NewzIntel.com

Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Georgia Disaster  Declaration

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the State of Georgia by authorizing an increase in the level of Federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the State of Georgia as a result of Hurricane Helene beginning on September 24, 2024, and continuing.

    Under the President’s order today, Federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, has been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs for 90 days from the start of the incident period.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE  FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech: Why Kiwi businesses are the best in the world

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    For clarity – I mean all of you from the A List all the way to the C-List.

    I am a firm believer that government’s role is to work closely with business: help small ones to innovate, and ensure the settings are right so big ones can thrive.

    Governments should invest in research and development to improve access to technology; open opportunities for business on the world stage through trade; and ensure that our investment grows an economy that supports everyone who lives in our great little country to thrive.

    I have really enjoyed the past six months, getting out – mostly in Auckland – and sitting down with people across the business sector.

    Coming from a niche tax and insurance background, you have all been incredibly generous with your time and I am looking forward to continuing to build our relationships over the next two years of opposition.

    When businesses do well, New Zealand does well. Workers do well. New Zealanders do well. You employ people and innovate and create to make people’s lives better.

    Labour’s underlying philosophy on work is making sure there are enough jobs for people – you can’t do that without business.

    It’s about ensuring people feel secure in their jobs, are able to contribute to their workplace and help build good and successful businesses.

    Workers are an asset to any business and shouldn’t be seen as a cost.

    If you listened to National, you wouldn’t think that was Labour’s approach.

    I am utterly committed to sitting down with you and talking through what works for you and what doesn’t. Dispelling the myths. Understanding what has gone well in the past and what hasn’t.

    Something that does concern me is the number of Kiwis choosing to leave New Zealand, and the way the Government’s decisions are giving them an extra push.

    6,000 jobs gone in the public sector and counting. Manufacturing jobs disappearing before our eyes. 8,000 fewer people in construction. A freeze on hiring staff at our hospitals. Unemployment up to 4.6 percent, and projected to get to 5.5 percent.

    Even through COVID-19, we didn’t see unemployment like this. The forecasts were awful. But keeping people in work, and businesses afloat, was a priority for Labour and I’m really proud of that.

    New Zealanders are finding it tough anyway, you all know the statistics. But losing the household income along with the job, can be terrifying.

    It’s no wonder so many are looking to greener pastures.

    In July this year, a record was set for the number of net New Zealanders leaving. 55,800 Kiwis chose to move away, well exceeding the previous record from way back in 2012.

    My concern isn’t only that people are choosing to leave for a better life, it is also the skill loss which will have an effect on our ability to innovate, deliver and grow as a country.
    It is no surprise that the mood of the boardroom is optimistic, even though the economy is doing it tough.

    June 2024 marked the seventh consecutive quarter of stagnant or declining per capita economic activity. We are now very much at the bottom of the economic cycle. Things will get better.

    But not because of any action by this government, but from you.

    But they will not get better overnight. We know unemployment has some way to go, and there are many, many steps until interest rates are back to a balanced level.
    But our business community is resilient.

    Many of you have made it through the GFC, the Christchurch earthquakes, Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland floods, and collectively we made it through the COVID-19 pandemic.
    I know you all just want to get on with it, but also want a vision for what we aspire to be and where we want to get to.

    New Zealand faces substantial fiscal challenges over the short and longer-term. Addressing these challenges will require brave decisions that tackle the system we all work in.
    These are brave decisions that need to be enduring, and that is what Labour does best.

    Whether it’s, ensuring Kiwis could retire with dignity by the introduction of KiwiSaver and the SuperFund.

    Families could afford the basics and be incentivised to stay in work through Working for Families, or the safety nets introduced by Sir Michael Joseph Savage of state housing and welfare.

    And then the list of trade deals UK and EU Free Trade agreements to name a couple, Labour is the party that has always looked ahead to progress our country.

    Planning for the future will mean conversations about the appropriate level of government spending and debt.

    By 2060, 10% of our GDP will be spent on health care, and 7% on Superannuation.

    Returning to surplus is a moot point, if you are not also providing Kiwis with the healthcare they need.

    We, as a country, need a government with a positive vision and informed solutions.

    Every political party likes to talk about growth and productivity, but you need to back it up.

    Often, when thinking about productivity, we focus on cutting-edge tech. And we should. We are seeing the R&D tax credit making a meaningful contribution to research and development.

    But we also need back our smaller Kiwi businesses, if we are serious about tackling productivity.

    Many of our SMEs are not technologically enabled. They struggle to have time and the capital to make the changes they need.

    The Government, along with sector, should be doing more to help.

    The Treasury’s Chief Economist came out last week saying “productivity growth alone is not enough to alleviate fiscal pressures”.

    We also must realistically assess our economic situation. We are capital poor. We need more sustainable solutions than tinkering around the edges with new levies and revenue-gathering measures.

    It’s a conversation our party is having and one I hope many of you can feed into as part of our hui going forward.

    Unlike the three-year parliamentary cycle, I know that you have to plan for the future in a much more long-term way. Government’s should do better. I’ve spoken quite a few times about being better at bipartisanship on long-term investment, but we need both parties to come to the table on that!

    You will all know better than anyone when looking to the future that there is almost nothing more pressing than preparing for the consequences of climate change.

    Two years ago, on this stage, Nicola said that “we share your commitment to emission reduction”. But the governments actions speak differently by rolling back many of the measures Labour introduced to bring down our emissions and prepare for the future.

    Many of our free trade agreements have climate obligations, including the EU FTA which “contains ambitious outcomes on climate action and the Paris Agreement, including making these commitments enforceable in the FTA”.

    We can’t rely on export driven growth, if this government is risking our export potential.

    Climate action is what is required from a moral standpoint and matters for the health of our economy. I do not want our exporters being locked out of markets because of climate-sceptic policies.

    I started this speech talking about values. But I will end with a pledge.

    I won’t just stand up here and make political promises I don’t intend to work my ass off to keep.

    We may not always agree, but I will always take a meeting or a call and I will always listen.

    No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Typhoon Krathon Nears Taiwan

    Source: NASA

    Typhoon Krathon lingered off the coast of southwestern Taiwan in early October 2024 and is forecast to batter the idland’s populated west coast with torrential rain and damaging winds.
    On its way to Taiwan, Krathon first thrashed northern parts of the Philippines, where the storm is known as Typhoon Julian. Its strong winds damaged roofs and toppled trees in the Philippine province of Batanes on September 29 and 30, according to news reports. The storm continued to strengthen as it moved northwest.
    The image above, acquired by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-20 satellite, shows the typhoon at 1 p.m. local time (05:00 Universal Time) on September 30, when it was centered west of the Batanes Islands and about 155 kilometers (96 miles) southwest of Taiwan. The image below, captured at 10 a.m. local time (02:00 Universal Time) on September 30 by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8, shows a closer view of the eye of Krathon.

    The eye of a hurricane is a circular zone of fair weather at the storm’s center. It is surrounded by a towering ring of extremely powerful thunderstorms called an eyewall, the part of the hurricane with the strongest winds.
    About 19 hours after Landsat 8 acquired this image, the cyclone reached super typhoon status with sustained winds of 240 kilometers (150 miles) per hour—the equivalent of a Category 4 hurricane—according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC). At the time, JTWC noted that Krathon displayed a well-defined eyewall and estimated that the typhoon had likely peaked in intensity.
    Krathon’s movement slowed and its intensity weakened on October 1 and 2 as it churned toward Taiwan’s southwest coast. Between September 30 and October 2, the storm had already brought 150 to 300 millimeters (6 to 12 inches) of rain to the east coast of Taiwan.
    Typhoons in the Western Pacific often hit Taiwan’s mountainous and sparsely populated east coast, but Krathon is set to make landfall on its more populated western plain, near Kaohsiung. The typhoon season stretches across the entire year, but the majority of storms usually form between May and October.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Wanmei Liang and Lauren Dauphin, using VIIRS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE, GIBS/Worldview, and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) and Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey. Story by Emily Cassidy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Assumption Parish

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Assumption Parish

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Assumption Parish

    BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA and the State of Louisiana will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Napoleonville on Thursday, Oct. 3, to provide one-on-one help to Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Francine.

    Center location:

    Assumption Parish

    Assumption High School, North Building

    4880 Hwy 308

    Napoleonville, LA 70390 

    Additional DRCs are open at the following locations: 

    Ascension Parish

    Lemann Memorial Center

    1100 Clay St.

    Donaldsonville, LA 70346

    Lafourche Parish

    Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center

    4876 Hwy. 1

    Raceland, LA 70394

    St. Charles Parish

    Alan Arterbury Building

    14564 River Road

    New Sarpy, LA 70078

    St. John the Baptist Parish

    Reserve Library

    1482 Hwy 44

    Reserve, LA 70084

    St. James Parish

    Convent Community Center

    5775 Hwy 44

    Convent, LA 70723

    St. Mary Parish

    Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
    728 Myrtle St.
    Morgan City, LA 70380

    Terrebonne Parish

    Terrebonne Parish Library

    151 Library Drive

    Houma, LA 70360

    The centers will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

    Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes can visit any DRC to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

    The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

    You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.

    Additional options when applying include:

    • Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
    • Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
    • To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.

    For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

    alexa.brown

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

    Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

    WASHINGTON – First responders across local and state governments, the private sector, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and the federal family continue working to address the immediate needs of survivors and their communities.

    These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across affected states impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

    President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance that is available for survivors in designated counties in Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.

    Survivors may receive upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55506″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/857edeb73204d77dbc46b266f2c2e336.jpeg?itok=L9ZoNHwY” alt=”Caption: Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55523″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/dda6592057e439dfd4aa24c9e7690799.jpg?itok=I_98rZYb” alt=”Caption:

    Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) – FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia.

    ” class=”image-style-large”>

    Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) – FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55516″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/64ca229be08c2e8e9e6957d8554c1b59.jpg?itok=9v_5E7Gt” alt=”Caption: Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55497″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/ad690fcdc4cec543993db83fbbc20de4.jpg?itok=cwpj5KSr” alt=”Caption:

    Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid.

    ” class=”image-style-large”>

    Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid.
    SWANNANOA, North Carolina – Volunteers serve hot food to survivors in downtown Swannanoa. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55553″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/c08e18a8e81aa97721e01330817a1619.jpg?itok=TLOxdx_N” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, N.C. – (October 1, 2024) – The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Swannanoa, N.C. – (October 1, 2024) – The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
    GREENVILLE, South Carolina – Members of the South Carolina Army National Guard distribute meals and water to disaster survivors in Greenville. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    ASHEVILE, North Carolina – Members of the North Carolina Army National Guard work alongside volunteers at William W. Estes Elementary School to load meals and water for disaster survivors. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    STEINHATCHEE, Florida. – FEMA speaks with a Hurricane Helene survivor. Agency personnel are on the ground helping survivors register for disaster assistance. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    ASHEVILLE, North Carolina:  The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response deployed a National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) team to provide 24-hour emergency department surge support at Mission Hospital in Asheville. This is one of four sites in western North Carolina receiving NDMS medical support. (Source: HHS)

    FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages: Disaster Multimedia Toolkit. 

