology. 

    (Became Law) The Wounded Warrior Access Act

    • A bill that streamlines the claims process for veterans with a new online tool, helping those who previously had to get their claims information through the mail or by driving to a regional VA location.

    (Became Law) Department of Defense Overdose Data (DOD) Act

    • A bill to ensure naloxone and any other medication to reverse opioid overdose is available on all military installations and in each operational environment.

    (Became Law) Reforming Benefits for Children of Vietnam Veterans with Spina Bifida

    • A bill to help the children of Vietnam Veterans suffering from spina bifida due to their father’s exposure to Agent Orange get access to medical benefits for the rest of their lives

    (Became Law) Administrative Pay-As-You-Go Act

    • A bill which requires agencies to propose pay-fors to offset expensive government regulations.

               (Passed Senate) VA Home Loan Awareness Act 

    • A bill to inform veteran homebuyers of their eligibility for the VA Home Loan Program, which helps more veterans achieve the dream of homeownership.

    (Passed Senate) Working Dog Health and Welfare Act of 2023

    • A bill to improve conditions for dogs used in the detection of explosives, narcotics and patrol duties by federal agencies, by instituting programs that detect abuse and neglect and ensure emergency medical care, food and water, and rest time.

    (Passed Senate) Mark Our Place Act

    • A bill to provide special headstones upon family request for all veterans who have received the Medal of Honor.

    If signed into law, the National Fossil Act will join the following Braun bills signed into law:

    BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW IN THE 118TH CONGRESS (2023-2024).

    • Federal Prison Oversight Act
    • The COVID-19 Origins Act (Public Law 118-2)
    • The Administrative Pay-As-You-Go Act (included in Public Law 118-5)
    • Reforming Benefits for Children of Vietnam Veterans with Spina Bifida (Public Law 118-8)
    • The Wounded Warrior Access Act (Public Law 118-21)
    • The Korean American VALOR Act (Public Law 118-20)
    • The Department of Defense Overdose Data (DOD) Act (Public Law 118-31)
    • Supporting the Provision of Veteran Survivor Benefit Plans (Public Law 118-31)
    • Flexibility and Funding for the World Trade Center Health Program (Public Law 118-31)

    BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW IN THE 117TH CONGRESS (2021 – 2022):

    • Hire Veteran Health Heroes Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-67)
    • A bill to properly implement the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act (Public Law 117-3)
    • The Consider Teachers Act (Public Law No: 117-49)
    • The Growing Climate Solutions Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • The STREAM Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • Small Business Establishment Registration Waiver Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • The Make It in America Act (Public Law 117-58)
    • The DUMP Opioids Act (Public Law 117-29
    • Better ODDS to Reduce Diversion Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-328)
    • FREED of Opioids Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • The Access for Veterans to Records Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • Women Who Worked on the Home Front World War II Memorial Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • Apply the Science Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • The Emergency Use Transparency Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • The Recovery Startup Assistance Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • Promoting Access to Critical Countermeasures by Ensuring Specimen Samples (ACCESS) to Diagnostics Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • Predetermined Change Control Plan Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • Protecting Patients from Counterfeit Medical Devices Act (Public Law 117-328)
    • The PLUM Act (Public Law 117-328)

    BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW IN THE 116TH CONGRESS (2019 – 2020):

    • The Safeguarding Small Business Act
    • Healthcare Transparency
    • the Whistleblower Act of 2019
    • the VA Directly Returning Opioid Prescriptions Act
    • the Stop Student Debt Relief Scams Act of 2019
    • Restore Harmony Way Bridge Act
    • Richard Lugar Post Office Act
    • Payment Integrity Information Act
    • ALS Disability Insurance Access Act
    • OTC Reform
    • The Fair Care Act
    • Braun Provisions in the WRDA Reauthorization in the OMNI

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of 2024 Election, PA Congressman Chris Deluzio and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect Voters and Election Workers from Gun-Related Intimidation at America’s Polls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) joined with Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA), Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Congressman Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25) to introduce the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act of 2024. This bill would enshrine in law that every voter and election worker has the right to cast their ballot and to fulfill their duties free from intimidation. To do this, this proposal updates existing anti-intimidation provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to help limit the presence of visible firearms at locations where voters cast their ballot or election workers perform their official duties. Congressman Deluzio and his congressional colleagues leading this proposal were joined by a voting rights advocate from the Brennan Center for Justice and former Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Kathy Boockvar at a press conference today to announce the bill. Photos and clips are available here.

    The right to vote is a central pillar of American democracy, but the risk and prevalence of political violence is stressing our elections. Recently, lies around stolen elections and false claims of voter fraud have made things worse. 

    “The right to vote is foundational to our democracy, and to protect that right we must keep polling places and official ballot drop sites free from intimidation,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio. “With the rising risk of political violence and ongoing attacks on our democracy, it’s clear that we need action to strengthen the sanctity of our elections. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Actof 2024 would help protect the rights of America’s voters and election workers so that they can vote and perform their official duties free from intentional intimidation and threats of violence. I’m proud to introduce this bill today alongside fellow election security advocates.” 

    “In no corner of America should the fear of violence prevent voters from casting their ballot or keep elections workers from showing up to work,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “Unfortunately, we have a long, dark history of voter suppression and intimidation in America, reignited by partisan rhetoric and false narratives about election fraud. That’s why our bicameral bill would keep visible firearms out of election centers to ensure election workers can do their jobs and all Americans feel safe exercising their right to vote.”

    “The presence of firearms at polling places isn’t just dangerous—it’s a direct threat to our democratic process. As armed extremists fueled by rumors and conspiracy theories increasingly show up at the polls to bully voters and election workers, our message is clear: intimidation has no place at the ballot box. This legislation would take important steps to ensure every American feels safe to make their voice heard on election day,” said Senator Chris Murphy. 

    “Americans should be able to cast their votes without the threat of intimidation and harassment. That is why I introduced the Vote Without Fear Act,” said Congressman Raul Ruiz M.D. (CA-25). “I am excited to help lead the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to continue to build on the progress we’ve made working towards a future where polling places are safer for workers and voters.” 

    More specifically, the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act (full text here) would: 

    • Amend Section 11(b) of the Voting Rights Act to establish a rebuttable presumption that a person carrying a visible firearm while engaging in election-related activities is engaging in voter intimidation. 
    • Provide civil remedies for individuals who experience this type of intimidation, including an emergency injunction that would allow the voter or election official to carry out their duties in peace. 
    • Recognize an exception for law enforcement officers acting within their official duties. 

    The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act is endorsed by the following organizations: 

    The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, GIFFORDS, Newtown Action Alliance, Brady, Everytown for Gun Safety, March for Our Lives, Institute for Responsive Government, League of Conservation Voters, Center for American Progress, End Citizens United Action Fund, Common Cause, Defend the Vote Action Fund, Fair Elections Center, Democracy SENTRY, League of Women Voters, Public Citizen, Faith in Public Life Action, Sierra Club, and Voto Latino. 

    “Congress must pass the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act. We are grateful to Representative Deluzio, Senator Padilla, and other members of Congress for their work to keep our elections safe for everyone involved in the process. This legislation would bolster federal protections that empower voters, election officials, and election workers to seek legal recourse if they are intimidated. The bill would help protect our democracy by keeping intimidation and violence out of voting.” — Sean Morales-Doyle, director of the voting rights program, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law. 

    “Over the last four years, election officials have faced unprecedented threats and challenges. Immediately following the 2020 election, there was a deliberate effort to intimidate and terrorize election officials,” said Kathy Boockvar, former Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth and President of Athena Strategies LLC. “This has got to stop. This bill is a critical part of the solution. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act aims to protect voters and election workers by ensuring that voters can cast their ballots – and election workers can do their jobs – free of intimidation, during all stages of the election process from vote casting to canvassing to certification.” 

    “The ability to vote is one of our most sacred duties as Americans,” said Vanessa N. Gonzalez, Vice President of Government and Political Affairs at GIFFORDS. “Voting has increasingly become the target of threats and intimidation, as we face a proliferation of guns, more frequent gun violence, and fewer legal protections. This is unacceptable, and I thank Rep. Deluzio for introducing this bill, to both highlight this problem, as well as take action against the shameful and un-American act of voter intimidation. With the 2024 election approaching, we urge Congress to take up this bill as soon as possible.” 

    “In order to have free and fair elections, there must be no armed intimidation at the polls. Election officials, election volunteers, and voters deserve to feel safe when exercising our right to vote. We urge Congress to urgently pass Congressman Deluzio’s bill, the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, to protect the integrity of our democratic process”, said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. 

    “The right to vote is the foundation of our nation’s democracy, and that right must never be threatened,” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy at Brady. “Armed intimidation at the polls is unacceptable and undermines the necessary integrity of America’s free and fair elections. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act will ensure that we are all protected from the threat of gun violence while exercising our most fundamental democratic right. Brady thanks Congressman Deluzio for introducing this crucial legislation and protecting our electoral system.” 

    “The right to vote is the bedrock of democracy, and the right to vote without the fear of armed intimidation is intrinsic to that,” said Elena Perez, the Senior Policy Associate at March For Our Lives. “Americans already face the fear of gun violence—we can’t let that fear extend to polling places and suppress voting. By working to end armed intimidation of election officials and voters, we are not only protecting voting rights but also protecting the very core of our democracy. While we fight for a future free of all gun violence, today we must pass the Freedom of Intimidation in Elections Act so the gun violence epidemic doesn’t deter Americans from casting their ballots.” 

    “Passage of the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act will help protect the dedicated Americans who keep our elections running,” said Sam Oliker-Friedland, Executive Director, Institute for Responsive Government. “The current threat environment means that election officials are devoting scarce resources to bullet proof glass, metal detectors, and security guards. Effectively protecting election officials from intimidation, which this bill will help to do, will ensure that election officials can allocate money towards core tasks like cybersecurity upgrades and increasing accessibility for eligible voters. We already know elections are severely underfunded, but Congress has the power to make a significant difference for election officials across the nation by supporting the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act. It’s high time Congress puts those who safeguard our democracy above radical weapons of coercion by supporting this bill.” 

    “All of our rights, including our rights to breathe clean air and drink clean water, depend on voters’ freedom to vote, which includes freedom from violence, intimidation, and fear while they make their voices heard,” said Doug Lindner, Senior Director of Judiciary & Democracy at the League of Conservation Voters. “LCV is proud to stand with Representative Chris Deluzio and Senator Alex Padilla in support of the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to ensure every eligible voter can safely register, vote, and have their vote counted.” 

    “It’s paramount for the health of our democracy that election officials can peacefully administer free and fair elections and Americans are able to exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear or intimidation,” said Center for American Progress Associate Director of Democracy Policy Greta Bedekovics. “Threats towards election officials have continued to persist while federal law enforcement have warned about the possibility of election-related violence. Congressional action like passing the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act is desperately needed to protect American democracy and ensure that elections reflect the will of the people. Congress must fulfill its duty to protect the Constitution and that means protecting elections.” 

    “As MAGA Republicans fan the flames of the Big Lie, election workers continue to face unprecedented threats for simply doing their job to keep our elections secure and fair,” said End Citizens United Action Fund President Tiffany Muller. “The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would increase protections for election workers and officials by prohibiting any type of election intimidation—explicitly including carrying firearms near a polling location. We should do everything we can to protect and celebrate election administrators who play an invaluable and underappreciated role in ensuring every voter’s voice is heard in our democracy. We thank Congressman Chris Deluzio for introducing this critical legislation and his continued leadership on protecting our democracy.”

    “With less than two months until Election Day, voters and election officials deserve to know that they can cast a ballot and administer elections without intimidation, threats, or harassment,” said Suzanne Almeida, Common Cause’s director of state operations. “Common Cause appreciates Congressman Deluzio’s leadership in introducing the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, and we encourage Congress to quickly consider this bill to ensure that all Americans can safely have their voices heard and votes counted.” 

    “Every voter should have the freedom to participate in safe, accessible elections without facing intimidation or harassment. Threats to voters and election workers must not be tolerated. Defend The Vote Action Fund applauds Rep. Deluzio for introducing this crucial bill, which protects voters’ rights to cast their ballots free from interference, while ensuring that poll workers and election officials can safely oversee and administer our elections,” said Defend the Vote Action Fund Executive Director Brian Lemek.

