Thursday, July 10, 2014

EX-IM BANK CLAIMS IT'S OPENING DOORS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IN CHINA

FROM:  U.S. EXPORT-IMPORT BANK 
The Export-Import Bank Continues to Open Doors for U.S. Small Businesses to Export to China in 2014
Direct and indirect small business support part of record-high $1.8 billion authorizations for exports to China year-to-date


SHENZHEN, CHINA – As the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. (Ex-Im Bank) Chairman and President Fred Hochberg tours China to encourage the purchase of Made-in-America goods and services and participates in the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, new statistics reveal that Ex-Im Bank is on track to hit a new record for transactions supporting U.S. exports to China in fiscal year 2014. Already totaling more than $1.8 billion, Ex-Im Bank financing contributes to a more balanced trade relationship with China, where exports from American companies have nearly doubled since 2009.


”As the world’s second largest economy, and the third largest importer of U.S. goods, China represents an incredible opportunity for U.S small businesses,” said Chairman Hochberg. “Both through direct sales to China and supplying larger U.S. exporters, American small businesses, with the help of Ex-Im Bank are competing on a more level playing field while expanding their exports to China and creating jobs in the United States.”

Ex-Im Bank does not compete with private banks or lenders, but still continues to play a vital role in opening China’s vast market to U.S. small businesses through its loan-guarantee and trade-credit-insurance programs. That’s because, often times, small business exporters have shipments that are too small for commercial banks to deem worth their time. With just over 400 employees, Ex-Im Bank is nimble enough that there is no American small business exporter that is too small for Ex-Im to support.

“We are finding that the ability to talk about and offer a loan is critical to our success for fire apparatus and equipment sales in many parts of China,” said Peter Darley, vice president of W.S. Darley of Itasca, Illinois. “Due to the Ex-Im framework agreement, interested Fire Departments are able to purchase products from the U.S. and can spread out their payments, affording them the opportunity to purchase the right amount of equipment with the desired quality and technology. We have a lot of good people working for us that are employed because we are able to offer project financing that is backed by Ex-Im Bank.”

As a result of Ex-Im support, small businesses across the U.S. have been able to directly export to China in FY 2014, including:

Bassett’s Ice Cream – Philadelphia, PA. Bassett’s is a fifth-generation frozen dessert distributor and a Philadelphia tradition since 1861.

Cypress Creek Hardwoods – Austin, TX. Cypress Creek Hardwoods sells hardwood lumber to China.

Lions Gate Inc. – Honaunau, HI. Lions Gate exports Kona Coffee.

South Coast Products – Houston, TX. South Coast produces lubricants, greases, thread compound, sealants, lubrication equipment, and laboratory equipment and accessories used for testing/analysis of greases and lubricants.

Teledynamics LLC – Towaco, NJ. Teledynamics manufactures and supplies mail and material monorail systems for hospitals, libraries, and law firms.

W.S. Darley – Itasca, IL. Darley is a leading provider of firefighting equipment, rescue gear, tools and supplies.

READOUT: DEPUTY AG COLE'S TOUR OF BORDER STATION IN MCALLEN, TX

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Readout of Deputy Attorney General’s Tour of Border Station in McAllen, Texas
Deputy Attorney General James Cole made a return trip today to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s McAllen Station and processing facility to discuss steps the Department of Justice is taking to help address the influx of migrants crossing the southwest border.

Chief Patrol Agent Kevin Oaks and Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Raul Ortiz gave the Deputy Attorney General a tour of the facility and a briefing on the operations at McAllen.  McAllen staff discussed the numbers of migrants that are arriving each day, including the numbers of unaccompanied children, families and adults; and the reasons, including violence in Central American countries, that many are giving for making the dangerous trek to the U.S. border.  Cole also viewed the station’s processing facility, where migrants who have arrived in the past few days are housed.

During his talk with McAllen staff, Cole took the opportunity to highlight the Justice Department’s commitment to prioritizing adjudication of cases that fall into the following four groups: unaccompanied children who recently crossed the border; families who recently crossed the border and are held in detention; families who recently crossed the border but are on “alternatives to detention;” and other detained cases, including border crossers and significant public safety threats.  He also emphasized that the department’s intention to reassign immigration judges in immigration courts around the country from their current dockets to hear the cases of individuals falling in these four groups.

Cole noted that the department is also seeking new funding for as many as 40 more immigration judges and to provide technical assistance to Central American countries in identifying and dismantling smuggling operations that take advantage of migrants seeking to enter the U.S.  He also noted that the department has requested funding to provide technical assistance in combating transnational crime and the threat posed by criminal gangs.  Cole reiterated that the department continues to focus on investigating and prosecuting smugglers who exploit and victimize vulnerable migrants, including children, in partnership with DHS and foreign governments. The discussion with McAllen staff also included a productive exchange of ideas on strategic ways to combat smuggling.

The Deputy Attorney General was impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the McAllen staff and thanked them for their service.  Cole last visited the facility in November 2013.

WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY MAKES STATEMENT ON INDONESIAN PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

FROM:  THE WHITE HOUSE 

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Indonesian Presidential Election

We congratulate the people of Indonesia on the successful completion of their historic presidential election.  The high voter turnout, spirited campaign, and strong participation by Indonesia’s public, civil society, and media underscore the strength and dynamism of Indonesia’s maturing democracy.
As the world’s second and third largest democracies, the United States and Indonesia have many shared interests and values, including a strong belief in the importance of respect for human rights, inclusive governance, and equal opportunities for all people.  The Comprehensive Partnership that our two countries launched in 2010 is a long-term commitment to build on our common interests to broaden, deepen and elevate bilateral relations between the United States and Indonesia, as well as to promote mutual understanding and work together on issues of regional and global concern.  The President looks forward to continuing that important partnership with the new Indonesian President, as well as with the recently elected parliament.
President Obama and his Administration have valued the partnership with President Yudhoyono, who has worked closely with the United States to strengthen our bilateral relationship and our engagement with ASEAN. As President Yudhoyono nears the end of his term, he can look back on an important legacy of helping Indonesia achieve strong economic growth, strengthened democratic institutions, and a role as a regional and global leader. This Administration recognizes with deep appreciation his efforts to build greater understanding between Indonesia and the United States, and we look forward to continuing close ties going forward.

FDA APPROVES MEDTRONIC COREVALVE SYSTEM

FROM:  U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION 
Medtronic CoreValve System - P130021/S002

This is a brief overview of information related to FDA’s approval to market this product. See the links below to the Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data (SSED) and product labeling for more complete information on this product, its indications for use, and the basis for FDA’s approval.

Product Name: Medtronic CoreValve System
PMA Applicant: Medtronic CoreValve LLC
Address: Medtronic CoreValve LLC, 3576 Unocal Place, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Approval Date: June 12, 2014
Approval Letter: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/ cdrh_docs/pdf13/P130021S002a.pdf

What is it? The Medtronic CoreValve System (often referred to as the CoreValve) consists of a catheter-based artificial aortic heart valve and accessories used to implant the valve without open-heart surgery. The valve is made of pig tissue attached to a flexible, self-expanding, nickel-titanium frame for support.

How does it work? The CoreValve is compressed and placed on the end of a tube-like device called a delivery catheter. It is then inserted through the femoral artery in the leg. If the femoral arteries are not suitable, the valve can also be inserted through other arteries or through the aorta. The catheter is pushed through the blood vessels until it reaches the diseased aortic valve. The valve is then released from the catheter, it expands on its own, and anchors to the diseased valve. The CoreValve functions the same as a normal valve, helping the blood flow properly by opening and closing like a door to force the blood to flow in the correct direction.

When is it used? The CoreValve is used in patients whose own aortic heart valve is diseased due to calcium build up, which causes the valve to narrow (aortic stenosis) and restricts blood flow through the valve. As the heart works harder to pump enough blood through the smaller opening, the heart eventually becomes weak. This can lead to symptoms and life-threatening heart problems such as fainting, chest pain, heart failure, irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), or cardiac arrest. Once symptoms of severe aortic stenosis occur, over half of the patients die within two years if the diseased valve is not replaced.