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/2/2024 ICYMI: Blackburn Speaks with WJHL in Flooding Aftermath

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 about the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in communities across East Tennessee and the federal government’s response to the crisis:
     
    Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11 about Hurricane Helene. 
    Blackburn, Hagerty, Harshbarger tour flood damage and answer questions
    Anslee Daniel
    WJHL News Channel 11
    Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn spent the day touring damaged areas in Northeast Tennessee, speaking to those impacted and answering questions.
    Local leaders, including U.S. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, joined them at the destroyed I-26 bridge in Unicoi County to survey the damage and hear an update on recovery and rebuilding efforts.
    Interviews with Blackburn, Hagerty and Harshbarger can be watched below:
    LINK TO SENATOR BLACKBURN INTERVIEW

    RELATED:  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center

    PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center
    mseets

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper and President Joe Biden took an aerial tour of areas damaged by Hurricane Helene before holding a briefing on storm impacts at the State Emergency Operations Center. During the briefing, President Biden announced the approval of 100% FEMA Reimbursement for six months, a significant funding commitment from the federal government. The briefing was attended by President Biden, United States Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, United States EPA Administrator Michael Regan, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and other top state and federal officials.

    Prior to the visit, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. The active-duty military personnel are in addition to more than 1,000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers currently deployed who are surging food, water, supplies and conducting search and rescue operations. The NC National Guard has already performed more than 1,400 rescues and delivered more than 700,000 pounds in supplies.

    “The damage caused by Hurricane Helene to Western North Carolina is immense, and we are continuing our unprecedented efforts to surge resources into affected communities,” said Governor Cooper. “We’re grateful to President Biden, FEMA and all of our federal partners for their support and commitment to helping our state respond, recover and rebuild from this disaster.”

    State, federal and local partners continue to work together to surge resources into Western North Carolina in response to unprecedented damage from Hurricane Helene across the region. Throughout the week, Governor Roy Cooper has traveled to Western North Carolina to assess storm response, meet with those affected and thank volunteers for their hard work.

    Photos of the Governor’s briefing with President Biden can be found here.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts are underway to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. FEMA has delivered 1.89 million meals and 2.5 million liters of water. More than 21,000 people have been registered for assistance.

    • Buncombe County – Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704
    • McDowell County – Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752
    • Watauga County – First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607

    Points of distribution for commodities have been established in each impacted county. These locations are also providing free public Wi-Fi for area residents. Seek information from local governments for counties not listed below.

    • Ashe County – Westwood Elementary School, Mountain View Elementary School
    • Buncombe County – UNC-Asheville, Asheville Buncombe Tech Ferguson, WNC Ag. Center, Asheville-Buncombe Tech Conference Center, Biltmore Baptist Church, The Greens at Weaverville, Fletcher Nursing and Rehabilitation.
    • Henderson County – First Baptist Church Hendersonville, Greens at Hendersonville
    • Madison County – Madison County Cooperative Extension Service
    • McDowell County – Nebo Crossing Church, Grace Community Church
    • Mitchell County – First Baptist Spruce Pine
    • Polk County – Polk County High School
    • Rowan County – Rowan-Cabarrus YMCA
    • Watauga – Cove Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Zionville VFD, Foscoe Christian Church, Watauga EOC, Holmes Convocation Center, Meat Camp Road, Town of Boone PD, First Baptist Boone. 

    Power Outages

    Across the region, approximately 408,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million. Power has been restored to more than 500,000 customers.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state.

    Shelters

    A total of 26 shelters have been opened in Western North Carolina, housing 1,244 people. Plans are in place to open additional shelters as needed to accommodate additional needs.

    Search and Rescue Operations

    Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. A total of 55 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event. More than 500 people have been rescued by the NC National Guard. More than 150 pets have also been rescued.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 450 roads closed as of Wednesday afternoon. NCDOT is asking people to refrain from unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. Road access is limited to local and hurricane response traffic as crews work to restore critical routes and access to communities isolated by damage. First responders also want to keep the roads as clear as possible to help ensure they may carry out all response missions. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT has dispatched the following resources to assist with the recovery process:

    • 1,600 employees, plus 68 contract crews
    • 220+ employees in less-impacted areas have been sent to western N.C.
    • 1,500+ trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders
    • 1,000+ chainsaws
    • 8,000+ barricades & signs

    Cellphone Provider Coverage

    Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and coverage issues caused by the storm and get stopgap solutions, such as temporary cell phone towers, in place and rapid progress is being made. Restoring communications is critical to saving lives, finding where people are and getting in supplies, and Governor Cooper been in constant contact with cellphone companies urging action and offering support. Please turn your cell phone off and restart it periodically to allow it to reconnect when a network is reestablished.

    Fatalities

    Fifty-six storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that these numbers will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    North Carolina National Guard Deployed

    Gov. Cooper has activated more than 1000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen to both conduct search and rescue operations and deliver critical supplies to Western North Carolina. As of Wednesday, 300 specialized vehicles and aircraft have been deployed in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions.

    Volunteers and Donations

    As of Wednesday morning, the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund has raised $2.3 million dollars to help those in Western North Carolina.

    Due to dangerous road conditions, and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Major Disaster Declaration and FEMA Assistance

    President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for an expedited request declaring a Major Disaster for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This declaration paves the way for Public Assistance to help our hard-hit local governments, as well as access to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

    FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can apply.

    North Carolinians may apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app.

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    If you would like general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    Written Pool Report of Briefing Provided by Adam Wagner, Raleigh News & Observer

    Air Force One landed at Raleigh-Durham International Airport around 4:21 pm.

    President Joe Biden and Gov. Roy Cooper disembarked about 10 minutes later.

    They were joined by U.S. Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, EPA Administrator Michael Regan and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.

    They were met on the tarmac by a reception line that included Congresswoman Deborah Ross, NC Attorney General Josh Stein, NC State Auditor Jessica Holmes, Morrisville Mayor TJ Crawley, Raleigh Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan Melton, Durham Mayor Leo Williams and Wake County Commission Chairwoman Shnica Thomas.

    Everyone drove to the N.C. Emergency Operations Center, where a briefing was assembled in the situation room. Biden sat with Cooper on his right and Mayorkas to Cooper’s right. N.C. Emergency Management Director Will Ray on Biden’s left and Regan to the left of Ray. Behind them, screens showed several maps of North Carolina. In front of them were gathered numerous members of North Carolina’s emergency management team, including several members of the National Guard.

    Cooper discussed the damage, saying Hurricane Helene had wiped towns “off the map, bridges damaged or completely destroyed, critical infrastructure and water systems, electrical grids, communications all remain seriously damaged. Countless homes and businesses that are lost.

    He continued, “An entire region of our state is still in a dangerous situation.”

    Cooper then said 92 search and rescue teams have saved “countless” lives before thanking the 18 states that have sent assistance to North Carolina. Cooper also said North Carolina is “grateful” for Biden and FEMA’s aid.

    “This is going to be a long and difficult recovery, but talking with person after person in Western North Carolina, I know that we can come back and that we will come back because the people of Western North Carolina are resilient,” Cooper said.

    Cooper then called on “my friend” before turning it over to Biden.

    Biden also thanked Cooper, a Democrat; South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican; and “all the elected officials who have focused on the task at a hand. In a moment like this, we put politics aside. Or at least we should put it all aside, and we have here. There are no Democrats or Republicans, only Americans. And our job is to hep as many people as we can as quickly as we can and as thoroughly as we can.”

    Wednesday, Biden said, he’d approved a request from Cooper for the federal government to cover all of the costs of debris removal for the next six months. Cooper then led a round of applause.

    Biden said there are 70 dead North Carolinians and a hundred more who are still missing. From the air, Biden said, he could see damaged homes that had clearly been washed downstream. Chimney Rock, he said, was “reduced to piles of wood and debris. As you look down, that’s what you see as we flew over in a circle in the helicopter.”

    Biden also discussed his order that the Department of Defense move up to 1,000 soldiers from Fort Liberty up tp participate in the disaster response. Biden also said 50 StarLink satellites have been deployed, with more on the way. And FEMA is making hotel rooms and temporary housing available to victims of the storm.

    Biden then said that in the car from the airport to the Emergency Operations Center, he’d been discussing how the storm is showing how neighbors can help each other in the wake of disaster.

    “Volunteers, first responders are standing side by side. People lean on each other to pick up the pieces that are left over and that’s the best of America. I firmly believe and I’ve been saying it and saying it and saying it for three years, there’s nothing beyond our capacity to do — nothing, nothing, nothing. This is the United States of America for God’s sake. Whenever we’ve worked together, we’ve never failed to get something done,” Biden said before thanking first responders.

    Ray then welcomed Biden before giving an operational update on Helene’s impacts.

    Ray said “extreme and unrelenting” rain caused the damage to Western North Carolina. There are about 350,000 remaining power outages in Western North Carolina, Ray said. The storm caused flash flood emergencies in 21 different Western North Carolina. Ray said North Carolina is focused on life safety missions, increasing the speed of commodity distribution in Western NC and helping with infrastructure like healthcare, water, power and communications.

    There are 26 open shelters in counties with just over 1,200 occupants.

    There are North Carolina search and rescue teams operating, along with 13 from other states and 18 from the federal government, Ray said. There have been more than 5,000 search and rescue “interactions” which can include rescues, evacuations or shelter assessments.

    “The teams continue to do really incredible work in some pretty austere conditions,” Ray said.

    North Carolina has 26 aircraft in the area that have lifted over 700,000 ponds of cargo into the region.

    Ray also said that more than 33,000 North Carolinians have applied for FEMA Individual Assistance programs.

    The open press section of the meeting lasted about 17 minutes.

    The full briefing ended around 5:50 pm.

    ###

    Oct 2, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Georgia

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Georgia

    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Georgia

    WASHINGTON — FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Georgia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 24, 2024 and continuing.

    The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for the first 90 days of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance in designated counties, as well as the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Florida

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Florida

    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Increases Federal Cost Share for Florida

    WASHINGTON — FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Florida to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene from Sept. 23, 2024 and continuing.

    The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for the first 90 days of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance in designated counties, as well as the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Holly Thorpe, Professor in Sociology of Sport and Gender, University of Waikato

    Getty Images

    “The climate crisis is a health crisis.” So says World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus.

    The World Economic Forum agrees. Its report this year highlighted how climate change is taking a toll on global health due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

    These issues are on the official agenda here too, especially since severe tropical cyclone Gabrielle caused extensive damage in the South-west Pacific and northern New Zealand in early 2023.