    “Intimidation has no place in our democracy,” Michelle Kanter Cohen, Policy Director and Senior Counsel at Fair Elections Center. “We need changes in our laws that make sure every American voter–no matter what state they live in–can vote safely and freely. We need the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to help make sure that the election workers who keep our democracy going can serve without fear, and that voters can safely have their voices heard.”

    ”The growing and organized effort to spread misinformation and intimidate voters and election workers is a threat to our values, our freedom, and our democracy. It is anti-American,” said Democracy SENTRY President Scott Fay. “We cannot allow harassment or intimidation to undermine our elections. Congressman Deluzio’s bill ensures that voters can cast their ballots free from the fear of armed interference, and that election officials can safely do their jobs.”

    “The League of Women Voters of the United States is proud to support the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, which will enshrine in law that every voter should have the right to cast their ballot free from fear and intimidation,” said Jessica Jones Capparell, Interim Senior Director of Advocacy and Litigation at the League of Women Voters of the United States. “This legislation reflects a growing recognition that the integrity of our elections must be preserved in the face of increasing threats. The chilling reality of armed protesters gathering outside ballot-counting facilities and the armed surveillance of drop boxes during the 2020 election has highlighted the urgent need for stronger legislation and safeguards in this bill. The League of Women Voters stands firmly in support of this bill to ensure that every voter can participate without fear.” 

    “The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would send a clear message to American election officials: we’ve got your backs,” said Aquene Freechild, Campaign Co-Director, Public Citizen’s Democracy Campaign. “Too many hard-working election officials of all political stripes have experienced unacceptable harassment and intimidation since the 2020 election. Election officials have held the line and defended free and fair American elections despite the threats. They are heroes. And horrific treatment of honest election officials by MAGA Republican extremists, who have been sold lies about our elections, is a red flag and a reminder that the threats to our democratic republic are serious. Rep. Chris Deluzio and allies are fighting back.”

    “Faith in Public Life Action is proud to support the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, which is essential for ensuring that both voters and election workers can participate in the democratic process without fear. At Faith in Public Life Action, we believe that service to our communities and contributing to our democracy is a sacred right. Election officials, administrators, and poll staff and volunteers work with courage and commitment, and they deserve to carry out their duties with safety and dignity, free from intimidation or violence.  Endorsing this Act reflects our commitment to fostering a community where everyone can engage in democracy safely, and we fully support actions that promote a peaceful democratic process and a secure and equitable electoral system.” — Jeanné Lewis, CEO of Faith in Public Life Action 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17)

    The bill is supported by an unprecedented coalition of gun violence prevention organizations, Veterans Service Organizations, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman and Navy veteran Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) Congressman, former FBI Special Agent and federal prosecutor Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), and Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01) introduced the new, bipartisan veteran suicide prevention bill the Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2024. This bill authorizes a program for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide free firearm lockboxes to veterans. Limiting the ease by which at-risk individuals can access firearms has been shown to prevent suicide deaths.  

    Firearms are the most common means used by veterans who die by suicide. Approximately 73% of male veteran suicide deaths and 52% of female veteran suicide deaths are with firearms, rates that greatly exceed those of nonveterans. Fifty-one percent of veterans report owning one or more personal firearms, and of those, over half report storing firearms loaded and/or unsecured. A third of veterans who store their firearms loaded and unlocked don’t own a lockbox or safe.  

    “It is unacceptable that we have such high rates of veteran suicide when we know there are things we can do to help save the lives of those who served,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17). “I am proud to introduce the Save Our Veterans Lives Act of 2024 alongside my colleagues to provide free firearm lockboxes to my fellow veterans. It is a simple bipartisan idea, supported by organizations from across the political spectrum—let’s get this done and fight back against the crisis of veteran suicides.” 

    “The alarming and tragic reality is that our veterans face a suicide rate 57% higher than that of civilians. The Saving Veterans Lives Act will create a program within the VA to provide secure firearm lockboxes to veterans, ensuring they have the tools to safeguard themselves during moments of crisis. This commonsense, bipartisan initiative is more than a solution—it’s a lifeline. By providing access to lifesaving resources, we can prevent devastating outcomes and stand with our veterans as they navigate their darkest hours. It’s simple: we must come together and deliver the support our veterans deserve and have rightfully earned,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1). 

    “Our veterans sacrificed so much for our country, and it’s our responsibility to support them in all ways,” said Congressman Greg Landsman (OH-01). “Free gun storage boxes is a simple yet critical step in reducing the risks of firearm-related harm. We’re proud to support this initiative in helping to keep our veterans and their loved ones safe.” 

    The bill has been endorsed by the following organizations: National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), The American Legion, GIFFORDS, Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady, American Psychological Association (APA), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and Association of VA Psychologist Leaders (AVAPL). 

    “NSSF – The Firearm Industry Trade Association – supports the Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2024 introduced during National Suicide Prevention Month. NSSF has a longstanding partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs with the goal of trying to reduce suicide by firearm among our nation’s veterans. Gun owners have a responsibility to securely store their firearms when not in use to make sure they are inaccessible to those who should not possess them including someone experiencing a mental health crisis,” said NSSF’s Senior Vice President Lawrence G. Keane. “Responsible firearm storage can create time and space between a person in crisis and a gun. Rep. Deluzio’s bill helps provide veterans with the means to secure their firearms.” 

    “The American Legion and its 1.6 million members are dedicated to our “Be the One” mission to reduce the number of veterans lost to suicide,” said American Legion National Commander, James LaCoursiere. “ Did you know that in some cases only 10 minutes elapse between an individual having suicidal ideation and acting? The Saving Our Veterans Lives Act is an important part of preventing suicide as it will provide veterans with the information and means to securely store their firearms to prevent suicide, while still protecting their Second Amendment rights. The Legion commends Representative Deluzio and his team for bringing this bill forward and for their continued dedication to the welfare of our nation’s veterans.” 

    “Firearms are by far the most prevalent method of veteran suicides, used 72% of the time–a rate that is much higher than nonveteran suicide. Safe gun storage creates time and space which interrupts the impulse of suicidal thoughts and ideation–and gives people an opportunity to hesitate, reconsider and seek help. The Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2024 aims to provide eligible veterans with items for the secure storage of firearms, a public education campaign on the availability of these items and on how to use them as a suicide prevention strategy. DAV is proud to support this impactful bill, and we thank Representative Deluzio for his continued leadership on this critical issue,” DAV National Legislative Director, Joy Ilem.

    “One in five adult firearm suicide victims is a veteran,” said Emma Brown, GIFFORDS Executive Director. We can and must do better for the Americans who put their lives on the line to serve our country. Rep. Deluzio’s bill takes a significant step in addressing the issue of veteran suicide, and provides real, tangible solutions that will help keep veterans safe, as well as promoting safe storage tools in the process. We look forward to seeing this legislation move forward in this Congress.” 

    “The devastating rise of firearm suicide among veterans is another reminder of the terrible consequences that can arise when someone in crisis has access to a firearm. Our leaders should be doing everything in their power to protect those who have protected our nation, and we applaud Congressman Deluzio for introducing this legislation to promote secure gun storage and save lives.” – John Feinblatt, President of Everytown for Gun Safety.

    “Our nation’s Veterans are battling a firearm suicide crisis, but it doesn’t have to be this way,” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy, Brady. “Safe storage is proven to decrease the risk of suicide and save lives. Brady applauds Congressman Deluzio for introducing legislation that will help ensure Veterans can safely store their firearms and strengthen the Department of Veteran Affairs’ efforts to protect those who have served our country.” 

    “Suicide is a public health crisis impacting far too many veterans and their families,” said American Psychological Association (APA) CEO Arthur C. Evans, Jr. PhD. “We commend Rep. Deluzio’s tireless efforts to bring gun owners and the health care community together with Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2024. Research shows that impulsivity is a key factor in many suicide attempts and that secure firearm storage can prevent these tragedies.” 

    “Suicide is the 13th leading cause of death for Veterans in the United States, and research indicates that one in four Veterans store firearms in an unsafe manner, which increases the risk of suicide,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “We thank Representative Deluzio for introducing the Saving Our Veterans Lives Act, which will make it easier for Veterans to access secure firearm storage devices, raise awareness about the importance of lethal means safety, and help to prevent firearm suicide among Veterans and their families.” 

    “The Saving Our Veterans Lives Act of 2024 provides the funding and incentive to accomplish exactly what it states – to save Veteran lives by offering Veterans free lockboxes to securely store their firearms,” said Jennifer Presnall-Shvorin, President, Association of VA Psychologist Leaders (AVAPL). “AVAPL proudly supports this bill as one of the best commitments our Nation can make to serving those who have served.”  

    Since 2012, VA’s Suicide Prevention Program has distributed free firearm cable locks to any veteran who requests one. However, many veterans overwhelmingly favor lockboxes and safes to secure their guns.   

    A pilot program is currently offering free lockboxes to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) enrolled veterans with elevated risk for suicide who requests that one be mailed to them. Here are four ways that the Save Our Veterans’ Lives Act of 2024, full text available here, would enhance the pilot: 

    Issue 

    Current Pilot  

    Saving Our Veterans Lives Act 

    Veteran eligibility for free lockbox 

    Only covers VHA-enrolled veterans assessed as moderate to high-risk for suicide   

    Applies to all veterans, with and without identified risk, with and without VHA enrollment 

    Allocations needed for program staffing 

    No dedicated funds 

    Would cover need for: a program manager, statistician, evaluator, and prosthetics staff 

    Allocations needed for lockboxes 

    No dedicated funds 

    Assures sufficient funding for many tens of thousands of lockboxes to be distributed to veterans 

    Educational campaign informing veterans of program 

    None  

    Promotes public education campaign, including through trusted allies 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why US home insurance rates are rising so fast – hurricanes and wildfires play a big role, but there’s more to it

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Andrew J. Hoffman, Professor of Management & Organizations, Environment & Sustainability, and Sustainable Enterprise, University of Michigan

    The U.S. has seen a large number of billion-dollar disasters in recent years. AP Photo/Mark Zaleski

    Millions of Americans have been watching with growing alarm as their homeowners insurance premiums rise and their coverage shrinks. Nationwide, premiums rose 34% between 2017 and 2023, and they continued to rise in 2024 across much of the country.

    To add insult to injury, those rates go even higher if you make a claim – as much as 25% if you claim a total loss of your home.

    Why is this happening?

    There are a few reasons, but a common thread: Climate change is fueling more severe weather, and insurers are responding to rising damage claims. The losses are exacerbated by more frequent extreme weather disasters striking densely populated areas, rising construction costs and homeowners experiencing damage that was once more rare.

    Hurricane Ian, supercharged by warm water in the Gulf of Mexico, hit Florida as a Category 4 hurricane in October 2022 and caused an estimated $112.9 billion in damage.
    Ricardo Arduengo/AFP via Getty Images

    Parts of the U.S. have been seeing larger and more damaging hail, higher storm surges, massive and widespread wildfires, and heat waves that kink metal and buckle asphalt. In Houston, what used to be a 100-year disaster, such as Hurricane Harvey in 2017, is now a 1-in-23-years event, estimates by risk assessors at First Street Foundation suggest. In addition, more people are moving into coastal and wildland areas at risk from storms and wildfires.

    Just a decade ago, few insurance companies had a comprehensive strategy for addressing climate risk as a core business issue. Today, insurance companies have no choice but to factor climate change into their policy models.

    Rising damage costs, higher premiums

    There’s a saying that to get someone to pay attention to climate change, put a price on it. Rising insurance costs are doing just that.

    Increasing global temperatures lead to more extreme weather, and that means insurance companies have had to make higher payouts. In turn, they have been raising their prices and changing their coverage in order to remain solvent. That raises the costs for homeowners and for everyone else.

    The importance of insurance to the economy cannot be understated. You generally cannot get a mortgage or even drive a car, build an office building or enter into contracts without insurance to protect against the inherent risks. Because insurance is so tightly woven into economies, state agencies review insurance companies’ proposals to increase premiums or reduce coverage.

    The insurance companies are not making political statements with the increases. They are looking at the numbers, calculating risk and pricing it accordingly. And the numbers are concerning.