The CoreValve should only be used in patients who cannot undergo, or are at high risk for open heart surgery as determined by their heart team (a cardiologist and surgeon).

What will it accomplish? The CoreValve can help correct the blood flow problem associated with aortic stenosis in patients who need open-heart surgery to replace the diseased valve, but the surgical procedure is highly risky, or too risky. In the U.S. clinical trial, the CoreValve was shown to be reasonably safe and effective for those patients without the need for open-heart surgery. However, implanting the CoreValve also carries the risk of serious complications such as death, stroke, acute kidney injury, heart attack, bleeding, complications with the arteries used to insert the valve, and the need for a permanent pacemaker. For some patients with coexisting conditions or diseases, the risks may be especially high. Patients should discuss with their doctors the benefits and risks of this device.

When should it not be used? The CoreValve should not be used in patients who:

have an infection in the heart or elsewhere.
have an artificial (mechanical) aortic valve.
cannot tolerate blood thinning medicines.
have sensitivity to Nitinol (Titanium or Nickel) or to fluid used during the procedure to   see internal structures (contrast media).
Additional information: The Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data and labeling are available online.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

BNP PARIBAS PLEADS GUILTY TO CONSPIRING TO VIOLATE TRADING WITH THE ENEMY ACT

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
BNP Paribas Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Violate U.S. Economic Sanctions in Manhattan Federal Court
Court Accepts Plea Agreement Requiring BNP Paribas to Forfeit More Than $8.8 Billion and to Pay a Criminal Fine of $140 Million

BNP Paribas S.A. (BNPP), a global financial institution headquartered in Paris, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield in the Southern District of New York to a one-count information charging the bank with conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Trading with the Enemy Act (TWEA), for its role in processing billions of dollars of U.S. dollar transactions through the U.S. financial system on behalf of Sudanese, Iranian, and Cuban entities subject to U.S. economic sanctions from 2004 through 2012.

Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara for the Southern District of New York made the announcement.

In accepting BNPP’s guilty plea, the court accepted the plea agreement that had been entered into by the government and BNPP on June 30, 2014, under which BNPP agreed to forfeit a total of $8.8336 billion, pay a criminal fine of $140 million, cooperate with U.S. authorities, and be subject to a five-year term of probation, during which BNPP must enhance its compliance policies and procedures in accordance with settlement agreements BNPP has entered into with its principal U.S. regulators, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the New York State Department of Financial Services.

According to the plea agreement, statements made during today’s plea proceeding, and the statement of facts containing further admissions by BNPP, BNPP knowingly and willfully moved more than $8.8 billion through the U.S. financial system on behalf of entities subject to U.S. embargo from 2004 through 2012, including more than $4.3 billion in transactions involving entities that were specifically designated by the U.S. government as being cut off from the U.S. financial system.

BNPP admitted that the majority of illegal payments were made on behalf of sanctioned entities in Sudan, which was subject to U.S. embargo based on the Sudanese government’s role in facilitating terrorism and committing human rights abuses.   BNPP processed approximately $6.4 billion through the United States on behalf of Sudanese sanctioned entities from July 2006 through June 2007, including approximately $4 billion on behalf of a financial institution owned by the government of Sudan, even as internal emails showed BNPP employees expressing concern about the bank’s assisting the Sudanese government in light of its role in supporting international terrorism and committing human rights abuses during the same time period.   Indeed, in March 2007, a senior compliance officer at BNPP wrote to other high-level BNPP compliance and legal employees reminding them that certain Sudanese banks with which BNPP dealt “play a pivotal part in the support of the Sudanese government which . . . has hosted Osama Bin Laden and refuses the United Nations intervention in Darfur.”

One way in which BNPP processed illegal transactions on behalf of Sudanese sanctioned entities was through a sophisticated system of “satellite banks” set up to disguise both BNPP’s and the sanctioned entities’ roles in the payments to and from financial institutions in the United States.   As early as August 2005, a senior compliance officer at BNPP warned several legal, business, and compliance personnel at BNPP’s subsidiary in Geneva that the satellite bank system was being used to evade U.S. sanctions: “As I understand it, we have a number of Arab Banks (nine identified) on our books that only carry out clearing transactions for Sudanese banks in dollars. . . . This practice effectively means that we are circumventing the US embargo on transactions in USD by Sudan.”

Similarly, BNPP admitted that it provided Cuban sanctioned entities with access to the U.S. financial system by hiding the Cuban sanctioned entities’ involvement in payment messages.   From October 2004 through early 2010, BNPP knowingly and willfully processed approximately $1.747 billion on behalf of Cuban sanctioned entities.   In the statement of facts, BNPP admitted that it continued to do U.S. dollar business with Cuba long after it was clear that such business was illegal in order to preserve BNPP’s business relationships with Cuban entities.   BNPP further admitted that its conduct with regard to the Cuban embargo was both “cavalier” and “criminal,” as evidenced by the bank’s 2006 decision, after certain Cuban payments were blocked when they reached the United States, to strip the wire messages for those payments of references to Cuban entities and resubmit them as a lump sum in order to conceal from U.S. regulators the bank’s longstanding, and illicit, Cuban business.

BNPP also admitted to engaging in more than $650 million of transactions involving entities tied to Iran, and this conduct continued into 2012 – nearly two years after the bank had commenced an internal investigation into its sanctions compliance and had pledged to cooperate with the government.   The illicit Iranian transactions were done on behalf of BNPP clients, including a petroleum company based in Dubai that was effectively a front for an Iranian petroleum company, and an Iranian oil company.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation’s Washington Field Division and the FBI’s New York Field Office.   This case is being prosecuted by the Money Laundering and Bank Integrity Unit of the Criminal Division’s Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section (AFMLS) and the Money Laundering and Asset Forfeiture Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.   Trial Attorneys Craig Timm and Jennifer E. Ambuehl of AFMLS and Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew D. Goldstein, Martin S. Bell, Christine I. Magdo and Micah W.J. Smith of the Southern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution.

The New York County District Attorney’s Office also conducted its own investigation alongside the Department of Justice on this investigation.   The Department of Justice expressed its gratitude to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the New York State Department of Financial Services, and the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control for their assistance with this matter.

U.S. EXTENDS BEST WISHES TO PEOPLE OF REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN ON THEIR INDEPENDENCE DAY ANNIVERSARY

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

The Republic of South Sudan's Independence Day

Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
July 9, 2014


On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, we extend our best wishes to the people of the Republic of South Sudan on the third anniversary of their country’s independence.

Three years ago I witnessed the people of South Sudan vote to forge a new nation, founded on the promise of a more peaceful and prosperous future for all of South Sudan’s people.
Now that promise for which the people of South Sudan suffered and sacrificed so much is being threatened by the current conflict. Too much blood has been spilled, and too many lives have been lost, to allow South Sudan’s moment of hope and opportunity to slip from its grasp. As I told President Kiir when I visited South Sudan on May 2 of this year, and have discussed with President Kiir and Riek Machar in numerous phone conversations, it is high time to honor fully the Cessation of Hostilities agreement of January 23 to end the violence, especially the violence being targeted against civilians. The people of South Sudan need their leaders to use the Intergovernmental Authority on Development peace process to end the conflict and establish a transitional government that can ensure stability, prosperity, and peace for all. Now is the time for South Sudan’s leaders to show courage and leadership, and to reaffirm their commitment to unity, to reconciliation and accountability, and to a better future for the people of South Sudan.

The United States remains committed to supporting the people of South Sudan during this time of incredible difficulty, and continuing to lead the international response to the looming humanitarian and refugee crisis. Looking forward, the United States will continue to be a steadfast partner to the South Sudanese people in support of their efforts to achieve a more peaceful and prosperous future for their young country.

