Podcasts about federated states

Hear about travel to Kosrae and Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Lexie Brown from @lexienicolebrown on Instagram about her explorations of this remote island country. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠here. Why should you go to the Federated States of Micronesia? Lexie says, "It is a place that's so unique, and, I think, unmatched when it comes to experiencing ancient Micronesian culture. And what's interesting about the FSM is that there are four states, and each of those states is made up of either one island or over a hundred islands, split up in a lagoon. So it's very diverse and even because each state is so far apart, they have their own language and their own culture." Lexie recommends an itinerary that focuses on Kosrae and Pohnpei, two of the four states that make up the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Suggested Itinerary Overview Duration: About one weekRoute: Start in Kosrae for nature, hiking, and ancient ruins Continue to Pohnpei for waterfalls, diving, and the famous Nan Madol ruins (Optional extensions: Yap for traditional culture during Yap Week in March, and Chuuk for advanced wreck diving in Truk Lagoon)  ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-federated-states-of-micronesia/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily Quiz - Geography Today's Questions: Question 1: The country of Marshall Islands is on which continent? Question 2: What is the name of the 50-mile waterway that stretches from Limon Bay on the Caribbean to the Bridge of the Americas on the Pacific Ocean? Question 3: Which of these cities is in New Zealand? Question 4: Where is the Holy Kaaba? Question 5: What is the capital city of Lebanon? Question 6: Which of these cities is in South Korea? Question 7: What is the term for a tropical storm that occurs in the Pacific? Question 8: The country of Federated States of Micronesia is on which continent? This podcast is produced by Klassic Studios Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch the full podcast here! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-305 China is building something dangerous in the middle of the Pacific, and our guest was there when they broke ground. Joining us once again is Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who traveled to Woleai and the Federated States of Micronesia and knew Governor Palacios. And check out our other channel, China Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/ChinaUncensored Our social media: X: https://www.x.com/ChinaUncensored Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChinaUncensored Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChinaUncensored #China

Watch the full podcast here! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-305 China is building something dangerous in the middle of the Pacific, and our guest was there when they broke ground. Joining us once again is Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who traveled to Woleai and the Federated States of Micronesia and knew Governor Palacios. And check out our other channel, China Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/ChinaUncensored Our social media: X: https://www.x.com/ChinaUncensored Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChinaUncensored Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChinaUncensored #China

Watch the full podcast here! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-305 China is building something dangerous in the middle of the Pacific, and our guest was there when they broke ground. Joining us once again is Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who traveled to Woleai and the Federated States of Micronesia and knew Governor Palacios. And check out our other channel, China Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/ChinaUncensored Our social media: X: https://www.x.com/ChinaUncensored Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChinaUncensored Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChinaUncensored #China

The urohs – a skirt with intricate embroidery – has cultural and economic significance to the women of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia.This passion is shared by many of us women across the Pacific, whether it's a mu'u mu'u, a meri blouse, a puletasi or an island dress.This clothing was introduced by missionaries for so-called modesty, but since then women have embraced it and made it their own.But as our fashion industry grows, so do the threats.Mass production overseas is creating a new challenge for the urohs, while other parts of the Pacific face the theft of motifs and icons.How do we protect this fashion that's become part of our culture?Hear from Dr Emelihter Kihleng, who did her PhD dissertation on the Pohnpei skirt and her first published collection of poems is entitled Urohs.This week's episode of Sistas, Let's Talk is a repeat of the show broadcast on the 1st August 2024

Watch the full podcast here! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-304 A US governor spent years calling for investigations into corruption and CCP influence. Then he suddenly died. Joining us once again is Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who traveled to Woleai and the Federated States of Micronesia and knew Governor Palacios. And check out our other channel, China Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/ChinaUncensored Our social media: X: https://www.x.com/ChinaUncensored Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChinaUncensored Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChinaUncensored #China

Watch the full podcast here! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-304 A US governor spent years calling for investigations into corruption and CCP influence. Then he suddenly died. Joining us once again is Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who traveled to Woleai and the Federated States of Micronesia and knew Governor Palacios. And check out our other channel, China Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/ChinaUncensored Our social media: X: https://www.x.com/ChinaUncensored Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChinaUncensored Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChinaUncensored #China

Watch the full podcast here! https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-304 A US governor spent years calling for investigations into corruption and CCP influence. Then he suddenly died. Joining us once again is Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who traveled to Woleai and the Federated States of Micronesia and knew Governor Palacios. And check out our other channel, China Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/ChinaUncensored Our social media: X: https://www.x.com/ChinaUncensored Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChinaUncensored Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChinaUncensored #China

PREVIEW: Colleague Cleo Paskal introduces me to Chief Pilot Amos Collins of Pacific Mission Airways, flying the jungle cut airstrips of the small islands of the vital Federated States of Micronesia. More tomorrow. 1930 FSM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnNJAmUstsA

Good evening: The show begins in curfew-tamed Los Angeles... 1900 PASEDENA CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR FIRST HOUR 9:00-9:15 #PacificWatch: Curfews working. #VegasReport: @jcbliss 9:15-9:30 Oceania: In Yap of the Federated States of Micronesia, watching PRC soft power. Cleo Paskal, FDD. 9:30-9:45 #SmallBusinessAmerica: No sign of inflation, yet. @genemarks @guardian @phillyinquirer 9:45-10:00 #SmallBusinessAmerica: Productive AI. @genemarks @guardian @phillyinquirer SECOND HOUR 10:00-10:15 Lancaster County Report: Phillies 2025 vs 1964. Jim McTague, former Washington Editor, Barron's. @mctaguej. Author of the "Martin and Twyla Boundary Series." #FriendsOfHistoryDebatingSociety 10:15-10:30 Canada: And Mexico at the G7 to lobby the US. Mary Anastasia O'Grady, WSJ. 10:30-10:45 SCOTUS: National Guard in LA. Richard Epstein, Civitas Institute. 10:45-11:00 Israel: Trump and Netanyahu. Richard Epstein, Civitas Institute. THIRD HOUR 11:00-11:15 Iran: Another North Korea quitting NPT? Henry Sokolski, NPEC. 11:15-11:30 Italy: Watching LA turmoil; Venice protesting Bezos wedding. Lorenzo Fiori. 11:30-11:45 Iran: Decapitation. Bill Roggio, David Daoud, FDD. 11:45-12:00 Iran: IDF on the ground? Bill Roggio, David Daoud, FDD. FOURTH HOUR 12:00-12:15 1/2: Antisemitism: Harvard apologist featured 4000 works in the NYT. Peter Berkowitz, Hoover. 12:15-12:30 2/2: Antisemitism: Harvard apologist featured 4000 works in the NYT. Peter Berkowitz, Hoover. 12:30-12:45 ISS: Peril in module Zvezda. Bob Zimmerman behindtheblack.com 12:45-1:00 AM Moon: 2024-YR4 impact, 2032. Bob Zimmerman behindtheblack.com

OCEANIA: IN YAP OF THE FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA, WATCHING PRC SOFT POWER. CLEO PASKAL, FDD 1890 FSM

PREVIEW: Colleague Cleo Paskal on Yap of the Federated States of Micronesia in Oceania comments on the so far insufficient US response to PRC influence operations. More. 1940 FSM

1/2: OCEANIA: PRC LOOKS TO DOMINATE FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA. CLEO PASKAL, FDD. 1883 MICRONESIA

2/2: OCEANIA: PRC LOOKS TO DOMINATE FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA. CLEO PASKAL, FDD. 1930 MICRONESIA

Moses Pretrick, Assistant Secretary for the Department of Health & Social Affairs with the Federated States of Micronesia, explains how the Public Health Infrastructure Grant has worked for his team. PHIG Partners Web Page PHIG Newsletter  

In this episode, hosts Ray Powell and Jim Carouso sit down with Cleo Paskal, a leading Indo-Pacific analyst and non-resident senior fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, to unpack the growing threat of China's gray zone influence in the Pacific Islands and why it matters for the United States and its allies.Paskal explains the strategic significance of the Pacific Islands, which include U.S. territories and the three Compact of Free Association states—Palau, the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. These islands serve as America's “gateway to Asia,” enabling military access and power projection across the Pacific to key allies like Japan and Taiwan. Historically, whoever controls these islands can threaten the U.S. mainland and dominate Pacific trade routes—a reality recognized since the days of President McKinley and the Spanish-American War.Cleo prefers the Filipino term “ICAD” (Illegal, Coercive, Aggressive, and Deceptive) over “gray zone” to describe China's activities. She details how Beijing uses a “braided” approach that combines commercial investments, strategic infrastructure, and criminal enterprises. Chinese-linked businesses often promise development but end up facilitating elite capture, corruption, and even state capture, while most of the population sees little benefit. Activities include:Bribery and elite capture of local officialsStrategic port and real estate acquisitions near sensitive military sitesCriminal networks trafficking drugs, gambling, and human traffickingPolitical interference, media manipulation, and lawfare against local oppositionThe podcast explores how China's influx of money and promises of quick infrastructure projects are hard for small island economies to resist—especially when Western aid is slow, bureaucratic, or absent. However, Cleo notes that Chinese economic engagement often benefits only a narrow elite and can leave countries worse off, both economically and environmentally. She argues that the West, especially the U.S., must offer meaningful economic alternatives and support for good governance, not just military or diplomatic engagement.Despite U.S. political polarization, Cleo notes that support for the Pacific Islands remains bipartisan, especially regarding the renewal of the Compacts of Free Association. She also stresses that Pacific Islanders view the U.S. differently from former colonial powers, seeing America as a beacon of liberty and democracy—an image China is actively trying to undermine through narrative warfare.This episode makes clear that the Pacific Islands are not just remote dots on the map but are central to U.S. security, the rules-based order, and the future of the Indo-Pacific. China's gray zone campaign is a sophisticated, multi-layered threat that demands urgent, coordinated action from the U.S. and its allies—combining hard security, economic opportunity, and support for local agency and resilience.Follow our podcast on X, @IndoPacPodcast; or on LinkedIn or BlueSkySponsored by BowerGroupAsia

Amelia Poulin, Assistant Director of Emerging Infectious Disease at ASTHO, gives an update on public health's battle against tuberculosis on World TB Day; Moses Pretrick, Assistant Secretary for Health for the Federated States of Micronesia, tells us how ASTHO's Executive Leadership Forum helps the island areas; ASTHO will host a webinar focused on how AmeriCorps is Shaping Public Health in Indiana on April 3. CDC Web Page: 2025 U.S. TB Elimination Champions ASTHO Webinar: Public Health in Action – How AmeriCorps is Shaping Public Health in Indiana and NACDD ASTHO Web Page: Stay Informed  

William (Willy) Kostka is a long-time conservationist and islander who was born and raised on the island of Pohnpei, in the Federated States of Micronesia. In 1998, he helped found and became the first Board Chairman and Executive Director of the Conservation Society of Pohnpei, and then transitioned to lead the Micronesia Conservation Trust for 17 years. He has helped to bridge, fund and formulate island ecosystem stewardship and marine protected commitments from islands and countries across the nearly 7 million km2 of Pacific Ocean. Willy speaks to us about growing up in Pohnpei, as well as the traditional land tenure and agroforestry systems. He speaks to his new role in helping to promote sustainable development projects in energy and water resource care as the Director of Micronesia Regional Office of the Pacific Community.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of children's heavy work outdoors with Jaala Shaw from GO RUCK Tribe Kids. With a wealth of experience in early childhood education and international teaching, Jaala shares her insights on the power of outdoor play in developing resilience and strength in young learners.Key Takeaways:Exploring Heavy Work: Understand the concept of heavy work for children and its role in physical and emotional development.Global Perspectives: Learn from Jaala's diverse experiences teaching in locations like China, Micronesia, and working in conflict zones, and how these have informed her approach to education.Outdoor Benefits: Discover the unique benefits that outdoor activities offer, from fostering teamwork to enhancing problem-solving skills.Fitness and Play: Jaala discusses how her passion for fitness influences her work with children, encouraging active and healthy lifestyles.Practical Tips: Gain practical advice on incorporating heavy work and outdoor play into educational settings effectively.About Jaala:Jaala holds an M.A. in Early Childhood Education, an M.A. in TESOL, and a B.A. in Political Science and Education. She started her teaching career as a United States Peace Corps Volunteer first in Chengdu, China as an English teacher, then in the Federated States of Micronesia (Yap) as an elementary school teacher of agriculture and outdoor education. For many years after that, she was an Instructor at the University of California Santa Barbara, and later at the University of Colorado Boulder. She has received two US State Department English Language Fellowships to train teachers in Afghanistan and Jordan. She has also worked in Israel and Palestine learning about non-violent conflict resolution and peace building. As she worked with refugees in war zones, she realized that children are the people who will change our world, so she returned to the United States to begin her teaching career anew, this time with our youngest learners. Besides teaching, Jaala is a professional coach and lover of all sports. She works for CrossFit Headquarters on their coaching seminar staff and is the creator and director of a worldwide fitness program for kids at GORUCK. She and her husband Larry, along with their dog Carmen, love to do ultra-endurance events, summit big mountains, and rock climb. Jaala also enjoys reading and writes freelance about politics and education for various organizations. She loves languages and *tries* to speak some Mandarin, Spanish, and Arabic (but admits she isn't very good at any of them).Connect with Jaala:GORUCK Tribe Kids free content:https://www.goruck.com/pages/tribe-kids-calendarGORUCK Tribe Kids Info page :https://www.goruck.com/pages/tribe-kidsRucking: The Treatment for Sensory Processing Disorderhttps://blog.goruck.com/rucking-training/rucking-the-treatment-for-sensory-processing-disorder/What is Rucking?https://www.goruck.com/pages/what-is-ruckingGORUCK Tribe and Training (program for adults)

Samantha Amanda Tiningrow Kenney is a junior studying International Affairs. Being born and raised in Guam, she grew up in a bicultural household with her dad from Boston and her mom from the Federated States of Micronesia. She is on the Gordon women's soccer team, the student athletic advisory council, and intern coordinator for the World Evangelical Alliance. Sam will be studying in the Balkans this spring as she is interested in peace, conflict, and reconciliation.

Part II of a two-part conversation with Jermy Uowolo, who was born and raised on the island of Fais in the State of Yap, in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Jermy's background is as a Micronesian cultural practitioner, anthropologist, historian and Hawaiian ecosystem restoration specialist for the Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project. He shares with us the value of gathering and recording knowledge from Micronesian elders and culture keepers, as well as the challenges and opportunties of his own immigration story--from Yap to Guam and eventually Hawai`i Island. 

Part I of a two-part conversation with Jermy Uolo, who was born and raised on the island of Fais in the State of Yap, in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). He received his bachelors degree from University of Hawai`i at Hilo and served as a conservationist for the Watershed Alliance in Hawai`i, the Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project and is the President of the Micronesians United – Big Island (MU-BI) organization in Hawai`i. His knowledge spans the remote atols of his home state, to Guam, Palau, the Mariana Islands and beyond. He shares with us the prehistory and the recent immigration, military and colonial struggles in places like the Marshall Islands, and the challenge of preserving cultural practices and knowledge.

This episode is brought to you by the Federated States of Micronesia. No, they aren't paying us for sponsorship, but they are the only country that still loves us, so this one's on us!This week we discuss the Hezbollah pager explosions, the list of countries that can no longer sit with us, Hassan Nasrallah's glow-up, decolonized pizza at MIT, tips on how to focus,and more. The UN being the UNMIT activists disrupt Israeli professor, steal pizzas (and a happy ending!)The Man from Vilna - how to think about Simchat Torah this year (lyrics here)  Joing the AAJ conversation on Susbtack! askajew.substack.comEmail us your questions askajewpod@gmail.com ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Want to help us grow? Rate and review us 5 stars on Apple podcasts and Spotify ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

In a first of it's kind visit New Zealand's deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters visited the Federated States of Micronesia also called FSM.

A former U.S. Congressman for Guam says military expansion on the island is happening at rates that haven't been seen since World War II; An Otago University researcher hopes to gain insights into obesity levels among Pacifica by studying neophobia - or resistance to new foods; In a first of it's kind visit New Zealand's deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters visited the Federated States of Micronesia also called FSM; Auckland based Samoan Daniel Rankin is a Social media sensation whos videos of him and his cooking buddy Fraser are racking up over three million viewers.

In a first of its kind visit New Zealand's deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters visited the Federated States of Micronesia also called FSM. Caleb Fotheringham who was in the FSM has more.

The chief of Federated States of Micronesia's most remote island is calling on senators in the Congress to approve funds to build a major seawall

In this week's episode, we welcome Dr. Jeng-Hung Liu from the University of Guam, who shares insights into the recent USDA meat and poultry processing grant. Dr. Liu emphasizes workforce development in the meat industry, integration of aquaculture, and the new Meat Lab in Guam. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in meat processing in island regions, including collaborations with the Federated States of Micronesia and the University of Puerto Rico.

Dr. Liz Wood, Scholarly Assistant Professor at the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University, discusses her grant-winning research on disability data; Julia Von Alexander, ASTHO Senior Analyst for Island Support, says leaders with the Federated States of Micronesia are working to improve healthcare access for remote island populations; Veronica Halloway, Executive Director for the National Association of State Offices of Minority Health, reflects on National Minority Health Month; and Trust for America's Health has announced that ASTHO has earned an Age-Friendly Public Health Systems Recognition. Association of University Centers on Disabilities News Release: Announcement of AUCD-ASTHO Grant Awardees ASTHO Blog Article: Improving Access to Healthcare in the Pacific: Q&A with Patrick Abraham Trust for America's Health News Release: The Association for State and Territorial Health Officials Achieves Age-Friendly Public Health Systems Recognition  

Tuesdays and Fridays are special days for a small group of students from Lac qui Parle Valley Schools near Milan. That's when the Milan Kids Club is in session at the former Milan Public School building.Rosalia Iowanes and Justleen Ponun, two teens employed by the program, have set up the volleyball net in the gym. Some students play barefoot. The sport is immensely popular in the Micronesian community.Justleen explained the volleyball connection.“Most of us would say it's our favorite sport because some of us grew up playing volleyball and yeah, volleyball is also like a favorite sport back in Micronesia,” she said. Justleen's family moved from Micronesia to Milan. However, Justleen was born in Willmar, 43 miles east of town.Her family is not alone. From Micronesia to MilanFamilies have been relocating from the Federated States of Micronesia in the Pacific Ocean to this southwest Minnesota town for more than 20 years. The small but steady stream of Micronesians arriving in this rural town, founded in the 19th Century by Norwegian immigrants, is a big change, explained program director Ann Thompson.The Micronesian community has boosted Milan's once declining population and brought a new energy to town, she added. Their presence has boosted the economy and infused youth into an aging populace. Charthttps://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/18102929/?utm_source=embed&utm_campaign=visualisation/18102929“Milan went from the oldest community in Chippewa County, oldest average age … a little bit of diversity, but not much to being the youngest community, growing population and really diverse,” Thompson said. “It's a big change.”Thompson said longtime residents have realized over time there are benefits to having an immigrant community in Milan: More kids in schools and more kids to clothe and feed.According to data from the 2020 U.S. Census, Micronesians made up 57 percent of Milan's population of 428. The town's numbers peaked in the 1940 census with 624 residents and trended downward until it hit its lowest number, 326, in 2000.Datahttps://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/18102809/?utm_source=embed&utm_campaign=visualisation/18102809Between 2000 and 2020, Milan's population grew by 31 percent, according to census data. Micronesia is a region of about 2,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. The region also includes the island nation of the Federated States of Micronesia, which is nearly 7,000 miles away from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Chuuk is one of the country's four states. Romanum is an island in Chuuk. And almost every person of Micronesian descent living in Milan, is from Romanum.How did Micronesians know about Milan, whose motto is “Norwegian Capital U.S.A.”? The connection begins with former Milan area resident, Erik Thompson, who served in the Peace Corps in Chuuk.  Thompson continued his Micronesian friendships after he left service. One of them visited Thompson in Milan. Thompson's friend later decided to settle in Milan with his family. Milan is roughly the same size as their island, Romanum, Erik Thompson told MPR News in 2010.“He thought he wouldn't be overwhelmed by the size of the place, and that I could speak his language so I could help him make a transition,” Thompson said of one of his friends from Romanum. “But he said he also wanted to bring his family over so kids could get a good education.”Afterward, others from Romanum moved to Milan as well.An agreement between Micronesia and the U.S. allows for citizens from both countries to work and travel freely between the two nations. Community cohesion can be noisyAnn Thompson says there were challenges for residents and newcomers.For example, Micronesians play music in the town park which might be too loud for some residents. They, in turn, may decline to directly ask for the music to be lowered, Thompson said, because of what she calls ‘Minnesota passive aggressiveness.'“There's angst,” Thompson said.Erika Raymond, the co-owner of E and J Micronesian Mart on Main street, says the park is packed every day with Micronesians.She says community members like to meet up at the park to play volleyball or basketball and they bring speakers to play music.“Some people just want peace and quiet but we're there every day making noises, but that's just how we are,” Raymond said. “We're a community that loves to hang around everyday. We're just very family-oriented. Not all of us are related. But if you're from somewhere and you come in and look, you'd think we're all related.”‘That's what I love about Milan'In 2007, Ann Thompson said a group of concerned citizens formed a nonprofit called the Greater Milan Initiative. The nonprofit paid $1 to the Lac qui Parle Valley School District for the former K-12 school which had been closed since 1990.The initiative manages the building and offers programs such as the kids club and a 4-H club. The WIC Clinic and other social service providers come by regularly to serve residents. The school district provides the funding for the kids club, Thompson said.  “They see this as a kind of an extra support group for the kids, kind of reinforcing what they're learning at school,” she said. “They have choices. They can play in the gym, or they can do art. We've been doing a lot of art exploration. We're working on this movie. That was their idea.”Nelisa Raymond is from Romanum. She's married and has a daughter in high school. She also works for the Appleton Milan Elementary School. Raymond remembers the day she arrived at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.“I came in April. And it's still cold over here. But there's no snow on the ground. So I open the door from the airport. It's like, whoa, it's cold and it's sunny,” Raymond said. “So I went back inside and I was like, ‘Oh my goodness.'”Erika Raymond said she is torn about returning to Romanum. She wants to return, but she has four children, ages 8 to 15, to think about.“As I'm getting older and older, I prefer back home. But then I have my kids so that's why we're here. I want them to get a good education,” she said. Raymond hopes they finish college and secure good jobs.Still, there's something about Milan.“It's a peaceful town. It's not crowded. And you feel safe with your kids roaming around town, and we feel safe,” Raymond said. “Yeah, that's what I love about Milan.”Correction (May 29, 2024): An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated who paid Lac qui Parle Valley School District for the school building. The story has been updated.

①Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for more cooperation with the Federated States of Micronesia. How will the collaboration benefit both sides? (00:43)②China says it's regrettable to see Fitch Rates downgrade the country's sovereign credit rating outlook. (13:26)③EU launches probe into Chinese wind turbine companies. (24:35)④US adds 303,000 jobs in March as unemployment rate dips. (34:18)⑤UK employees now have the right to request flexible work from day 1. What changes will it bring to the workplace? (44:12)

In this episode of GREAT POWER PODCAST, host Michael Sobolik speaks with Cleo Paskal about America's Compact agreements with Palau, the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. These small Pacific island nations were critical battle sites in World War II, and today they form the backbone of America's military presence in East Asia. Political gridlock in Washington, however, could nix the deals that have secured these unique relationships for decades. Paskal explains this history, Beijing's efforts to spread its malign influence in the region, and the state of legislation on Capitol Hill. Guest biography Cleo Paskal is a non-resident senior fellow at FDD focusing on the Indo-Pacific region, in particular, the Pacific Islands and India. She has testified before the U.S. Congress, regularly lectures and moderates for seminars for the U.S. military, and has taught at defense colleges in the United States, United Kingdom, India, Canada, and Oman. Resources from the conversation Pre-order Michael's book about U.S.-China great power competition Follow Cleo on X (formerly Twitter) Read Josh Rogin's column about the Compact agreements

Death toll surpasses 50 in PNG massacre; The Federated States of Micronesia President says the nation is barely hanging on because the Compacts of Free Association have not yet been approved; Material hardship stats worsen for NZ's Pasifika children; Australia's futsal team tour Solomons to promote the game.

About the Speakers: Maria Schwaz, a certified social worker, spent 5 years working in psychiatric facilities. While on maternity leave to care for her six children, she received training in Christian pedagogy and has since been teaching at schools and parishes. The European migration crisis of 2015 spurred her on to study the core tenets of Islam. In 2018, she assumed the role of managing director at the International Center for the Study of Political Islam in Austria. In this position, she began extensive lecturing activities on both national and international levels, working with governmental and non-governmental organizations. Johann Turnau was born in Austria in 1954. He graduated with a Doctor of Law from the University of Innsbruck in 1979. He spent the next few years working for the Federal Chamber of Commerce and the Federal Ministry for Foreign Affairs. From 1985 to 1988, he was the First Secretary at the Austrian Embassy in Lagos/Nigeria, and he was the Counsellor at the Austrian Embassy here in Washington, D.C., from 1988-1992. From 1998 to 2001, he served as the Austrian Ambassador to Algeria. From 2001 to 2006, he was the Austrian Ambassador to Indonesia, also accredited to Singapore and Timor Leste. From 2006-2012, he worked in the Federal Ministries of Foreign Affairs and European and International Affairs. From 2012-2016, he served as the Ambassador to Japan. He then served as the Ambassador to Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, Vanuatu, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Marshall Islands, Kiribati and Nauru and was the Austrian Ambassador designate to the Federated States of Micronesia, Samoa, Tuval from 2016-2019. As of 2020, he is a Senior Consultant and member of the Austrian Senior Experts Pool (ASEP), President of the Rotary Club Gastein, and Chairman of the Inter Country Committee Austria – Ukraine. He is also certified by the OSCE and registered with the EU for election monitoring and observation.

The first Sweeper episode of 2024 kicks off with some Azerbaijan anecdotes in Part 1. We discuss Adrian Mutu's harsh sacking and some tasty treats from Turan Tovuz. From Mutu we switch to another ex-Premier League player in Pascal Chimbonda and his antics in charge of ninth-tier English side Skelmersdale. Finally, we talk about the Vatican City where registration is open for the league season in the world's smallest country - but not just anyone can take part. In Part 2 we go remote and delve into the story of Nauru's newly launched Football Association trying to bring the beautiful game to one of the last countries on Earth without a football team. Relative neighbours, Federated States of Micronesia are trying to fund a match in 2024 by selling football shirts and we explain how you can get hold of one and how some lucky Sweeper patrons can win one. We then stay remote as we look at Anders Hofman, the star of Project Iceman who completed an Ironman-style triathlon in Antarctica, and his next crazy quest to try and play for Denmark at the 2026 World Cup. Part 3 is all about cup competitions. We investigate the new Livonian League - a pre-season winter tournament for teams from Latvia and Estonia. Then we look at how underdogs have fared in the Copa del Rey, Coupe de France and FA Cup, plus we hear the greatest herring-related football story of all time. You can download the Momento app for free on iOS or Android via the link below and follow us @SweeperPod: ⁠acmomento.onelink.me/ckkf/SweeperPod RUNNING ORDER: Part 1: Cakes and coach sackings in Azerbaijan, the English club both top and bottom & the Vatican's player requirements (00:43) Part 2: Football's final frontier in Nauru and Micronesia & the Iceman of Antarctica targeting World Cup 2026 (18:28) Part 3: The Livonian League, Arandina's shirt request, herring-based goal bonuses in France & our trip to Madeira (36:21)

GDP Script/ Top Stories for Dec 31st    Publish Date:  Dec 29th     HENSSLER 15 From the Henssler Financial Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Sunday, December 31st, and Happy heavenly Birthday to singer Donna Summer. ***12.31.23 - BIRTHDAY - DONNA SUMMER*** I'm Keith Ippolito and here are your top stories presented by Kia Mall of Georgia. Explore Gwinnett Celebrates Top Hospitality Leaders at Annual Awards Reception Significant Representation Changes in Gwinnett Following Judicial Approval of New Congressional and Legislative Maps Judge Upholds Redistricting Maps: McBath to Contest for Her Previous Seat in the 6th Congressional District All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: MOG STORY 1: Explore Gwinnett Recognizes Hospitality Partners at Annual Hospitality Awards Reception Explore Gwinnett recently hosted its annual hospitality awards event, recognizing distinguished leaders in the hospitality industry. Attended by over 150 industry professionals, the event also served as a donation drive, collecting over 4,500 items for the Michael Steven Powell Legacy Fund. The award recipients included Shannon Butler, Wendi Lucas, David Sukala, Kevin Priger, and Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation, honored in various categories. The hospitality community's strong community stewardship was highlighted, contributing to Explore Gwinnett's annual charity drive. The collected items will benefit the Michael Steven Powell Legacy Fund, supporting local charities in Gwinnett County. STORY 2: Gwinnett will see major representation shakeups after judge upholds new congressional, legislative maps A federal judge upheld the redrawn district maps for Gwinnett County, splitting it between four congressional districts and adding an extra seat to the county's state House delegation. The new maps were created during a special session after the previous ones were found to violate the Voting Rights Act. The changes include the dismantling of coalition districts, affecting Gwinnett's representation. Notably, state Reps. Sam Park and Gregg Kennard are now in the same district, and the District 105 seat, represented by Democrat Farooq Mughal, becomes more Republican-friendly. Critics, including Democrats, argue that the new maps preserve Republican majority, but the judge deemed them legal. STORY 3: McBath will run for her old 6th Congressional District seat after judge upholds redistricting maps U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath will no longer represent part of Gwinnett County after a federal judge upheld the recent redrawn congressional and state legislative maps. McBath, who moved to the Gwinnett-centric 7th congressional district after the 6th district was redrawn in 2021 to favor Republicans, announced she will run for her old 6th district seat in 2024. The judge ruled that the redrawn maps met the standards set and ordered by him, addressing concerns about the dilution of Black voters' strength. Gwinnett County is now split between four congressional districts, impacting the representation and political landscape in the region. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We'll be right back. Break 2: PEGGY SLAPPY – TOM WAGES – DTL STORY 4: Dacula High School grad serving aboard USNS Mercy hospital ship Ensign Terry Draper from Dacula is serving on the hospital ship USNS Mercy for Pacific Partnership 2024, a multinational humanitarian and disaster relief mission in the Indo-Pacific. Draper, a Navy veteran of 14 years, serves as the security officer responsible for antiterrorism and force protection. The mission focuses on disaster response preparedness and capacity-building while enhancing partnerships with participating nations. The USNS Mercy will visit the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Palau, and the Federated States of Micronesia, conducting civic-action projects, medical symposiums, and disaster response training activities. STORY 5: Osprey crashes could endanger funding for new tilt-rotor Army aircraft Bell is developing Fort Worth-based Bell Textron, contracted to develop the Army's next long-range assault aircraft, faces potential challenges due to recent fatal crashes of its V-22 Osprey. The V-280 Valor, Bell's tilt-rotor design, was chosen by the Army to replace the UH-60 Black Hawk. Concerns about safety and the award process have been raised, especially after a Nov. 29 Osprey crash. Despite opposition, Bell's contract stands, and the company continues progress, including new facilities. Congressional concerns and the Osprey's safety history may impact the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft program, but experts suggest the investigation's results will guide decisions. We'll be back in a moment Break 3:  ESOG – INGLES 5 – JACKSON EMC STORY 6: Health Alert: Cardio or Weights First? Doctor Explains Combining cardio and resistance training in one session is beneficial for overall health, reducing cardiovascular and metabolic risks. Research indicates that the order of aerobic and resistance exercises doesn't significantly impact fitness improvements. While consistency is crucial, personal preferences can guide the order of exercises. Concurrent training, involving both forms of exercise, yields generalized benefits in aerobic capacity and muscular strength. This approach is particularly advantageous for individuals with chronic disease risk factors. With 38.4 million Americans having diabetes and nearly 70% being overweight or obese, blending exercises contributes to improved health outcomes. STORY 7: Health Alert: ADHD Meds in Childhood Do Not Increase Future Drug Use Risk. Doctor Explains Children treated with prescription stimulants for ADHD do not face a higher risk of substance use disorder (SUD) later in life, according to a study involving rigorous diagnosis and long-term assessment until an average age of 25. This finding dispels concerns about ADHD medication's long-term effects. Recognizing nontraditional ADHD symptoms, such as sleep issues and irritability, is crucial. The study, involving 579 children, analyzed the relationship between stimulant medication and later substance use, finding no evidence of a connection. This research provides reassurance to parents and patients, fostering better-informed discussions about managing ADHD in children. We'll have final thoughts after this. Break 4: Henssler 60 Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today's Gwinnett Daily Post podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties, or the Paulding County News Podcast. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at Gwinnettdailypost.com. Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network   Show Sponsors: henssler.com ingles-markets.com wagesfuneralhome.com psponline.com esogrepair.com mallofgeorgiachryslerdodgejeep.com downtownlawrencevillega.com jacksonemc.com   #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chinese communist regime has been aggressively seeking to expand its control of the Pacific Islands through political warfare, bribery, and “gray-zone” activities, says David Panuelo, the former president of the Federated States of Micronesia.During his tenure, which lasted from 2019 to 2023, he penned a number of letters to other leaders in the region to raise awareness about the Chinese regime's belligerent tactics.“I wasn't doing it because I wanted to be bold. I wanted to do it to protect our citizens and the sovereignty of our nation,” Mr. Panuelo says.So why is this region so important? It's part of the “Second Island Chain” of defense in America's military strategy, and is critical to deterring a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is a critical U.S. ally. It is one of three countries (along with Palau and Marshall Islands) that have signed Compacts of Free Association (COFAs) with the U.S. giving the U.S. extensive defense access, second only to what the U.S. has in the homeland. The COFAs forms the backbone of U.S. security architecture in the Central Pacific and facilitates U.S. freedom of deployment from Hawaii to the Philippines. FSM citizens can also live and work in the U.S. and serve in the U.S. military at high rates.Given its geographical location and its importance to the U.S., the FSM is the target of unrelenting People's Republic of China (PRC) political warfare and grey zone operations, with the goal of pulling the FSM away from the U.S. and into Beijing's orbit. For example, currently key components of the Compacts are awaiting renewal by Congress, giving an opening for PRC influence campaigns to foster uncertainty about U.S. commitment to the region.Between 2022 and early 2023, then president of FSM, David W. Panuelo, wrote three letters describing in unprecedented detail for a head of state Chinese activity in his country and in the Pacific Islands area. He warned that not only were PRC activities corrupting the FSM and undermining democracy, they were an intrinsic part of Beijing Taiwan contingency planning.To update on the situation in FSM since he left government, FDD's China Program is pleased to host former President of Micronesia David W. Panuelo for a discussion with FDD Non-Resident Senior Fellow Cleo Paskal. The conversation will be moderated by FDD Senior Fellow Craig Singleton with remarks by FDD Adjunct Fellow Richard Clark.

Dr. Robert Goldstein, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, says local agency partnerships are key to the success of new public health performance standards; Allison Nickrent, Director of Governmental Affairs at the Illinois Department of Public Health, discusses a recent roundtable meeting with a group of state senators; the first of an ASTHO four-part series titled “Implementing Pharmacist-Prescribed Contraception” is this week; and ASTHO looks forward to continuing its work with Marcus Samo, Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Affairs for the Federated States of Micronesia. Massachusetts Department of Public Health Press Release: Massachusetts public health officials announce performance standards for local public health  Illinois Department of Public Health Webpage ASTHO Webinar: Implementation of Pharmacist Prescribed Contraception – Key Policy Considerations ASTHO Webpage: Member Bio – Marcus Samo ASTHO Webpage: Stay Informed  

Joanne Cummings is the director of Baylor's Middle East Studies program and teaches in the BIC and Political Science department. She has also been instrumental in the development of an interfaith minor here at Baylor. A retired diplomat, her experience is wide-ranging. She was most recently the Foreign Policy Advisor (POLAD) to CJTF-OIR, based in Baghdad. She has also served extensively in the Middle East, North Africa, and East Africa.As the daughter of a diplomat, she was raised in Lebanon, lived in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, finished high school in Tehran, Iran, and graduated from university in Beirut, Lebanon before gaining an MA from the University of Texas at Austin. In the Department of State and in the private sector, she has worked in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Afghanistan, Jerusalem, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Ethiopia, and Micronesia as well as nine years working regionally from Morocco through Pakistan. Joanne was previously Deputy Chief of Mission in the Federated States of Micronesia.In this conversation, Joanne and I discuss the recent escalation of war between Israel and Hamas. She helped me understand the conflict, the history, the two sides, and – very importantly – the language we use to describe the region and the people in it.Much has happened since we taped this conversation and I knew that would be the case, so towards the end listen for Joanne's suggestions on which media outlets to follow for up-to-date, accurate, and considerate coverage of the unfolding events.I hope this conversation is useful for you in understanding such an important global issue. If you'd like to hear more from Joanne, she's been in several other interviews lately:KCENFox 44After our conversation, she also sent me this link from the BBC on how they approach using the word "terrorists." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1/2: #Oceania: #PRC agents of influence advance on the Federated States of Micronesia with gambling and money laundering. @CleoPaskal @FDD Press  https://www.fdd.org/analysis/2023/09/05/former-president-of-federated-states-of-micronesia-david-w-panuelo-warns-country-could-see-democratic-backsliding/  1922 Manila

2/2: #Oceania: #PRC agents of influence advance on the Federated States of Micronesia with gambling and money laundering. @CleoPaskal @FDD Press  https://www.fdd.org/analysis/2023/09/05/former-president-of-federated-states-of-micronesia-david-w-panuelo-warns-country-could-see-democratic-backsliding/  1930 Honolulu

TONIGHT: The show begins in the oilfields of the Gulf and Siberia and moves to the prospect of $5.00 gas by Election Day. From Rome to Siberia, from Delhi to Kyiv, from London to Boca Chica, Texas.  Attention to the Federated States of Micronesia under assault by gamblers and State Security to the civil war in Ethiopia. 1940 London

This special edition revisits Episode 386 of Public Health Review Morning Edition from March 28th.   Dr. Daniel Edney, State Health Officer for the Mississippi State Department of Health, discusses the dangers of Xylazine, a strong tranquilizer, and how to treat patients who have ingested it; Moses Pretrick, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Department of Health & Social Affairs (DHSA) Assistant Secretary, outlines improvements needed to increase access to care for U.S. veterans living in the territories and freely associated states; registration is now open for people interested in attending ASTHO's upcoming Public Health TechXpo and Futures Forum; and ASTHO's Health Equity Summit is happening next month in Atlanta. Xylazine: What Health Agencies Need to Know Island Areas 101 Public Health TechXpo and Futures Forum Registration Health Equity Summit: A Movement for Justice  

Photo: No known restrictions on publication. @Batchelorshow #Oceania: PRC political warfare attack on the Federated States of Micronesia. Cleo Paskal, FDD https://nationalinterest.org/blog/us-influence-pacific-requires-congressional-action-206572

This episode is an explorative retelling of Operation Hailstone, a great sinking of Japanese battle ships by US forces in WW2, in Chuuk Lagoon in the Federated States of Micronesia. We follow a local team as they dive a newly discovered wreck, and recount stories of the epic battle along the way, including those from the perspective of local indigenous people.  Cast List: Bill Jeffrey: Associate Professor at University of Guam Diane Strong: Former Journalism Professor at the University of Guam. Biographer of Kimiuo Aisek. Gradvin Aisek: Local Chuukese whose father, Kimiuo, was born under the Japanese mandate on Chuuk. Guy Walters: A British author, historian, and journalist who has written several books on WWII. As a journalist for The Times, he writes on historical topics for the national press. Michael Barnette: Marine biologist, diver, author and photographer. Bill Stinnett: Local diver and owner of Truk Stop Hotel & Dive Centre on the island of Chuuk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TODD BENSMAN, Senior National Security Fellow, Center for Immigration Studies, former Department of Homeland Security official, Author, Overrun: How Joe Biden Unleashed the Greatest Border Crisis in U.S. History,  America's Covert Border War: The Untold Story of the Nation's Battle to Prevent Jihadist Infiltration, @BensmanTodd A preview of Bensman's new book, Overrun: How Joe Biden Unleashed the Greatest Border Crisis in U.S. History How is the Biden administration handling the border crisis? Does the administration do full background checks on everyone who crosses the border? CLEO PASKAL, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies Recent talks between the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Taiwan How the Belt and Road Initiative is expanding China's repression around the world DAVID WURMSER, Director, Center for Security Policy's Program on Global Anti-Semitism, former Middle East Advisor to Vice President Dick Cheney, retired, US Navy Reserves Lieutenant Commander An update on Judicial Reform taking place in Israel The great strength of the Israeli 'legal structure' compared to elected officials

Photo: No known restrictions on publication. @Batchelorshow 1882 1/2: #Oceania: #PRC influence peddling, intimidation, harassment in the Federated States of Micronesia. Cleo Paskal. FDD. https://thediplomat.com/2023/03/micronesias-president-writes-bombshell-letter-on-chinas-political-warfare/

Photo: No known restrictions on publication. @Batchelorshow 2/2: #Oceania: #PRC influence peddling, intimidation, harassment in the Federated States of Micronesia. Cleo Paskal. FDD. https://thediplomat.com/2023/03/micronesias-president-writes-bombshell-letter-on-chinas-political-warfare/ https://thediplomat.com/2023/03/micronesias-president-writes-bombshell-letter-on-chinas-political-warfare/