    The arithmetic of climate risk

    Insurance companies use data from past disasters and complex models to calculate expected future payouts. Then they price their policies to cover those expected costs. In doing so, they have to balance three concerns: keeping rates low enough to remain competitive, setting rates high enough to cover payouts and not running afoul of insurance regulators.

    But climate change is disrupting those risk models. As global temperatures rise, driven by greenhouse gases from fossil fuel use and other human activities, past is no longer prologue: What happened over the past 10 to 20 years is less predictive of what will happen in the next 10 to 20 years.

    The number of billion-dollar disasters in the U.S. each year offers a clear example. The average rose from 3.3 per year in the 1980s to 18.3 per year in the 10-year period ending in 2024, with all years adjusted for inflation.

    With that more than fivefold increase in billion-dollar disasters came rising insurance costs in the Southeast because of hurricanes and extreme rainfall, in the West because of wildfires, and in the Midwest because of wind, hail and flood damage.

    Hurricanes tend to be the most damaging single events. They caused more than US$692 billion in property damage in the U.S. between 2014 and 2023. But severe hail and windstorms, including tornadoes, are also costly; together, those on the billion-dollar disaster list did more than $246 billion in property damage over the same period.

    As insurance companies adjust to the uncertainty, they may run a loss in one segment, such as homeowners insurance, but recoup their losses in other segments, such as auto or commercial insurance. But that cannot be sustained over the long term, and companies can be caught by unexpected events. California’s unprecedented wildfires in 2017 and 2018 wiped out nearly 25 years’ worth of profits for insurance companies in that state.

    To balance their risk, insurance companies often turn to reinsurance companies; in effect, insurance companies that insure insurance companies. But reinsurers have also been raising their prices to cover their costs. Property reinsurance alone increased by 35% in 2023. Insurers are passing those costs to their policyholders.

    What this means for your homeowners policy

    Not only are homeowners insurance premiums going up, coverage is shrinking. In some cases, insurers are reducing or dropping coverage for items such as metal trim, doors and roof repair, increasing deductibles for risks such as hail and fire damage, or refusing to pay full replacement costs for things such as older roofs.

    Some insurances companies are simply withdrawing from markets altogether, canceling existing policies or refusing to write new ones when risks become too uncertain or regulators do not approve their rate increases to cover costs. In recent years, State Farm and Allstate pulled back from California’s homeowner market, and Farmers, Progressive and AAA pulled back from the Florida market, which is seeing some of the highest insurance rates in the country.

    In some cases, insurers are restricting coverage. Roof repairs, like these in Fort Myers Beach, Fla., after Hurricane Ian, can be expensive and widespread after windstorms.
    Joe Raedle/Getty Images

    State-run “insurers of last resort,” which can provide coverage for people who can’t get coverage from private companies, are struggling too. Taxpayers in states such as California and Florida have been forced to bail out their state insurers. And the National Flood Insurance Program has raised its premiums, leading 10 states to sue to stop them.

    About 7.4% of U.S. homeowners have given up on insurance altogether, leaving an estimated $1.6 trillion in property value at risk, including in high-risk states such as Florida.

    No, insurance costs aren’t done rising

    According to NOAA data, 2023 was the hottest year on record “by far.” And 2024 could be even hotter. This general warming trend and the rise in extreme weather is expected to continue until greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere are abated.

    In the face of such worrying analyses, U.S. homeowners insurance will continue to get more expensive and cover less. And yet, Jacques de Vaucleroy, chairman of the board of reinsurance giant Swiss Re, believes U.S. insurance is still priced too low to fully cover the risk from climate change.

    Climate change is a major factor in the rising cost of insurance. Join us for a special free webinar with experts Andrew Hoffman of the University of Michigan and Melanie Gall of Arizona State University to discuss the arithmetic behind these rising rates, what climate change has to do with it, and what may be coming in your future insurance bills.

    Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 11:30 a.m. PT/2:30 p.m. ET.
    Register for the webinar here.

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

    – ref. Why US home insurance rates are rising so fast – hurricanes and wildfires play a big role, but there’s more to it – https://theconversation.com/why-us-home-insurance-rates-are-rising-so-fast-hurricanes-and-wildfires-play-a-big-role-but-theres-more-to-it-238939

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: No escape for driver who allegedly rammed Police car

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have arrested a gang member who allegedly rammed a Police vehicle before fleeing across west Auckland late last night.

    A stolen vehicle was seen travelling on Titirangi Road and a Police unit signalled for the driver to stop.

    Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager Inspector Kelly Farrant says the driver initially stopped.

    “At this point the driver reversed into the Police vehicle behind it, causing some minor damage,” she says.

    “The vehicle has then taken off at speed towards Avondale.”

    No Police staff suffered any injuries.

    Inspector Farrant says the Police Eagle helicopter was deployed to the area, and quickly located the stolen car.

    “Eagle spotted the vehicle travelling at high speed through Kelston, and relayed its position to ground units as it entered the Northwestern Motorway at Massey and headed towards the city.

    “Spikes were successfully deployed in the Avondale area, but the vehicle continued on rims through the Waterview Tunnel, eventually exiting and smashed through the gate of a school in Mount Roskill.”

    The 37-year-old driver, a patched Head Hunter, was taken into custody at the scene without further incident.

    “Our staff also located a loaded crossbow and several arrows in the stolen vehicle,” Inspector Farrant says.

    “The man will appear in the Waitākere District Court today charged with assault, operating a motor vehicle recklessly and failing to stop for Police.

    “I acknowledge and thank the range of Police staff involved in responding to this incident. Their decision making was spot on and resulted in not only a safe and swift conclusion to this incident but one less dangerous weapon off the street”.

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Miller-Meeks Urges CMS to Approve Bettendorf Facility for Seniors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington DC – Fighting for Quad Cities seniors, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks today urged the Centers for the Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to approve a UnityPoint Health application for a senior’s healthcare facility in Bettendorf.

    UnityPoint is seeking to open a new Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) location in the Quad Cities. PACE centers are a vital lifeline for seniors who wish to live on their own while still having access to nursing home and healthcare services. Approval of the Bettendorf location is critical for Iowa as UnityPoint Health intends to submit application for PACE location in Waterloo and Hiawatha.

    Joining Miller-Meeks were U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Representatives Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), and Randy Feenstra (R-IA).

    The full text of the letter is below:

    Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure,

    We are writing to express support for a pending service area expansion (SAE) application by UnityPoint Health to open a new Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) location in Bettendorf, Iowa.

    PACE locations serve as a vital lifeline for seniors who seek to live with more independence. This unique program enables people who would otherwise need to be in a nursing home to remain at home and in their community while still having appropriate access to healthcare services. We strongly support expansion of these programs to ensure that our constituents can make individual healthcare choices that best suit the needs of themselves and their families. Siouxland PACE was the first PACE program in Iowa and has participated since 2008.

    The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has the necessary information needed to approve the SAE application and complete the program agreement. We understand that CMS has strong protocols to ensure expansion sites meet all requirements to provide a safe, thriving environment for each participant. We support that rigorous process. As there is local excitement about offering PACE in eastern Iowa, we ask that CMS move as expeditiously as possible with the approval of UnityPoint Health’s pending SAE application before the 3rd quarter PACE application cycle deadline of September 27, 2024.

    If the pending SAE application for Bettendorf, IA, is not approved prior to the 3rd quarter deadline, all forthcoming SAE applications will be unduly delayed because the next SAE application cannot be submitted until December 27, 2024. UnityPoint Health intends to submit SAE applications for two additional PACE expansion sites in Waterloo and Hiawatha – communities that are also in great need of PACE. Because each pending SAE application must be completed before another can be initiated, delays will negatively impact older adults not just in Bettendorf but in Waterloo and Hiawatha as well. All information for a second site is ready for submission but is on hold due to the pending Bettendorf application.

    We encourage CMS to move as expeditiously as possible to approve the pending SAE application before September 27, 2024, to ensure that Iowa residents can benefit from the value PACE brings to their communities. Thank you for your consideration of this request.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Whitehorse RCMP make arrests relating to a break, enter and theft of firearms

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 23, 2024 RCMP alerted the public to police activity in the downtown area of Fourth Avenue, Strickland and Black Street. Police were investigating a break, enter and theft from a local business. As a result, two men were arrested and charged with multiple offences.

    On September 23rd, 2024 at 5:17am, Whitehorse RCMP were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision in the Porter Creek subdivision. Initial information provided to police was a vehicle had backed into G and R Pawn Shop. Investigation determined the collision was deliberate in order to facilitate a break and enter to the business and firearms were believed to have been stolen. The vehicle, which was still on scene, was seized and the Forensic Identification Section attended the crime scene. RCMP determined the vehicle used to smash into the building was stolen.

    Police located the perpetrators at a location downtown and cordoned off the area. A hold and secure was requested for schools and daycares in the area out of an abundance of caution and the public was asked to avoid the area so that the police could conduct their investigation.

    Whitehorse RCMP with the assistance of multiple divisional units including the Critical Incident Program safely arrested two males. The firearms stolen from the pawn shop were recovered. Christopher Darryl Munch (47 years old) and Robert Martin Suffesick (37 years old) were jointly charged with possession of property obtained by crime less than $5000, possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle and unsafe storage of firearm.

    Christopher Munch has been charged with weapon contrary to order, two counts of fail to comply with a release order and possession of a firearm when knowing its possession is unauthorized. At the time of his arrest Mr. Munch had three outstanding un-endorsed warrants which were executed.

    Both individuals appeared in court September 24 and Mr. Munch was held for a court appearance on October 2, and Mr. Suffesick was release for a subsequent court appearance October 2.

    Police continue to investigate this matter. Please contact Whitehorse RCMP if you have any information regarding this crime.

    You can report a crime to the police at 867-667-5555. To remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1 (800) 222-8477 or online at https://www.crimestoppersyukon.ca/

    Police would like to again thank the public for their cooperation.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: William Hartree Memorial Lodge opening for bookings

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  26 September 2024

    The lodge is in the William Hartree Memorial Scenic Reserve in Puketitiri. The area is known for its regenerating forest which largely exists through the efforts of dedicated local conservationists.

    Kelly Eaton, DOC Heritage and Visitors Project Lead Ranger, says the lodge is an ideal entry-level facility to introduce your family and friends to the bush.

    “The lodge sleeps 10 within 3 bunk rooms, with a central living area connecting to a kitchen, toilet and shower room,” says Kelly. “It’s accessible by car and it has power, so it’s great for people who might be dipping their toes into the great outdoors but don’t want the full ‘roughing it’ experience just yet.”

    Several short walks are available right outside the door, with more within 30 minutes to 1 hour driving distance. Popular local areas include Little’s Bush, Balls Clearing and the Mangatutu Hot Springs.

    William Hartree was a local conservationist, and the reserve and lodge were created in his memory. The lodge itself was built in 1966 by the Junior Wildlife Wardens.

    Booking the lodge costs a total of $145 per night.

    More details on the history of the lodge, and booking information, can be found on the DOC website.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships Edmonton and Yellowknife return from successful Operation CARIBBE

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Press release

    Today, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton and Yellowknife returned to their homeport of Esquimalt, British Columbia, after a successful seven-week deployment on Operation CARIBBE.

    September 25, 2024 – Esquimalt, BC – Department of National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    Today, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton and Yellowknife returned to their homeport of Esquimalt, British Columbia, after a successful seven-week deployment on Operation CARIBBE.

    During this deployment, on September 5, 2024, HMCS Yellowknife, working closely with the United States Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment, intercepted a drug smuggling vessel. This interception, conducted approximately 430 nautical miles southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, resulted in the seizure of approximately 1,400 kilograms of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $60 million (Canadian).

    Operation CARIBBE is Canada’s contribution to the enhanced counter-narcotics operations led by the United States through the Joint Interagency Task Force – South, which is responsible for conducting international and interagency detection and surveillance operations and facilitating the interdiction of illicit trafficking. This operation is one of many activities undertaken by the Government of Canada to disrupt transnational criminal activity at sea and help keep drugs off Canadian streets.