U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT CONTRACTS FOR JULY 9, 2914

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT 

CONTRACTS

ARMY

Alliant Techsystems Operations, LLC, Plymouth, Minnesota (W15QKN-14-D-0061); Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio (W15QKN-14-D-0062); Booz Allen Hamilton Inc., McLean, Virginia (W15QKN-14-D-0063); Concurrent Technologies Corp., Johnstown, Pennsylvania (W15QKN-14-D-0064); General Dynamics Ordinance Tactical Systems, St. Petersburg, Florida (W15QKN-14-D-0065); and Leidos Inc., Reston, Virginia (W15QKN-14-D-0066), were awarded a $300,000,000 multiple award order dependent contract to obtain materials and services to meet the Armament, Research, Development, and Engineering Center's mission requirements with an estimated completion date of July 9, 2019. Bids were solicited via the Internet with nine received. Funding and work location will be determined with each order. Army Contracting Command, Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, is the contracting activity.

R. J. Zaval & Sons Inc.*, East Grand Forks, Minnesota, was awarded a $12,272,783 firm-fixed-price contract for the Roseau Flood Risk Management Project to construct a 6,500 foot diversion channel, a channel inlet structure, a concrete restriction structure and drainage system. Work will be performed in Roseau, Minnesota, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 12, 2015. Bids were solicited via the Internet with five received. Fiscal 2014 other procurement funds in the amount of $12,272,783 are being obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul, Minnesota, is the contracting activity (W912ES-14-C-0011).

NAVY

Spry Methods Inc.,* Arlington, Virginia (N65236-14-D-4158); Gateway Ventures Inc.,* Norfolk, Virginia (N65236-14-D-4159); Gemini Industries Inc.,* Burlington, Massachusetts (N65236-14-D-4160); and MH Harbor, LLC,* North Charleston, South Carolina (N65236-14-D-4161), are each being awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price, with provisions for cost-plus-fixed-fee task orders, performance based multiple award contract for the procurement of Information Dominance Program and financial management support services. The cumulative, estimated value (ceiling) of the base year combined is $33,326,967. The contracts include options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value (ceiling) of these contracts to an estimated $99,980,901. Work will be performed worldwide. Work is expected to be completed by July 2015. If all options are exercised, work could continue until July 2017. SPAWAR Systems Center Atlantic Navy working capital funds in the amount of $10,000 will be obligated at the time of award as the minimum guarantee and will be split among the four awardees; these funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract action establishes a potential ceiling value, in which funds are obligated on individual task orders. The multiple award contracts were competitively procured by full and open competition after exclusion of sources under small business set-aside provisions (10 U.S.C. 2304(b)(2)) via the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center e-Commerce Central website and the Federal Business Opportunities website, with 13 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic, Charleston, South Carolina, is the contracting activity.

Atlas Executive Consulting,** Charleston, South Carolina (N65236-14-D-4162); CBAIA Logistics,** Fredericksburg, Virginia (N65236-14-D-4163); and Compendium Federal Technology,** Lexington Park, Maryland (N65236-14-D-4164), are each being awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price, with provisions for cost-plus-fixed-fee task orders, performance based multiple award contract for the procurement of program management and financial management support services including non-inherently governmental services to perform analyses and research. The cumulative, estimated value (ceiling) of the base year combined is $33,326,967. These contracts include options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of these contracts to an estimated $99,980,901. Work will be performed worldwide. Work is expected to be completed by July 2015. If all options are exercised, work could continue until July 2017. SPAWAR Systems Center Atlantic Navy working capital funds in the amount of $10,000 will be obligated at the time of award as the minimum guarantee and will be split among the three awardees; these funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract action establishes a potential ceiling value, in which funds are obligated on individual task orders. The multiple award contracts were competitively procured by full and open competition after exclusion of sources (100% service disabled veteran-owned small business set-aside) via the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center e-Commerce Central website and the Federal Business Opportunities website, with 12 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic, Charleston, South Carolina, is the contracting activity.

BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair, San Diego, California, is being awarded a $15,866,612 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-11-C-4408) for USS Decatur (DDG 73) fiscal 2014 Dry-Docking Selected Restricted Availability. A Dry-Docking Selected Restricted Availability includes the planning and execution of depot-level maintenance, alterations and modifications that will update and improve the ship's military and technical capabilities. Work will be performed in San Diego, California, and is expected to be completed by February 2015. Fiscal 2014 operations and maintenance (Navy); fiscal 2014 research, development, test and evaluation; fiscal 2014 working capital funds (Navy); and fiscal 2014 other procurement (Navy) funding in the amount of $15,866,612 will be obligated at time of award. Contract funds in the amount of $12,035,470 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, San Diego, California, is the contracting activity.
Atlantic Diving Supply Inc.,* Virginia Beach, Virginia, is being awarded $9,695,389 for firm-fixed-price Blanket Purchase Agreement call 0001 for the procurement of 2,136 advanced integrated solar power case assemblies in support of the Marine Corps Ground Renewable Expeditionary Energy System program under the Program Manager for Expeditionary Power Systems. Work will be performed in Lafayette, Colorado, and is expected to be completed by August 2015. Fiscal 2014 procurement funding (Marine Corps) in the amount of $9,695,389 will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the General Services Administration eBuy website, with two offers received. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Virginia, is the contracting activity (M67854-14-A-5019).

AIR FORCE

The Boeing Company, St. Louis, Missouri, has been awarded an estimated $10,111,976 (P00005) modification to the firm-fixed-price contract (FA8119-12-D-0009) to extend the ordering period of a requirements contract for the repair of 23 B-1B Aircraft Secondary Structural Components. The total cumulative face value of the contract is $30,003,960. The contract modification is for the exercise of Option 1, a two-year option. Work will be performed at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, and completed by July 9, 2016, with delivery to be cited on each individual order. No working capital funds are being obligated at time of award. This is not a multiyear contract. Air Force Sustainment Center/PZABC, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, is the contracting activity.

Kaman Precision Products, Inc., Orlando, Florida, has been awarded a $8,475,368.48 firm-fixed-price modification (P00016) to FA8681-13-C-0029 for Lot 11 Production of Joint Programmable Fuze systems. The contract modification provides for the exercise of an option for an additional quantity of 3,069 state-of-the-art fuze systems being produced under the basic contract. Work will be performed at Orlando, Florida, and is expected to be completed by September 2016. This contract is 8 percent foreign military sales for Morocco and Singapore. Fiscal 2012, 2013 and 2014 ammunition procurement funds in the amount of $8,475,368 will be obligated at time of award. This is not a multiyear contract. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/EBDK, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Marietta, Georgia, has been awarded a $8,074,584 firm-fixed-price modification (P00293) to FA8625-07-C-6471 for the C-5 Reliability Enhancement and Re-Engining Program (RERP) Production. The modification provides additional funding for Over and Above legacy work associated with Lot 5 aircraft. This Over and Above work allows Lockheed Martin Aero to complete necessary repairs related to legacy issues found during the course of the C-5 RERP aircraft modification. All work will be performed at Marietta, Georgia, and is expected to be completed by Sept. 15, 2015. This award is the result of a sole source acquisition. Fiscal 2013 aircraft procurement funds in the amount of $8,074,584 are being obligated at time of award. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WLSK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Custom Manufacturing & Engineering,*** Pinellas Park, Florida, has been awarded a maximum $7,085,250 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for purchase of power supplies for various weapons systems. This contract was a competitive acquisition and nine offers were received. Location of performance is Florida, with a July 8, 2015 performance completion date. This is a one-year base contract with two one-year option periods. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 through fiscal 2015 Army working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland (SPRBL1-14-D-0018).

DEFENSE THREAT REDUCTION AGENCY

InfoReliance Corporation, Fairfax, Virginia, has been awarded a time-and-materials and firm- fixed-price contract (HDTRA1-14-F-0017) with an estimated maximum amount of $8,932,350 for Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS) in support of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency Directorate of Information Operations (J6). The contract award was made off the GSA schedule. There are only six vendors who are licensed to provide MCS; Defense Threat Reduction Agency solicited all six vendors, and received two quotes and one no bid. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 research and development and operations and maintenance funds. Work will be performed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, at the DTRA facility with a July 8, 2016, completion date. The contracting activity is Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

*Small business
**Service disabled veteran-owned small business
***Woman-owned small disadvantaged business

DOJ ANNOUNCES "NEW PRIORITIES" TO DEAL WITH MIGRANT BORDER CROSSING SURGE

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Department of Justice Announces New Priorities to Address Surge of Migrants Crossing into the U.S.

Justice Department Proposes Establishing Legal and Law Enforcement Advisors to Aid in Disrupting and Dismantling Immigrant Smuggling Operations
Deputy Attorney General James Cole announced today that the Justice Department will implement a series of steps to help address the influx of migrants crossing the southern border of the United States.  These include refocusing immigration court resources to adjudicate the cases of recent migrants; providing support and training to help address violence in Central America; and redoubling efforts to work with other federal agencies and the Mexican government to investigate and prosecute those who smuggle migrants to the United States.

“Individuals who embark on the perilous journey from Central America to the United States are subject to violent crime, abuse, and extortion as they rely on dangerous human smuggling networks to transport them through Central America and Mexico,” Deputy Attorney General Cole said.  “We have an obligation to provide humanitarian care for children and adults with children who are apprehended on our borders, but we also must do whatever we can to stem the tide of this dangerous migration pattern.  The efforts we are announcing today are intended to address the challenges of this influx in a humane, efficient and timely way.”

Cole announced that the department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) will refocus its resources to prioritize cases involving migrants who have recently crossed the southwest border and whom DHS has placed into removal proceedings -- so that these cases are processed both quickly and fairly to enable prompt removal in appropriate cases, while ensuring the protection of asylum seekers and others.

“This refocusing of resources will allow EOIR to prioritize the adjudication of the cases of those individuals involved in the evolving situation at the southwest border,” said EOIR Director Juan P. Osuna.  “Although our case management priorities are shifting, our immigration judges will continue to evaluate and rule upon cases consistent with all substantive and procedural rights and safeguards applicable to immigration proceedings.”
         
To augment its capacity to adjudicate cases as promptly as possible, EOIR is committed to hiring more immigration judges.  EOIR this week will also publish a regulation allowing for the appointment of temporary immigration judges.  Further, EOIR plans both to expand its existing legal access programs, and enhance access to legal resources and assistance for persons in removal proceedings.

Cole also announced that the Department is seeking new funding, as a part of the President’s emergency supplemental appropriations request, to assist Central American countries in combatting transnational crime and the threat posed by criminal gangs.  This regional strategy for law enforcement capacity building would be aimed at addressing the issues that have been a factor in forcing many migrants to flee Central America for the United States.

The department will also redouble its efforts to work with Mexican authorities to identify and apprehend smugglers who are aiding unaccompanied children in crossing the U.S. border.  Later this week, the Deputy Attorney General will also be meeting with the five U.S. Attorneys who represent the southwest border districts to strategize on ways to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations on the border that are facilitating the transportation of unaccompanied minors and others.

Today, Deputy Attorney General Cole will go to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s McAllen Station and processing facility to see the urgent situation at the border.  EOIR Director Osuna will be testifying before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to highlight the Justice Department’s efforts to aid in the administration-wide response to the migrant influx.

SECRETARY KERRY'S PRESS STATEMENT ON 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF JOURNALIST PAUL KLEBNIKOV'S MURDER

FROM:   U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Marking the 10th Anniversary of the Murder of American Journalist Paul Klebnikov

Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
July 9, 2014


Ten years ago today, an American journalist was shot and killed as he left his Moscow office. Paul Klebnikov did more than write about politics and business in Russia. He was a voice of conscience in the fight against corruption.

Paul’s senseless murder was a sickening punch in the gut. Ten years later, we remain deeply troubled that the mystery of who ordered the murder is still unsolved. We continue to call on Russia, as we have over the last decade, to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.

It’s not lost on any of us that the unvarnished truth-telling and investigative journalism to which Klebnikov dedicated his life continues to be under attack in Russia. The space for independent voices in Russian media is rapidly shrinking.

Today of all days, we honor the memory of Paul Klebnikov and the other journalists in Russia who have lost their lives. We call on the Russian government to protect journalists from attacks and to respect fundamental freedoms of expression.

U.S. MARINES PROVIDE SECURITY IN HELMAND PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT 



U.S. Marines provide security during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, June 28, 2014. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. John A. Martinez Jr.




U.S. Marine Corps Pvt. 1st Class Michael Fabregat scans his sector while providing security during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, June 28, 2014. Fabregat, a rifleman, is assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. John A. Martinez Jr.




U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Lucas A. Bankson observes his surroundings during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, June 28, 2014. Bankson, a squad leader, is assigned to 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. John A. Martinez Jr.

U.S. "STRONGLY CONDEMNS" TERRORIST ATTACK ON PRESIDENTIAL COMPOUND IN SOMALI

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Al-Shabaab Attack on Presidential Compound

Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
July 8, 2014




The United States strongly condemns today's terrorist attack against Villa Somalia, the headquarters and residence of several Somali government officials in Mogadishu.

We offer our condolences to the victims and their families.

Incidents such as this further demonstrate that insecurity in Mogadishu persists, including very real threats from al-Shabaab. This is why we continue to support the efforts of the Somali National Security Forces and the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) to expand security and stability in Somalia. These forces stopped today’s attackers and prevented further harm.

The United States stands as a firm partner to the people of Somalia and the Somali government as they continue to forge their path towards stability.

NEW PRECIPITATION SATELITE SEES 2014'S 1ST ATLANTIC HURRICANE

HHS SAYS $100 MILLION AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT NEW HEALTH CENTER SITES

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

HHS announces the availability of $100 million in Affordable Care Act funding to expand access to primary care through new community health centers
HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell announced today the availability of $100 million from the Affordable Care Act to support an estimated 150 new health center sites across the country in 2015. New health center sites will increase access to comprehensive, affordable, high quality primary health care services in the communities that need it most.  Later today, Secretary Burwell will also visit a Community Health Center in Decatur, Georgia to talk with its health care professionals about the important work they are doing to connect the community with high quality primary care.

“In communities across the country, Americans turn to their local Community Health Center for vital health care services that help them lead healthy, productive lives,” said Secretary Burwell.  “That’s why it’s so important that the Affordable Care Act is supporting the expansion of health centers.”

The investment announced today will add to the more than 550 new health center sites that have opened in the last three years as a result of the Affordable Care Act.  Today, nearly 1,300 health centers operate more than 9,200 service delivery sites that provide care to more than 21 million patients in every State, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Pacific Basin.  Health centers are also playing a critical role in helping the public learn about new coverage opportunities under the Affordable Care Act, by conducting outreach and enrollment activities that link individuals to affordable coverage options available through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

“Since last fall, health centers have provided enrollment assistance to more than 4.7 million people across the country,” said HRSA Administrator Mary K. Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N. “We are pleased that the Affordable Care Act is supporting the establishment of additional health center sites to provide expanded opportunities for the newly insured to receive care.”

SEC CHARGES SCHOOL DISTRICT WITH MISLEADING BOND INVESTORS

FROM:  U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 

The Securities and Exchange Commission charged a school district in California with misleading bond investors about its failure to provide contractually required financial information and notices.  The case is the first to be resolved under a new SEC initiative to address materially inaccurate statements in municipal bond offering documents. 

The SEC found that in the course of a 2010 bond offering, Kings Canyon Joint Unified School District affirmed to investors that it had complied with its prior continuing disclosure obligations.  The statement was inaccurate because between at least 2008 and 2010, the school district had failed to submit some required disclosures.  The California school district agreed to settle the charges without admitting to or denying the findings.

Under the Municipalities Continuing Disclosure Cooperation (MCDC) initiative, the SEC’s Enforcement Division agreed to recommend standardized settlement terms for issuers and underwriters who self-report or were already under investigation for violations involving continuing disclosure obligations.  The 2014 initiative, launched on March 10, expires on September 10.

“The integrity of the municipal securities market requires that issuers carefully comply with all of their disclosure obligations,” said Andrew J. Ceresney, director of the SEC’s Division of Enforcement.  “Our MCDC initiative is one piece of our efforts to ensure that issuers meet their obligations going forward.”

LeeAnn Ghazil Gaunt, chief of the SEC Enforcement Division’s Municipal Securities and Public Pensions Unit added, “An important component of the MCDC program is that it provides issuers who were already under investigation the opportunity to accept the standard terms and resolve their enforcement matters in a fair and efficient manner.  We are pleased that King’s Canyon has taken advantage of the program and we continue to encourage all eligible issuers and underwriters to do so while the MCDC terms are still available.”

The SEC’s order instituting settled administrative proceedings finds that in three bond offerings between 2006 and 2007, Kings Canyon contractually agreed to disclose annual financial information and notices of certain events pertaining to those bonds.  When it conducted a $6.8 million bond offering in November 2010, Kings Canyon was required to describe any instances where it had failed to materially comply with its prior disclosure obligations.  In the 2010 offering document, Kings Canyon inaccurately affirmed that there was “no instance in the previous five years in which it failed to comply in all material respects with any previous continuing disclosure obligation.”  Because Kings Canyon failed to submit some of the contractually required disclosures relating to the 2006 and 2007 offerings, the November 2010 bond offering document contained an untrue statement of a material fact.

Without admitting or denying the SEC’s findings, Kings Canyon consented to an order to cease and desist from committing or causing any future violations of Section 17(a) of the Securities Act.  It also agreed to adopt written policies for its continuing disclosure obligations, comply with its existing continuing disclosure obligations, cooperate with any subsequent investigation by the Enforcement Division, and disclose the terms of its settlement with the SEC in future bond offering materials.   

The SEC’s investigation was conducted by Monique C. Winkler and was supervised by Cary Robnett.  Both are in the SEC’s San Francisco Regional Office and are members of the Enforcement Division’s Municipal Securities and Public Pensions Unit.

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULT OF HURRICANE RELIEF WORKERS BASED ON RACE

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Louisiana Man Pleads Guilty to Racially-Motivated Assault on Hurricane Relief Workers

Josh Jambon, 52, a resident of Grand Isle, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today in front of U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to two counts of federal civil rights violations, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Jocelyn Samuels for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

In connection with his plea, Jambon admitted that he assaulted two female African-American Hurricane Isaac relief workers because of their race and because of their employment status.  On Sept. 18, 2012, in Grand Isle, Jambon approached a work crew tasked with cleaning up debris from Hurricane Isaac.  During an interaction with the work crew, Jambon used racial slurs against two female African-American crew members, M.R. and N.S.  Jambon then approached N.S. and hit her in the face, because of her race and because of her employment with the work crew, then proceeded to assault M.R. in the same manner.  When Jambon saw a third crew member, B.W., filming the incident on her cell phone, Jambon initiated a physical struggle with B.W. in an attempt to take her cell phone so that he could delete the video.

“Hate-fueled violence has no place in a civilized society,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jocelyn Samuels for the Civil Rights Division.  “The Justice Department is committed to using all the tools in our law enforcement arsenal to prosecute acts motivated by racial bias.”

“By holding Mr. Jambon accountable for his racially-motivated criminal conduct, our office once again demonstrates its commitment to protecting the civil rights of all residents in Southeast Louisiana,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

For each count, Jambon faces a statutory maximum penalty of one year in prison, up to one year of supervised release, a $100,000 fine and a $25 special assessment.

The case is being investigated by special agents of the FBI.

AG HOLDER URGES INTERNATIONAL EFFORT TO DEAL WITH FOREIGN FIGHTERS IN SYRIA

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Attorney General Holder Urges International Effort to Confront Threat of Syrian Foreign Fighters
During Visit to Norway, Attorney General Outlines Law Enforcement Approaches to Countering Violent Extremism

In a speech Tuesday, Attorney General Eric Holder called Syria "a cradle of violent extremism" and urged multilateral law enforcement action to confront the security threat posed by radicalized individuals from the United States and Europe traveling there.

An estimated 7,000 foreign fighters, including dozens of Americans, have streamed into Syria to participate in the conflict there. These individuals can link up with violent extremist groups operating in the region and then seek to return to their home countries with training in how to carry out violence on a large scale. Attorney General Holder said the U.S. and its allies have a mutual interest in confronting this trend, observing that the ability of citizens of European nations to travel, visa-free, to the United States--and likewise, U.S. citizens' ability to freely visit Europe--means that "the problem of fighters in Syria returning to any of our countries is a problem for all of our countries."

Holder called for a four-part strategy to counter the threat. The approach includes enacting statutes that allow governments to prosecute planning activities undertaken by radicalized extremists seeking to aid terrorist groups. Holder also pointed to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's undercover operations as a successful method for identifying violent extremists and disrupting their plots. He also called for more information sharing among nations about travelers to Syria, and for expanded outreach to key communities in order to prevent individuals from becoming radicalized in the first place.

"In the face of a threat so grave, we cannot afford to be passive," Holder said. "Rather, we need the benefit of investigative and prosecutorial tools that allow us to be preemptive in our approach to confronting this problem. If we wait for our nations’ citizens to travel to Syria or Iraq, to become radicalized, and to return home, it may be too late to adequately protect our national security."

The Attorney General spoke in Oslo at the U.S. ambassador's residence. The remarks followed one-on-one meetings earlier Tuesday with both the Prime Minister of Norway and the country’s Minister of Justice. In 2013, Norway amended its laws to criminalize preparatory acts to terrorism, including training for terrorism, preparation for terrorism and participation in a terrorist organization. In addition, last month the Norwegian government announced a 30-point "Action Plan Against Radicalism and Violent Extremism" that focuses on civic engagement and detection of threats. Holder praised both steps in his remarks Tuesday and said the United States looked forward to continued cooperation with Norway on these matters.

Later this week, Attorney General Holder travels to London for the Sixth Annual Meeting of the Quintet of Attorney Generals from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The issue of Syrian foreign fighters is expected to be part of those discussions as well.

A copy of the Attorney General's remarks appears below.

Thank you for those kind words – and thank you all for such a warm welcome.  Ladies and gentlemen; distinguished guests; leaders and citizens – it is a pleasure to be in Norway.  And it’s a great privilege to be in the beautiful city of Oslo today.

I’d like to thank the Norwegian government – and especially Prime Minister [Erna] Solberg and Minister of Justice [Anders] Anundsen, with whom I met earlier today – for their hospitality.  I’d also like to recognize our Charge, Julie Furuta-Toy, and the hardworking men and women of the U.S. Embassy for bringing us together – and for all that they do, every day, to advance our shared interests.

It’s an honor to join them – and to stand with all of you – in strengthening the ties that bind our nations together; in discussing some of the most critical challenges the international community must confront; and in reaffirming our mutual commitment to the values we share, and the high ideals – of democracy, liberty, and equal justice under law – that have defined our nations’ friendship over the past two centuries.

That friendship, and those values, have deep roots.  Norwegian-Americans have played an important role in the development of our country.  And your citizens and values have had an impact around the world.  Two hundred years ago, Norway ratified a constitution that asserted certain essential and immutable rights.  Through centuries of triumph and challenge, our people and our governments have both been guided by a shared understanding that “all people are born free and equal.”

Today, Norway is a leader in extending worldwide the promise of equality and justice, through its own development work overseas, and through its support of international institutions.  And Norway leads global efforts to address urgent threats – most recently in Syria, where Norwegian and American personnel are working side-by-side to rid that country of chemical weapons.  Around the world, Norway is recognized as a champion of democracy and human rights.  And, for decades, you’ve been leading by example.

After all, as history teaches us – and as you’ve seen here in Norway and we in the United States – progress is not inevitable.  And our democratic values, our open societies – and our commitment to tolerance and inclusion – must be continuously protected against agents of intolerance, extremism, and hate.

Particularly when hatred and extremism take expression in acts of violence and terror, we must be resolute in our protection of equal rights, democracy, and the rule of law.  And we must be both innovative and aggressive in combating violent extremism in all its forms.