    Between February 13 and 14 it slammed into Te Tairāwhiti/East Coast and Te Matau a Māui/Hawkes Bay, with disastrous results for the land and its inhabitants. Communities were displaced, homes destroyed, power and telecommunications cut, water systems compromised, and many roads and bridges badly damaged.

    Shortly after Gabrielle hit, Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health commissioned us to investigate the impacts of adverse weather events on health systems and community health and wellbeing.

    Our community research teams interviewed 143 residents in the two affected regions. They included first responders, heath workers, council staff and members of the public. Their stories were emotional, powerful and insightful.

    Our recently published report amplifies these community voices and local knowledge, and offers recommendations about planning for future, inevitable events. Here we offer five key messages.

    1. Prioritise vulnerable people

    Many older people and those with disabilities or existing health conditions were deprioritised or simply forgotten during evacuations and in the days and weeks after the cyclone. As one community responder in Tairāwhiti recalled:

    Some of them couldn’t move out because they were so old and frail. The water was so powerful, they couldn’t move anywhere. Some just stayed in their room until somebody turned up. For instance, there was a lady [who] was stuck in her wheelchair, and by the time people found her, the water was at her neck.

    Our report identified the need for health and social services to work more closely to ensure at-risk, vulnerable older people and those with disabilities or complex needs are prioritised during evacuations, so their medical and physical needs are met during and after an extreme weather event.

    2. Invest in mental health support and trauma recovery

    Those in the most affected communities had high levels of stress, grief and trauma during and after emergencies and evacuations.

    Staff and volunteers in front-line roles during the state of emergency experienced similar mental health effects. Many felt mental health support was not there when they needed it most.

    Almost everyone we spoke to had some negative mental health impacts. These included sleep disruption, rain anxiety and stress from road closures, insurance claims and land instability.

    Māori participants also told of their grief over environmental damage and destruction, highlighting the links between whenua (land) and hauora (health). They described drawing on cultural practices to support whānau recovery. For example, a leader of local volunteer efforts spoke about the personal impact of the cyclone:

    I was not good […] it was seeing the impact on how it was for your own community whānau. I think it hit me quite a bit later on. I fell into depression […] It just built up over time. I’m still in healing therapy for the last probably six to seven months since Gabrielle, just trying to get my wairua [spirit] and my tinana [body] and everything back in place.

    Overall, the research shows a need for greater awareness and investment in weather-related trauma recovery and mental health support.

    3. Ensure medical supplies can reach remote areas

    Rural and isolated communities had heightened health challenges, particularly due to road and communication failures.

    Transporting medical staff into these communities often required creative solutions (driving, using helicopters or hiking through bush and across farmland when roads were damaged, for example).

    Access to medicines was a major concern. It took co-ordinated effort to get pharmaceuticals to such communities. Helicopters were crucial in getting supplies and patients in and out of remote areas. Not everyone who needed attention received it, however.

    The most effective responses involved organisations (such as the NZ Police and Civil Defence) working together with communities. As one police officer told us:

    Our whānau up the coast needed medicine, prescriptions. Getting access from the helicopter to the home was a challenge. So, the police leant in and helped out. We used [an all-terrain vehicle] to get to places and spaces to get medicine in.

    People need to be prepared for power and telcommunications failures.
    Getty Images

    4. Resource and co-ordinate local support networks

    Fiscally challenged health systems were stretched during the emergency and struggled with power and telecommunications outages. But we heard of many health workers going “above and beyond” to care for patients and communities.

    Many continued working even when their own families, homes and communities were directly under threat. Anticipating this and supporting these workers will be important as adverse weather becomes more frequent with climate change.

    We also found marae, schools, local social services and non-profit organisations played key roles after the cyclone, but were often outside the direct ambit of the health system.

    Often the people working in these organisations have strong community relationships and knowledge that is essential to supporting emergency and recovery processes. These connections should be mapped and integrated for future events.

    5. Shift resources and build common will

    Local communities are full of knowledge. Many have learnt from recent events to better prepare their families, workplaces and organisations.

    Whānau told us about the importance of having cash in case of power outages and telecommunications failure. Others identified battery-powered radio as a critical source of information when systems were down. Pharmacists and doctors told of the importance of hard-copy evidence of prescriptions, to be able to dispense when electronic systems are out.

    Checking in on neighbours, sharing resources and making time for a cup of tea were all important for people in the recovery and rebuilding phases. A key lesson is to harness the power of community connections, trust and relationships in climate change resilience and recovery.

    Although knowledge, experience and wisdom lie in the hands of communities, our research highlights how financial resources mostly sit with central government. The challenge is to shift resources and build common will for climate action, before the inevitable next event.

    The report is receiving attention in parliament. We hope local experience can be central to planning around the health impacts of climate change and decision-making at all levels.

    We acknowledge the important contributions of our wider research team and community partners, particularly Manu Caddie (Te Weu Charitable Trust), Josie McClutchie (project lead), Dayna Chaffey, Haley Maxwell and Hiria Philip-Barbara (community researchers) in Tairāwhiti, and Emma Horgan and John Bell (Sustainable HB Centre for Climate & Resilience) in Hawkes Bay.

    Holly Thorpe received support from the Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

    Fiona Langridge received support from the Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

    George Laking received funding from The Ministry of Health to conduct the research. He is an Executive Board member of OraTaiao, the New Zealand Climate and Health Council.

    Judith McCool receives funding from the Ministry of Health (Polynesia Health Corridors) and the Health Research Council.

    – ref. Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response – https://theconversation.com/lessons-from-cyclone-gabrielle-5-key-health-priorities-for-future-disaster-response-239392

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNISFA Peacekeepers assist Flood-Affected Communities in Abyei

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    In the wake of heavy rainfall that has resulted in flooding in Abyei, and left communities in urgent need of assistance, UNISFA peacekeepers are stepping up to provided much needed support. The relentless heavy rains in the southern and northern parts of Abyei have displaced many people, forcing some to move to higher ground as communities struggle for basic supplies.

    Mrs. Aluel Maroab Chan, a mother of four from Manyiel Rou, says: “We were forced to leave our home and build a temporary shelter in an area without any amenities. My children are suffering from infections due to the humidity. I urge the government to assist those affected.”

    To mitigate the impact of the floods, the Vietnamese Engineers have constructed four channels in Abyei town. This is facilitating the flow of water and assisting people who are trapped by the flood waters to move to safety.  This initiative has also helped many people who were forced to relocate to move back to their homes.

    In Malual and Athony, the Vietnamese Engineers are assisting to facilitate movement by rehabilitating roads, making it easier for people to access areas that had been made impassable by flooding and enabling assistance to reach affected communities.  The Abyei Physical Infrastructure Ministry has acknowledged these timely construction efforts as essential as rains continue to impact the area.

    On September 9, Ghanaian peacekeepers reached out to communities in Abathok, Mijak County, distributing essential supplies such as mosquito nets, clothing, and sanitary pads to vulnerable families. In addition to delivering goods, the peacekeepers engaged with local women, fostering dialogue to improve their living conditions.

    Meanwhile, on 11 September, Lt. Col. Altaf, Commander of the PakBatt-2 contingent, led his team in a similar effort, visiting flood-hit areas in Dari Market and surrounding regions. Some 150 individuals were provided with food, medical supplies, and other essential items.

    According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 735,000 people across South Sudan and Abyei have been affected by the floods, with Abyei facing a critical situation compounded by food insecurity and disease outbreaks. The newly formed Abyei Flood Task Force is coordinating efforts among various agencies to address these challenges.

    As the floods persist, local leaders are calling for more assistance for the affected areas.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Piyush Goyal to co-chair 6th India-USA Commercial Dialogue meeting in Washington D.C. with Ms. Gina Raimondo

    Source: Government of India

    Shri Piyush Goyal to co-chair 6th India-USA Commercial Dialogue meeting  in Washington D.C. with Ms. Gina Raimondo

    Commerce and Industry Minister to interact with leading American and Indian CEOs, discuss investment avenues in India

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 9:45AM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of the United States Secretary of Commerce, Ms. Gina Raimondo Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Shri Piyush Goyal, will undertake a visit to the United States of America from September 30 – October 3, 2024.

    Shri Piyush Goyal will co-chair with Secretary Raimondo the India-USA CEO Forum on October 2  2024, and the 6th India-USA Commercial Dialogue on October 3, 2024 to be held in Washington D.C., during which both sides will discuss ways to generate sustainable economic growth, improving the business and investment climate and to deepen ties between the Indian and the American business communities.

    Minister Goyal will interact with leading American and Indian CEOs & industry leaders and to highlight the vast opportunities for investment in India. His interactions with business and industry leaders in a roundtable organized by US-India Strategic Partnership Forum will stress upon ways to further leverage the complementary strengths and synergies between the economies of India and USA. He will also chair a Young Business Leaders Roundtable and India-USA Gems & Jewellery Trade Roundtable.

    Shri Goyal and Secretary Raimondo will also discuss steps to Expand and Diversify Critical Minerals Supply Chains between India and the USA. The two sides are negotiating a MoU which intends to enhance bilateral collaboration to increase and diversify essential critical mineral supply chains and leverage their complementary strengths.

    Minister Goyal will also meet the USTR Ambassador Katherine Tai at Washington DC to discuss the ongoing collaboration under the Trade Policy Forum and ways to further add to two way trade between the two countries.

    The Minister’s visit will add further impetus to the strong and growing trade and investment ties between India and the USA. It will encourage business-to-business engagement, and promote strategic partnerships across sectors of priority to both sides, including critical minerals, building Supply Chain Resilience, facilitating Climate and Clean Technology Cooperation, Inclusive Digital Growth, Standards and Conformance Cooperation, Travel & Tourism etc. 

    ***

    AD/VN

    (Release ID: 2060023) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Launches Operation Blue Ridge

    Source: US State of Florida

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida is rapidly deploying recovery assistance to North Carolina and Tennessee to help with Hurricane Helene’s impacts in Operation Blue Ridge. This multi-state agency response will include the Florida Division of Emergency Management, Florida State Guard, Florida National Guard, Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, Florida Law Enforcement Coordination Task Force, and a Law Enforcement Strike Team. Additionally, today Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Floridians seeking rescue in Western North Carolina will be aided by the State of Florida. Floridians can fill out our assistance form at  FloridaDisaster.org/OperationBlueRidge.

    This mission will begin with the following assets and personnel:
    Florida Division of Emergency Management

    • One All-Hazards Incident Management Team
    • One Communication Unit Strike Team
    • One Telecommunications Emergency Response Task Force
    • Ten Truck Loads of Water (which equates to 42, 550 gallons of water)
    • Over 100 Starlinks

    Florida State Guard

    • Two Special Missions Search and Rescue Teams
      • 8 search and rescue soldiers
      • 1 aerial assessment pilot

    Florida National Guard

    • Two National Guard Response Teams
      • 8 National Guard soldiers
    • Equipment
      • 2 CH-47 Chinooks and crew

    Florida Department of Law Enforcement

    • One Law Enforcement Coordination Taskforce
      • 7 FDLE agents and analysts
    • One Law Enforcement Strike Team
      • 7 FDLE agents and officers

    Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement

    • 22-man team
      • 2 Captains
      • 2 Team Leaders
      • 12 Officers/Investigators
      • 1 LE PIO
      • 1Mechanic
    • Equipment
      • 1 SOG trailer
      • 4 High-water vehicles (buggy/high water UTV)
      • 3 Airboats
      • 3 Shallow Draft vessels
      • 18 4×4 trucks
    • Aviation
      • Fixed wing aircraft
      • 1 pilot
      • 1 tactical flight officer

    Florida Department of Transportation
    The Florida Department of Transportation has made the following resources available to support the immediate inspection and assessment of transportation infrastructure maintained by NCDOT and TDOT:

    • Emergency Cut and Toss Strike Teams
    • Infrastructure Damage Assessment Teams
    • Bridge Inspection Team (including structures impacted by flood waters)
    • Temporary Bridge Materials
    • Hydraulic Modeling Professional
    • Project & Contract Management Teams
    • Public Information Officer & Emergency Communications Technology

    Florida stands ready to continue assisting our neighbors as they begin to recover from Hurricane Helene’s effects. Under Governor Ron DeSantis’ leadership, Florida’s strong disaster preparation and efficient response efforts have made it possible to provide much-needed assistance to other states.

    Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Helene.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Response Surges in Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Disaster Response Surges in Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene

    Disaster Response Surges in Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene
    mseets

    Critical supplies are starting to reach Western North Carolina communities hit hard by devastating Hurricane Helene as crews make progress toward restoring power and cell phone service and repairing roads.

    Food, water and other needs are arriving in Asheville and also being airlifted by the North Carolina National Guard into counties across Western North Carolina. Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and get stopgap solutions in place and rapid progress is being made. Across the region, more than 500,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million.  

    “People are desperate for help — and we are pushing to get it to them. Please know that we are sending resources, and coordinating closely with local governments, first responders, state and federal partners, and volunteer organizations to help those impacted by this tragic storm,” Governor Roy Cooper said. “This is an unprecedented tragedy that requires an unprecedented response.”

    NC National Guard members are working alongside local emergency responders conducting search and rescue missions, delivering needed supplies, and helping to restore infrastructure. Approximately 550 North Carolina National Guard personnel have been deployed in response to the storm, along with more than 100 vehicles and 11 aircraft.

    Twenty-four emergency shelters have opened, providing capacity for 942 residents. Shelter information can be found at readync.gov.

    Eleven storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene and dozens of people have been reported missing. This number is the confirmed number reported by North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and is expected to rise. First responders have received hundreds of calls for rescue and more than 1,000 requests for welfare checks. State search and rescue teams have conducted hundreds of rescues and are being assisted from teams from more than a dozen other states.

    More than 1,600 North Carolina Department of Transportation employees and contract crews are working to clear roads and get them open again, but 280 state-maintained roads remain closed including parts of Interstate 40 and Interstate 26. NCDOT is getting food and water supply trucks, power and cellphone utility trucks, and other vehicles through damaged roads and into Western North Carolina.

    People are urged to stay off Western North Carolina roads so that emergency responders, utility crews, and desperately needed supplies can get through. Real time road conditions are available at drivenc.gov.

    The federal government late yesterday granted Gov. Cooper’s request for a Federal Major Disaster Declaration, providing immediate help for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This disaster declaration will provide both individual assistance for people living in those counties and public assistance to reimburse local governments, state agencies and non-profits for funds spent repairing facilities and infrastructure. Additional information about these resources can be found at disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

    Residents affected by the storm should pay close attention to advisories and updates from their local government and emergency services, as this is an evolving situation. Residents with storm-related issues or questions should call 211 for assistance and press 1. This includes requests for welfare checks for loved ones in the affected area. Call 911 for emergencies only.

    Information resources and information regarding Hurricane Helene can be found at www.ncdps.gov/helene. The most up-to-date information on local conditions, shelters, and resources can be found by following county government social media and websites or by visiting ReadyNC.gov, which features traffic, power outage and shelter information. 

    ###

    Sep 29, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Virginia Emergency  Declaration

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that an emergency exists in the Commonwealth of Virginia and ordered Federal assistance to supplement Commonwealth, tribal, and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.

    The President’s action authorizes the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in the counties of Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe and the City of Galax.

    Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize, and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.  Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75 percent Federal funding. 

    Mr. Timothy S. Pheil of FEMA has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

    Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

    WASHINGTON — Together with state, tribal and federal partners, the Biden-Harris Administration and FEMA are actively supporting Hurricane Helene response and recovery efforts. People should be aware of ongoing post-storm hazards that can be life-threatening. Everyone in affected areas should continue to follow instructions from local officials to stay safe. 

    Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden approved Major Disaster declarations for Florida and North Carolina. These designations help individuals so they can start their recovery. These declarations also provide federal assistance to help communities clean up and start the rebuilding process. 

    At the direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground in Georgia today and will be in North Carolina tomorrow to survey damage and assessing the need for federal resources. 

    FEMA has more than 800 deployed staff supporting states affected by the hurricane. Our distribution centers are fully stocked and ready to provide commodities and equipment to any impacted state as requested. FEMA is coordinating a federal force of more than 3,200 personnel each contributing their expertise and manpower to this mission. 

    Emergency declarations are still in effect for Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA can provide support for urgent disaster response activities. FEMA and state partners continue to assess affects from the hurricane in these states to determine if further federal assistance is needed. Visit FEMA.gov to learn how a disaster gets declared.

    • Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas activated the Surge Capacity Force (SCF). The SCF makes rostered federal employees available to support FEMA’s response and recovery missions. 
    • Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) deployed a total of 24 teams with more than 1,302 personnel to affected states. All teams are equipped with Swift Water Rescue Capabilities. In Florida, eight US&R teams are actively responding. Four team are in North Carolina, two are in Tennessee. Additional teams and four Swift Water Mission Ready Packages are in route to the impacted areas.
    • U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Crews saved or assisted 11 lives and four pets in the Hurricane Helene response to date. USCG units in the affected areas are ready to support search and rescue, conducting post-storm assessments and providing interagency support. More than 8,000 personnel are assisting in response efforts.
    • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has teams positioned to provide temporary emergency power, with others prepared to deploy if needed. In addition to temporary emergency power, personnel assist the states with assessments of critical infrastructure including water/wastewater treatment facilities, debris management, and road and bridge inspections as needed. USACE is also providing technical expertise for flood responses. They have activated eight emergency operation centers in the affected regions to coordinate operations. 
    • Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) declared Public Health Emergencies for Florida and Georgia to address the health impacts of Hurricane Helene. The declarations give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of their beneficiaries. HHS staff are assessing public health and health care infrastructure. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response medical responders are in Alabama, Florida and North Carolina to help secure heal care services. These personnel include Health Care Situational Assessment teams and National Disaster Medical System Disaster Medical Assistance Teams along with several tons of medical equipment and supplies to provide medical surge support. A Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team Subject Matter Expert activated for North Carolina. HHS is offering free crisis counseling through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Helpline. Call or text 1-800-985-5990. Español: Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-800-985-5990 presiona “2.” For Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL Callers: To connect directly to an agent in American Sign Language, click the “ASL Now” button below or call 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone. ASL Support is available 24/7. FAQs for ASL NOW users. 
    • Department of Energy (DOE) activated the Energy Response Organization (ERO) and is closely monitoring impacts and restoration efforts related to Helene, including power, fuel, and supply chain interruptions. The ERO and field responders are in contact with industry partners and local officials. DOE responders deployed to the Florida Emergency Operations Center, Georgia Emergency Operations Center, and the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center. 
    • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is working closely with federal, state, local and Tribal partners to help water systems, prepare for debris management and ensure facilities, including Superfund sites, maintain critical public health and environmental protections. The agency has personnel on the ground in regional and national operations centers who are offering technical assistance and guidance to those affected by Helene. 
    • American Red Cross (ARC) has more than 745 Red Cross responders deployed to affected areas with another 320 responders in route. As of Sunday morning, systems reporting indicates 2,033 people are still in 73 shelters. As anticipated, ARC is seeing this count rise as they continue to gain connectivity and more clarity about the evolving need in the Carolinas.  More than 45 Emergency Response Vehicles are supporting this event and two dozen additional vehicles are moving into position throughout affected areas. Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information on redcross.org or by texting GETEMERGENCY to 90999 to download the free Red Cross Emergency app. 
    • Salvation Army is increasing its services in response to community needs. In Florida, they are providing meals through 17 mobile feeding units: five in Live Oak and 12 in Perry, where they are serving hot meals. Teams are also assisting survivors and responders along Florida’s west coast, delivering cleanup kits, blankets, and meals. In Georgia, The Salvation Army is serving meals at six shelters and will begin operations in Douglas/Alma and Vidalia on Sunday through mobile feeding units. In South Carolina, they are supporting meal service at the Greenwood County shelter and have activated a mobile unit. In Tennessee, Salvation Army is working alongside Baptist Kitchen, serving meals at two state shelters. Two mobile units are in Johnson City and Newport will start meal service beginning Monday. Full details and service locations are available at disaster.salvationarmyusa.org.
    • USA.gov published a one-stop-shop for hurricane information. 

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rubio Joins NBC’s Meet the Press

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio
    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined NBC’s Meet the Press to discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene and the latest with Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, and more. See below for highlights, and watch the full interview on YouTube and Rumble.

    On destruction caused by Hurricane Helene and what comes next:

    “The number one thing you want is to have power back up and the roads open, and the state is doing a great job of getting the roads cleared and open. Power obviously is more difficult. We were at a million people without power, and that number has dramatically dropped. 
    “There are some parts of our state, I think about Cedar Key, for example. Beautiful place. People love going there. It’s tough to get there right now, but from all reports, it’s unfortunately been pretty much wiped out. So there are some coastal areas, some of which are now facing their third storm in the last 12 months. 
    “As far as the resources look, it’s primarily a state obligation. The state steps forward if the state needs anything to give to local communities. That’s where FEMA comes in. And then we’re hoping to get a major declaration here today from the White House that will open up individual assistance to more counties, for people who have been displaced and have nowhere to live will qualify at the individual level for assistance in the short term while they get their lives back together.
    “Our thoughts are also with people in Georgia and across the southeast who have also been impacted by the storm as it made its way through those states as well.”

    On the Israeli airstrike that killed Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah:

    “I think if Nasrallah was still alive, the threat of a broader conflict is even higher. This is a guy who cheerfully said, ‘Death to America, death to Israel.’ Now, when you’re a country and someone runs an organization that exists for the specific and defined purpose of destroying you, you have no choice but to treat that person as an enemy and to confront them. This is the guy that spent years cheering on suicide bombings that killed innocents, the kidnapping of Israelis.
    “There are 60,000 Israelis right now who, for almost a year, have had to leave their homes in northern Israel and are living in hotels in Tel Aviv. Their kids are going to school online in conference rooms because the group that Nasrallah headed, which is Hezbollah, was using anti-tank weapons, not guided long-range missiles, anti-tank weapons, to target them and civilian infrastructure. So people had to leave. What country can have 60,000 people permanently displaced? That’s what this issue with Hezbollah is all about. 
    “Israel wants a six to 10-mile buffer between itself and Hezbollah so they can’t be using these shoulder-fired rockets to target cities and civilian communities, so people can move back to their homes. Hezbollah refuses to pull back and continues with those attacks. So Israel has no choice but to defend itself. Wiping out not just Nasrallah, but the senior leadership of this evil organization, I think, is a service to humanity.” 

    On whether Iran will retaliate against Israel:

    “Iran is constantly looking to hurt Israel, and they seem to be willing to fight to the last Shia militia member. Ultimately, that will be Iran’s decision to make. Their goal is to dominate that region. They seek to drive America out of the region and then destroy Israel. Any time the Iranian regime is on defense, it’s good for the world, good for America, and good for Israel. It’ll be up to the Iranians to decide what they’re going to do. But I believe that they will find themselves in a very precarious situation if, in fact, they do escalate this on their part.”

    On whether peaceful relations with Iran are possible:

    “If the Iranian regime tomorrow said, ‘We’re going to stop trying to become the regional power, we’re going to stop our nuclear weapons, we’re going to stop sponsoring terrorism, we’re going to stop trying to kill you [which is what they’re trying to do with Donald Trump], we’re going to stop all of these things,’ theoretically, yes. Of course, you could work something like that out. That’s just unlikely because that’s the very driving mission and purpose of the regime…. 
    “The Iranian people are nothing like the regime. I know of few countries in the world whose leaders and people are more different. The Iranian people are not seeking to be a regional hegemonic power. They’re not seeking to sponsor terrorism. In fact, there’s a lot of pressure inside of Iran among people arguing, with all the problems they have at home, why are they spending all this money on Shia militias and terrorists and Hezbollah and helping Hamas and building terrorist networks in the West Bank? 
    “Ideally, that’s the world we’d love to live in. If that opportunity presents itself, who wouldn’t take it? What we can’t have is a world in which Iran has unlimited resources to continue to sponsor terrorism, build towards nuclear capability, and build these long-range rockets and missiles that they have developed in the last few years, which threaten not just Israel and the entire region, but ultimately the United States.”

    On the inevitability of a negotiated settlement in Ukraine: 

    “I’m not on Russia’s side, but, unfortunately, the reality of it is that the way the war in Ukraine is going to end is with a negotiated settlement. I want, we want, and I believe Donald Trump wants, for Ukraine to have more leverage in that negotiation. But in order to be in a position to be a broker who can bring about that agreement, I think he’s going to preserve what he says. He approaches these things not as someone in politics or diplomacy, but as someone with a background in business. It’s not going to be easy to do, but at least there’s a defined goal. 
    “The Biden Administration has not defined what victory means in Ukraine. They have not defined, ‘This is what victory looks like,’ and if you press them, they will tell you what I have just said to you, which is the way this conflict ultimately ends, with a negotiation. I don’t know why we can’t just say that. We hope that when that time comes, there is more leverage on the Ukrainian side than on the Russian side. That really is the goal here in my mind. I think that’s what Donald Trump is trying to say, but he’s going to say it like a businessman. But Biden won’t even tell us what victory is.
    “I think what the deal looks like will be up to the parties when they negotiate it. Obviously, Zelensky is not going to come out there and say it. From a negotiating standpoint, he’s not going to go out there and predetermine what it looks like. I understand why he wouldn’t want to go out there and define what it looks like at the front end. But the reality of it is that we, as Americans, are investing billions of dollars into this effort. It’s important that as we invest this money into this effort, we tell the American taxpayer, ‘This is what the money is going towards.’ Ultimately, it’s not an endless war. 
    “I would be comfortable with a deal that ends these hostilities, and that I think is favorable to Ukraine, meaning that they have their own sovereignty, that they don’t become a satellite state or a puppet state that is constantly held hostage by the Russians. I’m not going to prejudge any agreement. 
    “The Ukrainians don’t want to live in a country where the Russians dominate their territory. What’s the future of Crimea? The Russians claim it. Obviously, they stole it back in 2014, in the first invasion. You have to ask the Obama Administration why that happened under their watch. But at the end of the day, the most important thing here is that these hostilities end, Ukraine can go back to rebuilding its economy, and its people can move back. They’ve lost millions of people as refugees. It’s been devastating to them. But that negotiation is going to be up to them. I just want them to have more leverage than Putin.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79): Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program Receives Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Investment Award

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    NEW YORK, United States of America, September 29, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) (http://apo-opa.co/3ZHg6nA) has been honored as the “Best Investable NDC Adaptation Investment Initiative of the Year” at the 2024 African NDC Investment Awards.

    The award, presented during the African NDC Institutional Investment Summit in New York, held on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, recognizes the AAAP’s groundbreaking efforts to accelerate climate adaptation across the continent.

    Launched by the African Development Bank and the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) in 2021, the AAAP set an ambitious goal to mobilise $25 billion by 2025 to drive transformative climate adaptation actions across Africa. To date, the Bank has committed $12.5 billion and by the end of 2023 had successfully mobilised $9.22 billion.

    Sponsored by the African Green Infrastructure Investment Bank and presented by Africa Investor Magazine, the award honors projects that excel in advancing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) by mobilizing private climate capital and enhancing investment readiness. Africa’s NDC implementation requires over $3 trillion by 2030 to meet the continent’s adaptation and mitigation goals.

    Accepting the award on behalf of the African Development Bank, Professor Anthony Nyong, Director for Climate Change and Green Growth, said: 

    “This recognition is a testament to the incredible impact the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program is having across the continent. We are not only on track to meet our financial commitments, but we are also transforming lives through resilient infrastructure, food security, and youth entrepreneurship. Together with our partners, we are driving real change and positioning Africa at the forefront of global climate adaptation efforts.”

    AAAP’s impact is already being felt throughout the continent, with climate adaptation initiatives integrated into 38 African Development Bank operations and 30 technical assistance activities over 41 countries. These projects cover critical sectors such as agriculture, water and sanitation, transport, energy access, and urban development to the benefit of millions of people. The AAAP exemplifies how innovative financing and partnerships can address the most pressing climate challenges.

    The program’s focus on youth entrepreneurship and job creation stands out, with $5.5 million invested to support 41 young climate innovators in 20 African countries, positioning Africa’s youth as leaders in adaptation.

    In the critical area of food security, the AAAP has implemented 17 investment and technical assistance projects across the Sahel, Horn of Africa, and Zambezi regions, improving food resilience for 9.4 million people. Meanwhile, the AAAP’s work on resilient infrastructure includes 28 projects in 23 countries, ensuring that communities are better equipped to withstand climate shocks.

    AAAP’s Technical Assistance Program has enabled 14 African entities to gain accreditation with the Green Climate Fund (GCF), facilitating direct access to vital climate finance. These efforts have led to the development of GCF proposals that mobilized over $250 million, benefiting 4.6 million people across Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.

    Recognized at the 35th Ordinary Session of the African Union for its achievements, the AAAP is setting the standard for climate adaptation in Africa and beyond. The program’s success is sparking global interest, with its model being adapted in Asia. Discussions are underway to extend it to small island developing states.

    Richard Uku, Director of External Affairs at the Global Center on Adaptation, represented GCA’s CEO Professor Patrick V. Verkooijen. He said: “This award highlights the power of partnership. The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program demonstrates that when we work together, we can achieve scale and speed in climate adaptation efforts.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James and DEC Interim Commissioner Mahar Announce Completion of $68.6 Million Environmental Investment Program in Greenpoint

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – In celebration of Climate Week, New York Attorney General Letitia James and Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar today announced the completion of the Greenpoint Community Environmental Fund (GCEF), an innovative, community-led grant program that invested more than $68.6 million in environmental initiatives for Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The GCEF was established with funds from New York state’s 2010 settlement with ExxonMobil that addressed the company’s responsibility for allowing millions of gallons of oil to contaminate the land and groundwater in Greenpoint for more than five decades. The Greenpoint oil spill was one of the largest spills recorded in the United States. Throughout its 13 years, GCEF created a wide range of public space enhancements, infrastructure improvements, and environmental education programs, including a new, state-of-the-art public library and environmental education center, a tree planting program, and major park upgrades. In total, GCEF awarded 77 grants, ranging from $5,000 to more than $5 million, to initiatives selected with the input from the Greenpoint community.

    “After we held ExxonMobil accountable for its careless destruction of the Greenpoint environment, the Greenpoint Community Environmental Fund has invested millions of dollars in restoring the neighborhood and bringing residents together,” said Attorney General James. “From a new public library to vibrant green space improvements, this community-led effort directly supported the initiatives that residents wanted. It has been an honor to work so closely with this community and our partners at DEC to deliver a cleaner, healthier, and greener Greenpoint for generations to come.”

    “The successful implementation of the Greenpoint Community Environmental Fund is an excellent example of state government working with New Yorkers to hold responsible parties accountable for legacy industrial pollution to benefit both community residents and the environment,” said DEC Interim Commissioner Mahar. “In Greenpoint, nearly $68 million is being invested to improve green infrastructure, renew and restore the waterfront, and advance environmental stewardship programs that will leave a lasting impact on this community and the environment.”

    Greenpoint residents played a direct role in the GCEF and its investments. Residents prioritized four specific areas of investment for the program: 1) funding education and environmental stewardship; 2) greening the community; 3) revitalizing neighborhood parks and open spaces; and 4) restoring the waterfront and its infrastructure. An advisory panel, comprised of members of the Greenpoint community, guided every stage of the program’s development and implementation.

    As a result of GCEF’s investments, residents were able to attend environmental lectures and events at the library, participate in a birdwatching tour at the park, spend recess learning to care for the trees and plants on the playground, learn about the neighborhood’s history on a canoe tour, and watch the sunset with friends from a rooftop garden. Projects funded by GCEF include:

    • Greenpoint Library and Environmental Education Center, a $5 million brand new, state-of-the-art, sustainable public library with dedicated community green space, and $100,000 to provide ongoing environmental programming for Greenpoint families. 
    • Greenpoint Eco-Schools, a project that developed and implemented more than 40 environmental education programs at eight schools in Greenpoint, providing hands-on environmental education and enrichment to more than 4,700 students by transforming the way they learn about and care for nature and their community. 
    • Greening Greenpoint, a multi-year initiative that engaged nearly 3,000 community volunteers in planting more than 1,000 new trees and over 27,000 flowers and other plants throughout the neighborhood. 
    • Monsignor McGolrick Park Restoration and Upgrades, an ongoing investment of approximately $840,000 to support planting and beautification efforts and introduce community engagement programming, including nature walks and birdwatching groups, at a beloved park in the heart of Greenpoint. 
    • Various other community-led initiatives that included but were not limited to the creation of 25,000 square feet of community rooftop gardens for gardening, education, and enjoyment; upgrades to 19 parks, community gardens, and other shared greenspaces; and the creation of nearly eight acres of new natural areas.

    The GCEF was established by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and DEC in 2011 after New York state obtained a settlement with ExxonMobil over its massive oil spill in Greenpoint. The spill released at least 17 million gallons of oil, contaminating more than 50 acres of soil and groundwater in Greenpoint. DEC required ExxonMobil to contain and cleanup the massive underground plume of oil for more than a decade, and it will continue to require ExxonMobil to take actions to protect Newtown Creek.

    With matching contributions from grantees, the GCEF program was able to more than triple the funds won in the ExxonMobil settlement into a total investment of more than $68.6 million. The GCEF convened nearly 70 community meetings, attended by more than 2,600 people, to educate Greenpoint residents about the program, identify their funding priorities, and assist them in developing projects for funding. The GCEF’s biggest investments were determined by community vote—more than 1,000 Greenpoint residents cast votes for their preferred projects.

    The short film “Greening Greenpoint” highlights the program’s innovations and years of success in the community. A full report detailing GCEF’s history, design, implementation, and a description of each project funded is available online and in print at the Greenpoint Library. 

    “Our communities are on the frontlines in the fight against climate change, and nowhere is this more apparent than on the banks of Newtown Creek” said Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez. “Over the last decade, this significant investment has gone a long way to provide the Greenpoint community with more resources to fund environmental programs, green infrastructure and great community facilities like the library and environmental center. I’d like to recognize the work of Attorney General Letitia James and Department of Environmental Conservation for securing this restorative funding, as well as the perseverance and advocacy of the Greenpoint community.”

    “The Greenpoint Community Environmental Fund has been such a valuable investment in our community,” said Assemblymember Emily Gallagher. “Although no amount of money can make up for the environmental harm ExxonMobil brought to our neighborhood, funding these incredible projects has been a beautiful start. We are so grateful to Attorney General Letitia James and DEC for their efforts to restore our community, and for helming this project to support and sustain North Brooklyn.”

    “The Greenpoint Community Environmental Fund has been a tremendous success. GCEF has been a model for holding a corporate polluter accountable and reinvesting Exxon-Mobil settlement funds into transformative new investments – like a new public library building, environmental education programs, parks improvements and more,” said Council Member Lincoln Restler. “I’m extremely grateful to the leadership of Attorney General Letitia James and her team for creating this framework and smartly selecting the most impactful investments that were determined with substantial community input.”

    “Although GCEF has come to a close, I know the legacy of its achievements will remain for many years to come,” said Christine Holowacz, Greenpoint environmental advocate. “I am very proud of what GCEF accomplished in Greenpoint and I am excited by the foundation it helped lay for an even ‘greener’ future for our community. I thank the Attorney General’s Office and DEC for their commitment to GCEF and the residents of Greenpoint.”

    “GCEF offered transformational grants for so many environmentally focused organizations in Greenpoint; not only giving local, volunteer-run non-profits like North Brooklyn Community Boathouse the ability to expand programs and capacity but creating synergies between grantees, such as our partnership with the Greenpoint Library and Environmental Education Center,” said Dewey Thompson, Greenpoint environmental advocate. “The Office of the Attorney General and DEC deserve tremendous credit for bringing this highly successful program to life in our community. GCEF was a game-changer for local environmental projects, and I think its impact will resonate for years to come.” 

    “We are deeply thankful for the continued GCEF support for McGolrick Park, a key gathering place and an extension of many families’ homes in Greenpoint, Brooklyn,” said Janine Murphy and Jodie Love, Steering Committee, Friends of McGolrick Park.  “Thanks to past investments, the park now features a thriving ecosystem, recognized as a Monarch waystation and part of the New York State bird trail. Recent upgrades such as new benches, repaved paths, and reseeded lawns have made our ‘local backyard’ safer and more inviting. Partnering with our strong community to envision and help implement this next phase of the GCEF grants will help sustain and enhance McGolrick Park for all our neighbors. We look forward to collaborating on the last phase of GCEF grants, with heartfelt appreciation for AG James, Interim DEC Commissioner Mahar, and local officials’ dedication to preserving and enhancing McGolrick Park.”

    “Four years after opening the Greenpoint Library and Environmental Education Center, I am thrilled to report it is one of the busiest branches in the borough. Patrons stop by for story time, to enjoy our outdoor space, learn about the plants on the rooftop, or attend programming about sustainability. Working together with the community, and with the generous support of GCEF, we were able to turn the tragedy of an oil spill into a modern, green library which will serve the community for generations to come,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO, Brooklyn Public Library. “We extend our sincerest thanks to the Attorney General’s Office and DEC, who funded and championed the library early on and who have continued to support environmental programming to this day.”

    The OAG and DEC have received support from GCEF’s general administrators, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the North Brooklyn Development Corporation, Community Outreach Consultants Laura Truettner and Laura Treciokas, Graphics and Design Consultant SooYoung VanDeMark, the GCEF Community Advisory Panel, and former State Assemblymember Joseph Lentol.

    This matter was handled for DEC by attorneys in the Office of General Counsel and Region 2 Public Participation Specialist Adanna Roberts.

    This matter was handled for OAG by Policy Advisor Peter C. Washburn of the Environmental Protection Bureau under the supervision of Bureau Chief Lemuel M. Srolovic. The Environmental Protection Bureau is part of the Division for Social Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Scott Support Florida’s Request for Major Disaster Declaration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Rubio, Scott Support Florida’s Request for Major Disaster Declaration

    Sep 28, 2024 | Press Releases

    Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage along Florida’s Gulf Coast after making landfall as a Category 4 storm. It is crucial that the areas impacted have the necessary resources to begin recovery. 

    U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a letter to President Joe Biden, urging his immediate approval of the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration.

    • “Unfortunately, Helene’s effects will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for several days as response and recovery efforts get underway. However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration in its entirety.”

    The full text of the letter is below. 

    Dear Mr. President: 

    We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration due to Hurricane Helene, which caused catastrophic damage to much of Florida’s Gulf Coast as it made landfall along Florida’s Big Bend coastline as a Category 4 hurricane on Thursday evening. Hurricane Helene’s devastating wind speeds, extreme storm surge, and heavy rainfall severely impacted substantial portions of the state, with significant flooding, massive power outages, and widespread damage that will take a strong partnership to recover and rebuild. 

    Unfortunately, Helene’s effects will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for several days as response and recovery efforts get underway. However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration in its entirety. 

    Floridians are incredibly resilient, and with the cooperation from all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever. Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter. 

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: See a seal? Let us know!

    Source: New South Wales Environment and Heritage

    A ‘haul-out’ is the term given when seals temporarily leave water to rest or reproduce. Haul-Out, Call-Out allows the community to record the location and time of where they have seen a hauled-out seal, as well as several other factors.

    The platform can be accessed via the Haul-Out, Call-Out landing page.

    Seal sightings recorded via Haul-Out, Call-Out will be used to complement information collected through ongoing drone surveys along the NSW coastline.

    The inaugural drone survey took place at Barrenjoey Headland and will be followed by drone surveys at other known haul-out locations in NSW such as Barunguba Montague Island, Seal Rocks Nature Reserve and Steamers Head.

    These activities are part of the S2S program’s broader Seal Survey initiative, which includes tagging and monitoring rehabilitated seals after their release to study their preferred habitats.

    Earlier this year, Diaz, a New Zealand fur seal, was the fifth rehabilitated seal to be released under the S2S program. After her release from Sydney Heads, she travelled more than 6,000 km down towards Tasmania.

    The Seal Survey will inform various marine conservation initiatives in NSW and reduce gaps in knowledge that will assist in mitigating the risks associated with human and seal interactions.

    People must keep at least 40 m from an adult seal and 80 m from a pup, as well as keeping their pets under control. The penalty for approaching seals within prescribed distances is up to $1,320.

    The Haul-Out, Call-Out launch coincides with Biodiversity Month, a time to celebrate the value of connecting with and caring for nature in all its diversity.

    More information on approaching seals can be found via the NSW Government website.

    If you spot a sick or injured seal, you can contact NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service on 13000 072 757, or the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia on 02 9415 3333 for the animal to be checked and monitored.

    The S2S program, launched in August 2022 and is a four-year initiative focused on protecting and managing NSW’s marine ecosystems. It unites 3 key efforts:

    1. Project Restore
    2. The Great Big Little Penguin Count
    3. The Seal Survey.

    The New South Wales Environmental Trust funds S2S to help lead and deliver each initiative, with support from its project partners, including:

    • Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
    • Sydney Institute of Marine Science
    • Taronga Conservation Society Australia
    • New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service

    Quotes attributable to Kate Akkerman, Senior Policy Officer, Seabirds to Seascapes:

    ‘Since its inception in 2022, the S2S program has worked tirelessly to restore important habitat in Sydney Harbour as well as supporting the penguin and seal populations throughout the state.

    ‘Resting in haul-outs is incredibly important for seals which spend most of their time foraging at sea. We call on the public to please respect these animals and give them space, as it is the safest thing for both them and us.’

    Quotes attributable to Dr Ben Pitcher, Behavioural Biologist, Taronga Conservation Society Australia:

    ‘This research is so important because the marine environment is changing rapidly and is facing threats from climate change and human influences such as pollution.

    We really need to know where the seals are and what they’re doing so we can understand the threats they face and work to mitigate these threats in the future.’

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: UPDATE: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration’s Continued Response Efforts to Hurricane  Helene

    Source: The White House

    Under President Biden and Vice President Harris’s leadership, the Administration is continuing to provide robust and well-coordinated Federal support for the ongoing response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Helene’s impacts. The President and Vice President are closely monitoring these efforts and receive regular updates from their teams.
     
    At the President’s direction, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visited Florida over the weekend to assess damage alongside local and state officials. She continued surveying damage today in parts of Georgia before she moves into North Carolina on Monday.

    Earlier this evening, Administrator Criswell and Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall briefed President Biden on the ongoing impacts of Hurricane Helene in multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, and Virginia. Administrator Criswell also updated the President on Federal actions to support response and recovery.  

    The President directed Administrator Criswell to determine what more can be done to accelerate support to those who are having the most difficult time accessing assistance in isolated communities. He also advised the FEMA Administrator that as soon as it will not disrupt emergency response operations, he intends to travel this week to impacted communities.

    Additionally, the Federal government is closely monitoring an additional weather disturbance in the Caribbean Sea that has the potential to form into another storm in the coming week. Residents throughout the Gulf Coast should remain alert, listen to local officials, and make additional preparations as needed.
     
    Additional Federal response actions include:
     
    Approving Major Disaster Declarations
     
    Yesterday, President Biden approved Major Disaster declarations for the states of Florida and North Carolina, allowing survivors to immediately access funds and resources to jumpstart their recovery. People in 17 counties in Florida and 25 counties in North Carolina, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, can now apply for assistance with FEMA. People can apply in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.
     
    FEMA assistance in Florida and North Carolina may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
     
    Emergency declarations were also approved for Florida, North Carolina Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Alabama. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA provides direct Federal support to states for life saving activities and other emergency protective measures, such as evacuation, sheltering, and search and rescue.
     
    Supporting On-The-Ground Response Efforts
     
    As of today, more than 3,300 personnel from across the Federal workforce are deployed and supporting Hurricane Helene response efforts across the impacted states. This includes the most experienced incident management teams to help identity Federal resources to address unmet needs, as well as Urban Search and Rescue personnel using high water rescue equipment for rescue missions across the region. 
     
    At least 50,000 personnel from 31 states and the District of Columbia and Canada are responding to power outages and working around the clock throughout parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina to restore power to those communities that can receive power. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is moving generators and additional power generation assets into the hardest hit areas of South and North Carolina as flood waters recede and debris removal allows. As of this afternoon, approximately 2.3 million customers are without power, down from the region-wide peak of 4.6 million on September 27.
     
    Additional Interagency Support Efforts
     
    Together with state and local partners, the Federal government is actively supporting Hurricane Helene response efforts and is coordinating requests for Federal assistance.

    • FEMA distribution centers are fully stocked and ready to provide commodities and equipment to any impacted state, as required.
    • FEMA is trucking dozens of trailers containing food and water in North Carolina to support the State as they start to set up care-sites for survivors.
    • FEMA is also working with the Federal Communications Commission and private sector telecommunications partners to deploy emergency mobile communications assets while they work to restore network services, particularly in remote areas.
    • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency for Florida and Georgia, giving health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. About 200 medical responders are in Florida, Alabama, and North Carolina, along with medical equipment and supplies, to help ensure the delivery of health care services following the landfall of Hurricane Helene.
    • Twenty-four federal Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces are deployed across the affected regions. Roughly 1,302 Urban Search and Rescue personnel are assisting in the impacted areas. Together with local and state responders, teams have rescued and supported over 1,400 of people across the impacted area.
    • The U.S. Coast Guard has thousands of personnel working on response efforts and are conducting post-storm assessments to support the rapid reopening of impacted ports.
    • The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers deployed teams for temporary emergency power, debris removal, and infrastructure assessment, including for dams throughout the region.
    • The Environmental Protection Agency has personnel on the ground who are offering technical assistance and guidance on water systems, debris management, and maintaining critical public health and environmental protections in place as storm impacts are assessed.
    • The U.S. Small Business Administration deployed more than 50 personnel to support survivors and small businesses as they recover from the hurricane.
    • The U.S. Department of Energy has responders deployed across the region and are closely monitoring power, fuel, and supply chain interruptions.
    • The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency has deployed personnel to the impacted region to extend much-needed emergency credit to farmers and agriculture producers who lost crops and livestock.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Challenging but rewarding Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) journey coming to an end for EIT student | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    3 hours ago

    Lizzie Somerville has enjoyed studying for the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT.

    A challenging but rewarding Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) journey is coming to an end for an EIT student as she finishes up the final weeks of her degree.

    Lizzie Somerville, 20, says that she has loved the degree, especially the placements with local schools, but there were also challenges like Covid-19, Cyclone Gabrielle and breaking a leg during rugby training that required her to have surgery.

    Lizzie, who comes from a sheep and beef farm near the small coastal community of Pongoroa in the Tararua District, says that although she is pākehā, she grew up in a te ao Māori world. She says that this saw her spend a lot of time at the local marae, Te Hika O Pāpauma.

    Lizzie was earmarked for success when she completed her schooling at Solway College in Masterton. Not only did she receive a Year 13 Scholarship to attend EIT, but she also won a Prime Minister’s Vocational Excellence Award from the then Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. This was a further scholarship that would help with her tertiary tuition.

    She says that she had not always wanted to be a teacher.

    “Originally I wanted to join the police service because I love helping people, but then in high school I worked with the juniors and did an environmental course and that led to me really wanting to  get into education. And I found that the EIT degree, because it’s so practical, was more appealing to me than going off to university.”

    “But it has definitely been a challenge because there was a lot of things happening in our first year with COVID where we had to be off campus and study online. And then in our second year we had Cyclone Gabrielle, which saw us having to study in different places. I also broke my leg last year, which saw me having to get around on a knee scooter.”

    “But it has been really rewarding. The lectures at EIT are small and close-knit. It’s a nice feeling being around everyone.”

    The high point of the degree for Lizzie has been spending two days per week each year at an EIT partnership school and then going on two five week placements to a school.

    In her first year she was placed at Frimley School in Hastings while her second year saw her at Ebbett Park School in Hastings and Arthur Miller School in Napier. This year her school was Reignier Catholic School in Napier, before doing her final placement at Ormond School in Gisborne, where her partner is from.

    Lizzie says that she has no hesitation in recommending that people study the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT.

    “It’s not actually that big and scary. You feel so comfortable at EIT. And in regard to the teaching degree, it is so practical and it sets you up really well for wanting to get a teaching career because of how practical it is.”

    “You also get a lot of support on campus and from the school you are at.”

    Lizzie says that while she enjoys Hawke’s Bay, she is hoping to start her teaching career in the Gisborne region.

    Associate Professor Emily Nelson, Programme Coordinator for EIT’s Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), said: “In addition to being a fully committed Candidate Teacher over the three years of her study, Lizzie has served as a Candidate Teacher Rep, taking on a leadership role for her cohort with the degree teaching team.”

    “This leadership experience as well as the resilience she has gained from studying through adversity, and her calm and caring personality, makes me really excited for her future in the teaching profession.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Visits Impacted Areas by Helene, Federal Family Continues Response and Recovery Efforts Multi-State Disaster

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Administrator Visits Impacted Areas by Helene, Federal Family Continues Response and Recovery Efforts Multi-State Disaster

    FEMA Administrator Visits Impacted Areas by Helene, Federal Family Continues Response and Recovery Efforts Multi-State Disaster

    WASHINGTON — As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to meet with state and local emergency managers in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene, today, she was in several areas of Georgia assessing damage, talking with survivors and meeting with emergency workers. She will be traveling to North Carolina on Monday, Sept. 30. 

    In five states – Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee – federal agencies, private sector, nonprofit and faith-based organizations are responding to large disasters. Each of these states are at different stages of their response and recovery efforts. However, all states are addressing the impacts including impassable roads, communications and water systems disruptions and power outages.   

    President Biden approved major disaster declarations for the states of Florida and North Carolina, allowing survivors to immediately access funds and resources to jumpstart their recovery. People in 17 counties in Florida and 25 counties in North Carolina, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, can now apply for assistance with FEMA. People can apply in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.

    FEMA assistance in Florida and North Carolina may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

    Emergency declarations are still in effect for Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA can provide support for urgent disaster response activities. 

    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is assessing the impact of the water systems and what is needed to bring these online in several areas across the southeast.  Several counties in all states have issued boil water notices. Also, several federal agencies are moving in portable equipment to help reestablish communications in some of the hardest hit areas.  

    As water rescues continue in northwest North Carolina for more than a dozen search and rescue teams, Florida is distributing state supplies of food and water at dozens of points of distribution.  In addition, as state supplies are being distributed, FEMA and other federal agencies have moved more commodities into the region to help supplement these efforts, if needed. 

    These snapshots highlight some of the various response and recovery efforts underway. 

    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55446″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/973f3e29522b202afa24fedc36ad58d3.jpg?itok=rVG9vUsq” alt=”Caption:

    VALDOSTA, GA – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Robert Samaan and Georgia Rep. Austin Scott, visit Helene survivors in front of their home in Valdosta GA. 

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    VALDOSTA, GA – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Robert Samaan and Georgia Rep. Austin Scott, visit Helene survivors in front of their home in Valdosta GA. 
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55447″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/b197d49c02bd4cf7da30d7a307d1774a.jpeg?itok=-oBqrMXz” alt=”Caption:

    Bradenton, Fla. (Sept. 29, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene. 

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    Bradenton, Fla. (Sept. 29, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene. 
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55457″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/451f5d0a3929253441bb510857096d82.jpeg?itok=LxXoxfCe” alt=”Caption:

    Raleigh, NC – Gov. Roy Cooper holds press conference to announce the approval of an expedited major disaster declaration by President Joseph R. Biden.

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    Raleigh, NC – Gov. Roy Cooper holds press conference to announce the approval of an expedited major disaster declaration by President Joseph R. Biden.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Most Chinese regions to enjoy sunny weather during National Day holiday

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Most parts of China are expected to enjoy sunny weather during the upcoming week-long National Day holiday, beginning on Oct. 1, according to forecasts.
    Apart from rainy and snowy conditions in the eastern Qinghai-Xizang Plateau and western Yunnan Province, most regions will experience sunny weather during the holiday, said Jia Xiaolong, deputy head of the National Climate Center, at a press conference on Sunday.
    The official noted that due to the impact of Typhoon Krathon, coastal areas in east China’s Fujian and Zhejiang provinces are expected to experience heavy rains and rainstorms, while China’s Taiwan Island is also bracing for heavy rainstorms.
    Jia said that frequent cold fronts in the first three days of the holiday will lower temperatures in some areas, with parts of northwestern, northern and northeastern China expected to drop to zero degrees Celsius or below.
    Cold fronts are also expected to hit northern China around Oct. 6. Holidaymakers have been advised to stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings and to take appropriate precautions when planning their travels.
    China’s annual National Day holiday is marked by mass family reunions and a surge in travel. This year, the country’s transport sector is expected to handle over 1.9 billion passenger trips nationwide during the holiday, according to Vice Minister of Transport Li Yang.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Additional ADB Financing to Expand Water Supply, Sanitation Coverage in Kyrgyz Republic

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved $32.35 million of additional financing for a rural water supply and sanitation development program in northern Kyrgyz Republic that is already performing well.

    The additional financing will empower the government to continue rolling out its water program under the Kyrgyz Republic’s National Development Strategy, 2018–2040—which aims to provide drinking water to 95% of the country’s settlements and extend centralized water supply to more than 2 million rural residents.

    Using a results-based approach, the additional financing will help to scale up the successful intervention in centrally located Naryn Province—raising the initial target of 64,000 people reached to 100,000. The funding also enables an increase in the number of education and health facilities that have separate toilets for women and men from 21 to 37.

    “When the project team visits the sites, we are met with overwhelming gratitude from the villagers,” said ADB Principal Urban Development Specialist Heeyoung Hong. “The elderly and children no longer have to trek miles and endure long waits for water, especially in the freezing cold of winter. The success of the ongoing program shows the profoundly positive impact that well-targeted development financing, perfectly aligned with the government’s program, can have on people.”

    Climate change considerations are integrated throughout the program’s design and targets. This includes piloting household sanitation solutions that are resilient to climate change and disasters. The program will fund climate risk assessments of potential potable water sources and deploy campaigns to help raise awareness among local residents on the importance of saving water.

    “While the Kyrgyz Republic has abundant water, it is not distributed evenly—especially to villages across Naryn province,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov. “With climate change accelerating the pace of glacial melt, the availability of water in the glacier-dependent province faces a serious threat. This additional support will help build infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change—ensuring that the Kyrgyz people in these low-income and rural areas have access to safe and reliable water and sanitation services.”

    The financing comprises a $27 million concessional loan and a $5.35 million grant from the Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries. The Government of the Kyrgyz Republic is also contributing another $6.45 million in this round of financing.

    This year marks the 30th anniversary of the partnership between ADB and the Kyrgyz Republic—a cooperation spanning more than 217 projects and technical assistance in key economic sectors. Since the Kyrgyz Republic joined ADB in 1994, the bank has committed public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $2.6 billion to the country.

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Approves $30 Million Financing to Strengthen Climate Resilience in Nepal

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $30 million financing package to improve climate resilience, water resources management, and livelihoods of communities in Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces in Nepal.

    “Nepal is increasingly at risk from the devastating impacts of climate change, as extreme weather events become more frequent. The Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces are assessed to be the most vulnerable regions to climate change, largely owing to the poor communities’ low coping capacity” said ADB Environment Specialist Sumit Pokhrel. “This project will help communities in the targeted project areas to be more climate-resilient, build their capacity to preserve and manage their natural resources, and expand nature-based livelihood opportunities that will boost the local economy.”

    The package comprises a $10 million concessional loan and a $20 million grant from the Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries.

    The Climate-Resilient Landscapes and Livelihoods Project will help communities in 24 municipalities prepare catchment management plans to ensure effective water resources management and water security. The project will support the construction of small-scale drinking water systems and gravity-fed irrigation facilities. It will introduce water and soil conservation measures to protect landscapes from adverse effects of climate change. This includes the construction of soil erosion, surface runoff control, and infiltration structures; slope and stream bank stabilization; and land cover improvements such as nurseries, restoration of barren lands, and agroforestry.    

    ADB will provide grants to support nature-based livelihood investments such as the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, non-timber forestry products, and indigenous crops. This will improve income opportunities of farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises, including women entrepreneurs. The project will also promote ecotourism in the region to diversify local communities’ income sources.  

    The project will build the capacity of federal, provincial and local governments to effectively plan, manage, and monitor water infrastructure, watersheds, and livelihood projects. At the local level, the project will train and inform communities on land and water preservation and conservation, and on nature-based livelihood opportunities.  

    ADB will administer an additional $2 million grant financed by the Community Resilience Partnership Program Trust Fund (CRPPTF) under the Community Resilience Financing Partnership Facility, which is dedicated to financing women-led small and medium enterprises. An additional $1.25 million grant from ADB’s Technical Assistance Special Fund and $500,000 from the CRPPTF is allocated for capacity building towards livelihood enhancement, ecotourism promotion, geographical indication, and independent project monitoring.

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 28/09/2024 The Council of Ministers adopted changes to the draft budget act for 2025

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    The exceptional situation related to the flood has led to the need to introduce changes to the draft budget act for 2025. Helping those affected by the flood is one of the government’s priorities and has been reflected in the new draft budget. We have increased funds for counteracting and removing the effects of natural disasters to the amount of PLN 3.191 million. The budget for 2025 provides funds to support citizens, security and economic development of Poland. On September 28, 2024, the Council of Ministers adopted changes to the draft budget act for 2025. The new draft assumes that state budget revenues will increase by PLN 230 million compared to the original draft, to PLN 632.848.2 billion. The total amount of state budget expenditure will remain unchanged, at PLN 921.618.2 billion. The deficit of PLN 230 million in the initial project will amount to PLN 288 million. Higher budget revenuesThe changes in the budget revenue plan for 2025 result primarily from the fact that the new project takes into account the effects of the regulation of the Minister of Finance of September 19, 2024, which extended the advance payments for certain taxes to 2025 for entities affected by floods. The amount of planned budget revenues is also affected by changes in the draft act amending the excise duty act and certain other acts. Budget expenditureOn the expenditure side, transfers have been made that allow for an increase in the state budget funds for counteracting and removing the effects of natural disasters for 2025. The earmarked reserve in item 4 has been increased from PLN 997 million (including PLN 786,176 million for the implementation of the “Flood Protection Project in the Odra and Vistula River Basins” and the “Project for Building Resilience to Climate Change in Water”) to the amount of PLN 3.191 million (including PLN 786.176 million for flood protection projects), i.e. by PLN 2.194 million. For this purpose, the reserve plan has been reduced where possible. Among other things, the reserve for State Treasury liabilities has been reduced (by PLN 400 million) and the general reserve (by PLN 279 million). The general reserve is used to respond to emergency situations that require immediate financial support. Support from this reserve is intended in particular for unforeseen events, the effects of which could not be planned in the mode of preparing the draft budget for the following year. The current flood situation authorizes the transfer of funds from the general reserve already at the planning stage to the flood reserve. As part of the changes to the draft budget act for 2025, the Minister of Justice reduced the expenses of common courts by PLN 321 million, postponing, among other things, the implementation of some construction and IT investments to the next budget year. The Minister of Finance – in agreement with BGK – reduced the demand for state budget funds for possible payments from BGK guarantee programs by PLN 211 million. The Minister of Finance also updated the demand for budget funds in special-purpose reserves in connection with new information that influenced the revision of forecasts. This concerns, among others, tasks currently financed from the Aid Fund, the financial projection of which ends in September 2025. The current implementation of some tasks indicates that the funds will be sufficient until the end of the year. This freed up the needs for the following months. The new draft budget act for 2025 also included auto-corrections of the budgets of non-governmental entities adjusting the increase in salaries to the level of 5% and in connection with the announcement of the average salary in the second quarter of 2024 by the President of the Central Statistical Office, on which the remuneration of judges is dependent. Increased expenditure on housing and science There was a further increase in expenditure on housing – item 39 of the special-purpose reserves for “Supplementation of expenditure on tasks in the area of ​​housing” was increased by PLN 420.2 million to supplement the non-repayable support for social and municipal housing in connection with the planned change in the regulations on financial support for certain housing projects. The financing of the tasks of the National Science Centre was increased by PLN 50 million. The Centre is one of the most important institutions in the country financing basic research (grants). Investing in scientific research is crucial for the development of society, improving the quality of life and strengthening Poland’s position in the international arena.

    MILES AXIS

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Insurance Sector – ICNZ calls on RMA changes to stop building in dumb places

    Source: Insurance Council of NZ

    The Insurance Council of New Zealand Te Kāhui Inihua o Aotearoa (ICNZ) is urging the Government to ensure that its proposed Resource Management Act (RMA) changes help protect local communities by avoiding building in dumb places.
    The Government has outlined plans to replace the RMA, with Phase 2 to introduce a package of national direction which councils must implement. The changes include the development of a National Direction for natural hazards and provide the ability to decline land use consents, or attach conditions, where there are significant risks from natural hazards.
    “We support enabling growth where natural hazard risk is well managed. However, if we allow development in high-risk locations, we risk putting people in harm’s way and ultimately worse outcomes for New Zealanders,” ICNZ chief executive Kris Faafoi said.
    “We know the country faces the prospect of more frequent and severe weather events. The impact of the extreme North Island weather events in early 2023 on lives, property and the economy were significant, with over $3.8 billion paid out in claims alone and billions more in damaged roads and other infrastructure networks.
    “The development of a National Direction will provide consistency in identifying and managing natural hazards and help ensure we build in the right places. This is turn will strengthen the country’s economic and community resilience and provide certainty to homeowners and businesses that insurance will be there when they need it.
    “New Zealand is particularly vulnerable to natural hazards risks. The Climate Change Commission’s reported around 750,000 people and 461,000 buildings are at risk of coastal inundation or inland flooding, involving many billions of dollars in assets.
    “New Zealand needs to take a long-term perspective that fosters the broad availability of insurance. This entails prudent land-use planning that avoids new developments in high-risk areas susceptible to natural hazards.
    “Where the risk becomes too high, insurance may not be affordable or available which has an impact on property values and the housing market and puts pressure on the government to invest in protection or compensate owners.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: After foray into plumbing, love for teaching leads student to study at EIT | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    1 hour ago

    Corey Boocock is currently in the second year of the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT Tairāwhiti.

    After a brief foray into plumbing, an EIT student has pursued his dream of being in a classroom by studying for a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT Tairāwhiti.

    Born and bred in Gisborne, Corey Boocock did his schooling at Mangapapa Primary School, Gisborne Intermediate and then Gisborne Boys High School.

    Despite having always liked teaching, Corey decided to pursue a plumbing apprenticeship after finishing school in 2020.

    “I fell into the mindset of not wanting to study after I left school. I just wanted to get a job and start earning money. I did a gateway programme and got offered a job out of school but after probably six months I found that I was not enjoying it too much anymore, so I left.”

    Corey says that he decided to visit Mangapapa School where his mother works as a teacher aide and observed a teacher teaching for a couple of hours. He had been told by his mother and a Careers Advisor at school that he would make a good teacher, so he decided to give it a go.

    He got a job as a teacher aide where he worked until the end of 2021, before enrolling at EIT in 2022.

    However, his tenure at EIT was not straightforward as he initially only completed semester one before taking a dream job teaching softball for Softball NZ for six months. Corey has a long history with softball, having represented New Zealand in the sport. This has seen him play overseas as well. He also travels to Hawke’s Bay each weekend to compete.

    After working for six months in flood restoration after Cyclone Gabrielle, he rejoined the EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) mid last year.

    Part of the programme sees students doing practicums throughout the year with partnerships schools and a placement as well. In 2023 Corey did his placement and Practicum at Mangapapa School. In 2024 his placement and first practicum was at Makaraka School. His last practicum for this year is at Sonrise Christian School in Gisborne.

    Corey has no doubt in recommending EIT as a place to study.

    “What I enjoy about the programme is the school based learning aspect of it in comparison to other places. I’m pretty sure that’s something exclusive to EIT so I quite appreciate that.”

    Currently in his second year, Corey is looking forward to becoming a teacher when he finishes his degree.

    Emma McFadyen, EIT Tairāwhiti Site Coordinator and Lecturer, Primary Education, said: “Corey’s experience prior to entering the Bachelor of Teaching provides a diverse perspective to his studies. His insights enrich class discussion and the learning environment.”

    “Corey’s commitment to becoming an effective educator serves as an inspiration to his peers and for future students thinking of enrolling in the programme.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –