Motion Center Toronto: 2011

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Former Los Gatos Convent Employee Charged with Embezzling More Than $100,000 from Catholic Nuns

Former Director of Food Services Embezzled Cash, Charged Personal Expenses to Convent Credit Card
U.S. Attorney’s Office
December 22, 2011

Northern District of California
(415) 436-7200
SAN JOSE, CA—A former lay employee for the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary Catholic Convent (the Convent) in Los Gatos, Calif., was charged yesterday with 14 counts of wire fraud and three counts of mail fraud, United States Attorney Melinda Haag announced. According to the indictment, Linda Gomez (a/k/a Linda Surrett), 65, of Sunnyvale, Calif., used her administrative positions to embezzle cash and to charge personal expenses to a Convent charge card.

According to the indictment, between 1987 and 2010, Gomez worked for the Convent in various administrative capacities, including as the director of food services and the manager of an on-site convenience store. As part of her professional responsibilities, Gomez made purchases for the 75 Catholic nuns and 60 lay employees at the Convent. The Indictment charges that between March 2008 and her resignation in May 2010, Gomez used various methods to embezzle from the Convent, including obtaining fraudulent reimbursements or credits for products she falsely claimed she had purchased for the Convent and its nuns. The Indictment states that Gomez embezzled more than $100,000 from the Convent. In addition to embezzling more than $47,000 in cash, Gomez also fraudulently diverted more than $53,000 of Convent funds for personal expenses such as jewelry, high-end cutlery, purses, shoes, kitchen appliances, and numerous purchases on the QVC and Home Shopping Networks,

The defendant will be issued a summons to make an initial appearance on Jan. 10, 2012, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul S. Grewal. The case is assigned to United States District Court Judge Lucy Koh.

The maximum statutory penalty for wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, and mail fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341, is 20 years in prison and a fine of $1 million, plus restitution. Any sentence following conviction would, however, be determined by the court after considering the federal sentencing guidelines, which take into account a number of factors, and would be imposed in the discretion of the court.

Please note: An indictment contains only allegations against an individual and, as with all defendants, Gomez must be presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Fazioli is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Legal Assistant Kamille Singh. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Further Information:

Case #: CR 11-00955 LHK

Former Union Leader Admits Theft of Union Funds

BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that former union leader Ellis Woods, 61, of Clarence, N.Y., pleaded guilty to wire fraud before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell T. Ippolito, Jr., who is handling the case, stated that the defendant devised a scheme to defraud the Buffalo Educational Support Team (“BEST”). BEST is a union representing more than 900 teacher’s aides and assistants in the Buffalo school district. While working as the elected president of BEST, Woods was provided a union-issued credit card. Between November 18, 2008, and February 7, 2011,

Woods used the union credit card to pay for personal expenses, including gambling expenses that he incurred at local area casinos. In total, Woods stole $44,987.70 in union funds.

“Union members contribute hard earned money to benefit the union as a whole, not to line the pockets of union leaders,” said U.S. Attorney Hochul. “Our office will not tolerate such behavior and will vigorously prosecute officials in any organization who seek to take advantage of members.”

The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Christopher M. Piehota.

Sentencing is scheduled for April, 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. in Buffalo, N.Y.

Source: FBI whom is also responsioble for content

Gila River Man Sentenced to 230 Months in Prison for Murder

PHOENIX—Raymond Herman French, 41, of Sacaton, Ariz., was sentenced yesterday by Judge Frederick J. Martone to 230 months’ imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. French pleaded guilty on May 31, 2011, to the crime of second-degree murder.
French murdered the victim, Jeffrey Thomas, on January 22, 2011, when he shot the victim with a firearm. The victim died as a result of the injury. The crime occurred on the Gila River Indian Community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Gila River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Heather H. Belt, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-11-149-PHX-FJM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2011-284(French)

Source: FBI whom is responsible for content

DHS and DOD Announce Continued Partnership in Strengthening Southwest Border Security

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced they will continue their critical partnership to further strengthen the already unprecedented levels of personnel, technology, and infrastructure along the Southwest border - representing the Administration's ongoing commitment to secure the border and facilitate legitimate trade and travel.

Since the summer of 2010, National Guard troops have acted as a critical support bridge while the Administration brought on new assets provided by the 2010 supplemental appropriation dedicated to effective border management and security. To date, Guardsmen stationed at the border supported civilian law enforcement on the ground through surveillance and criminal analysis.

With additional DHS civilian law enforcement assets, including a record number of U.S. Border Patrol agents, now in place, the DOD mission at the border will transition as part of a new strategic approach, adding a number of new multi-purpose aerial assets equipped with the latest surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Additionally, DOD will provide air mobility support to the Border Patrol, allowing for faster response capabilities to a wide range of activities. The deployment of these new DOD technical assets, along with the additional DHS personnel on the ground, will enable DOD to reduce the number of National Guard troops at the Southwest border while enhancing border security.

The addition of aerial surveillance assets allows the National Guard to better support DHS by shifting surveillance from fixed sites to mobile ones that can quickly match the dynamic environment of the border - a significant enhancement in the ability to detect and deter illegal activity at the border - and provide greater support to the thousands of men and women involved in border security.

The transition to the new DOD/DHS strategic approach will begin in January, with additional aviation assets in place by March 1st. The aerial assets, which include both rotary and fixed-wing, will provide additional benefits including:

Increased ability to operate in diverse landscapes: Operating environments differ from sector to sector and even within sectors. An aerial platform provides a much greater field of vision for surveillance in places with challenging terrain.

Additional deterrence: The additional DOD aerial assets, which establish a greater visible presence from a distance to individuals attempting to cross the border illegally, coupled with the Border Patrol boots on the ground, will provide even greater border deterrence capabilities.

A faster response time: The air assets will reduce enforcement response time, enabling Border Patrol officers to quickly move from one location to another on short notice to meet emerging threats of illegal activity or incursion. Aircraft also provide the ability to quickly reach areas in rugged terrain or areas without roads that were previously difficult to access.

Flexible and adaptive surveillance as opposed to relying on fixed sites.

In FY 2011, U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions - a key indicator of illegal immigration - decreased to 340,252, down 53 percent since FY 2008 and one fifth of what they were at their peak in FY 2000. Since 2004, the size of the Border Patrol has doubled to 21,444.

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Statement by Secretary Napolitano on Commissioner Bersin's Resignation

Biography of Mr. Aguilar

"I want to thank Alan Bersin for his distinguished leadership over the past two years as the CBP Commissioner. During his tenure, CBP has taken historic steps to secure our borders while facilitating legal travel and trade. Commissioner Bersin has also been instrumental in facilitating new international agreements and public-private partnerships as well as developing new paradigms throughout the world in combating terrorism and international crime. Commissioner Bersin has helped set CBP on a path to continuously adapt and seek new and innovative ways of keeping our country – and our communities – safe.

Deputy Commissioner David V. Aguilar will serve as Acting Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Field Operations Thomas Winkowski will serve as Acting Deputy Commissioner. Both bring decades of experience on the front line and will continue their proven leadership of the men and women at CBP as they protect our country against terrorist threats, secure our borders and foster lawful travel and trade."

Secretary Napolitano Highlights DHS' Progress in 2011

Release Date: December 22, 2011

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010

WASHINGTON—Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano on Monday toured operations and received briefings at DHS facilities in the National Capital Region. The Secretary toured Transportation Security Administration and Customs and Border Protection operations at Washington Dulles International Airport, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Cyber Crimes Center in Virginia, the Secret Service’s James J. Rowley Training Center in Beltsville, Md. and the FEMA IMAT and the Fairfax USAR team in Herndon, Va. - highlighting the major steps the Department has taken this year to enhance America's capabilities to guard against terrorism; secure the nation's borders; engage in smart enforcement of our immigration laws; safeguard and secure cyberspace; prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters; and to mature and strengthen the homeland security enterprise.

“This year, as we observed the 10th anniversary of the attacks that gave rise to our department, we continued to strengthen the safety, security, and resilience of our nation,” said Secretary Napolitano. “As we move into 2012, we will continue to work together with our federal, state, local, tribal and private sector partners to address new and emerging challenges while maturing and strengthening the homeland security enterprise.”

To prevent terrorism and enhance security, DHS continued to collaborate with our international partners, forging agreements focused on strengthening aviation security; facilitating information-sharing; and securing the global supply chain. The Department also began new risk-based security measures through prescreening of passengers; deployment of new technologies; and training of airport security and law enforcement personnel to better detect behaviors associated with terrorism. In addition, the Department continued to enhance and streamline its vetting and screening capabilities, strengthen the national network of fusion centers, and support state and local partners through training, technical assistance and grant funding. The Department also continued expansions of the “If You See Something, Say Something^TM" public awareness campaign through partnerships with sports teams and leagues, transportation agencies, private sector partners, states, municipalities, and colleges and universities.

To secure and manage our borders, DHS has continued to deploy historic levels of personnel, technology, and resources to our borders to reduce the flow of illicit drugs, cash, and weapons; expedite legal trade and travel through trusted traveler and trader initiatives; and, as part of the Beyond the Border Action Plan, collaborated with our Canadian partners to strengthen security while advancing economic competitiveness. Border Patrol apprehensions—a key indicator of illegal immigration—have decreased 53 percent in the last three years and are less than 20 percent of what they were at their peak. In the maritime domain, the United States Coast Guard secures our borders through a layered security system that provides mobile surveillance coverage, engages smugglers at the earliest point possible, and addresses potential threats before they can cause harm to the United States.