It was just three years ago this month that Norway endured devastating attacks on the government quarter of Oslo and a Workers’ Youth League summer camp – heinous acts that shocked citizens everywhere, and earned swift condemnation and sympathy from around the world – as President Obama stated, our hearts went out to you.  Horrific crimes like these are not only terrible tragedies for the individuals and the nations targeted; they test our fortitude and challenge the very foundations of who we are.  Yet Norway has not faltered or changed its values – and is an example for the world in this regard as well.

Like Norway, the United States is all too familiar with domestic threats, having suffered deadly attacks on our soil – including against government buildings, places of worship, and sporting events.  These attacks, like the attacks you suffered here in Norway, share a common theme:  they are attacks on tolerance, in the name of violent extremist ideologies.

Under the Obama Administration, while we have acted to protect our country and our allies, we have also redoubled our commitment to civil rights and to tolerance.  This is what violent extremists most fear, for their goal is to undermine open societies.  At the same time, we also have joined with our international partners to ensure that there is no impunity for those who seek to commit terrorist attacks.   Now, Norway, the United States, and countries around the world face a new threat – the possibility that violent extremists fighting today in Syria, Iraq, or other locations may seek to commit acts of terror tomorrow in our countries as well.

U.S. intelligence officials estimate that nearly 23,000 violent extremists are currently operating in Syria.  Among these are over 7,000 foreign fighters – among whom are dozens of Americans, a number that is growing.

We have a mutual and compelling interest in developing shared strategies for confronting the influx of U.S.- and European-born violent extremists into Syria.  And because our citizens can freely travel, visa-free, from the U.S. to Norway and other European states – and vice versa – the problem of fighters in Syria returning to any of our countries is a problem for all of our countries.

This is a global crisis in need of a global solution.  The Syrian conflict has turned that region into a cradle of violent extremism.  But the world cannot simply sit back and let it become a training ground from which our nationals can return and launch attacks.  And we will not.

In the face of a threat so grave, we cannot afford to be passive.  Rather, we need the benefit of investigative and prosecutorial tools that allow us to be preemptive in our approach to confronting this problem.  If we wait for our nations’ citizens to travel to Syria or Iraq, to become radicalized, and to return home, it may be too late to adequately protect our national security.

That’s why we need to adopt a multilateral four-pronged strategy to combat this threat, to counter violent extremism in all its forms, and to keep our citizens safe.

The first element of our united approach must be to ensure that there are laws in our systems that enable governments to properly police that threat.  In its Rabat Memorandum, the Global Counterterrorism Forum – a group of 30 countries from around the world, working in partnership with the UN – stated that “Criminalizing preparatory acts, such as conspiracy, terrorist fundraising, terrorist recruitment, planning and training, particularly when a terrorist attack has not yet been carried out, is vital in an effective criminal justice preventive approach to counterterrorism.”  In this regard, the U.S. relies on a statute that criminalizes the providing of “material support to terrorist organizations.”  Our material-support law, which was originally enacted in 1994 and amended after the attacks in New York on September 11, 2001, bars not only contributions of personnel, cash, weapons and other tangible aid to designated terrorist organizations, but also intangible means of support – such as training, service, and expert advice or assistance.  Similarly, in 2013, Norway amended its laws to criminalize preparatory acts to terrorism, including training for terrorism, preparation for terrorism and participation in a terrorist organization   Likewise, in 2012, France enacted a new statute that enables prosecutors to charge individuals with “criminal association with the intent to commit terrorist acts.”  Earlier this year, French authorities sentenced the nation’s first three defendants under this new law; all three were plotting to travel to Syria.  Today, I urge governments around the world to consider similar measures that criminalize the preparatory acts committed by those with terrorist plans.

The second part of our comprehensive strategy looks to ensure that we have in place law enforcement investigative tools and techniques that are both effective and protective of individual rights and the rule of law.  In this regard, we have found undercover operations – which the Federal Bureau of Investigation pioneered in fighting transnational organized crime – to be essential in fighting terrorism as well.  In the United States, the FBI has already conducted undercover operations that have identified individuals with intentions to travel to Syria.  These operations are conducted with extraordinary care and precision, ensuring that law enforcement officials are accountable for the steps they take – and that suspects are neither entrapped nor denied legal protections.  Here, too, the Global Counterterrorism Forum’s Rabat Memorandum calls for such techniques to be applied in countries around the world:  one of the “good practices” it advocates is that countries “Provide a Legal Framework and Practical Measures for Undercover Investigations of Terrorist Suspects or Organizations.”

Third: in order to further our investigative capabilities, we must strengthen international cooperation, in a variety of respects.  As an initial matter, we must prioritize the sharing of traveler information as a potential way to prevent would-be foreign fighters from going to Syria in the first place – and tracking those who come back.  The United States is committed to doing its part in this regard.  As we speak, through law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, U.S. authorities are working with Interpol to disseminate information on foreign fighters.  We encourage other countries to use Interpol – and Interpol notices – to combat the foreign-fighter phenomenon.  And we are actively supporting Interpol’s Fusion Cell, which focuses on information-sharing relating to foreign fighters.  In fact, the U.S. has provided personnel, including FBI agents, to support this specialized office.

While we are committed to ensuring that we protect the safety of our fellow citizens, we are also committed to protecting their privacy.  Alongside policymakers in Brussels, we’re also working to attain an “umbrella” data-sharing agreement between the United States and the European Union, that would strengthen the already strong protections that are presently in existence and that ensure that law enforcement information is shared effectively, and in accordance with data privacy principles.  This agreement will guarantee that there will be no diminishment of the key exchanges of law enforcement information, including terrorism information, that is critical to the safety of citizens in Europe, the U.S., and around the world.  And as a step to advance this endeavor, last month – in Athens – I announced a United States commitment that the Obama Administration would seek legislation to create the ability – for non-U.S. persons – to seek judicial redress for access and rectification, and for willful or intentional disclosure, of law enforcement information transferred to the United States.  This is an historic commitment by the United States to extend privacy protections beyond U.S. persons in this context.  It is imperative that we reach an “umbrella” agreement in this regard as soon as possible.  The time for posturing has long past.  It is time for nations that have long shared fundamental views about privacy to act together.

Countries must also effectively use mutual legal assistance and extradition to counter foreign fighters.  Here, too, the Rabat Memorandum of the Global Counterterrorism Forum is instructive:  “Because terrorism often transcends national boundaries, timely and effective international cooperation is indispensable to a criminal justice response to terrorism.”  Through international mutual legal assistance, the U.S. Department of Justice has provided evidence to countries for use in prosecutions of terrorist organizations – including terrorist groups that were recruiting others to fight in Syria.  We continue to assist foreign partners around the globe by acting on mutual legal assistance requests and providing evidence to support those criminal investigations and prosecutions.  And we believe it’s critical that countries develop their abilities to effectively engage in mutual legal assistance – including by strengthening their central authorities – so that we can work together to counter this shared threat.

International cooperation also means working together to build the capacity of other nations, as Norway does in so many different contexts.  Norwegian and U.S. Department of Justice legal advisors have worked together to build Rule of Law in Georgia and Moldova.  And to enhance similar efforts on a global scale, the U.S. Department of Justice is providing capacity-building assistance to help our partners build fair and transparent justice systems that will allow their countries to confront transnational crime and terrorism, including the problem of foreign fighters.  Applying the standards of the UN Counterterrorism Treaties, and the best practices of the Rabat Memorandum, our capacity-building work, and that of our foreign partners, has helped advance laws permitting police and prosecutors to more effectively investigate and prosecute suspected foreign fighters, within the Rule of Law – leading to the disruption of foreign fighters and the dismantlement of organizations that recruit would-be fighters to travel to Syria.  Through ongoing programs in places such as the Balkans, Africa, and elsewhere, we continue to work with international partners to help them stem the flows of foreign fighters; to use the tools they have to more effectively impede their movements; and to assist in the investigation and prosecution of foreign fighters once captured.

Today, I challenge additional nations to step forward, as Norway has.  Commit to robust, and privacy-protective, data-sharing in service of our mutual security.  Pledge support for Interpol’s “Transnational Fighter Initiative.”  Support mutual legal assistance and capacity building.  And urge others to do their part by participating fully in these efforts – which will be effective only to the extent that they are as comprehensive as possible.

The fourth and final element of our strategy is founded on the notion that strong laws, effective investigative tools, and robust information-sharing must be matched with public engagement – and extensive community outreach.  We must seek to stop individuals from becoming radicalized in the first place by putting in place strong programs to counter violent extremism in its earliest stages.  In my time here in Norway, I have had the chance to learn about – and have been deeply impressed by – Norway’s Action Plan Against Radicalization and Violent Extremism.

Indeed, I have found it critical to engage in international exchanges with my counterparts regarding how we can do better on combating radicalization, and to learn from each other.   I will take home with me important lessons from Norway’s experience.  These lessons will help us implement our own National Strategy and Strategic Implementation Plan, which is led by the Justice Department, the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Counterterrorism Center.

Our approach depends on building mutual trust and respect with members of communities across the country – so that we can understand their needs and concerns and to foster open dialogue with community leaders and citizens.  This enables us to work with them to mitigate tensions and identify emerging threats.

At the heart of these engagement efforts in the United States are our United States Attorneys, the chief federal prosecutors in each of the jurisdictions they serve.  Since 2012, our U.S. Attorneys have held or attended more than 1,700 engagement-related events.  And the resulting relationships have not only served to build trust.  They have also produced valuable cooperation, in some cases spurring community members to alert law enforcement about individuals who show an inclination to turn to violence.

Across the United States and in countries around the world, such counter-radicalization programs show significant promise.  They serve our broader aim of fostering tolerance, inclusion, and understanding – which are themselves powerful tools against violent extremism.  But ultimately, our goal must be not just to fight radicalization or apprehend dangerous individuals.  At its core, this work is about forging more just and open societies – and building a more peaceful world.

That’s why it’s especially fitting that we recommit ourselves to these efforts here in Oslo – where so many of mankind’s highest ideals and aspirations have been recognized.  For more than a century, this city has welcomed some of the most devoted peacemakers the world has ever known – from the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who advocated for “a more noble civilization” in the midst of America’s long night of racial injustice; to Nelson Mandela, who insisted that “an injury to one is an injury to all.”

Throughout history, these pioneers of peace have called us to recognize that our capacity for courage has no limit.  The struggle for human rights, civil rights, and equal justice knows no borders or boundaries.  Yet their stories also remind us that, for all the progress that they have made possible, our journey still stretches beyond the horizon.  And our work has no end.

You know as well as anyone that the work ahead will not be easy.  None of the challenges we face are simple or straightforward.  We will suffer setbacks. But so long as we remain committed to standing together, working together, and striving together – as people of courage, as leaders of conviction, and as nations of high ideals – I cannot help but feel optimistic about where our joint efforts will lead us.  I thank you all, once again, for your leadership, your collaboration, and your friendship.  And I look forward to everything the United States and the Kingdom of Norway will achieve together in the months and years to come.

Thank you.

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT CONTRACTS FOR JULY 9, 2014

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT 

CONTRACTS

AIR FORCE

Structural Builders, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia (FA4830-14-D-0001); Maverick Constructors, LLC, Lutz, Florida (FA4830-14-D-0002); Semper Tek, Inc., Lexington, Kentucky (FA4830-14-D-0003); Artesian Contracting Company, Inc., Albany, Georgia (FA4830-14-D-0004); CCI Solutions, LLC, Shalimar, Florida (FA4830-14-D-0005); DTH Corp., Newport News, Virginia (FA4830-14-D-0006); OAC Action Construction Corp., Miami, Florida (FA4830-14-D-0007); RCA Contracting, Inc., Montezuma, Georgia (FA4830-14-D-0008); and Paul S. Akins Company, Inc., Statesboro, Georgia (FA4830-14-D-0009), have been awarded an maximum $225,000,000 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract for Design-Build construction projects. Projects shall include all work necessary to design, construct, and/or renovate including design build and bid build facilities for Moody Air Force Base, Grassy Pond and Grand Bay Range, Georgia, and Avon Park Range, Florida. Work shall be performed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract and resulting task orders, and is expected to be completed by the date negotiated for each task order. This IDIQ is one base year with four-one year options. This award is the result of a competitive acquisition posted to FedBizOpps and 36 offers were received. Funding will be determined with each order. 23rd Contracting Squadron, Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, is the contracting activity.

Jacobs Technology, Inc., Bedford, Massachusetts, has been awarded an $18,255,200 cost-plus-fixed-fee and cost-reimbursable contract modification (P00003) for FA8721-14-C-0016 to provide engineering and technology acquisition support services which consists of disciplined systems/specialty engineering and technical/information assurance services, support, and products using established government, contractor and industry processes. Work will be performed at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2015. This award is the result of a sole source acquisition. Fiscal 2013 and 2014 procurement, aircraft procurement, research and development, and operations and maintenance funding in the amount of $1,400,097 will be obligated at time of award. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/PZM, Hanscom AFB, Massachusetts, is the contracting activity.

Sea Box Inc., Cinnaminson, New Jersey, has been awarded a $17,460,000 modification (P00010) to FA8532-12-F-0002 for manufacture and delivery of Basic Expeditionary Airfield Resources (BEAR) Hygiene Systems. The total cumulative face value of the contract is $34,660,000. This modification provides for exercise of options for an additional 45 BEAR Hygiene Systems being procured under the basic contract. Work will be performed at Cinnaminson, New Jersey, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 31, 2016. Fiscal 2014 Air Force procurement funds in the amount of $17,460,000 are being obligated at time of award. This is not a multiyear contract. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WNKB, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, is the contracting activity.
Engineering and Software Systems Solution, doing business as ES3, San Diego, California, has been awarded a $7,500,000 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for Landing Gear Emergency Response engineering service contract. The contractor will provide technical support necessary to respond to urgent requests for engineering assistance. Efforts include mishap or failure analysis, system safety evaluation, failure modes and impact criticality analysis, and short term remediation and fleet stabilization efforts for various weapon systems. Work will be performed at San Diego, California, and is expected to be completed by July 6, 2018. This award is the result of a competitive acquisition; an unlimited number of offers were solicited and two offers were received. Fiscal 2014 working capital funds in the amount of $1,000 are being obligated at time of award. Air Force Sustainment Center/OLH PZAAB, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is the contracting activity (FA8203-14-D-0001).

NAVY

Benaka, Inc.,* New Brunswick, New Jersey (N40085-14-D-0029); Black Horse Group, LLC,* Watertown, New York (N40085-14-D-0030); Cherokee General Corp.,* Federal Way, Washington (N40085-14-D-0031); H. V. Collins Co.,* Providence, Rhode Island (N40085-14-D-0032); Structural Associates, Inc.,* East Syracuse, New York (N40085-14-D-0033); Watermark,* Lowell, Massachusetts (N40085-14-D-0034); and Wu & Associates, Inc.,* Cherry Hill, New Jersey (N40085-14-D-0035), are each being awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award design-build/design-bid-build construction contract for construction projects in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Mid-Atlantic Public Works Department Maine area of responsibility (AOR). The maximum dollar value including the base period and four option years for all seven contracts combined is $95,000,000. The work to be performed provides for new construction, renovation, alteration and repair, demolition and repair work by design-build or by design-bid-build for various types of facilities. Black Horse Group, LLC, is being awarded task order 0001 at $5,059,583 for Whole Center Repairs at the Naval Operational Support Center in Plainville, Connecticut. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by July 2015. All work on these contracts will be performed within the NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic Public Works Department Maine AOR which includes Maine (70 percent), New Hampshire (5 percent), Vermont (5 percent), Massachusetts (5 percent), Connecticut (5 percent), Rhode Island (4 percent) and New York (5 percent). Work may also be performed in the remainder of the United States (1 percent). The terms of the contracts are not to exceed 60 months, with an expected completion date of July 2019. Fiscal 2014 operation and maintenance (Navy Reserve) contract funds in the amount of $5,089,583 are obligated on these awards and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. These seven contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. Future task orders will be primarily funded by military construction (Navy); operation and maintenance (Navy); Navy working capital funds; and operation and maintenance (Navy Reserve). These contracts were competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with 22 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity.

Bell-Boeing Joint Project Office, Amarillo, Texas, is being awarded $14,641,931 for cost-plus-fixed-fee delivery order 0089 against a previously issued Basic Ordering Agreement (N00019-12-G-0006) in support of the V-22 aircraft for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy. This order provides for the research and of engineering and technical analysis of new capabilities of the V-22 aircraft. Work will be performed at Ridley Park, Pennsylvania (55 percent) and Fort Worth, Texas (45 percent), and is expected to be completed in June 2019. Fiscal 2014 research, development, test and evaluation (Air Force) funds in the amount of $2,084,000 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This delivery order combines purchases for the U.S. Air Force ($8,785,159; 60 percent) and the U.S. Navy ($5,856,772; 40 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

BP Products North America Inc., Chicago, Illinois, has been awarded a maximum $25,706,502 fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment contract for reformulated blendstock for oxygenate blending gasoline. This contract was a competitive acquisition and five offers were received.

Location of performance is Massachusetts, with a Sept. 1, 2014, performance completion date. This is a two-month base contract with no option periods. Using service is Department of Energy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 Department of Energy funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Energy, Fort Belvoir, Virginia (SP0600-14-D-8542).

Shell Trading Company, Houston, Texas, has been awarded a maximum $12,517,260 fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment contract for conventional blendstock for oxygenate blending gasoline. This contract was a competitive acquisition and five offers were received. Location of performance is Maine, with a Sept. 1, 2014, performance completion date. This is a one-month base contract with no option periods. Using service is Department of Energy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 Department of Energy funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Energy, Fort Belvoir, Virginia (SP0600-14-D-8540).

ARMY

Oxford Construction of Pennsylvania, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was awarded a $10,420,277 firm-fixed-price foreign military sales contract (Israel) with options for the construction of two three-story structures for the recruitment center at Israeli Defense Forces Jalame Camp, Israel. Work will be performed in Israel with an estimated completion date of July 31, 2015. Three bids were solicited with two received. Fiscal 2014 other procurement funds in the amount of $10,420,277 are being obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Europe District, APO, AE, is the contracting activity (W912GB-14-C-0025).

*Small business

U.S. CONGRATULATES PEOPLE OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS ON THEIR INDEPENDENCE DAY

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Bahamian Independence Day

Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
July 8, 2014


On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas on your 41st anniversary of independence.

We value The Bahamas as our longtime partner and friend. Our robust security cooperation continues to improve security for citizens of both our countries, and our bilateral relationship stands strong as we work to spur economic development, promote social equity, combat HIV/AIDS, and promote a clean and secure energy future in our region.

We celebrate with The Bahamas, a nation rich with the beauty and excitement of Junkanoo, Goombay celebrations, and regattas.

It generously shares its hospitality, scenic beaches, and wonderful climate with the world, as demonstrated in May, when it successfully hosted the world-class 2014 IAAF World Relays.
As Bahamians across the country’s 700 islands and cays and around the world observe the anniversary of their peaceful journey to nationhood, let it be known that the United States is committed to friendship and cooperation between our nations.

The United States stands with The Bahamas today, pressing onward, marching together, to a common, loftier goal.

May peace, joy, safety and prosperity be plentiful in the years ahead in this most beautiful Bahamaland.

DOD, HHS DISCUSS HOUSING MORE UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN ENTERING U.S.

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT 
DoD Officials Discuss Housing More Unaccompanied Children
By Jim Garamone
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, July 8, 2014 – Defense Department officials are in discussions with Department of Health and Human Services officials to house more children who have entered the United States unaccompanied, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said today.

During a Pentagon news conference, Kirby said the department is processing requests right now from HHS to house more children.

“I wouldn’t put an exact number on it, because that's still in discussion,” the admiral said.

Three bases already are housing these unaccompanied children – Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Lackland Air Force Base, Texas; and Naval Base Ventura, California. Currently, DoD facilities can accommodate 2,375 of these children.
The facilities being used are excess to DoD needs, Kirby said. “We’re providing access to certain facilities that were already vacant and not being used and are, therefore, available, and in the first three cases are relatively close to the border itself,” he said.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel supports the mission, the admiral said, and is assured that housing these young people will not impinge on troops. “He understands the importance of making sure that these children get the care that they need once they get inside the country,” Kirby said.

HHS owns this mission, and while DoD is providing the facilities, “we are not responsible for the children themselves,” the press secretary said.

The original agreement between DoD and HHS places a 120-day cap on the time the children can be housed on the bases. Lackland has housed the children for about two months, and Kirby would not speculate on whether that cap will be extended. “It’s certainly something that could be discussed,” he said.
HHS will reimburse DoD for the facilities, Kirby said.

Some 60,000 unaccompanied children could enter the United States this year, officials said. For many, transnational criminal networks play a role in getting them to the United States.

In addition, officials said, these transnational criminal networks create much of the instability that causes many of these children to flee from Central and South America. The networks smuggle humans, drugs and weapons for a price.
The threat these groups pose cannot be countered solely by the military, officials noted, adding that Marine Corps Gen. John F. Kelly, commander of U.S. Southern Command, and Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson are working together on the threat.

U.S. CONGRATULATES ARGENTINA ON THEIR INDEPENDENCE DAY

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

Argentina's Independence Day

Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
July 8, 2014


On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Argentina as you celebrate your Independence Day on July 9.

Our countries have enjoyed 200 years of common interests and shared values. My ancestor, John Murray Forbes, served as a U.S. diplomat in Argentina soon after independence came to the Rio de la Plata region and modern Argentina was born. He stood alongside your forefathers as they built a strong foundation for democracy, peace, and shared prosperity.
The United States is proud to be Argentina’s partner in educational and cultural exchanges, science and technology, clean energy development, and space exploration. We share a commitment to strengthening democracy, promoting human rights, and expanding social inclusion.

The United States wishes all Argentines not only a joyful celebration of your independence, but also good luck to the Albiceleste team in the World Cup.

SECRETARY KERRY WARNS AGAINST EXTRA-LEGAL POWER GRAB AFTER AFGHAN ELECTIONS

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 
Statement on Afghanistan
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
July 7, 2014

I have noted reports of protests in Afghanistan and of suggestions of a “parallel government” with the gravest concern. The United States expects Afghan electoral institutions to conduct a full and thorough review of all reasonable allegations of irregularities. At the same time, there is no justifiable recourse to violence or threats of violence, or for resort to extra-constitutional measures or threats of the same. The apolitical role of the security forces must be respected by all parties. We call on all Afghan leaders to maintain calm in order to preserve the gains of the last decade and maintain the trust of the Afghan people. Any action to take power by extra-legal means will cost Afghanistan the financial and security support of the United States and the international community.

U.S. SENDS BEST WISHES TO PEOPLE OF CABO VERDE ON THEIR NATIONAL DAY

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 

On the Occasion of the Republic of Cabo Verde's National Day

Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
July 8, 2014


On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I send best wishes to Cabo Verdeans as you celebrate 39 years of independence on July 5.

I spent more than 30 years representing Massachusetts as Lieutenant Governor and Senator, and I am proud of the historic connections and contributions of Cabo Verdeans throughout New England and across America. I was pleased to visit Cabo Verde for the first time in May, where I enjoyed meeting Foreign Minister Jose Brito.

The United States and Cabo Verde share many binding ties. Our second Millennium Challenge Corporation compact, worth over $66 million, is evidence of our continued commitment to a long-term relationship. We are also committed to deepening our partnership on a number of regional and maritime security issues.

We look to Cabo Verde as a leader in good governance, human rights, and renewable energy in Africa and celebrate the contributions of more than half a million Americans of Cabo Verdean descent.

The United States looks forward to continued collaboration in achieving our common goals. I wish all Cabo Verdeans peace and prosperity in the coming year.

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