    Quotes

    “The performance of HMC Ships Edmonton and Yellowknife on Operation CARIBBE was exceptional and brought great credit to Canada’s Pacific Fleet. The skill and professionalism of both crews, in joint operations with our American allies, resulted in the seizure of tens of millions of dollars worth of dangerous narcotics. This impressive seizure clearly demonstrates how the Canadian Navy contributes to the overall security of Canadians. Welcome home and congratulations, you have earned it.”

    – Rear Admiral Christopher Robinson, Commander, Maritime Forces Pacific

    “I would like to thank the crews of HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife, as well as the embarked team from the US Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment who deployed with us. We are proud of our contribution to the multinational effort to stem the flow of illicit drugs into North America. Through our collaborative efforts, we have helped enhance the safety and security of Canada.”

    – Lieutenant-Commander Tyson Babcock, Commanding Officer of HMCS Yellowknife

    Quick Facts

    HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife are Kingston-class coastal defence vessels designed for surveillance and patrol of coastal waters.

    The Royal Canadian Navy has been conducting Operation CARIBBE since November 2006 and remains committed to working with partners in the Western Hemisphere and Europe to address security challenges in the region and disrupt illicit trafficking operations.

    Each year, Canada, working closely with partner countries, intercepts and seizes millions of dollars worth of illicit drugs and plays a major role in stemming trafficking in international waters. In doing so, Canada helps control and disrupt drug trafficking in international waters near South and Central America.

    Related products

    Related links

    Contact persons

    Maritime Forces Pacific Public AffairsPhone: 250-363-5789 or 250-888-6775Email: ESQPACIFICNAVYPUBLICAFFAIRS@forces.gc.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt not addressing health workforce crisis

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The National Government is hiding the gaps in the health workforce from New Zealanders, by not producing a full workforce plan nearly a year into their tenure.

    “Since National came into government, we’ve had secrecy around cuts, hiring freezes and voluntary redundancies,” Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said.

    “National campaigned on a workforce crisis and Shane Reti said he would deliver a workforce plan – where is it?

    “In Government, Labour published a comprehensive assessment of gaps and actions to address needs across the health sector. In contrast, National has not been upfront about the nature and extent of the needs, nor how they will address staff shortages.

    “Labour’s plan for financial year 2023-2024 led to hiring more than 4000 staff and was upfront about where further training and investment was needed,” Ayesha Verrall said.

    Mental health spokesperson Ingrid Leary said we welcome the training of extra mental health workers.

    “However the Mental Health Workforce plan is scant and underwhelming in its failure to address recruitment incentives, retention, career pathways and immigration settings,” Ingrid Leary said.

    “It also does nothing to address mental health workforce in rural areas, the far north and southern areas where the need is most critical.

    “We have a mental health workforce crisis including a brain drain to Australia, and the government isn’t addressing the current hiring freeze, burn out and low morale,” said Ingrid Leary.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Data shows school attendance is on the rise

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Education Minister David Seymour says data released today shows increased school attendance in Term 2 of 2024 with 53.2 per cent of students regularly attending, an increase of 6.1 percentage points compared to the same term last year.

    Regular attendance across primary students increased by 7 percentage points, to 56.8 per cent, and by 4.5 percentage points for secondary students to 46.7 per cent. Rates also rose across all ethnicity groups, year levels, and school equity index groups.

    “Attending school is the first step towards achieving positive education outcomes. Positive education outcomes can lead to better health, higher incomes, better job stability and greater participation within communities. These are opportunities that every student deserves,” says Mr Seymour.

    “Every single education region showed increases in regular attendance, with South and South-West Auckland, and Tai Tokerau demonstrating the largest increases compared to Term 2 2023, with increases of 10.3 and 9.4 percentage points respectively.”

    Students are regularly attending school when they are present for more than 90 per cent of the term. The Government target for student attendance is 80 per cent of students present for more than 90 per cent of the term by 2030.

    “Missing a week or more of school in a term may not seem like a lot but actually equates to missing one year of schooling by the time the student is 16. Regular attendance is so important for giving students the best opportunities and setting them up for success,” says Mr Seymour.

    “Winter illnesses played a significant role and attendance numbers are still behind the same period in 2019, when almost 58 per cent of students were regularly attending school. Although school attendance is on the rise, the government is working hard to raise it further.

    “Today I am announcing new initiatives that form Phase 2 of the Attendance Action Plan to ensure that schools, the Ministry of Education, wider government, family, and caregivers are doing everything they can to get students back to school.

    “If the truancy crisis isn’t addressed there will be an 80-year long shadow of people who missed out on education when they were young, are less able to work, less able to participate in society, more likely to be on benefits. That’s how serious this is.”

    Note to editors: Attendance data can be found here Attendance | Education Counts

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Haiti Caucus and Tri-Caucus Statement on False and Dangerous Rhetoric About Haitian Families

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), along with Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Steven Horsford (NV-04), Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Nanette Barragán (CA-44), and Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Judy Chu (CA-28), issued the following statement condemning the false and dangerous lies about Haitian, Latino, and Asian immigrants.

    “We, members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, stand united in condemning the false, hateful, and dangerous rhetoric directed at Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. These disgraceful lies, perpetuated by Donald Trump, Senator J.D. Vance, and Republicans, are not only rooted in xenophobia, racism, and anti-Blackness, but are also the latest attempt by Republicans to sow division and fear within our communities and distract from their deeply unpopular agenda.

    “These lies target some of the most vulnerable among us — individuals and families fleeing violence, instability, and humanitarian crises in search of a better life. Our Haitian neighbors, including our Latino and Asian families, who have come to the United States, seek safety and opportunity, and the contributions they make to our cultural and economic fabric are endless. To demonize and dehumanize them with baseless accusations puts their lives at risk and is an affront to everything we stand for as a nation.

    “To be clear: these lies have had very real consequences. Haitian families in Springfield and across the country are living in fear, facing harassment, and facing bomb threats. Children lie awake at night not knowing if they’ll be safe come morning, and parents are consumed with worry for their babies’ safety. We’ve seen this tired playbook before, and we will not stand for it.

    “If you come for one of us, you come for all of us. As leaders of the Haiti Caucus, CBC, CHC, and CAPAC, we stand in solidarity with Haitian immigrants and all of our families who have been unjustly targeted. We urge our colleagues to reject this vile rhetoric and instead advance policies that affirm the dignity and humanity of all people, starting with our most vulnerable.”

    As Representative for the Massachusetts 7th Congressional District, Congresswoman Pressley serves as Co-Chair for the House Haiti Caucus and represents one of the largest Haitian diaspora communities in the country, with approximately 46,000 Haitians and Haitian-Americans living across the state and over half in the Boston metropolitan area. Additionally, Massachusetts is home to more than 4,700 Haitians with Temporary Protected Status.

    • On September 20, 2024, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs joined colleagues and advocates at a press conference to stand in solidarity with Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio and across America, and to demand accountability for the harmful and false narratives perpetuated by Republicans.
    • On June 28, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden-Harris Administration’s extension and redesignation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). 
    • On April 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley, alongside Co-Chairs Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), led a group of 50 lawmakers urging the Biden Administration to redesignate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), pause on deportations back to Haiti, extend humanitarian parole to any Haitians currently detained in Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s detention centers, end detention of Haitian migrants intercepted at sea, and provide additional humanitarian assistance for Haiti.
    • On April 18, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs led a letter to House Ways and Means Committee leadership emphasizing support for the early renewal of the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) and the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Acts, commonly known as HOPE/HELP. 
    • On April 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Haitian-led activists, organizations, and a directly impacted person in Haiti for a press call urging federal action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Haiti.
    • On March 27, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and her colleagues on the Massachusetts congressional delegation in urging the Biden Administration to expedite visa processing for Haitians, particularly  for relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.
    • On March 18, Rep. Pressley, Senator Markey, and the House Haiti Caucus led 67 lawmakers on a letter urging the Biden Administration to extend TPS for Haiti and halt deportations.
    • On March 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Cherfilus McCormick and Yvette Clarke issued a statement on the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
    • On March 6, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the recent jailbreak and State of Emergency in Haiti.
    • On December 8, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke urged the U.S. Department of State to withdraw U.S. support for an armed foreign intervention in Haiti and encourage negotiations for a Haitian-led democratic political transition.
    • On December 6, 2022, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden Administration’s extension and re-designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
    • On December 1, 2022, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Cori Bush, and Rep. Mondaire Jones led 14 of their colleagues on a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the Department to extend and redesignate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
    • In September 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Velázquez led 54 of their colleagues on a letter calling on the Biden Administration to immediately halt deportations to Haiti and provide humanitarian parole protections for those seeking asylum. The lawmakers’ letter followed the Administration’s resumption of deportation flights to Haiti as thousands of Haitian migrants continue to await an opportunity to make an asylum claim at the border. 
    • In September 2022, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues on the House Oversight Committee in demanding answers regarding the inhumane treatment of migrants in Del Rio, Texas, by Border Patrol agents on horseback and pushing to Biden Administration to end the ongoing use and weaponization of Title 42.
    • On August 17, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Val Demings, Yvette Clarke, and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), called on President Biden to appoint a new Special Envoy to Haiti, a position that has remained unfilled since September 2021.
    • On July 7, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Andy Levin (MI-09), Val Demings (FL-10) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released a statement marking the one-year anniversary of the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.
    • On May 31, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Reverend Dieufort Fleurissaint, chair of Haitian Americans United, published an op-ed in the Bay State Banner in which they called on the Biden administration to withdraw support for de facto ruler of Haiti, Ariel Henry, and instead support an inclusive, civil society-led process to restore stability and democracy on the island. 
    • In April 2022, she joined her colleagues at a press conference reaffirming her support for President Biden’s decision to end Title 42. Full video of her remarks at the press conference is available here. Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden Administration’s end of Title 42 in a statement in April 2022.
    • On May 26, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with with Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Andy Levin (MI-09), Jim McGovern (MA-02), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), led a letter to United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Power urging her to act to ensure food security in Haiti.
    • On March 16, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Mondaire Jones called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky to fully end Title 42, cease deportations of people to Haiti and affirm their legal and fundamental human right to seek asylum.
    • On February 16, 2022, Rep. Pressley joined Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and 100 House and Senate colleagues in urging President Biden to reverse inhumane immigration policies – such as Title 42, originally introduced under the Trump Administration – that continue to disproportionately harm Black migrants.
    • On February 14, 2022, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), alongside Representatives Judy Chu (CA-27) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), led 33 other House Democrats on a letter to Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, demanding answers about the agency’s justification for treating asylum seekers as a unique public health threat, how these expulsions are being coordinated, how asylum seekers being returned to dangerous situations are being cared for, and more.
    • On February 14, 2022, Reps. Pressley, Judy Chu (CA-27), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) led 33 other House Democrats on a letter to CDC Director Walensky demanding answers about the agency’s justification for treating asylum seekers as a unique public health threat, how these expulsions are being coordinated, how asylum seekers being returned to dangerous situations are being cared for, and more. Days later, Rep. Pressley once again called on the Biden Administration to reverse the Title 42 Order and other anti-Black immigration policies.
    • On January 12, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09), and Val Demings (FL-10) released a statement on the 12-year anniversary of the catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12, 2010.
    • On November 21, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren led the Massachusetts congressional delegation on a letter to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) calling on them to coordinate with the government agencies of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to assist newly arrived families from Haiti. 
    • On October 18, 2021, Rep. Pressley, and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Val Demings (FL-10), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Andy Levin (MI-09) issued a statement following the kidnapping of American and Canadian missionaries in Haiti.
    • On October 18, 2021, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the civil rights complaint filed by Haitian families demanding a federal investigation into the heinous actions perpetrated by federal officials at the border.
    • On October 22, 2021, Rep. Pressley, along with Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Reps. Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), sent a letter to Troy A. Miller, the Acting Administrator of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), demanding a briefing and answers regarding press reports of the inhumane treatment of migrants in Del Rio, Texas, by Border Patrol agents on horseback. 
    • On September 17, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07) led 52 of their colleagues calling on the Biden Administration to immediately halt deportations to Haiti and take urgent action to address the concerns of the Haitian Diaspora after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti.
    • On August 14, 2021, Rep. Pressley Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) and Mondaire Jones (NY-17) released a statement regarding the recent earthquake in Haiti.
    • On July 14, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas calling on him to take a series of steps to support the Haitian diaspora amid ongoing political turmoil in Haiti.
    • In July 2021, the Reps. Pressley, Clarke, Demings and Levin issued a statement condemning the assassination of President Moïse and calling for swift and decisive action to bring political stability and peace to Haiti and the Haitian people.
    • In May 2021, on Haitian Flag Day, Reps. Pressley, Levin, Clarke and Demings announced the formation of the House Haiti Caucus, a Congressional caucus dedicated to pursuing a just foreign policy that puts the needs and aspirations of the Haitian people first.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Government cuts fair pay for bus drivers

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government has cut funding for bus drivers to get paid fairly for the work they do, Labour transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere said.

    “Bus drivers and public transport workers do valuable work for their communities; it’s good to see the Government will continue to fund initiatives to improve their safety.

    “Simeon Brown’s announcement about driver safety neglected to mention the fact that more than $46 million has been cut from the same budget to ensure drivers get paid fairly for late night work and split shifts.

    “Any form of harassment or violence is unacceptable, particularly where drivers are simply doing their jobs. I just wish that Simeon Brown also saw value in paying bus drivers properly.

    “Treasury also warned Nicola Willis that making this cut could undo the work done by Labour to increase reliability of public transport and could return New Zealand to a position of large bus driver shortages that cause mass service cancellations.

    “If Simeon Brown had his way, we would all be in cars driving on toll roads. The reality is many New Zealanders rely on public transport. Not paying drivers properly and putting at risk the reliability of services will only take us backwards,” Tangi Utikere said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott Receives Legislative Champion Award for Work on Adult Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

    Headline: Scott Receives Legislative Champion Award for Work on Adult Education

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, received the Legislative Champion Award from the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE). Congressman Scott was selected by COABE due to his work to strengthen adult education and support adult learners, specifically his work to update the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

    “We know that we must give adults the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century economy, and that has the added benefit of also keeping America’s economy competitive on the global stage,” said Congressman Scott. “I was proud to see AStronger Workforce for America Act pass the House earlier this year, and I will keep working to get it passed by Senate and signed into law. That bill will make critical improvements to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and will expand the skills development provided under the law, strengthen the relationship between employers and the workforce system, and put more Americans on the pathway to successful careers. I look forward to working with COABE to support the needs of America’s adult educators, learners and programs.”

    COABE is the leading national organization representing the US system of adult education.

    More information on A Stronger Workforce for America Act can be found by CLICKING HERE.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Passes Bipartisan Castro-Salazar Bill to Target Fentanyl Precursors, Combat Drug Trafficking into the United States

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

    September 25, 2024

    WASHINGTON — This week, the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee voted unanimously to pass the DISPOSE Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) that seeks to curb fentanyl trafficking and address the devastating toll of fentanyl addiction. Castro and Salazar are the highest-ranking Democrat and Republican, respectively, on the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere.

    “In San Antonio and communities across the world, families have endured unimaginable tragedy as a result of the fentanyl trade,” said Congressman Castro. “The DISPOSE Act is an important step forward to support our neighbors in the Western Hemisphere as they work to curb the trafficking of fentanyl within their own nations. This bill will save lives at home and abroad, and I am honored to work with Chairwoman Salazar and a bipartisan coalition in the House and the Senate as we move this much-needed progress closer to the president’s desk.”

    “The fentanyl crisis has become a scourge of the Western Hemisphere,” said Congresswoman Salazar. “By passing the DISPOSE Act, the Foreign Affairs Committee is committing to working with our partners to destroy fentanyl precursor chemicals well before they reach Miami and the rest of the country.”

    In 2023 alone, Customs and Border Protection seized over 23,000 pounds of fentanyl at the southern border of the United States. The majority of fentanyl produced in the Western Hemisphere is created using Chinese chemicals that are shipped to the Americas, turned into drugs in clandestine labs, and trafficked into the U.S. by transnational criminal organizations. The DISPOSE Act will address fentanyl trafficking by supporting partner nations in the Western Hemisphere as they work to seize and destroy the precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production.

    Specifically, the DISPOSE Act will establish the Precursor Chemical Destruction Initiative to fight drug trafficking with partner nations in the Western Hemisphere. In coordination with international partners, the initiative will:

    • Increase rates of seizure and destruction of listed chemicals in beneficiary countries.
    • Alleviate the backlog of seized chemicals and dispose them in an environmentally safe and effective manner.
    • Ensure that the seized chemicals are not reintroduced into the illicit drug production network within beneficiary countries.
    • Free up storage space for future chemical seizures within beneficiary countries.
    • Reduce the chemicals’ negative environmental impact.

    Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ), an original cosponsor of the bill, was instrumental in advancing this bill through the Committee. Rep. Salazar is working to get this bill passed by the full House of Representatives. The Senate version of the DISPOSE Act is led by Senators Chuck Grassley (IA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and James Risch (ID).

    To read the full text of the legislation, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Votes in Favor of Continuing Resolution to Avoid a Government Shutdown

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

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act of 2025 to avoid a government shutdown:

    “Although governing by continuing resolution is not ideal, it is far better than the alternative. A full government shutdown would cause undue, harmful disruptions to our national security and vital programs that constituents in Oklahoma’s Fourth District rely on. On top of that, a shutdown would cost the American taxpayers billions due to back-paid furloughed workers, increased costs from delayed starts, and constrained economic growth,” said Congressman Cole. “All of this makes it clear – a government shutdown is not the answer. On the contrary, this continuing resolution is a win for Republicans, as it ensures the government will continue to serve the American people and, better yet, it ensures the American people – and more importantly the next president – have a say in the appropriations process.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Kean’s Bill to Expedite Flight Training for Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (September 25, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7323 – Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2024. 

    Included in this package is the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act of 2024, a bipartisan bill led by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) that would expedite the flight training process for veterans by removing the one-year requirement for accessing their GI Bill benefits. Under the current GI Bill, students can access a maximum of $26,000 per academic year for their flight training. Once these funds are exhausted, they must wait until the following academic year to continue their training. 

    Watch Congressman Kean speak on the House floor in support of the bill HERE.  

    This bill was introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and is co-led by Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03).  

    “Veterans should be able to pursue their aviation careers – or any career – without excessive financial burdens and unnecessary delays,” said Congressman Kean. “The current GI bill system needs to be improved and I’m thankful for my House colleagues for passing today’s revised legislation, which included my bill, the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act, so veteran students can expedite the flight training process.” 

    “Every veteran should be able to use their education benefits however they see fit—and we should be making it easier for them to do so,” said Congressman McGarvey. “Our bill would give veterans the flexibility to use their benefits for flight school without breaking the bank, and I’m thrilled to see it pass through the House of Representatives.” 

    More specifically, this bill would:    

    • Cap the flight training fees and tuition to approximately $115,000 for public flight training institutions.   
    • Allow student veterans to use their GI Bill throughout the whole year, instead of taking time off or paying out of pocket.   

    Read more about the bill HERE.    

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Shooting at Burton

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating after a shooting at Burton this morning.

    About 3.50am on Thursday 26 September, police were called to Bolivar Road after reports a man had been shot.

    The victim, a 34- year-old man from Burton, sustained a wound to his leg and was taken to hospital for treatment. His injuries are not considered life threatening.

    Police searched the area and have not located the suspect.

    Later this morning at 4am police and MFS were called to reports of a vehicle fire on Burton Road, police are investigating if the fire is linked to the earlier shooting.

    The incident is not believed to be random.

    Northern District are investigating the incident and ask anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Roy Rodriguez Named Chairman of South Texas Water Working Group by Congresswoman De La Cruz

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) this week held her second official meeting of the South Texas Water Working Group, in which she announced the appointment of Roy Rodriguez as its chairman. Rodriguez brings decades of experience in public administration and water management across Texas.

    “I am honored to name Roy Rodriguez as chairman of our South Texas Water Working Group,” said Rep. De La Cruz. “His legacy across Texas speaks for itself, coupled with his deep knowledge of water infrastructure. This makes him the ideal leader to combine efforts with to find long-term solutions to South Texas’ water needs and reduce our dependence on Mexico.”

    “It is an honor and privilege to be Chairman of a group tasked with one of the most important issues in South Texas – availability and sustainability of water. I remain committed to helping our region wherever I can. Congresswoman De La Cruz has brought a new focus to a decades long concern that can easily become a crisis. Thank you, Congresswoman.”

    Rodriguez will lead a coalition of local stakeholders, officials, and experts working to ensure sustainable water resources for the region’s growing population and agricultural sector across the 15th Congressional District of Texas.

    Roy Rodriguez’s career includes stints as city engineer, assistant city manager and city manager in Harlingen, city engineer in Weslaco, county engineer in Jefferson County, general manager of the McAllen Public Utility Board, and area engineer in Oklahoma. Chairmanship of the South Texas Water Working Group is a volunteer position.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Capital City Bank Names Matthew Henderson Chief Information Security Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Capital City Bank today announced the promotion of Matthew Henderson to chief information security officer, effective October 1, 2024. He will succeed LeAnne Staalenburg McCorvey, who will retire on December 31, 2024. In this role, Henderson will lead the Corporate Security & Risk Department, overseeing both the information and physical security teams. His responsibilities include developing, overseeing, monitoring, managing and reporting on the security program in accordance with policy.

    Henderson began his career with Capital City Bank in September 2022 as an information security officer. In this role, he focused on information security, physical security, vendor management, business continuity and incident response initiatives.

    He holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Management Information Systems from Troy University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, respectively. His credentials include certifications as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Certified Information Security Manager, Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control and Certified Information Systems Auditor.

    With over 15 years of experience in information technology, cybersecurity, information security and physical security across various industries, Henderson brings a wealth of knowledge to his new position. He also serves on several advisory boards and committees within the financial sector, including the American Bankers Association’s Cybersecurity and Operational Resilience Advisory Committee, the Risk and Compliance Conference Board and the Cyber Risk Institute’s Joint Standards Committee.

    “Matt’s extensive experience and proven expertise make him an ideal choice to lead our Corporate Security & Risk Department,” said Bill Smith, Capital City Bank Group chairman, president and CEO. “I am confident that under his leadership we will continue to uphold the highest standards of security and risk management.”

    Beyond his professional roles, Henderson is actively engaged in the community. He is a member of Celebration Baptist Church, Shriners International and the Tallahassee Tennis Association. Additionally, he volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend.

    In his spare time, Henderson enjoys spending time with his wife, Brittony, and their two children.

    About Capital City Bank Group, Inc.
    Capital City Bank Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CCBG) is one of the largest publicly traded financial holding companies headquartered in Florida and has approximately $4.2 billion in assets. We provide a full range of banking services, including traditional deposit and credit services, mortgage banking, asset management, trust, merchant services, bankcards, securities brokerage services and financial advisory services, including the sale of life insurance, risk management and asset protection services. Our bank subsidiary, Capital City Bank, was founded in 1895 and now has 63 banking offices and 105 ATMs/ITMs in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. For more information about Capital City Bank Group, Inc., visit http://www.ccbg.com.

    For Information Contact:
    Brooke Hallock
    Hallock.Brooke@ccbg.com
    850.402.8525

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cf7fbf1f-1dda-4f42-ba36-e248463f7a03

    The MIL Network –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: PM tells US investors “Britain is open for business” as he secured major £10 billion deal to drive growth and create jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    A major £10 billion investment which will create thousands of jobs in the North East of England has been announced by the Prime Minister in New York today.

    • Major U.S. company Blackstone has confirmed a £10 billion investment in the North East of England to create one of the largest artificial intelligence data centres in Europe 
    • Move will create 4,000 jobs for British people and benefit the local community in Blyth  
    • Prime Minister continues his international drive to boost the UK’s reputation on the global stage, unlock new opportunities to drive growth at home and improve the lives of British people

    A major £10 billion investment which will create thousands of jobs in the North East of England has been announced by the Prime Minister in New York today.  

    The deal with US investment company Blackstone, facilitated by the Office for Investment, will create the biggest AI data centre in Europe, boosting the UK’s world leading capabilities in the AI sector and driving growth in the local community. 

    Over 4,000 jobs will be created as a result, including 1,200 roles dedicated to the construction of the site in Blyth, Northumberland. Construction on the site is expected to begin next year, with the data centres set to store the vast amount of data needed to power AI, and to store the information generated by AI systems.  

    The Prime Minister’s number one mission for government is economic growth, and foreign investment will be a key part of driving it – by creating jobs which will put money into the pockets of hard-working British people.  

    The local community in Blyth – which suffered as a result of the failure of BritishVolt – will also directly benefit from the investment, with Blackstone confirming it will invest £110 million into a fund – supporting further skills training and transport infrastructure in the area.  

    The UK is already home to the highest number of data centres in Western Europe and just last month, the government classed data centres as ‘Critical National Infrastructure’ in the first designation in almost a decade to provide greater reassurance to businesses that the UK is a secure place to invest in and develop data centres.   

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

    The number one mission of my government is to grow our economy, so that hard-working British people reap the benefits – and more foreign investment is a crucial part of that plan.

    New investment such as the one we’ve announced with Blackstone today is a huge vote of confidence in the UK and it proves that Britain is back as a major player on the global stage and we’re open for business.

    Jon Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer of Blackstone, said: 

    The UK is a top investment market for Blackstone because of its powerful combination of talent and innovation along with a highly transparent legal system.  We are making significant commitments to building social housing, facilitating the energy transition, growing life sciences companies and developing critical infrastructure needed to fuel the digital economy. This includes a projected £10 billion investment to build one of Europe’s largest hyperscale data centres supporting 4,000 jobs. Blackstone is committed to Britain.

    The Prime Minister will meet Blackstone President Jon Gray in New York this morning, as he seeks to rebuild Britain’s reputation as an investment destination in order to drive growth and create opportunities for British people.  

    This comes ahead of the UK’s International Investment Summit in October, which is set to bring together hundreds of leading CEOs and investors set to attend representing the best of business across the globe, with an ambitious programme to showcase the UK’s economic strengths. 

    The summit will rebuild Britain’s reputation as an investment destination to drive growth and create opportunities for British people and cement the government’s enduring partnership with businesses to give them the certainty they need to invest and grow in the UK.

    Today’s investment also bolsters the UK’s bilateral trading relationship with the US which is already worth over £340 billion – making the US our largest single trading partner.  

    Every day, 1.2 million Americans go to work for UK-owned businesses and 1.3 million Brits work for US owned companies. Just last year the UK and US together invested over $1.2 trillion in each other’s economies, across key sectors like financial services, green infrastructure, real estate and technology.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Infinera Reminds Infinera Stockholders of Deadline for Infinera Stockholders to Elect Form of Merger Consideration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infinera Corporation (NASDAQ: INFN) (“Infinera”) today reminded Infinera stockholders of the upcoming deadline to elect the form of merger consideration that they wish to receive in the pending acquisition of Infinera by Nokia Corporation (“Nokia”) (the “Transaction”). This deadline is 5:00 p.m. New York City time on September 30, 2024 (the “Election Deadline”), which is the business day immediately prior to the special meeting of Infinera stockholders to be held in connection with the Transaction. No elections will be permitted after the Election Deadline.

    Infinera stockholders of record wishing to make an election as to the form of consideration they wish to receive must deliver a properly completed and executed election form, together with all required documents and materials, to Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (the “Exchange Agent”) by the Election Deadline. An election will be valid only if a properly completed and signed election form, together with all required documents and materials set forth in the Election Form and the instructions thereto, is received by the Exchange Agent by the Election Deadline.

    Infinera stockholders who hold shares through a bank, broker or other nominee will receive the election form through their bank, broker, or other nominee. Infinera stockholders who hold shares through a bank, broker or other nominee may be subject to an earlier election deadline and must carefully review and properly complete any election materials that they receive from their bank, broker or other nominee regarding how to make an election.

    Infinera stockholders who, with respect to some or all of their shares of Infinera common stock, do not deliver a properly completed and executed election form, together with all required documents and materials, to the Exchange Agent by the Election Deadline (or, if applicable, to their bank, broker or other nominee by the deadline set by such bank, broker or other nominee) will be deemed to have elected to have those shares converted into the right to receive $6.65 per share in cash, without interest.

    Infinera stockholders who do not make a valid election by the Election Deadline may still vote their shares at the special meeting of Infinera stockholders to be held in connection with the Transaction, which will be held 10 a.m., Pacific Time, on October 1, 2024, as long they owned those shares as of the close of business on August 14, 2024.

    The aggregate merger consideration payable by Nokia is subject to proration as described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the Election Form publicly filed by Infinera and Nokia in connection with the Transaction. Infinera and Nokia intend only to announce the results of stockholder elections and required proration, if any, in connection with the closing of the Transaction.

    Infinera stockholders who have made an election with respect to some or all of their shares of Infinera common stock may still sell or transfer those shares, whether before or after the Election Deadline. To do so, they will need to revoke their election prior to and in connection with selling or transferring those shares. If no subsequent election is properly made in respect of those shares prior to the Election Deadline, or if the revocation occurs after the Election Deadline, the holder will be deemed to have elected to have those shares converted into the right to receive $6.65 per share in cash, without interest. No election may be revoked after the Election Deadline, except in connection with the sale or transfer of the applicable shares. Infinera stockholders who wish to revoke an election in respect of their shares of Infinera common stock after the Election Deadline in connection with a sale or transfer of those shares must revoke such election at least five business days prior to the closing of the Transaction for the revocation to be effective. Infinera stockholders who hold shares through a bank, broker or other nominee will need to contact their bank, broker or other nominee to process their revocation.

    Infinera stockholders of record that wish to request an Election Form and accompanying materials (including election revocation materials) should contact Sodali & Co at (800) 662-5200 (for registered holders of Infinera Common Stock) or (203) 658-9400 (for banks and brokers) or by email at INFN@investor.sodali.com. Infinera stockholders who hold shares through a bank, broker or other nominee should contact their bank, broker or other nominee for assistance making or revoking an election.

    Infinera stockholders should carefully read the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the Election Form and all election materials provided to them or filed by Infinera and Nokia in connection with the Transaction before making their elections. The Election Deadline does not alter the deadline for Infinera stockholders to vote on the proposals to be presented for approval at Infinera’s upcoming special meeting of stockholders.

    About Infinera

    Infinera is a global supplier of innovative open optical networking solutions and advanced optical semiconductors that enable carriers, cloud operators, governments, and enterprises to scale network bandwidth, accelerate service innovation, and automate network operations. Infinera solutions deliver industry-leading economics and performance in long-haul, submarine, data center interconnect, and metro transport applications. To learn more about Infinera, visit http://www.infinera.com, follow us on X and LinkedIn, and subscribe for updates.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This communication is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Transaction and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote of approval, and there will not be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities will be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this communication may be characterized as forward-looking under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially.

    Statements in this communication that are forward-looking may include statements regarding the Transaction and the timing and mechanics of the closing of the Transaction.

    Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, in addition to those identified above, include: (1) the possibility that the conditions to the closing of the Transaction are not satisfied, including the risk that required approvals from Infinera’s stockholders for the Transaction or required regulatory approvals to consummate the Transaction are not obtained, on a timely basis or at all; (2) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to a right to terminate the Merger Agreement; (3) possible disruption related to the Transaction to the current plans, operations and business relationships of Nokia and Infinera, including through the loss of customers and employees; (4) the amount of the costs, fees, expenses and other charges incurred by Nokia and Infinera related to the Transaction; (5) the possibility that the stock prices of Nokia or Infinera could fluctuate during the pendency of the Transaction and may decline if the Transaction is not completed; (6) for both Nokia and Infinera, the possible diversion of management’s time and attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; (7) the response of competitors and other market participants to the Transaction; (8) potential litigation relating to the Transaction; (9) uncertainty as to the timing of completion of the Transaction and the ability of each party to consummate the Transaction; and (10) the other risks and uncertainties detailed in the periodic reports that Nokia and Infinera file with the SEC. All forward-looking statements in this communication are based on information available to Infinera as of the date of this communication, and, except as required by law, Infinera does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements provided to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

    Contacts

    Amitabh Passi
    apassi@infinera.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 One of the main tasks of the Polish Army today is the disinfection of schools, kindergartens, and homes

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    One of the main tasks of the Polish Army today is the disinfection of schools, kindergartens, homes25.09.2024– The main and large task for today and the coming days is the disinfection of already cleaned premises, both public utility, such as nurseries, kindergartens, municipal offices, but also apartments and private properties. 18 task teams for disinfection are prepared and moved to Brzeg, because it is in this part of the country that there are great needs in this area – informed Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak – Kamysz in Wrocław.

    On September 25, Deputy Prime Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz took part in the morning crisis headquarters in Wrocław. The Minister of National Defense presented information on the current involvement of the armed forces in the areas affected by the flood. – At the moment, 25,000 soldiers are involved, and about 20,000 of them are directly involved. We maintain them at a very high level, due to the demand of local governments, in order to organize and clear communication routes, clean properties, farms and houses. These activities will be continued in Operation Fenix – informed the Minister of National Defense. As the minister emphasized, medical care in the post-flood areas is very important at the moment. – The military field hospital in Nysa will operate as long as there is such a need. We want to clean up as soon as possible and open the district hospital, which admitted 120 patients a day to the Emergency Department. Today, these tasks have been largely taken over by the field hospital, but of course it is not possible to perform all procedures there, especially planned procedures. So opening the district hospital in Nysa is a priority. The field hospital will remain even after the county hospital is opened. The field hospital will serve the uniformed services – the army, police and fire brigade in this area – the vice prime minister noted, W. Kosiniak-Kamysz.

    Photos (4)

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 First meeting of the Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Today, in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of Undersecretary of State Henryka Mościcka – Dendys and Anna Radwan – Röhrenschef, the Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy was initiated. The inauguration was attended by over 50 representatives of the Polish foreign service, both from the MFA Headquarters and foreign missions. The guest of honour of the event was Grażyna Bernatowicz, Undersecretary of State at the MFA in 2000–2003 and 2007–2013 and former Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the Kingdom of Spain and the Czech Republic. The Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy is part of the Red de Mujeres Diplomáticas de la UE – “WEDIN”. It brings together networks of women diplomats from European Union Member States, Ministries of Foreign Affairs and the European External Action Service. The aim of WEDIN is to exchange experiences, develop mechanisms to support and facilitate women’s career development and ensure equal treatment in diplomacy. During the first meeting, the principles of the Network’s operation were defined, its structures were agreed and activities for the coming year were planned. The Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy will serve, among others: – exchange of information, promotion of topics important to women and their professional careers in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, development of solutions and provision of support to women diplomats in combining professional and personal life; – support for the professional development of women in diplomacy, promotion of gender equality and counteracting discrimination; – promotion of gender equality and combating all forms of discrimination and raising awareness in this area, including on the causes and effects of violating the principle of equal treatment; – representing women’s interests in contacts with the management of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; – cooperation with social partners, non-governmental organizations and other entities in the field of the role of women in diplomacy, equal treatment and counteracting discrimination;– supporting the development of cooperation with foreign partners, including foreign associations and networks of women in diplomacy and other countries and international organisations;– supporting the implementation of national and international commitments in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including those resulting from the UN agenda “Women, Peace and Security”. As a result, the initiative creates the opportunity to propose solutions that will help women in diplomacy combine professional work with family life, allow them to develop their skills and abilities, and thus adapt Polish diplomacy to positive global standards and trends regarding the role of women in foreign policy.

    Photo: Sebastian Indra/Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Chilkoot Way Road Improvements in Whitehorse

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French

    Press release

    Daily travel on the Chilkoot Way in Whitehorse will be improved thanks to a joint investment of $850,000 from the federal government and the City of Whitehorse.

    Whitehorse, Yukon, September 25, 2024 — Daily travel on the Chilkoot Way in Whitehorse will be improved thanks to a joint investment of $850,000 from the federal government and the City of Whitehorse.

    The work involves installing a new two-way protected bike lane on the north side of Chilkoot Way, creating a new pedestrian crossing, installing signage, completing pavement markings in critical areas, and providing improved lighting. In addition, traffic signals will be upgraded, a new advanced left-turn signal will be installed at Chilkoot and Two Mile Hill, and a new cycle push button will be installed to improve accessibility. The bike path will connect residents to downtown schools, the Whitehorse Health Clinic, workplaces and retail businesses along the river, and roads that connect neighbourhoods.

    Improving the Chilkoot Way will provide a more accessible and safer active transportation route to the Riverfront and Two Mile Hill multi-use paved trails. It will also make it easier for people to get around by walking, cycling or taking public transit.

    Quotes

    “Improving active transportation routes for communities supports healthier travel. Work on the Chilkoot Way in Whitehorse will make transportation infrastructure more accessible for cyclists, pedestrians and transit users, making it easier for them to get around every day.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “We are pleased to partner with the federal government to enhance Whitehorse’s active transportation network. The new active transportation route along the Chilkoot Way is a game changer for cyclists commuting downtown. It also promotes inclusion, health and connection by meeting the needs of all, regardless of mobility level, age or fitness level. This project demonstrates the City’s ongoing commitment to building a more sustainable and accessible community.”

    Laura Cabott, Mayor of Whitehorse

    Quick Facts

    The federal government is investing $588,750 in this project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF), and the City of Whitehorse is contributing $261,250.

    Active transportation refers to the movement of people or goods through human activity. This includes walking, cycling, and the use of human-powered or hybrid mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, electric scooters, e-bikes, inline skates, snowshoeing, cross-country skis, and more.

    To support Canada’s first National Active Transportation Strategy, the Active Transportation Fund is providing $400 million over five years, starting in 2021, to make active transportation travel easier, safer, more convenient and more enjoyable.

    Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy is the first pan-Canadian strategic approach to promoting active transportation and its benefits. The strategy aims to make data- and evidence-based investments to expand and build new active transportation networks, and to support healthier, more active, more equitable and more sustainable travel.

    Investing in active transportation infrastructure provides many tangible benefits, creating good middle-class jobs, strengthening the economy, promoting healthier lifestyles, ensuring everyone has access to the same services and opportunities, reducing air and noise pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CCTF) will provide an average of $3 billion per year in permanent funding to address local transit needs by strengthening integrated planning, improving access to transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable and inclusive communities.

    The FTCC serves the needs of communities of all sizes, from large metropolitan areas to mid-sized and smaller communities, including rural, remote, northern and Indigenous communities.

    We are currently accepting expressions of interest for Metropolitan Area Agreements and Core Funding. Visit the website Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada website to find out more.

    Related links

    Contact persons

    For further information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia OuslisCommunications AdvisorOffice of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media RelationsHousing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada613-960-9251Toll free: 1-877-250-7154Email:media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us onTwitter,Facebook,InstagramAndLinkedInWebsite:Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Matthew CameronManager, Strategic CommunicationsCity of Whitehorse867-689-0515matthew.cameron@whitehorse.ca

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

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 The Minister of Finance signed a regulation enabling the use of zero IVA for donations of building materials to flood victims

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    The Minister of Finance has signed a regulation enabling the application of zero IVA for donations of building materials to flood victims25/09/2024

    The Minister of Finance has signed a regulation that introduces a 0% VAT rate for donations of construction materials made to victims whose properties were destroyed by the flood. The purpose of the solution is to facilitate the reconstruction or renovation of buildings and structures destroyed by the flood. The 0% rate applies to donations of construction materials made by March 31, 2025. On September 24, 2024, a regulation is in force that allows the application of a 0% VAT rate for donations of construction materials made to victims whose properties were destroyed by the September cataclysm. The 0% rate applies to donations of construction materials made directly to: individuals, entities conducting activities: education, cultural, in the field of health care, social welfare, care for children, youth and the elderly, in the field of collective accommodation for students,

    whose real estate is located in communes affected by the disaster and who have the formal right to dispose of these real estate. In order to maintain the “tightness” of the IVA system, the 0% rate will apply provided that: a written donation agreement is concluded between the taxpayer (donor) and the disposer real estate, the taxpayer (donor) has a document confirming damage to the real estate resulting from a flood: if the real estate administrator is a natural person – an appropriate questionnaire from a family environmental interview conducted by a social worker, if the real estate administrator is one of the indicated entities (i.e. . conducting educational, cultural, care activities, etc.) – a certificate issued by the relevant commune head, mayor or president.

    The 0% rate may be applied to donations of construction materials made from the date of entry into force of the regulation, i.e. September 24, 2024, March 31, 2025. The aim of the solution is to facilitate the reconstruction or renovation of buildings and structures destroyed by flooding, and thus to speed up the return of residents of the disaster-affected area to normal life.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SARP West 2024 Whole Air Sampling (WAS) Group

    Source: NASA

    Faculty Advisor: Dr. Donald Blake, University of California, Irvine
    Graduate Mentor: Katherine Paredero, Georgia Institute of Technology

    [embedded content]
    Katherine Paredero, graduate student mentor for the 2024 SARP West Whole Air Sampling (WAS) group, provides an introduction for each of the group members and shares behind-the scenes moments from the internship.

    [embedded content]

    Urban Planning Initiative: Investigation of Isoprene Emissions by Tree Species in the LA Basin
    Mikaela Vaughn, Virginia Commonwealth University
    Elevated ozone concentrations have been a concern in Southern California for decades. The interaction between volatile organic compounds (VOC) and nitrous oxides (𝑁𝑂!) in the presence of sunlight leads to enhanced formation of tropospheric ozone (𝑂”) and secondary organic aerosols (SOA). This can lead to increased health hazards, exposing humans to aerosols that can enter and be absorbed by the lungs, as well as a warming effect caused by ozone’s role as a greenhouse gas in the lower levels of the atmosphere. This study will focus on a VOC that is of particular interest, isoprene, which has an atmospheric lifetime of one hour, making it highly reactive in the presence of the hydroxyl radical (OH) and resulting in rapid ozone formation. Isoprene is a biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emitted by vegetation as a byproduct of photosynthesis. This BVOC has been overlooked but should be investigated further because of its potential to form large sums of ozone. In this study the reactivity of isoprene with OH dominated ozone formation as compared to other VOCs. Ambient isoprene concentrations were measured aboard NASA’s airborne science laboratory (King Air B200) along with whole air sampling canisters. Additionally, isoprene emissions of varying tree species, with one to three samples per type, were compared to propose certain trees to plant in urban areas. Results indicated that Northern Red Oaks and the Palms family emitted the most isoprene out of the nineteen species documented. The species with the lowest observed isoprene emissions was the Palo Verde and the Joshua trees. The difference in isoprene emissions between the Northern Red Oak and Joshua trees is approximately by a factor of 45. These observations show the significance of considering isoprene emissions when selecting tree species to plant in the LA Basin to combat tropospheric ozone formation.

    [embedded content]

    VOC Composition and Ozone Formation Potential Observed Over Long Beach, California
    Joshua Lozano, Sonoma State University
    Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), when released into the atmosphere, undergo chemical reactions in the presence of sunlight that can generate tropospheric ozone, which can have various health effects. We can gauge this ozone formation by multiplying the observed mixing ratios of VOCs by their respective rate constants (with respect to OH radicals). The OH radical reacts very quickly in the atmosphere and accounts for a large sum of ozone formation from VOCs as a result, giving us an idea of the ozone formation potential (OFP) for each VOC. In this study, we investigate observed mixing ratios of VOCs in order to estimate their contribution to OFP over Long Beach, California. The observed species of VOCs with the highest mixing ratios differs from the observed species with the highest OFP, which highlights that higher mixing ratios of certain VOCs in the atmosphere do not necessarily equate to a higher contribution to ozone formation. This underscores the importance of understanding mixing ratios of VOC species and their reaction rates with OH to gauge impacts on ozone formation. In the summer there were significantly lower VOC concentrations compared to the winter, which was expected because of differences in boundary layer height within the seasons. Additionally, a decrease in average mixing ratios was observed between the summer of 2014 and the summer of 2022. A similar trend was observed in OFP, but by a much smaller factor. This may indicate that even though overall VOC emissions are decreasing in Long Beach, the species that dominate in recent years have a higher OFP. This research provides a more comprehensive view of how VOCs contribute to air quality issues across different seasons and over time, stressing the need for targeted strategies to mitigate ozone pollution based on current and accurate VOC composition and reactivity.

    [embedded content]

    Investigating Enhanced Methane and Ethane Emissions over the Long Beach Airport
    Sean Breslin, University of Delaware
    As climate change continues to worsen, the investigation and tracking of greenhouse gas emissions has become increasingly important. Methane, the second most impactful greenhouse gas, has accounted for over 20% of planetary warming since preindustrial times. Methane emissions primarily originate from biogenic and thermogenic sources, such as dairy farms and natural gas extraction. Ethane, an abundant hydrocarbon emitted from biomass burning and natural gas, contributes to the formation of tropospheric ozone. The data for this project was collected in December 2021 and June 2022 aboard the DC-8 aircraft, where whole air samples were taken during low approaches to find potential sources of methane and ethane emissions. Analysis of these samples using gas chromatography revealed a noticeable increase in methane and ethane concentrations over Long Beach Airport, an area surrounded by numerous plugged oil and gas wells extracting crude oil and natural gas. In this study, we observe that methane and ethane concentrations were lower in the summer and higher in the winter, which can be primarily attributed to seasonal variations in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer height. Our results show that in both summer and winter campaigns, the ratio of these two gases over the airport was approximately 0.03, indicating that for every 100 methane molecules, there are 3 ethane molecules. This work identifies methane and ethane hotspots and provides a critical analysis on potential fugitive emission sources in the Long Beach area. These results emphasize a need to perform in depth analyses on potential point sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the Long Beach area.

    [embedded content]

    Investigating Elevated Levels of Toluene during Winter in the Imperial Valley
    Katherine Skeen, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
    The Imperial County in Southern California experiences pollutants that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, and as a result, residents are suffering from adverse health effects. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are compounds with a high vapor pressure at room temperature. They are readily emitted into the atmosphere and form ground level ozone. Toluene is a VOC and exposure poses significant health risks, including neurological and respiratory effects. This study aims to use airborne data to investigate areas with high toluene concentrations and investigate potential source. Flights over the Imperial Valley were conducted in the B200 King Air. Whole air canisters were used to collect ambient air samples from outside the plane. These Whole Air Canisters were put through the UCI Rowland Blake Lab’s gas chromatograph mass spectrometer, which identifies different gasses and quantifies their concentrations. Elevated values of toluene were found in the winter as compared to the summer in the Imperial Valley, with the town of Brawley having the most elevated amounts in the air. Excel and QGIS were utilized to analyze data trends. Additionally, a backward trajectory calculated using the NOAA HYSPLIT model revealed the general air flow on days exhibiting high toluene concentrations. Here we suggest Long Beach may be a source of enhanced toluene levels in Brawley. Both areas exhibited enhanced levels of toluene with slightly lower concentrations observed in Brawley. We additionally observed other VOCs commonly emitted in urban areas, and saw a similar decrease in gasses from Long Beach to Brawley. This trend may indicate transport of toluene from Long Beach to Brawley. Further research could be done to investigate the potential for other regions that may contribute to high toluene concentrations in Brawley. My study contributes valuable insights to the poor air quality in the Imperial Valley, providing a foundation for future studies on how residents are specifically being affected.

    [embedded content]

    Characterizing Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions from Surface Expressions of the Salton Sea Geothermal System (SSGS)
    Ella Erskine, Tufts University
    At the southeastern end of the Salton Sea, surface expressions of an active geothermal system are emitting an assemblage of potentially toxic and tropospheric ozone-forming gasses. Gas measurements were taken from ~1 to 8 ft tall mud cones, called gryphons, in the Davis-Schrimpf seep field (~50,000 ft2). The gaseous compounds emitted from the gryphons were collected using whole air sampling canisters. The canisters were then sent to the Rowland-Blake laboratory for analysis using gas chromatography techniques. Samples from June of 2022, 2023, and 2024 were utilized for a time-series analysis of VOC distribution. Originally, an emission makeup similar to petroleum was expected, as it has previously been found in some of the seeps. It is thought that hydrothermal fluid can rapidly mature organic matter into hydrothermal petroleum, so it is logical that the emission makeup could be similar. However, unexpectedly high levels of the VOC benzene were recorded, unlike concentrations generally observed in crude oil emissions. This may indicate a difference between the two sources in regard to their formation process or parent material composition. A possible cause of the elevated benzene could be its relatively high aqueous solubility compared to other hydrocarbons, which could allow it to be more readily incorporated into the hydrothermal fluid. Since the gryphons attract almost daily visitors, it is important to quantify their human health effects. Benzene harms the bone marrow, which can result in anemia. It is also a carcinogen. Additionally, benzene can react with the OH radical to form ozone, an additional health hazard. Future studies should revisit the Davis-Schrimpf field to continue the time series analysis and collect samples of the water seeps. Additionally, drone and ground studies should be conducted in the geothermal power plant adjacent to the gryphons to determine if benzene is being emitted from drilling activities.

    [embedded content]

    Airborne and Ground-Based Analysis of Los Angeles County Landfill Gas Emissions
    Amelia Brown, Hamilton College
    California has the highest number of landfills of any individual US state. These landfills are concentrated in densely populated areas of California, especially within the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Landfills produce three main byproducts: heat, leachate, and landfill gas (LFG). LFG is primarily composed of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), with small concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other trace gases. The CH4 and CO2 components of LFG are well documented, but the VOCs and trace gases in LFG remain underexplored. This study investigates the emission of trace gases from four landfills in Los Angeles County, with a particular focus on substances known to have high Ozone Depletion Potentials (ODPs) and Global Warming Potentials (GWPs). The four landfills sampled were Chiquita Canyon Landfill, Lopez Canyon Landfill, Sunshine Canyon Landfill, and Toyon Canyon Landfill. Airborne samples were taken above the four landfills and ground samples were taken at Lopez Canyon as this was the only site accessible by our research team. The substances of interest were chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and halons. Airborne CH4 and CO2 measurements over the four landfills were obtained using the Picarro instrument onboard NASA’s B-200 aircraft. Ground samples were collected using whole air sampling canisters and were analyzed to determine the concentrations of these gases. The analytical approach for the ground samples combined Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) with Flame Ionization Detection (FID) and Mass Selective Detection (MSD), providing a comprehensive profile of the emitted compounds. Findings reveal elevated levels of substances with high ODP and GWP, which were banned under the Montreal Protocol of 1987 and its subsequent amendments due to their contributions to stratospheric ozone depletion and climate change. These results underscore the importance of monitoring and mitigating landfill gas emissions, particularly for those containing potent greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances.
    Click here watch the Atmospheric Aerosols Group presentations.
    Click here watch the Terrestrial Ecology Group presentations.
    Click here watch the Ocean Group presentations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SARP West 2024 Oceans Group

    Source: NASA

    Faculty Advisor: Dr. Henry Houskeeper, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
    Graduate Mentor: Lori Berberian, University of California, Los Angeles

    [embedded content]
    Lori Berberian graduate student mentor for the 2024 SARP West Oceans group, provides an introduction for each of the group members and shares behind-the scenes moments from the internship.

    [embedded content]

    Leveraging High Resolution PlanetScope Imagery to Quantify oil slick Spatiotemporal Variability in the Santa Barbara Channel
    Emory Gaddis, Colgate University
    Located within the Santa Barbara Channel of California, Coal Oil Point is one of the world’s largest hydrocarbon seep fields. The area’s natural hydrocarbon seepage and oil production have sustained both scientific interest and commercial activity for decades. Historically, indigenous peoples in the region utilized the naturally occurring tar for waterproofing baskets, establishing early evidence of the natural presence of hydrocarbons long before modern oil extraction began. Gaseous hydrocarbons are released from the marine floor through the process of seeping, wherein a buildup of reservoir pressure relative to hydrostatic pressure causes bubbles, oily bubbles, and droplets to rise to the surface. This hydrocarbon seepage is a significant source of Methane CH4—a major greenhouse gas––emissions into the atmosphere. Current limitations of optical remote sensing of oil presence and absence in the ocean leverage geometrical as well as biogeochemical factors and include changes in observed sun glint, sea surface damping, and wind roughening due to changes in surface oil concentrations. We leverage high-resolution (3m) surface reflectance observations obtained from PlanetScope to construct a time series of oil slick surface area spanning 2017 to 2023 within the Coal Oil Point seep field. Our initial methods are based on manual annotations performed within ArcGIS-Pro. We assess potential relationships between wind speed and oil slick surface area to support a sensitivity analysis of our time series. Correcting for confounding outside factors (e.g., wind speed) that modify oil slick surface area improves determination of oil slick surface area and helps test for changes in natural seepage rates and whether anthropogenic activities, such as oil drilling, alter natural oil seepage. Future investigations into oil slick chemical properties and assessing how natural seepage impacts marine and atmospheric environments (e.g., surface oil releases methane into the atmosphere) can help to inform the science of optimizing oil extraction locations.

    [embedded content]

    Investigating Airborne LiDAR Retrievals of an Emergent South African Macroalgae
    Rachel Emery, The University of Oklahoma
    Right now, the world is facing an unprecedented biodiversity crisis, with areas of high biodiversity at the greatest risk of species extinction. One of these biodiversity hotspots, the Western Cape Province of South Africa, features one of the world’s largest unique marine ecosystems due to the extensive growth of canopy forming kelps, such as Macrocystis and Ecklonia, which provide three-dimensional structure important for fostering biodiversity and productivity. Canopy-forming kelps face increasing threats by marine heatwaves and pollution related to climate change and local water quality perturbation. Though these ecosystems can be monitored using traditional field surveying methods, remote sensing via airborne and satellite observations support improved spatial coverage and resample rates, plus extensive historical continuity for tracking multidecadal scale changes. Passive remote sensing observations—such as those derived using observations from NASA’s Airborne Visible-Infrared Imaging Spectrometer – Next Generation (AVIRIS-NG) —provide high resolution, hyperspectral imagery of oceanic environments anticipated to help characterize community dynamics and quantify macroalga physiological change. Active remote sensing observations, e.g., Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), are less understood in terms of applications to marine ecosystems, but are anticipated to support novel observations of vertical structure not supported using passive aquatic remote sensing. Here we investigate the potential to observe an emergent canopy-forming macroalgae (i.e., Ecklonia, which can extend more than a decimeter above the ocean’s surface) using NASA’s Land, Vegetation, and Ice sensor (LVIS), which confers decimeter-scale vertical resolution. We validate LVIS observations using matchup observations from AVIRIS-NG imagery to test whether LiDAR remote sensing can improve monitoring of emergent kelps in key biodiversity regions such as the Western Cape.

    Vertical structure of the aquatic light field based on half a century of oceanographic records from the southern California Current
    Brayden Lipscomb, West Virginia University
    Understanding the optical properties of marine ecosystems is crucial for improving models related to oceanic productivity. Models relating satellite observations to oceanic productivity or subsurface (e.g., benthic) light availability often suffer from uncertainties in parameterizing vertical structure and deriving columnar parameters from surface observations. The most accurate models use in situ station data, minimizing assumptions such as atmospheric optical thickness or water column structure. For example, improved accuracy of satellite primary productivity models has previously been demonstrated by incorporating information on vertical structure obtained from gliders and floats. We analyze vertical profiles in photosynthetically available radiation (PAR) obtained during routine surveys of the southern California Current system by the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigation (CalCOFI). We find that depths of 1% and 10% light availability show coherent log-linear relationships with attenuation measured near surface (i.e., within the first 10 m), despite vertical variability in water column constituent concentrations and instrumentation challenges related to sensitivity, self-shading, and ship adjacency. Our results suggest that subsurface optical properties can be more reliably parameterized from near-surface measurements than previously understood.

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    Comparing SWOT and PACE Satellite Observations to Assess Modification of Phytoplankton Biomass and Assemblage by North Atlantic Ocean Eddies
    Dominic Bentley, Pennsylvania State University
    Upwelling is the shoaling of the nutricline, thermocline, and isopycnals due to advection by eddies of the surface ocean layer. This shoaling effect leads to an increase in the productivity of algal blooms in a given body of water. Mesoscale to deformation scale eddy circulation modulates productivity based on latitude, season, direction, and other physical factors. However, many processes governing the effects of eddies on the ocean microbial environment remain unknown due to limitations in observations linking eddy strength and direction with productivity and ocean biogeochemistry. Currently, satellites are the only ocean observing system that allows for broad spatial coverage with high resample rates, albeit with limitations due to cloud obstructions (including storms that may stimulate productivity) and to observations being limited to the near-surface. A persisting knowledge gap in oceanography stems from limitations in the spatial resolution of observations resolving submesoscale dynamics. The recent launch of the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission in December of 2022 supports observations of upper-ocean circulation with increased resolution relative to legacy missions (e.g. TOPEX/Poseidon, Jason-1, OSTM/Jason-2). Meanwhile, the launch of the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) satellite in February of 2024 is anticipated to improve knowledge of ocean microbial ecosystem dynamics. We match up SWOT observations of sea surface height (SSH) anomalies—informative parameters of eddy vorticity—with PACE observations of surface phytoplankton biomass and community composition to relate the distribution of phytoplankton biomass and assemblage structure to oceanic eddies in the North Atlantic. We observe higher concentrations of Chlorophyll a (Chla) within SSH minima indicating the stimulation of phytoplankton productivity by cyclonic features associated with upwelling-driven nutrient inputs.

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    Assessing EMIT observations of harmful algae in the Salton Sea
    Abigail Heiser, University of Wisconsin- Madison
    In 1905, flooding from the Colorado River gave rise to what would become California’s largest lake, the Salton Sea. Today, the majority of its inflow is sourced from agricultural runoff, which is rich in fertilizers and pollutants, leading to elevated lake nutrient levels that fuel harmful algal blooms (HAB) events. Increasingly frequent HAB events pose ecological, environmental, economic, and health risks to the region by degrading water quality and introducing environmental toxins. Using NASA’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) imaging spectrometer we apply two hyperspectral aquatic remote sensing algorithms; cyanobacteria index (CI) and scattering line height (SLH). These algorithms detect and characterize spatiotemporal variability of cyanobacteria, a key HAB taxa. Originally designed to study atmospheric mineral dust, EMIT’s data products provide novel opportunities for detailed aquatic characterizations with both high spatial and high spectral resolution. Adding aquatic capabilities for EMIT would introduce a novel and cost-effective tool for monitoring and studying the drivers and timing of HAB onset, to improve our understanding of environmental dynamics.

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    Reassessing multidecadal trends in Water Clarity for the central and southern California Current System
    Emma Iacono, North Carolina State University
    Over the past several decades, the world has witnessed a steady rise in average global temperatures, a clear indication of the escalating effects of climate change. In 1990, Andrew Bakun hypothesized that unequal warming of sea and land surface temperatures would increase pressure gradients and lead to rising rates of alongshore upwelling within Eastern Boundary Currents, including the California Current System (CCS). An anticipated increase in upwelling-favorable winds would have profound implications for the productivity of the CCS, wherein upwelled waters supply nutrient injections that sustain and fuel coastal ocean phytoplankton stocks. Increasing upwelling, therefore, is anticipated to increase the turbidity of the upper ocean, corresponding with greater phytoplankton concentrations. Historical observations of turbidity are supported by observations obtained using a Secchi Disk, i.e., an opaque white instrument lowered into the water column. Observations of Secchi depth—or the depth at which light reflected from the Secchi Disk is no longer visible from the surface—provide a quantification of light penetration into the euphotic zone. The shoaling, or shallowing, of Secchi disk depths was previously reported for inshore, transition, and offshore waters of the central and southern CCS for historical observations spanning 1969 – 2007. Here, we reassess Secchi disk depths during the subsequent period spanning 2007 to 2021 and test for more recent changes in water clarity. Additionally, we evaluate the seasonality and spatial patterns of Secchi disk trends to test for potential changes to oceanic microbial ecology. Indications of long-term trends in some of the coastal domains assessed were found. Generally, our findings suggest a reversal of the trends previously reported. In particular, increases in water clarity likely associated with a recent marine heatwave (MHW) may be responsible for recent changes in Secchi disk depth observations, illustrating the importance of MHW events for modifying the CCS microbial ecosystem.
    Click here watch the Atmospheric Aerosols Group presentations.
    Click here watch the Terrestrial Ecology Group presentations.
    Click here watch the Whole Air Sampling (WAS) Group presentations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 22, 2025
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