To enforce and administer our immigration laws, DHS removed more criminal aliens from the country than any year in the agency’s history, highlighting DHS’ commitment to focusing on threats to public safety, repeat immigration law violators, recent border entrants, and immigration fugitives while continuing to strengthen oversight of the nation’s immigration detention system and facilitate legal immigration. In 2011, USCIS held more than 6,000 naturalization ceremonies for approximately 692,000 lawful permanent residents who became U.S. citizens, including more than 10,000 members of the U.S. Armed Forces and launched a series of initiatives to spur economic competiveness by attracting foreign entrepreneurial talent who can create jobs, form startup companies, and invest capital in areas of high unemployment. DHS also launched E-Verify Self-Check, an online service that allows individuals to check their employment eligibility status before formally seeking employment.

To safeguard and secure cyberspace, DHS responded to over 100,000 incident reports and released more than 5,000 cybersecurity alerts and information products for federal, state, local, international and private sector partners; worked to combat electronic crimes such as identity theft, network intrusions and a range of financial crimes; launched law enforcement operations targeting those who prey on children online; announced newStop.Think.Connect.^TM partnerships with DARE America, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and YMCA; and released the Blueprint for a Secure Cyber Future: The Cybersecurity Strategy for the Homeland Security Enterprise, which outlines a coordinated effort for cybersecurity across the homeland security community.

To ensure resilience to disasters, DHS trained thousands of local, state and tribal responders; released the country’s first-ever National Preparedness Goal, which identifies the core capabilities necessary to achieve preparedness; and awarded more than $2.1 billion in federal preparedness grants to assist states, urban areas, tribal and territorial governments, non-profit agencies, and the private sector in strengthening our nation's ability to prevent, protect, respond to, recover from, and mitigate terrorist attacks, major disasters and other emergencies. In 2011, FEMA supported 96 major disaster declarations, 29 emergency declarations, and 116 fire management assistance declarations, including the response to Hurricane Irene, fires in the Southwest, severe flooding in North Dakota, and devastating tornadoes that hit the Midwest and South, including Joplin, Mo.

To mature and strengthen the homeland security enterprise, DHS met its veterans hiring goal of 50,000 employees with veterans comprising 25 percent of the Department’s civilian workforce in addition to nearly 50,000 active and reserve members of the U.S. Coast Guard. In recognition of DHS’ efforts to cut costs and reinvest in mission critical operations, the Department’s Efficiency Review was highlighted as a model effort for agencies across the Federal government. The Department also received a qualified opinion on its balance sheet for FY 2011 which is a pivotal step in DHS’ financial management, highlighting efforts to increase transparency and accountability, and to accurately account for the Department’s resources.

Additionally, this past year, DHS conducted unprecedented outreach to state, local, tribal and private sector partners, in an effort to engage communities across the country in DHS core missions. This outreach focused on information sharing, promoting civil rights and civil liberties, increasing access to DHS programs, and strengthening the homeland security enterprise.

For more information regarding DHS’ progress in 2011, click here.

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Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Special Weather Statemment from NWS Buffalo

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BUFFALO NY
827 AM EST TUE DEC 20 2011

NYZ001>008-010>014-019>021-085-202030-
NIAGARA-ORLEANS-MONROE-WAYNE-NORTHERN CAYUGA-OSWEGO-JEFFERSON-
LEWIS-NORTHERN ERIE-GENESEE-WYOMING-LIVINGSTON-ONTARIO-CHAUTAUQUA-
CATTARAUGUS-ALLEGANY-SOUTHERN ERIE-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...NIAGARA FALLS...MEDINA...ROCHESTER...
NEWARK...FAIR HAVEN...OSWEGO...WATERTOWN...LOWVILLE...BUFFALO...
BATAVIA...WARSAW...GENESEO...CANANDAIGUA...JAMESTOWN...OLEAN...
WELLSVILLE...ORCHARD PARK...SPRINGVILLE
827 AM EST TUE DEC 20 2011

...MIXED PRECIPITATION POSSIBLE TONIGHT...

A WEAK WARM FRONT WILL UP LIFT ACROSS WESTERN AND NORTH CENTRAL
NEW YORK TONIGHT AND EARLY WEDNESDAY...AND THIS FEATURE WILL
GENERATE SOME LIGHT PRECIPITATION. IT MAY BE COLD ENOUGH FOR THE
PRECIPITATION TO INITIALLY BEGIN AS A MIX OF SLEET OR FREEZING
RAIN...PARTICULAR SOUTH OF BUFFALO AND ROCHESTER WHERE LOW LEVEL
COLD AIR WILL BE CONCENTRATED IN THE VALLEYS. THE PRECIPITATION
EAST OF LAKE ONTARIO MAY EVEN START AS A BIT OF LIGHT SNOW BEFORE
CHANGING OVER TO A LIGHT MIX OF SLEET OR FREEZING RAIN.

WHILE THERE WILL BE A FEW HOURS WHEN THERE WILL BE THE THREAT FOR
A WINTRY MIX...ALL OF THE PRECIPITATION WILL CHANGE TO JUST LIGHT
RAIN DURING THE COURSE OF TONIGHT AND EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING.

REMEMBER THAT IT ONLY TAKES A TRACE OF FREEZING RAIN TO PRODUCE AN
ICY GLAZE ON ROADWAYS AND SIDEWALKS.

Monday, December 19, 2011

Niagara Falls Blvb be prepared to stop

Niagara Falls Blvb at Gelnnalbi - NF Blvb at a standstill due to a two car accident

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Meet the Home Healthcare Worker Who Inspired the President

Your Daily Snapshot for
Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

Meet the Home Healthcare Worker Who Inspired the President

In 2007, then-Senator Obama spent a day "in the shoes" of Pauline Beck, a home healthcare worker. Today Pauline will be at the White House to watch as President Obama announces proposed changes to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) that will level the playing field so workers like Pauline are fairly compensated.

Watch Pauline's story:

OFFICIAL TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO

Abolish the TSA, and use its monstrous budget to fund more sophisticated, less intrusive counter-terrorism intelligence.
Response to We The People Petition on the Abolishment of the Transportation Security Administration
By John Pistole

Thank you for participating in the We the People platform, we respect the right of the petitioners to be heard and value the feedback we receive from travelers who share their experiences – good or bad – with us. The men and women of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have a challenging, but critical mission, and they take their jobs very seriously. TSA understands that the terrorist threat remains real and continues to evolve, as evidenced by the attempted terrorist attack on Christmas Day 2009 and the disrupted air cargo bomb plot last year.

Why TSA Exists.

TSA was created two months after the September 11 terrorist attacks, when Congress passed the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (ATSA) [.pdf] to keep the millions of Americans who travel each day safe and secure across numerous modes of transportation.

Over the past 10 years, TSA has strengthened security by creating successful programs and deploying technologies that were not in place prior to September 11, while also taking steps whenever possible to enhance the passenger experience. Here are just a few of the many steps TSA has taken to strengthen our multi-layered approach to security:

Establishing an Intelligence-Driven Approach.

TSA uses intelligence in real-time to strengthen security and share key information with state, local, and international partners, to ensure they can respond to evolving threats.

Vetting of Passengers and Transportation Workers.

Today, 100 percent of passengers flying to, from, and within the United States are prescreened against terrorist watch lists under TSA's Secure Flight program. In addition, employees with access to airports and ports, and those who transport higher risk materials, are vetted to ensure a secure environment.

Screening for Explosives.

TSA screens 100 percent of carry-on and checked baggage for dangerous items including explosives. TSA has also deployed explosives-detection canine teams. The teams are used to detect explosives and deter terrorism in aviation, mass transit, and cargo environments.

Deploying Advanced Technology to Detect Evolving Threats.

As part of its multi-layered approach to security, TSA uses Advanced Imaging Technology and Automated Target Recognition software to detect metallic and nonmetallic threats, including weapons and explosives concealed under layers of clothing on passengers. Using Advanced Technology X-ray, Bottled Liquid Scanners and Explosives Trace Detection (ETD) Technology, TSA can more efficiently and effectively screen checked and carry-on bags for potential threats.

Covert Testing.

Covert testing provides TSA with valuable information that can be used to modify security measures, improve training and inform the development of future technology. The statistic cited in the petition was from testing performed nearly eight years ago and doesn't reflect the current security environment. Since then, TSA has implemented new security measures and deployed enhanced technology to address evolving threats to aviation.

Strengthening In-Flight Security.

Hardened cockpit doors and the Federal Air Marshal Service serve as additional layers of security against an act of terrorism.

Establishing a Professionalized Workforce.

Transportation Security Officers (TSO) working at 450 airports today are hired through a rigorous vetting process and go through extensive training that did not exist prior to September 11. Today's TSOs have an average of three and a half years of experience on the job and have a turnover rate of approximately 6 percent. This compares to an average of 3 months of experience and a turnover rate of 125 percent for screeners prior to the creation of TSA.

TSA's Next 10 Years.

TSA is working to enhance its risk-based, intelligence-driven security initiatives to strengthen security while continuing to improve the passenger experience whenever possible. Current efforts include: changing the way TSA screens passengers ages 12 and under, evaluating the expanded use of behavior detection techniques, and piloting expedited screening for known travelers. Efficiencies gained by implementing more risk-based security methods allow us to make the best possible use of the resources to secure air travel.

Additionally, new software has been deployed to further strengthen privacy protections by eliminating passenger-specific images on Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines. The new software has been installed on all millimeter wave AIT units currently in airports, with plans to test and deploy similar software for backscatter units in 2012.

Our Nation is safer and better prepared today because of these and other efforts of the Department of Homeland Security, TSA, and our Federal, state, local and international partners. TSA is constantly identifying ways to continue to strengthen security and improve the passenger experience and appreciates the feedback of the public.

We invite you to stop by TSA's blog to continue this discussion.

John Pistole is the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration

DOD Identifies Army Casualty

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1020-11
December 14, 2011

DOD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pvt. Jalfred D. Vaquerano, 20, of Apopka, Fla., died Dec. 13, in Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries suffered from enemy small-arms fire while deployed in Logar province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

Under Secretary Michele Flournoy Statement on Futenma Replacement Facility and Guam Realignment

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1022-11
December 14, 2011

Under Secretary Michele Flournoy Statement on Futenma Replacement Facility and Guam Realignment

                 “The United States is committed to Guam's role as a strategic hub, and to that end a U.S. Marine Corps presence in Guam remains an essential part of our Pacific strategy.
                “In fulfilling our regional commitments, we will continue to consult and coordinate with our allies and partners and stakeholders within the U.S. government - including Congress - to address concerns, while ensuring our forward presence in the region is geographically distributed, operationally resilient, and politically sustainable.
                “Within this context, we welcome the Government of Japan’s assurances that it is preparing to move forward with the steps necessary for the Futenma Replacement Facility (FRF), specifically filing the necessary environmental impact statement by the end of the year. Progress on the FRF plan is necessary to build confidence about the viability of our realignment efforts.
                “We look forward to working with Congress on the critical elements to the realignment of our forces in Japan and Guam, which will result in a reduced number of Marines in Okinawa and a consolidation of our bases in Okinawa, both of which will lessen the impact in Okinawa. U.S forces in Japan and Guam are also vital to our efforts to maintain a strong forward-deployed presence in the Pacific region.”

Department of Defense Releases 2012 BAH Rates

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1023-11


Department of Defense Releases 2012 BAH Rates The Department of Defense released today the 2012 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates, which take effect Jan. 1, 2012. Overall rates will increase an average of 2 percent this year. For members with dependents, average increases in BAH are approximately $39 per month. A typical E-6 with dependents, for example, will find his/her BAH about $35 per month higher than last year, while an O-3 with dependents will receive about $40 more than last year. In areas where rates will decrease, the decrease will only apply to members newly reporting to those locations. Members are protected by individual rate protection which ensures that those already assigned to a given location will not see their BAH rate decrease; however, they will receive the increase if the rate goes up. This assures that members who have made long-term commitments in the form of a lease or contract are not penalized if the area's housing costs decrease. Three components are included in the BAH computation: median current market rent; average utilities (including electricity, heat, and water/sewer); and average renter's insurance. Total housing costs are calculated for six housing profiles (based on dwelling type and number of bedrooms) in each military housing area. Basic Allowance for Housing rates are then calculated for each pay grade, both with and without dependents. An estimated $20 billion will be paid to over 1 million service members in 2012. For more information on BAH, visit https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bah.cfm .

Department of Defense Releases 2012 BAH Rates

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1023-11

Department of Defense Releases 2012 BAH Rates

   The Department of Defense released today the 2012 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates, which take effect Jan. 1, 2012. Overall rates will increase an average of 2 percent this year.
   For members with dependents, average increases in BAH are approximately $39 per month. A typical E-6 with dependents, for example, will find his/her BAH about $35 per month higher than last year, while an O-3 with dependents will receive about $40 more than last year.
   In areas where rates will decrease, the decrease will only apply to members newly reporting to those locations. Members are protected by individual rate protection which ensures that those already assigned to a given location will not see their BAH rate decrease; however, they will receive the increase if the rate goes up. This assures that members who have made long-term commitments in the form of a lease or contract are not penalized if the area's housing costs decrease.
   Three components are included in the BAH computation: median current market rent; average utilities (including electricity, heat, and water/sewer); and average renter's insurance.
   Total housing costs are calculated for six housing profiles (based on dwelling type and number of bedrooms) in each military housing area. Basic Allowance for Housing rates are then calculated for each pay grade, both with and without dependents. An estimated $20 billion will be paid to over 1 million service members in 2012.
   For more information on BAH, visit https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bah.cfm .

DOD Identifies Marine Casualty

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1024-11


DOD Identifies Marine Casualty The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Maj. Samuel M. Griffith, 36, of Virginia Beach, Va., died Dec. 14 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 4th Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Marine Forces Reserve, West Palm Beach, Fla.

Army Releases November Suicide Data

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1026-11
December 15, 2011

Army Releases November Suicide Data

   The Army released suicide data today for the month of November. Among active-duty soldiers, there were seven potential suicides: none have been confirmed as suicide and seven remain under investigation. For October 2011, the Army reported 17 potential suicides among active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, four cases have been confirmed as suicide and 13 cases remain under investigation.
   During November 2011, among Reserve Component soldiers who were not on active duty, there were eight potential suicides (eight Army National Guard and no Army Reserve): two have been confirmed as suicide and six remain under investigation. For October 2011, the Army reported 12 potential suicides among not-on-active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, one case has been added for a total of 13 cases (five Army National Guard and eight Army Reserve). Four cases have been confirmed as suicide and nine cases remain under investigation.
   As of Nov. 30, 2011, the Army has identified 260 potential soldier suicides for CY 2011. Of that total, 154 were active duty suicides: 100 have been confirmed as suicide and 54 remain under investigation; 106 were Reserve Component not on active duty suicides (73 Army National Guard and 33 Army Reserve): 84 have been confirmed as suicide and 22 remain under investigation. Compared to previous years, the Army had 305 in CY 2010 (159 active-duty and 146 not-on-active-duty) and 242 in CY 2009 (162 active-duty and 80 not-on-active-duty).
   “Suicide continues to be a challenge for our Army Family,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III. “It is a devastating loss when one of our own, whether soldier, civilian or family member, dies by suicide.” Chandler also said that overcoming this challenge will take the Army’s collective efforts, dedication, support and understanding. “To that end, I am calling on all of our leaders, but especially the noncommissioned officers, the backbone of our great Army, to make a difference. We must cultivate a climate that encourages help-seeking behaviors and supports those who ask for help,” said Chandler. “By standing shoulder to shoulder, we can ensure that no one stands alone!”
   Soldiers and families in need of crisis assistance can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained consultants are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and can be contacted by dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or by visiting their website at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org .
   Army leaders can access current health promotion guidance in newly revised Army Regulation 600-63 (Health Promotion) at: http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r600_63.pdf and Army Pamphlet 600-24 (Health Promotion, Risk Reduction and Suicide Prevention) at http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/p600_24.pdf .
   The Army’s comprehensive list of Suicide Prevention Program information is located at http://www.preventsuicide.army.mil .
   Suicide prevention training resources for Army families can be accessed at http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/training_sub.asp?sub_cat=20 (requires Army Knowledge Online access to download materials).
   Information about Military OneSource is located at http://www.militaryonesource.com or by dialing the toll-free number 1-800-342-9647 for those residing in the continental United States. Overseas personnel should refer to the Military OneSource website for dialing instructions for their specific location.
   Information about the Army’s Comprehensive Soldier Fitness Program is located at http://www.army.mil/csf .
   The Defense Center for Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) Outreach Center can be contacted at 1-866-966-1020, via electronic mail at Resources@DCoEOutreach.org and at http://www.dcoe.health.mil .
   The website for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is http://www.afsp.org , and the Suicide Prevention Resource Council site is found at http://www.sprc.org/index.asp .

Panetta Promises Continued Support to Libya

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

TRIPOLI, Libya, Dec. 17, 2011 - Paying tribute to the courage and determination of the Libyan people, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today joined Libyan leaders in welcoming a new chapter in U.S.-Libyan relations.

Panetta, who made history today as the first defense secretary to visit here, said during a joint news conference with Prime Minister Abd al-Raheem al-Keeb that he's proud of the role the United States played in helping free Libya from Moammar Gadhafi's regime.

"Even though Operation Unified Protector has ended, I want to stress that the United States ... will continue to stand by the Libyan people," he said, U.S. and Libyan flags behind him.

"To that end" he said, "we are looking forward to building a close partnership with the Libyan government and we stand ready to offer ... assistance in the spirit of friendship and the spirit of mutual respect."

Panetta noted that yesterday the United States lifted most of the sanctions on the Libyan government and released all government and central bank funds within U.S. jurisdiction.

This amounts to about $30 billion. Panetta said the United States didn't want these funds falling into Gadhafi's hands, but said he now hopes they will be released soon. "These funds belong to the Libyan people and will now be returned to Libya," he said.

That means the Libyan government can now access most of its worldwide holdings as the country moves forward with reconstruction and transition.

The secretary said he made clear during his meetings here today with al-Keeb and Defense Minister Usama Al-Jwayli that the United States stands ready to offer security assistance cooperation when the new government identifies its needs.

"I believe that this new and free Libya can become an important security partner of the United States," he said.

A bloody eight-month civil war now behind it, Libya is now in the hands of the Libyan people, the secretary said, and they will chart their future. "They will determine what assistance they require from the United States and the international community," he said.

The talks did not get into specific forms of support, he told reporters, re-emphasizing that the United States is willing to provide "whatever assistance Libya believes it needs."

Panetta offered a message to the Libyan people: "The blood that you have spilled has earned you the right to determine your future, to work through the security challenges that you are going to confront."

Difficult challenges inevitably will be ahead, he recognized. Libya will need to secure weapons stockpiles, confront terrorism, professionalize the army and police, and develop the institutions of a free, representative government.

It also will have to unify the revolutionary forces, an effort Panetta said he feels confident that Libya is taking the right steps to do.

Al-Keeb said he plans to unveil solid programs soon that will attract Libya's "freedom fighters" and direct their efforts toward fighting now for a better future for Libya.

"It's not a matter of just saying, 'Put down your guns and go back to work,'" he said.

Panetta noted that the United States, too, experienced revolution and expressed hope that Libya will continue on its current path to enjoy a future of peace, prosperity and freedom.

"This will be a long and difficult transition, but I have confidence that you will succeed in realizing the dream of a representative government and a more secure and prosperous future," he said.

Al-Keeb said the unfolding of the "Arab spring" in other parts of the region influenced Libya's revolution, and said they all share the same aspirations of dignity, freedom and respect for human rights.

Panetta emphasized that there's no rubber-stamp solution to how each country will advance its efforts to put the institutions of government and representative democracy in place.

What's important, he said, is that each country makes sure it is responding to "what the people want."

Al-Keeb called the changes these revolutions have brought about "one good sign of why democracy in the Middle East is something everybody needs to support and stand by."

As he traveled from the airport to the defense ministry for today's meetings, Panetta passed reminders of Libya's past and its appreciation for a new future. Graffiti scribbled on a concrete wall surrounding Gadhafi's damaged former compound declared, simply, "Thanx US/UK."
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Biographies:
Leon E. Panetta

Related Sites:
Special Report: Travels With Panetta

DOD Announces 2011 DOD Chief Information Officer Award Winners

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1027-11
December 15, 2011

DOD Announces 2011 DOD Chief Information Officer Award Winners

   Department of Defense announces today the recipients of this year’s DoD Chief Information Officer Awards at a Pentagon ceremony.
   This year marked the 11th anniversary of the DoD CIO Award and is the highest honor recognized by the department for achievement in information management and information technology. More than 70 nominations were submitted worldwide including both civilian government employees and military.
   The applicants were evaluated based on their outstanding achievement in one or more of the following eight critical IT areas: acquisition; architecture and interoperability infrastructure; identity and information assurance and cyber operations; management and standards; synchronized and responsive operations and services; capital planning and optimized information technology investments; information management/technology/assurance workforce; and information sharing and data management.
   The award winners were chosen because of their exemplary performance in improving information delivery and dissemination, management capability, cost reduction and savings, a broad user base, process, mission impact, or net-centricity.
   Team awards were presented to:
   First Place: Directorate of Communications, Office of the Defense Representative Pakistan/J6, U.S. Embassy Islamabad, Pakistan.
   Second Place: Medical Communications for Combat Medical Care (MC4), U.S. Army, Fort Detrick, Md.
   Third Place: Office of the Chief Information Officer, Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Pentagon Washington, D.C.
   Fourth Place: C4 Systems (J6) Directorate, U.S. Forces Japan, Yokota Air Base, Japan.
   Fifth Place: INSCOM Futures Development Team, U.S. Army, Fort Belvoir, Va.
   Individual awards were presented to:
   First Place: Navy Lt. Hannah L. Bealon, International Security Assistance Force CJ2 Operational Support Element Systems, ISAF Headquarters, Afghanistan.
   Second Place: Army Chief Warrant Officer Joshua L. Parks, 7th Theatre Tactical Signal Battalion, U.S. Army Schweinfurt, Germany / Joint Networks Communications Network Center, Afghanistan.
   Third Place: Air Force Lt. Col. Pamela L. Woolley, Joint Staff OCIO, The Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
   Fourth Place: Benjamin Pauwels, White House Communications Agency, Defense Information Systems Agency, Washington, D.C.

General Officer Announcements

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No. 1028-11
December 16, 2011

General Officer Announcements

   Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta announced today that the President has made the following nominations:
   Air Force Col. Jeffrey K. Barnson has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the director of strategic plans, requirements and programs, Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill.
   Air Force Col. Abel Barrientes has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the director for operations, Headquarters U.S. Pacific Command, Camp H. M. Smith, Hawaii.
   Air Force Col. Kimberly A. Crider has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the director of communications and information and chief information officer, Headquarters Air Force Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.
   Air Force Col. Theron G. Davis has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as assistant deputy director for strategic logistics, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
   Air Force Col. Christopher L. Eddy has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the European Command assistant director for intelligence, Stuttgart Air Base, Germany.
   Air Force Col. Lyman L. Edwards has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as deputy director for strategy, plans and policy, Headquarters U.S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
   Air Force Col. John C. Flournoy Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as commander, 349th Air Mobility Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, Travis Air Force Base, Calif.
   Air Force Col. Kathryn J. Johnson has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as associate director of logistics, Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Installations and Mission Support, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
   Air Force Col. Kenneth D. Lewis Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as commander, 433rd Airlift Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.
   Air Force Col. Stephen J. Linsenmeyer Jr., has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as commander, 910th Airlift Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio.
            Air Force Col. Vincent M. Mancuso has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the director of operations, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Plans and Requirements, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
   Air Force Col. Udo K. McGregor has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as commander, 452nd Air Mobility Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, March Air Reserve Base, Calif.
   Air Force Col. Eric S. Overturf has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as commander, 442nd Fighter Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo.
   Air Force Col. Karen A. Rizzuti has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as vice commander, 10th Air Force, Air Force Reserve Command, Naval Air Station-Joint Reserve Base, Fort Worth, Texas.
   Air Force Col. Vincent M. Saroni has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the Air Force civil engineer, Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Installations and Mission Support, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
   Air Force Col. James P. Scanlan has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general and for assignment as mobilization assistant to the commander, 19th Air Force, Air Education and Training Command, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas.

Dempsey Thanks Kuwaiti Leaders for Help in Iraq

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

ABOARD A MILITARY AIRCRAFT, Dec. 17, 2011 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff took time on a multicountry USO holiday tour this week to thank Kuwaiti officials for that nation's critical help to U.S. Forces Iraq over the past eight years and now, as the mission is ending.

Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey met Dec. 14 with Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Jaber, Prime Minister Jaber al-Mubarak al-Hamad, U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait Matthew H. Tueller, and Dempsey's counterpart Lt. Gen. Ahmed al-Khalid, Kuwait Armed Forces chief of staff.

Near the border Kuwait shares with Iraq, at a dwindling number of installations -- such as camps Arifjan and Virginia and the Khabari al Awazem border-crossing facility, called K Crossing ï¿½ U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force troops have taken in hundreds of convoys and thousands of former U.S. Forces Iraq war fighters, collected and processed their vehicles, weapons and equipment, and helped send them home.

The chairman said he thanked "our Kuwaiti partners for helping us accomplish this [U.S. Forces Iraq] retrograde operation, which I've heard [Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta] describe as somewhat historic."

Dempsey also asked Kuwait's assistance as Iraq begins the hard task of adjusting to its new sovereignty.

"My time in Kuwait would suggest that our Kuwaiti partners are concerned about our work to establish a normal relationship with Iraq because there's still some mistrust between the two countries that goes back certainly to 1990-1991, but historically far back beyond that," the chairman said.

"I'm stopping in several of the countries on this trip to assure our other partners that our lack of physical presence in Iraq doesn't mean we're taking our eye off of them as a partner," he added, "or that we're going to stop trying to help [Iraq] develop responsibly."

Establishing a U.S. Office of Security Cooperation in Iraq, as the United States has in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and a number of other countries, will facilitate U.S. military sales there, the chairman's spokesman Marine Corps Col. Dave Lapan told American Forces Press Service.

"The idea," he added, "is to pull Iraq into the type of normal relationships we have with Kuwait and other countries in the region."

Dempsey also seeks to get back to a normal level of military engagement with Kuwait.

The nations have been close partners since the 1991 signing of a defense cooperative agreement, Dempsey said, but the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have cut into routine U.S.-Kuwait military-to-military training, exercises and security cooperation.

Under provisions of the 1991 defense agreement, Dempsey added, "we are taking some of the forces that were in Iraq and repositioning them in Kuwait for a period of time."

The hope is, Lapan said, "that we will get to the point where the relationship with Iraq is similar to those we have with Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar -- all the countries in the region where we have strong military-to-military relations."
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Biographies:
Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey

Related Sites:
Special Report: Travels With Dempsey