NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Baird Supports the One Big Beautiful Bill, Votes for Largest Tax Cut in American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN-04)

    Congressman Baird Supports the One Big Beautiful Bill, Votes for Largest Tax Cut in American History

    Washington, July 3, 2025

    Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:
     
    “After months of hard work and thoughtful deliberation, I was proud to vote for the One Big, Beautiful Bill and help send it to President Trump’s desk. This includes much-needed tax relief for the American people. This bill delivers the largest tax cut in American history for workers, families, and seniors by ending taxes on tips and overtime for millions of workers and slashing taxes on Social Security. It also makes a generational investment in Rural America by expanding crop insurance, strengthening biosecurity measures, and boosting investment in the farm safety net, and it prevents a Death Tax increase that would devastate thousands of family farms in Indiana’s Fourth Congressional District. On top of these monumental wins, the One Big Beautiful Bill invests in our border security to deliver the most secure border on record and delivers on President Trump’s successful foreign policy of peace through strength.
     
    “There has been a lot of misleading information on this bill. This legislation strengthens federal programs for those who truly need them and enacts common-sense work requirements that a majority of Americans support. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) score assumes an incorrect baseline that simply does not reflect current policy. In reality, the One Big Beautiful Bill reduces the deficit, marking a long-overdue return to fiscal sanity in Washington.
     
    “This bill ultimately fulfills many of the promises made to the American people. As we celebrate Independence Day and the birth of our nation, I am pleased to deliver these significant wins that ensure America truly remains the greatest country in history.”
     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Gomez Denounces Passage of Trump’s Billionaire Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

    Rep. Jimmy Gomez Denounces Passage of Trump’s Billionaire Bill

    Washington, July 3, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) released the following statement after House Republicans passed their tax bill:  

    “Through the dead of night, I stood side by side with House Democrats at the Capitol fighting Trump’s all-out assault on the American people. I am proud to have just voted NO on his disastrous Big Billionaire Bill, written to steal from working families, shower trillions on the billionaire establishment that owns the Republican Party, and drown our country in debt.

    It guts Medicaid, ACA subsidies, and food assistance for millions of families, students, seniors, and workers just trying to get by. It raises costs, slashes services, and funds Trump’s deportation and immigrant detention machine. It buries a generation in poverty, all to give massive handouts to the ultra-wealthy, while ballooning the national debt to record highs. This isn’t policy, it’s economic sabotage. 

    That debt will drive up interest rates, hike borrowing costs on everything from mortgages to car loans to credit cards. It will choke off investment in jobs and growth, making life even more expensive for everyone except the ultra-wealthy. 

    This bill will deepen inequality and hollow out what is left of the American promise. But I didn’t fight through the night just to give up in the daylight. The stakes are too high. The damage to our neighbors is too real. And I remain laser-focused on turning outrage into action and this betrayal into accountability come Election Day.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Statement on Trump Administration Illegally Withholding $108 Million From Virginia Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released the following statement after the Trump Administration missed a key deadline to distribute $6.2 billion in federal K-12 funding, including $108 million for Virginia schools, to support teacher training, after school programming, mental health resources, and more:
    “Virginians know that high-quality public schools and the well-being of our children are critical to the Commonwealth’s future and economic success. The Trump Administration’s decision to withhold over $6 billion in funding that Congress appropriated for schools across the country, while pushing for a disastrous megabill that slashes programs Virginians rely on to fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, tells you everything you need to know about their priorities. This move will devastate our students, especially those in our rural communities. We demand that the Administration immediately provide Virginia schools with the $108 million in funding we voted to secure, and urge all of Virginia’s leaders to do the same.”
    The $108 million being withheld from Virginia represents over 12 percent of the Commonwealth’s total K-12 funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff, Colleagues Demand Accountability for President Trump’s Discriminatory Travel Ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Schiff, Colleagues Demand Accountability for President Trump’s Discriminatory Travel Ban

    Lawmakers: “We write to express our strong opposition to President Trump’s recent decision to issue a sweeping travel ban that will deny entry to thousands of individuals from 19 different countries.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) joined 68 Democratic lawmakers in urging President Trump to rescind his discriminatory travel ban that will keep families apart and devastate the U.S. economy. The members demanded transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and answers about how the travel ban will impact communities across the United States.  
    In a letter addressed to President Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, the lawmakers outlined the disastrous consequences that President Trump’s travel ban will have on families and the American economy. U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28) led the letter.
    “The effects of President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the twelve countries on the fully restricted list. These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways,” wrote the lawmakers.
    During his first term, President Trump enacted extreme travel bans that disrupted thousands of lives and weakened our nation’s economy and global standing. On his first day in office, President Joe Biden rescinded these bans, but President Trump enacted another sweeping, discriminatory travel ban last month.
    President Trump is imposing full restrictions on entry into the United States from nationals of Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, as well as partial restrictions on entry from nationals of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela — meaning individuals from these countries cannot come to the United States permanently or apply for certain visas. President Trump is also reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on an additional 36 countries.
    “President Trump’s actions once again disgrace the founding principles of our nation and enshrine cruelty into our immigration system,” continued the lawmakers. “Additionally, this travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025.”
    The members demanded accountability and answers from the Trump Administration, pushing the President to immediately rescind his cruel travel ban.
    Senator Padilla helped introduce a pair of bills earlier this year aimed at combating the chaos caused by Trump’s Muslim Ban in his first term. To prevent some of the most egregious violations from Trump’s first travel ban, Padilla is leading the Access to Counsel Act, which would ensure that U.S. citizens, green card holders, and other individuals with legal status can consult with an attorney, relative, or other interested parties to seek assistance if they are detained by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for more than an hour at ports of entry, including airports. Padilla is also cosponsoring Coons and Chu’s NO BAN Act, legislation to prevent any president from implementing a discriminatory travel ban by strengthening the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination based on religion. The bill would also require that any suspension of entry into the United States be narrowly tailored, backed by credible evidence, and subject to appropriate consultation with Congress.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear President Trump, Secretary Noem, Secretary Rubio, and Attorney General Bondi:
    We write to express our strong opposition to President Trump’s recent decision to issue a sweeping travel ban that will deny entry to thousands of individuals from 19 different countries. This discriminatory ban will not improve our country’s national security, but it will needlessly rip families apart. We urge President Trump to rescind it immediately.
    During President Trump’s first term, his administration implemented a range of travel restrictions on nationals from several countries, many of which were majority-Muslim countries. These travel bans faced continual legal challenges because of their blatantly discriminatory designs. President Biden terminated the latest version of President Trump’s travel ban when he took office in 2021, but the damage had already been done. The first Muslim Ban wreaked havoc on families, forcing over forty thousand people who had cleared one of the most exhaustive immigration vetting systems in the world to miss weddings, funerals, graduations, and births. What’s more, there is no evidence that this ban or any further iteration did anything to improve national security or prevent terrorism.
    Despite the failure of the original Muslim and travel bans, President Trump has now issued an even broader travel ban. This new extreme travel ban will prevent nationals from twelve countries (Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) from entering the United States, with seven other countries (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) facing partial restrictions, meaning individuals from these countries cannot come to the U.S. permanently or apply for certain visas. The administration is reportedly considering imposing restrictions on an additional 36 countries.
    The effects of this discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the twelve countries on the fully restricted list. These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways. President Trump’s actions once again disgrace the founding principles of our nation and enshrine cruelty into our immigration system.
    Additionally, this travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025.
    Given these severe impacts, we condemn this proclamation and urge President Trump to rescind it immediately. We also seek transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and, accordingly, request answers to the following questions by July 3rd, 2025:
    1. President Trump’s proclamation banned travel from countries based on a report that “identified countries for which vetting and screening information is so deficient as to warrant a full suspension of admissions and countries that warrant a partial suspension of admission,” as well as considered “various factors, including each country’s screening and vetting capabilities, information sharing policies, and country-specific risk factors — including whether each country has a significant terrorist presence within its territory, its visa-overstay rate, and its cooperation with accepting back its removable nationals.”
    a. Will your administration release this report in full to Congress and the public?
    b. How are screening and vetting processes determined to be “deficient?”
    c. What are the specific criteria by which your administration will continuously evaluate a country’s “conditions and vetting standards?” What are the parameters for a country to have a system that is considered sufficient?
    2. What is the status of your administration’s deliberations to add more countries to the travel ban?
    3. What is the estimate of the economic impacts on tourism, jobs, and foreign direct investment as a result of this travel ban?
    4. What metrics will your administration use to evaluate the effectiveness of the travel ban in protecting national security?
    5. Section 4(c) and (d) of the proclamation contemplates exceptions when in the national interest.
    a. What procedures and guidelines will your administration use to determine who receives an exemption from your travel ban?
    b. Will your administration make these procedures and guidelines public, and will your administration allow individuals to apply for exceptions?
    6. President Trump’s proclamation identifies insufficient vetting as a reason to bar immigrant visas from certain suspended countries. However, his proclamation exempts immediate relatives of U.S. citizens who can show “clear and convincing evidence of identity and family relationship (e.g. DNA).”
    a. Given that your administration accept DNA tests as a valid form of identification and evidence of familial relationship, why has your administration categorically suspended the entry of all other family-based immigrant visa applicants, including those who could also prove their identity in that manner?
    7. For several countries (Burundi, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Togo, and Turkmenistan), President Trump’s proclamation lists no reason for a suspension of visas other than the visa overstay rates of individuals on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas, which are nonimmigrant visas. However, President Trump’s proclamation fully suspends all immigrant visas for those countries, including all family and employment-based visas.
    a. How does your administration justify suspending all immigrant visas on the basis of an unrelated nonimmigrant visa overstay rate?
    b. Did your administration conduct individualized analyses for all nonimmigrant visa types, or rely solely on the B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visa overstay rates?
    We thank you for your attention to this important manner.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Statement on House Passage of the Partisan Budget Bill

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 03, 2025

    For Immediate Release: July 3, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) voted against Congressional Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill (H.R.1).

    Following the vote, Rep. Hoyle released the following statement:

    “This bill is ruthless. It is the single largest wealth transfer in American history, ripping healthcare away from families, taking food away from hungry people, and handing billions to the wealthiest Americans. My Republican colleagues knew exactly what they were doing – and they did it anyway. This bill slams the door shut on working class families like mine in Oregon and across the country. I proudly voted no.”

    Today’s vote was specifically on the Senate’s amended version of H.R. 1. Rep. Hoyle previously voted against the House’s version of H.R. 1.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 6 simple questions to tell if a ‘finfluencer’ is more flash than cash

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dimitrios Salampasis, Associate Professor, Emerging Technologies and FinTech | FinTech Capability Lead, Swinburne University of Technology

    Oleg Golovnev/Shutterstock

    Images of flashy sports cars. Lavish lifestyle shots. These are just some of the red flags consumers should watch out for when they turn to social media for financial advice.

    Consumers should not believe everything they see on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube from the growing numbers of “finfluencers” – content creators who build their audience by giving out financial advice.

    The regulator responsible for financial products and advice, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), has issued warning notices to 18 social media finfluencers. ASIC said it suspects they have broken the law by promoting high-risk financial products or providing unlicensed financial advice. ASIC did not name them.

    So, why is regulated financial advice important and what are some of the common practices finfluencers use to attract followers and customers?

    Financial advice rules explained

    Australian Financial Services laws are designed to protect consumers and investors, while promoting the integrity of financial markets. It is both unethical and illegal to promote financial products without proper authorisation.

    In Australia, it is an offence under the Corporations Act to provide financial advice without an Australian Financial Services licence. Penalties include up to five years’ imprisonment or fines of A$1 million or more.

    ASIC issued a similar warning to online finfluencers in 2022. Since then, the number of social media posts by unauthorised finfluencers have substantially reduced.

    Many finfluencers became licensed or authorised representatives of a licensee, along with being more diligent about what they were posting online. Natasha Etschmann, with 300,000 Instagram and TikTok followers at @TashInvests, became licensed immediately after the 2022 warning.

    Some other finfluencers were arrested, issued fines or ordered to take down their websites.

    High-risk products

    However, some finfluencers who style themselves as “trading experts” continue to provide unauthorised financial advice, usually for a fee or commission. They promote high-risk, complex investment products that can cause consumers substantial harm.

    These products include contracts-for-difference
    and over-the-counter derivative products that do not trade on an exchange. ASIC says its current concerns lie with these content creators:

    Their social media content is often accompanied by misleading or deceptive representations about the prospects of success from the products or trading strategies they promote, sharing images of lavish lifestyles, sports cars and other luxury goods.

    What to watch on socials

    About 41% of young Australians aged 18 to 30 look online for financial information or advice.

    While budgeting tips can be helpful, it’s important to be extra careful with online financial advice. Consumers should not believe everything they see on social media.

    Conducting due diligence and checking finfluencers’ credentials on ASIC’s Professional Registers search tool is crucial. Choose expert and licensed finfluencers rather than accounts with large followings and exaggerated or misleading claims. Popularity does not always mean credibility.

    There are certain red flags to watch out for. Some finfluencers use pseudonyms. They promote “exclusive” financial advice content and access to “invitation-only” online communities for a fee. In many cases, they lack credible experience or certified financial planning training to provide financial advice.

    Your finfluencer vetting toolkit

    When choosing to follow or acquire the services of a finfluencer, ask:

    1. is this finfluencer licensed or authorised?

    2. how realistic are the promised financial outcomes? Are they too good to be true?

    3. does the finfluencer disclose their personal financial position or investments when discussing financial products or strategies?

    4. are they transparent about? their track record of accuracy or accountability?

    5. do they address publicly a case when their audience lost money from a strategy they recommended?

    6. does the finfluencer tailor content to different investment risk profiles or financial maturity levels in their audiences?

    Are you being sold a dream?

    Social media finfluencer content can often come with misleading or deceptive representations (such as the sports cars and luxury goods that ASIC has warned about). Content may overstate the prospects of success and potential profits.

    Some – usually unlicensed – finfluencers use social media content as “proof” of their financial expertise. One common practice is to try to lure consumers by creating a hyped world around their own personal lifestyle. Many finfluencers often extend invitations to consumers to join closed forums to “learn” their hidden secrets to success or copy their “famous” trading practices.

    These finfluencers usually try to convince consumers they can achieve a similar lifestyle by following their advice.

    Finfluencers are global

    ASIC issued the warnings as part of a recent global week of action. ASIC and eight regulators from the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Italy, Hong Kong and Canada took coordinated action to disrupt unlawful finfluencer activity.
    The global campaign aims to raise awareness about unlawful finfluencer activity, protect consumers, and prevent them from investing after encountering misleading content.

    Consumers need to distinguish between credible financial advice and self-serving or misleading content before trusting their money to anyone.

    Spotted unlicensed influencer activity? Report this misconduct to ASIC.

    Dimitrios Salampasis is a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA), member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and member of the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID).

    – ref. 6 simple questions to tell if a ‘finfluencer’ is more flash than cash – https://theconversation.com/6-simple-questions-to-tell-if-a-finfluencer-is-more-flash-than-cash-259906

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 6 simple questions to tell if a ‘finfluencer’ is more flash than cash

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dimitrios Salampasis, Associate Professor, Emerging Technologies and FinTech | FinTech Capability Lead, Swinburne University of Technology

    Oleg Golovnev/Shutterstock

    Images of flashy sports cars. Lavish lifestyle shots. These are just some of the red flags consumers should watch out for when they turn to social media for financial advice.

    Consumers should not believe everything they see on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube from the growing numbers of “finfluencers” – content creators who build their audience by giving out financial advice.

    The regulator responsible for financial products and advice, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), has issued warning notices to 18 social media finfluencers. ASIC said it suspects they have broken the law by promoting high-risk financial products or providing unlicensed financial advice. ASIC did not name them.

    So, why is regulated financial advice important and what are some of the common practices finfluencers use to attract followers and customers?

    Financial advice rules explained

    Australian Financial Services laws are designed to protect consumers and investors, while promoting the integrity of financial markets. It is both unethical and illegal to promote financial products without proper authorisation.

    In Australia, it is an offence under the Corporations Act to provide financial advice without an Australian Financial Services licence. Penalties include up to five years’ imprisonment or fines of A$1 million or more.

    ASIC issued a similar warning to online finfluencers in 2022. Since then, the number of social media posts by unauthorised finfluencers have substantially reduced.

    Many finfluencers became licensed or authorised representatives of a licensee, along with being more diligent about what they were posting online. Natasha Etschmann, with 300,000 Instagram and TikTok followers at @TashInvests, became licensed immediately after the 2022 warning.

    Some other finfluencers were arrested, issued fines or ordered to take down their websites.

    High-risk products

    However, some finfluencers who style themselves as “trading experts” continue to provide unauthorised financial advice, usually for a fee or commission. They promote high-risk, complex investment products that can cause consumers substantial harm.

    These products include contracts-for-difference
    and over-the-counter derivative products that do not trade on an exchange. ASIC says its current concerns lie with these content creators:

    Their social media content is often accompanied by misleading or deceptive representations about the prospects of success from the products or trading strategies they promote, sharing images of lavish lifestyles, sports cars and other luxury goods.

    What to watch on socials

    About 41% of young Australians aged 18 to 30 look online for financial information or advice.

    While budgeting tips can be helpful, it’s important to be extra careful with online financial advice. Consumers should not believe everything they see on social media.

    Conducting due diligence and checking finfluencers’ credentials on ASIC’s Professional Registers search tool is crucial. Choose expert and licensed finfluencers rather than accounts with large followings and exaggerated or misleading claims. Popularity does not always mean credibility.

    There are certain red flags to watch out for. Some finfluencers use pseudonyms. They promote “exclusive” financial advice content and access to “invitation-only” online communities for a fee. In many cases, they lack credible experience or certified financial planning training to provide financial advice.

    Your finfluencer vetting toolkit

    When choosing to follow or acquire the services of a finfluencer, ask:

    1. is this finfluencer licensed or authorised?

    2. how realistic are the promised financial outcomes? Are they too good to be true?

    3. does the finfluencer disclose their personal financial position or investments when discussing financial products or strategies?

    4. are they transparent about? their track record of accuracy or accountability?

    5. do they address publicly a case when their audience lost money from a strategy they recommended?

    6. does the finfluencer tailor content to different investment risk profiles or financial maturity levels in their audiences?

    Are you being sold a dream?

    Social media finfluencer content can often come with misleading or deceptive representations (such as the sports cars and luxury goods that ASIC has warned about). Content may overstate the prospects of success and potential profits.

    Some – usually unlicensed – finfluencers use social media content as “proof” of their financial expertise. One common practice is to try to lure consumers by creating a hyped world around their own personal lifestyle. Many finfluencers often extend invitations to consumers to join closed forums to “learn” their hidden secrets to success or copy their “famous” trading practices.

    These finfluencers usually try to convince consumers they can achieve a similar lifestyle by following their advice.

    Finfluencers are global

    ASIC issued the warnings as part of a recent global week of action. ASIC and eight regulators from the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Italy, Hong Kong and Canada took coordinated action to disrupt unlawful finfluencer activity.
    The global campaign aims to raise awareness about unlawful finfluencer activity, protect consumers, and prevent them from investing after encountering misleading content.

    Consumers need to distinguish between credible financial advice and self-serving or misleading content before trusting their money to anyone.

    Spotted unlicensed influencer activity? Report this misconduct to ASIC.

    Dimitrios Salampasis is a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA), member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and member of the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID).

    – ref. 6 simple questions to tell if a ‘finfluencer’ is more flash than cash – https://theconversation.com/6-simple-questions-to-tell-if-a-finfluencer-is-more-flash-than-cash-259906

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza , Palestine, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (3 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/Trip Announcement
    Deputy Secretary-General
    Gaza 
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Cyprus
    Ukraine
    Russia
    Senior Personnel Appointment  
    Yemen
    Global Risk Report
    International Days
    Financial Contribution

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/TRIP ANNOUNCEMENT
    The Secretary-General will be arriving in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the 17th Summit of the BRICS countries.
    The Secretary-General has been invited to speak at an outreach session on “Strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence”, that will take place on Sunday, 6 July. On Monday, 7 July, he will address a second outreach session, on “Environment, COP30 and global health.”
    During his visit, the Secretary-General will also be having meetings with various leaders who are attending the BRICS Summit and we will share those readouts with you.

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    Our Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, returned to Seville today for the closing of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4).
    At the closing with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of Spain, she underscored the consensus around the Seville Agreement as a demonstration of multilateralism in action — with actions to close the SDG financing gap, address the debt crisis, and reform the international financial architecture. She recognized the more than 100 initiatives launched on the Sevilla Platform for Action, including solidarity levies on private jets and first-class travel to generate new resources for sustainable development.
    She said that the UN will be operationalizing a Seville Forum on Debt to help countries learn from one another and coordinate their approaches in debt management and restructuring; that forum will be supported by Spain.
    She called for FFD4 to be remembered not only as a conference that responded to crisis, but as the moment the world chose cooperation over fragmentation, unity over division, and action over inertia.
    Tomorrow, she will travel to Praia, Cabo Verde, to take part in celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.

    GAZA 
    The Secretary-General is appalled by the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Multiple attacks in recent days hitting sites hosting displaced people and people trying to access food have killed and injured scores of Palestinians. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the civilian loss of life. 
    In just one day this week, Israeli orders to relocate forced nearly 30,000 people to flee, yet again, with no safe place to go and clearly inadequate supplies of shelter, food, medicine or water.
    International humanitarian law is unambiguous: civilians must be respected and protected, and the needs of the population must be met.
    With no fuel having entered Gaza in more than 17 weeks, the Secretary-General is gravely concerned that the last lifelines for survival are being cut off. Without an urgent influx of fuel, incubators will shut down, ambulances will be unable to reach the injured and sick, and water cannot be purified. The delivery by the United Nations and partners of what little of our lifesaving humanitarian aid is left in Gaza will also grind to a halt. 
    He once again calls for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access so aid can reach people who have been deprived of the basics of life for far too long. The UN has a clear and proven plan, rooted in the humanitarian principles, to get vital assistance to civilians – safely and at scale, wherever they are. 
    The Secretary-General reiterates that all parties must uphold their obligations under international law. He renews his call for an immediate permanent ceasefire and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. 

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=03%20July%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CJL7IZOkzs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dallas County Teen Serves as Senate Page

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    Senate Page Sawyer Mann and Senator John Boozman in his office on Capitol Hill.

    WASHINGTON—High school student Sawyer Mann spent part of his summer in the nation’s capital navigating the corridors of Congress. The rising senior from Sparkman served as a U.S. Senate Page alongside several dozen other high schoolers from across the country.

    Mann and his peers reported to work one hour before the Senate convened on weekdays and helped prepare the U.S. Senate chamber for daily business, distributed documents to senators’ desks, assisted in the cloakrooms, supported chamber staff and – when the body was in session – sat near the dais waiting to aid members delivering remarks or casting votes. 

    “Serving as a Senate Page taught me that even the smallest roles can stand in the shadow of history and still help carry it forward,” Mann said.

    Mann earned his appointment to the position from Senator John Boozman (R-AR), who has long promoted the program for Arkansas youth interested in civics and public service.

    “Sawyer did an excellent job supporting the day-to-day activity of the Senate while observing legislative processes and procedures firsthand. I am confident that serving as a Page will inspire him to continue exploring his interest in public policy and enhance his leadership skills. Our entire state can be proud of how he represented us in this prestigious program,” Boozman said.

    Mann is an active participant in Future Farmers of America and a member of the Camden Harmony Grove High School yearbook staff. He also served on the student council as sophomore and junior class representative, and as captain of the quiz bowl team.

    While in Washington, D.C., he toured the National Archives and visited several Smithsonian museums in addition to attending a showing of Les Misérables at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. 

    He is the son of Russ Mann and Lauren Franks.

    The Senate Page program started in 1829 when Senator Daniel Webster appointed the first Senate Page. Today, the program is a unique, highly selective opportunity for high school juniors with a strong academic standing to learn firsthand about the institution often referred to as “the world’s greatest deliberative body.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Delivers Remarks On House Floor In Support Of The One Big, Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Rep. Estes Delivers Remarks On House Floor In Support Of The One Big, Beautiful Bill

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) delivered remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 1 – the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Read the full remarks below. Watch on YouTube and Rumble.

    Remarks as delivered:

    Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the Kansas families, workers, and small businesses who will benefit from the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    By extending and improving the TCJA, working-class families in my district will pay $10,900 less in taxes and see increased wages of $7,200 on average. It contains my bipartisan legislation to make research and development expensing permanent – a jobs provision ensuring America continues to lead the world entirely on innovation. It eliminates fraud and waste in Obamacare, and it builds on President Trump’s successes at securing the border.

    Despite the misleading spin from my colleagues on the left, this bill delivers on what Americans voted for in November – it’s time to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons on Rep. Jamila Prayapal calling ICE a ‘terrorist force’

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    July 3, 2025Washington, DC, United StatesStatement

    WASHINGTON — On July 2, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) called U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement a “terrorist force.”

    Acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons’ response to the congresswoman:

    “An actual Antifa terrorist tried to blow up ICE’s Northwest Processing Center in Rep. Jayapal’s home state of Washington in 2019. At the time, she tried to blame the violent attack on rhetoric from the right, in defense of an actual terrorist who tried to murder detainees and employees alike! 

    Now, she labels ICE officers enforcing immigration law set by Congress ‘terrorists.’ This, at a time when officers are facing a nearly 700% increase in assaults, in part due to the type of rhetoric she spews. Never in a million years did I think I would witness a sitting member of Congress prioritize regard for violent criminals over the law enforcement officers protecting her community from actual public safety threats. The only apology needed is from the congresswoman to the people who voted for her.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons on Rep. Pramila Jayapal calling ICE a ‘terrorist force’

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    July 3, 2025Washington, DC, United StatesStatement

    WASHINGTON — On July 2, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) called U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement a “terrorist force.”

    Acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons’ response to the congresswoman:

    “An actual Antifa terrorist tried to blow up ICE’s Northwest Processing Center in Rep. Jayapal’s home state of Washington in 2019. At the time, she tried to blame the violent attack on rhetoric from the right, in defense of an actual terrorist who tried to murder detainees and employees alike! 

    Now, she labels ICE officers enforcing immigration law set by Congress ‘terrorists.’ This, at a time when officers are facing a nearly 700% increase in assaults, in part due to the type of rhetoric she spews. Never in a million years did I think I would witness a sitting member of Congress prioritize regard for violent criminals over the law enforcement officers protecting her community from actual public safety threats. The only apology needed is from the congresswoman to the people who voted for her.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Opposes Trump Administration Effort to Roll Back Fair Housing Protections

    Source: US State of California

    Regulations developed to prevent discriminatory housing practices, racially segregated neighborhoods 

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) opposing a proposed rule that would rollback critical fair housing regulations that prohibit discrimination in the marketing of affordable housing. The Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing (AFHM) regulations require owners of federally assisted housing to target advertising and outreach regarding their properties to communities that otherwise might not have learned about the opportunity to live there. The proposed rule would repeal these regulations, which are designed to ensure that federally assisted housing providers do not market available housing to only certain groups as had been done in the past to maintain racially segregated neighborhoods.

    “The Trump Administration is working to roll back critical fair housing regulations that prohibit discrimination — protections put in place in the 70’s to combat the insidious persistence of segregated neighborhoods — protections that are essential today to ensure that housing opportunities for underserved communities remain accessible,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The national housing crisis is driven by a shortage of housing supply and unaffordability that disproportionately affects communities of color. Today I urge the Administration to look closely at the mandate they inherited in the Fair Housing Act and understand that letting a broader range of buyers know about affordable housing opportunities that are available to them is necessary to ensure that these opportunities remain accessible for all Americans.” 

    Historically, government at all levels throughout the United States, along with private developers and mortgage lending institutions, played an active role in creating segregated living patterns, which perpetuated inequalities in access to opportunity. The Fair Housing Act, through AFHM regulations, requires HUD and recipients of federal funds from HUD to administer their programs in a manner to affirmatively further fair housing by ensuring that the agency and its program participants take meaningful actions to overcome patterns of segregation, promote fair housing choice, eliminate disparities in opportunities, and foster inclusive communities. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender and sexual orientation), familial status, and disability. 

    AFHM requirements require that owners and developers of HUD-subsidized housing have marketing programs in place to reach groups that are protected from discrimination by the Fair Housing Act and are not as likely to apply for such housing. Housing providers must then select methods of outreach and advertising, that are designed to reach those communities. Too often, the populations that are the least likely to apply are those that are underrepresented in the area where the property is located, especially affordable properties in high opportunity areas — areas that offer residents enhanced access to economic mobility and improved living conditions. The AFHM regulations do not dictate which tenants an owner must select for a unit, and nothing prohibits landlords from advertising through other media that reach different populations as well.

    In the letter, the attorneys general argue that the proposed repeal of these longstanding regulations is in direct contradiction with the mandate of the Fair Housing Act — to affirmatively further fair housing through ensuring non-discriminatory marketing practices — especially so given the lack of: 

    • a replacement rule; 
    • an explanation of how HUD will affirmatively ensure that covered program participants are not engaging in discriminatory and unlawful housing marketing practices in violation of federal law; and 
    • legally sufficient or evidence-based justifications for this total reversal of over 50 years of federal housing policy and law.

    The attorneys general hold a vested interest in ensuring equal access to housing and eradicating discrimination in communities nationwide. The national housing crisis is driven by a shortage of housing supply and skyrocketing unaffordability that disproportionately affects communities of color. The highest disparities are experienced by Black households — a byproduct of systemic racism and policies that targeted Black people and neighborhoods home to primarily Black people. Data on fair housing complaints confirm that proactive fair housing measures, including in advertising, are as vital as ever. In 2023, record high levels of fair housing complaints were submitted to HUD, the U.S. Department of Justice, and other fair housing organizations; the annual number of complaints has consistently risen. 

    In sending today’s letter Attorney General Bonta and the attorneys general from Maryland and New York lead the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.   

    A copy of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Off-ramp closed on Highway 1 near East 1st Ave.

    An off-ramp along Highway 1 westbound near East 1st Ave. will close from Friday, July 4, 2025, to Sunday, July 13, 2025.

    This second closure of the northbound off-ramp at East 1st Ave. (Exit 27) will allow the City of Vancouver to continue sewer-upgrade work on East 1st Ave. The ministry will advise if any further closures impacting the highway are needed.  

    During the closure period, the off-ramp will remain closed and there will be no left turn onto the Highway 1 northbound on-ramp from East 1st Ave.

    Drivers travelling westbound can detour through East Hastings or McGill Street and should plan additional travel time through the route.

    Travellers are reminded to obey signage. Traffic updates will be available on DriveBC: https://www.drivebc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: HMCS William Hall returns to Halifax following successful Operation CARIBBE deployment

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 3, 2025 – Ottawa, ON – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) William Hall returns to its home port of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Halifax today, concluding a successful deployment on Operation CARIBBE, Canada’s contribution to United States-led enhanced counter-narcotics operations under Joint Interagency Task Force South.

    During its deployment, HMCS William Hall played a key role in the interdiction and seizure of more than 1,545 kilograms of cocaine, significantly disrupting drug trafficking in international waters.

    The deployment included multiple maritime patrols and interdictions, during which HMCS William Hall worked in close coordination with an embarked United States Coast Guard (USCG) Law Enforcement Detachment. This collaboration highlights the strong operational partnership between the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and the USCG, and the importance of binational and international cooperation in addressing shared maritime security challenges.

    Operation CARIBBE is part of Canada’s ongoing support to Operation MARTILLO, a broader multinational effort led by the United States to combat illicit trafficking in the Caribbean Basin, Gulf of Mexico, and Eastern Pacific.

    The RCN remains committed to working alongside the USCG and regional partners to promote maritime security and stability in the Western Hemisphere. The success of HMCS William Hall’s deployment reflects the professionalism of its crew and the strength of Canada’s international partnerships in combating organized crime at sea.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seizure of unauthorized items at Cowansville Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 3, 2025 – Cowansville, Quebec – Correctional Service Canada

    On June 29, 2025, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, unauthorized items were seized at Cowansville Institution, a medium-security federal institution.

    The unauthorized items seized included hashish and cannabis concentrate. The total estimated institutional value of this seizure is $115,440.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors.

    CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.

    CSC has also set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions.

    The toll-free number, 1‑866‑780‑3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.

    Associated links

    Taking action against illegal drone activity

    Institutional security

    CSC’s Detector Dog Program

     

    -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Federal and territorial governments invest in expansion to transit fleet in Whitehorse

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    The federal government is investing $5,894,443 through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to support three public transit projects in Whitehorse, Yukon.

    Project Information:

    Location

    Project Name

    Project Details

    Federal Funding

    Territorial Funding

    Municipality of Whitehorse

    Whitehorse Transit: Additional Transit Buses 2024

    This 2024 project involves the addition of two 40-foot fully accessible buses to the City’s existing fleet to complement the reserve fleet and meet the needs of a growing city with expanding transit service. The reserve fleet serves multiple functions, such as vehicle substitution during regular maintenance, emergency situations such as accidents or unexpected breakdowns, driver training and the flexibility to modify transit service provided on relatively short notice. Additional buses will maintain the capacity of the public transit infrastructure by ensuring service levels are maintained, providing flexibility to modify and modernize routes and ensuring routine and unexpected maintenance can be accommodated to maximize the service life of the fleet. The City of Whitehorse’s Transit Services fleet currently consists of 15 low-floor, fully accessible 40-foot buses. The age of the fleet ranges from 2008 to the most recent buses acquired in 2023.

    $1,125,000

    $375,000

    Municipality of Whitehorse

    Whitehorse Transit: Additional Transit Buses 2025

    This 2025 project supplements the 2024 project and involves the addition of three 40-foot fully accessible buses to the City of Whitehorse’s existing fleet to complement the reserve fleet.

    $1,687,000

    $563,000

    Municipality of Whitehorse

    Whitehorse Transit: Additional Transit Buses 2026 and 2027

    The City of Whitehorse will acquire five 40-foot, fully accessible buses in 2026 and 2027. Three new buses will be added in 2026 to improve service during peak transit hours, enabling the system to better meet high demand by increasing frequency and reliability. Route coverage will also be expanded to ensure consistent and timely service during busy transit periods. The two buses planned for 2026 or 2027 will replace existing units that are nearing end of life, which will ensure fleet reliability and continued service quality as the City and ridership grows.

    $3,082,443

    $1,027,481

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal and territorial governments invest in expansion to transit fleet in Whitehorse

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Whitehorse, Yukon, July 3, 2025 — The City of Whitehorse will improve their transit system thanks to a combined investment of over $7.8 million from the federal and territorial governments.

    Ten 40-foot fully accessible buses will be added to the existing fleet in Whitehorse between 2026 and 2028. The City’s current fleet consists of 15 low-floor accessible buses that were purchased between 2008 and 2023. New buses will ensure efficiency and maintain service levels while helping to meet the needs of the growing city for residents and visitors. The additional buses will allow opportunities to improve routes, ensure unexpected maintenance can be accommodated, and will maximize the service life of the fleet for the city. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Motion to Prevent Construction Delays for “Alligator Alcatraz” Immigration Detention Center in Florida

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) today filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida to prevent unnecessary construction delays for Florida’s temporary immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades.

    “The Department of Justice has defended President Trump’s immigration agenda in court since day one and we are proud to protect ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ from baseless, politically motivated legal schemes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “Delaying the construction of Florida’s temporary detention center, as plaintiffs request, would imperil critical immigration enforcement efforts and endanger detainees in overcrowded detention facilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “We are proud to defend against these unfounded claims and to help the administration fulfill its fundamental obligation to prioritize the safety and security of Americans.” 

    On June 27, two political advocacy organizations — Friends of the Everglades Inc. and Center for Biological Diversity — filed a lawsuit to halt the construction and operation of the detention center, alleging failure to analyze the environmental effects of the project as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plaintiffs asked for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction.  

    In today’s filing, the Justice Department vigorously opposed the request for emergency and injunctive relief. Among other things, the filing highlights that there is no federal final agency action, that the Administrative Procedure Act does not apply to state agency decisions, that any claims related to potential federal funding are unripe, and that the plaintiffs failed to show irreparable harm.  

    Attorneys in ENRD’s Natural Resources Section are handling the case. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Motion to Prevent Construction Delays for “Alligator Alcatraz” Immigration Detention Center in Florida

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) today filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida to prevent unnecessary construction delays for Florida’s temporary immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades.

    “The Department of Justice has defended President Trump’s immigration agenda in court since day one and we are proud to protect ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ from baseless, politically motivated legal schemes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “Delaying the construction of Florida’s temporary detention center, as plaintiffs request, would imperil critical immigration enforcement efforts and endanger detainees in overcrowded detention facilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “We are proud to defend against these unfounded claims and to help the administration fulfill its fundamental obligation to prioritize the safety and security of Americans.” 

    On June 27, two political advocacy organizations — Friends of the Everglades Inc. and Center for Biological Diversity — filed a lawsuit to halt the construction and operation of the detention center, alleging failure to analyze the environmental effects of the project as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plaintiffs asked for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction.  

    In today’s filing, the Justice Department vigorously opposed the request for emergency and injunctive relief. Among other things, the filing highlights that there is no federal final agency action, that the Administrative Procedure Act does not apply to state agency decisions, that any claims related to potential federal funding are unripe, and that the plaintiffs failed to show irreparable harm.  

    Attorneys in ENRD’s Natural Resources Section are handling the case. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with a Section of Wenscott Reservoir

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising people to avoid contact with a section of Wenscott Reservoir in North Providence (western basin, south of Douglas Avenue) due to harmful algae blooms (HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. This HAB is caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of water. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Toxins and/or high cell counts have been detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by DEM at this location.

    This HAB has not been detected at the Governor Notte Park, but use caution in all areas of Wenscott Reservoir, particularly the western basin as HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies. Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. This advisory recommendation remains in effect until further notice.

    Skin contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

    If you or your pet come into contact with an algal bloom (HAB): — Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your cloths when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

    To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom. For more information and the Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard that lists current advisories and data, visit: www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fourleaf Air Show at Jones Beach Over July 4th Weekend

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and FourLeaf Federal Credit Union today announce that the annual FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will take place on Sunday, July 5 and Monday, July 6 of 2026 as part of the Semiquincentennial (250th) celebration of the United States.

    “To celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, we are excited to hold the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach over Fourth of July Weekend to be part of an amazing semiquincentennial celebration in New York,” Governor Hochul said. “The air show is a popular summer tradition that millions of New Yorkers and visitors alike have enjoyed throughout its history. I encourage all to get offline, get outside and take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy all the unique recreational activities that New York has to offer.”

    Traditionally the air show is held on Memorial Day Weekend at Jones Beach State Park. The change of date for the 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will occur in conjunction with Fleet Week New York which has also moved from Memorial Day Weekend to the July 4th Weekend. The United States Navy Blue Angels have announced that they will headline the air show in 2026 as part of the celebration and it is expected that there will be many additional military performers, as well as internationally known civilian aerobatic performers.

    New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said “What better way to celebrate the semiquincentennial in 2026 than with a great summer tradition on Long Island moved to the Fourth of July Weekend time period. Jones Beach State Park is a major recreational facility and the perfect location to spend this semiquincentennial celebration and enjoy all year round with family and friends.”

    FourLeaf Federal Credit Union President and CEO Linda Armyn said, “As the title sponsor of the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach, we are thrilled to join New York State in celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday with our amazing air show on the July 4th weekend. This is a once-in-a-generation milestone, and we are proud to showcase the spirit of freedom, innovation, and community that the air show embodies. It will be an unforgettable weekend of awe-inspiring aviation and patriotic pride, as we honor our nation’s legacy and future.”

    The 2025 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach saw over 300,000 attendees despite overcast and cool temperatures. The attendees also generated $35.8 million in potential economic impact, further highlighting the air show’s impact on the local economy and regional tourism.

    Although the air show will not take place Memorial Day weekend in 2026, Jones Beach State Park will still host events that weekend to continue the tradition of honoring those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The FourLeaf Air Show will return on Memorial Day Weekend in 2027.

    The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit  parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app  or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on  Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, the  OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Conflagration invoked, Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilizes firefighters, equipment to Cold Springs Fire

    Source: US State of Oregon

    quick, wind-driven fire in Umatilla County prompted the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize four task forces and an incident management team. The Cold Springs Fire was reported on Wednesday afternoon and raced to more than 1,000 acres as of late afternoon, according to Umatilla County Fire District 1. The Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office has issued levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices for those living near the fire.

    The Oregon State Fire Marshal initially sent help through immediate response on Wednesday afternoon, with two structural task forces from Clackamas and Washington counties and air support through agreements with the Oregon Department of Forestry. To provide additional help, the agency is mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and two more task forces.

    The OSFM Green Incident Management Team will take command of the fire Thursday at 9 a.m.

    “The latest wildfire forecast for July and August is extremely concerning,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Over the last 48 hours, we saw thousands of lightning strikes across the state, and Red Flag Warnings issued for critical fire danger. I’m calling on everyone to pay attention to the conditions and take the necessary steps to prevent sparking a human-caused fire.”

    For fire updates until the Green Incident Management Team takes command, please follow the Umatilla County Fire District 1. For evacuation information, please follow the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office.

    This is the third time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2025, and the third immediate response for the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Calls Out Trump’s ‘Illegal and Unconstitutional’ Withholding of Nearly $7 Billion for Public Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    BURLINGTON, Vt., July 3 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today wrote to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to immediately reverse their illegal and unconstitutional decision this week to abruptly withhold nearly $7 billion in funding for public education nationwide, including $26.1 million for Vermont schools.
    This funding supports more than 10,000 summer and afterschool programs for 1.4 million students throughout the country, including nearly 100 afterschool and summer programs in Vermont that serve 11,000 students. Schools expected to receive this critical funding by July 1st, but were informed it was being withheld less than a day in advance.
    “Your decision to withhold $6.88 billion in vital funding that Congress appropriated for our nation’s public schools — including $26.1 million for Vermont — is not only horrific public policy, it is blatantly illegal and unconstitutional. Your unexpected and cruel decision has sent shockwaves, distress and heartbreak in local communities all over America who now may be forced to cancel or substantially delay summer school activities that had been planned for months,” Sanders wrote. “Further, your illegal actions have denied teachers the funding they rely on for professional development. Important services for English learners have been halted. Thousands of school principals, superintendents, and school board members may be forced to lay off dedicated staff. And school district budgets in every State and community have been negatively impacted. That is beyond unacceptable.”
    During her confirmation hearing, Secretary McMahon committed to delivering congressionally-appropriated funds to schools, districts and states as required. These actions not only violate the law passed by Congress and signed by the president, but they also violate her stated commitments.
    “Congress clearly and unambiguously passed this $6.88 billion in education funding. The President signed it into law. The Trump Administration has no right to withhold or impound it,” Sanders concluded. “I urge you to immediately reverse your decision to illegally withhold Federal education funding appropriated by Congress and release this funding to the States, school districts, and students as soon as possible.”
    Read the letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Meets with Vermonters in Killington, Ludlow, and Weston to Discuss His New Bill to Reform FEMA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    KILLINGTON, VT — This week in Killington, Ludlow, and Weston, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) unveiled his new bill, the Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act, and met with flood-impacted Vermonters and community members to discuss the importance of reforming FEMA’s long-term recovery process, supporting hazard mitigation, and protecting recovery funding. 
    “The Disaster AID Act was inspired by towns and cities in Vermont that are still recovering from the 2023 and 2024 floods. These folks know firsthand the strengths and weaknesses of FEMA. I’m determined to help improve the long-term recovery process—both for Vermonters, and for communities across America hurt by climate disasters,” said Senator Peter Welch. “I am always thankful to hear how Washington can work better for Vermont, and I use these stories and experiences to shape the legislation I introduce.”  
    The Disaster AID Act will cut red tape and empower state and local governments, make the delivery of disaster aid more efficient and effective, provide assistance to small towns and communities impacted by natural disasters, and block the White House from withholding funding for disaster recovery. Senator Welch will officially introduce the Disaster AID Act next week, coinciding with the anniversary of the floods. 
    Killington: In Killington, Senator Welch joined town officials to tour view East Mountain Road, which was heavily damaged in July 2023 and has since been rebuilt. The Senator also held a Listening Session with flood-impacted Vermonters and community leaders to discuss the state’s long-term recovery from the July 2023 and July 2024 floods, and ways the Disaster AID Act will small and rural communities across the state. 
    Photo Caption: Abbie Sherman, Public Works Director for Killington (middle) and Will Austin, Assistant Town Planner for Killington (right) show Senator Peter Welch (left) a map with flood damage in Killington. 
    Photo Caption: Senator Peter Welch views a photo of the flood damage on East Mountain Road. Left to right: Senator Peter Welch; Rebecca Ellis, State Director for Senator Peter Welch; Will Austin, Assistant Town Planner for Killington; Abbie Sherman, Public Works Director for Killington. 
    Photo Caption: Senator Peter Welch discusses flood recovery and other issues with Vermonters at the Killington Welcome Center.   
    Photo Caption: Senator Peter Welch discusses flood recovery with  Joseph Gaudiana, Brendan McNamara, and Justin Hyjek at Ludlow’s wastewater treatment facility, which is located near the Black River. 
    Ludlow: Senator Welch joined Ludlow town officials to view flooding damage to the village wastewater treatment facility, located on the Black River, and discuss progress on relocating the facility out of the flood plain. The Senator highlighted how the Disaster AID Act would help to simplify and expedite the relocation of critical infrastructure out of flood-prone areas. 
    Photo Caption: Senator Peter Welch discusses flood recovery and other issues with Vermonters in Weston. 
    Weston: In Weston, Senator Welch joined community leaders to view and discuss the Weston Mill Dam removal project, which will substantially lower the flood elevation level in the village. Senator Welch nominated for the project for Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS). Senator Welch also met with town officials to discuss the importance and need for municipal technical assistance in flood recovery and mitigation planning. He was joined by members of the Weston Playhouse on the Green, which still requires major repairs following the floods. 
    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing any attempt by the Trump Administration to dismantle FEMA. Earlier this year, Senator Welch published a guest essay in The New York Times entitled: “Don’t Kill FEMA. Fix It.” In his piece, Senator Welch outlined why President Trump’s actions to undermine and potentially dissolve FEMA are misguided—but also committed to working with the President on good faith efforts to reform the agency’s long-term recovery process.   
    In December 2024, Senator Welch helped shape and pass a comprehensive disaster aid package, which delivered more than $100.4 billion of relief for states like Vermont recovering from climate disasters. The disaster aid package contained many of Senator Welch’s top priorities for the State: dedicated help for Vermont’s flood-impacted farmers, flexible spending through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Relief fund, money for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, and support for businesses, among many other important provisions.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Western District of Texas U.S Attorney’s Office Adds 208 Immigration Cases in 6 Days Going into July

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SAN ANTONIO – United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas announced today, that federal prosecutors in the district filed 208 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from June 27 through July 2.

    Among the new cases, Mexican national Erik Garcia-Rodriguez aka Eduardo Soto-Garcia aka Gerardo Reyes, was encountered by Texas Department of Public Safety in San Antonio on June 26. According to a criminal complaint, TX DPS requested immigration determination assistance from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) officer, who determined Garcia-Rodriguez to be an alien illegally present within the United States who had previously been removed from the United States, and who was residing at an address in San Antonio. On May 26, 2011, Garcia-Rodriguez was convicted for trafficking cocaine and heroin in Dallas County. He was removed from the U.S. on Dec. 7, 2011.

    Mexican national Ismael Nieto Balverde was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin in Austin. A criminal complaint affidavit alleges that a Drug Enforcement Administration investigation led to two controlled purchases of heroin from Balverde, totaling approximately 2,034 grams of the narcotic.

    In Ector County, Roberto Adan Gandara-Ramirez, a Mexican national, was arrested on a warrant for alleged sexual assault of a child, according to a criminal complaint, and was released to ICE/ERO custody by Ector County Sherriff’s Department deputies. Gandara-Ramirez was previously removed from the U.S. through Del Rio in 2015.

    Daniel Hernandez, of Asherton, was arrested near Carrizo Springs on June 29 for conspiring to transport an illegal alien further into the United States. Hernandez was stopped by the Dimmit County Sheriff’s Office, who requested U.S. Border Patrol assistance. USBP agents conducted an immigration inspection and allegedly discovered that the vehicle contained two U.S. citizens and one Mexican national without proper documentation to enter or remain in the U.S. Hernandez allegedly stated that he was in contact with a facilitator who had instructed him to pick up the illegal alien and take the alien to Asherton. In 2014, Hernandez was convicted for bringing in and harboring aliens in Del Rio, for which he was sentenced to 27 months confinement.

    A convicted felon on U.S. probation was arrested and charged with illegal re-entry after he was found approximately a mile east of the Fort Hancock Port of Entry. Mexican national Eduardo Lopez-Castillo has been removed from the U.S. to Mexico three times, the last one being May 28, 2024. In April 2024, he was convicted of illegal re-entry and in 2021, Lopez-Castillo was convicted of assault causing bodily injury to a family member.

    Alfonso Lopez-Castro, a Mexican national, attempted to gain entry into the U.S. at the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry by presenting a New Mexico driver’s license that allegedly contained the name, date of birth, and photograph of another individual. Lopez-Castro allegedly told the Customs and Border Protection officer that he was a U.S. citizen and that he was going home to New Mexico. He allegedly admitted later that the driver’s license was not his and was given to him by a coworker. Lopez-Castro has been previously removed from the U.S. six times, five of which were between August and November 2014. He is charged with one count of knowingly personating another and attempting to evade immigration laws by appearing under an assumed or fictitious name when applying for admission to the United States.

    An alleged foot guide was arrested in El Paso and charged with bringing illegal aliens into the United States. Mexican national Isaac Nolasco-Ramirez allegedly crossed into the U.S. and attempted to conceal himself with three other illegal aliens inside a canal and under some brush approximately six miles east of the Tornillo Port of Entry. A criminal complaint alleges that Nolasco-Ramirez stated his friend used a rope ladder to get the group over the fence and that he was told to take the aliens to be picked up along the railroad tracks.

    Two U.S. citizens were also arrested for bringing in illegal aliens after two aliens were observed scaling over the International Border Fence. The aliens were apprehended north of the Rio Grande River and consented that U.S. Border Patrol agents could view and search the contents of their phone. An agent, posing as one of the aliens, allegedly replied to a WhatsApp message with his location and was advised that two Jeeps would soon arrive to pick him up. When the Jeeps arrived, one driver, identified as Diego Mota, was arrested. The other vehicle departed at a high rate of speed before the driver stopped and led an Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo Tribal Police Officer on a foot chase. That driver, Isaac Steven Hernandez, was soon apprehended and allegedly admitted that he had been involved in alien smuggling schemes approximately eight times.

    A Salvadoran national, Hector Antonio Ostorga Hernandez, was arrested in Eagle Pass and charged with illegal re-entry. Ostorga Hernandez has been previously deported twice, the last time being to El Salvador on Dec. 20, 2024, through Alexandria, Louisiana. That removal occurred two months after he was convicted in Houston for assault causing bodily harm injuring a family member and was sentenced to 179 days confinement.

    Jose Ignacio Lopez-Ortiz, a Mexican national, was also arrested in Eagle Pass and charged with illegal re-entry. Lopez-Ortiz was last removed to Mexico in January 2013 through Laredo and has since been twice-convicted for driving while intoxicated in April 2023 and April 2025.

    Mexican national Juan Enrique Landeros-Gonzalez was arrested in Del Rio on June 30 for being illegally present in the U.S. after being removed for the sixth time on June 13. Landeros-Gonzalez is a felon with multiple convictions including criminal mischief and probation revocation, illegal re-entry, and unauthorized use of a vehicle.

    U.S. Border Patrol in Eagle Pass also arrested Mexican national Joel Escobar-Chavez, who has six prior removals, the last being on March 7, and Donaldo Robles-Zarate, who also has been removed six times, the last one being July 12, 2019. Guatemalan national Byron Antonio Almazan has been removed from the U.S. five times, the last being on Jan. 27 through Alexandria, Louisiana. He was convicted for an illegal re-entry felony in December 2024 and sentenced to 189 days confinement. 

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Happy Independence Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement wishing West Virginians a happy Independence Day ahead of July 4th. 
    “As you gather over barbecues and at parades to celebrate our great nation, I encourage you to take a moment to remember how blessed we are to call the United States of America home. We live in the most free and prosperous country in history, and I am so grateful to the brave men and women who have fought to preserve and protect the freedoms we hold dear. I hope you all enjoy a wonderful celebration surrounded by friends and family. May God continue to bless America,” Senator Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Strengthening southern Yukon communities against wildfire exposure

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Whitehorse, Yukon, July 3, 2025 — Communities in southern Yukon will reduce their wildfire risk after a combined investment of more than $17 million from the federal and Yukon governments.

    The funding was announced by Dr. Brendan Hanley, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Member of Parliament for Yukon, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, along with the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, and the Honourable Nils Clarke, on behalf of Richard Mostyn, Minister of Community Services, for the Government of Yukon.

    Funding for the Government of Yukon’s Wildland Fire Management branch will decrease fire risk in the communities of Whitehorse, Teslin, and Haines Junction—communities which are part of the northern boreal forest region and prone to aggressive wildfire behaviour.

    This region relies on Wildland Fire Management to protect life, critical infrastructure, and property from the impacts of wildfire while facilitating the creation of wildfire-resilient places to live. Funding will support different treatment phases, which include both retreatment and new fuel break construction. With new forest regrowth and new FireSmart standards, previous risk reduction efforts may become less effective over time. Retreatment includes increasing spacing between trees and removing live or dead vegetation that could allow fires to climb the landscape or trees from the forest floors. New treatment will include reducing or managing materials that are flammable or combustible in the wildland-urban interface. These measures follow national standards set out by FireSmart Canada and will increase the wildfire resilience of these three communities.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

    The leaders discussed the close economic and cultural ties between Canada and the Philippines, with nearly one million Canadians of Filipino descent. They reflected on the Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy in Vancouver earlier this year and expressed their deep condolences to all those affected.

    Prime Minister Carney emphasized opportunities to deepen Canada’s relationship with the Philippines in investment and commerce, including by advancing free trade. The two leaders agreed on the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and of the efforts of both Canada and the Philippines to uphold the rules-based international order and security in the region.

    Prime Minister Carney extended an invitation to President Marcos Jr. to visit Canada. The leaders will remain in close contact.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim.

    Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Anwar discussed the strong and dynamic trade relationship between Canada and Malaysia. They agreed to deepen bilateral co-operation in clean and conventional energy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

    The leaders look forward to meeting at the ASEAN Summit, under Malaysia’s chairship.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –