NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Security: Albanian National and American Wife Charged with Making False Statements and Marriage Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CAMDEN, N.J. – An Albanian national was charged with marriage fraud, and he and his wife, an American citizen, were both charged with making false statements on forms submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”), U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Elvis Harizaj, 25, of Cherry Hill, and Natasha Flores, 27, of Newark, were both charged with making false statements to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”).

    According to documents filed in these cases and statements made in Court:

    Harizaj is a citizen of Albania and entered into a sham marriage with Flores for the purpose of obtaining permanent residence in the United States.  On forms submitted to USCIS, Harizaj falsely stated that he lived with Flores and Flores falsely stated that she had never been married before.  Flores, in fact, had previously been married to a Brazilian national who obtained U.S. citizenship based on his marriage to Flores. In addition, Harizaj was charged with marriage fraud.

    The counts of false statements and marriage fraud both have a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel, with the investigation.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph McFarlane in Camden.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                                                  ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadoran National Charged with Illegally Reentering U.S. after Sex Assault Conviction

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ROBERTO MUY, 35, a citizen of Ecuador, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.

    As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in February 2006, Muy was admitted to the U.S. using a fraudulent visitor visa under the alias of a Peruvian citizen.  In June 2012, Muy was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court in Torrington of sexual assault of a minor in the second degree, and was sentenced to 10 years of incarceration, suspended after 15 months, and 25 years of probation.  In June 2013, Muy was removed to Ecuador.

    It is further alleged that Muy illegally reentered the U.S. and, on November 9, 2024, was arrested by the Torrington Police Department and charged with illegal operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drug.  On March 18, 2025, he was sentenced in state court to two years of incarceration for violating his state probation related to his 2012 conviction, and a concurrent two days of incarceration for the 2024 motor vehicle offense.  He is currently in state custody.

    If convicted of illegal reentry, Muy faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

    U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary G. Vitale.

    This case is 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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Sentenced for Role in International Human Smuggling Conspiracy that Resulted in the Deaths of a Family of Four During a January Blizzard

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FERGUS FALLS, Minn. – Two men were sentenced today in the District of Minnesota after being convicted at a jury trial for their roles in an international human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of four Indian nationals, including a three-year-old and 11-year-old child, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    “Every time I think about this case I think about this family—including two beautiful little children—who the defendants left to freeze to death in a blizzard,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.  “As we’ve seen time and time again, human traffickers care nothing for humanity.  I am proud of the work of our law enforcement partners in holding these defendants accountable for their unspeakable crimes.”

    “Today’s sentencing marks a crucial moment of accountability in a case that revealed the harrowing realities of human smuggling. The callous disregard for life that led to the tragic deaths of an entire family will not be forgotten,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations St. Paul Special Agent in charge Jamie Holt. “At HSI, we remain steadfast in our mission to work with out partners across borders to dismantle criminal smuggling networks, bring justice to those responsible, and safeguard human dignity.”

    Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel, 29, was sentenced to 121 months in prison for his role in a human smuggling scheme.  The Court did not impose a term of supervised release on defendant Patel, citing the likelihood that Patel will be deported following his prison sentence.  Patel’s co-conspirator, Steve Anthony Shand, 50, received a sentence of 78 months followed by 2 years of supervised release.

    Trial evidence showed that Patel and Shand were involved in a major human smuggling operation that brought Indian nationals into Canada using fake student visas then illegally moved them across the U.S.-Canada border. Patel handled the coordination of smuggling individuals from Manitoba into the United States, while Shand picked them up after they crossed into the U.S. and transported them to Chicago. Both men were paid for their participation and ignored the life-threatening risks posed by the frigid conditions at the northern border. Testimony revealed that the going rate to be smuggled from India to U.S. from Canada was around $100,000.

    During a blizzard in January 2022, Shand and Patel, working with other co-conspirators, attempted to smuggle 11 aliens into the Unites States from Canada. Due to the storm conditions that night, Shand’s van got stuck in the snow. That turn of events forced the aliens to travel on foot for approximately seven hours in minus-36-degree wind chill and severe winter weather conditions while they searched for Shand’s vehicle. Two migrants found Shand while his van was stuck; the rest did not.

    A passerby pulled Shand’s van from the ditch. Soon thereafter, a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent arrived and suspected alien smuggling. Eventually, five additional aliens were located, one of whom was suffering from hypothermia so severe she had to be airlifted to Regions Hospital in St. Paul. Meanwhile, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police located the bodies of a family of four, two adults and two young children, who had separated from the larger group during the night.  The family died of hypothermia. The father was found still holding his infant child wrapped in a blanket. None of the 11 migrants was dressed appropriately for the severe, cold weather conditions.

    In November 2024, a federal jury found both defendants guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy to bring aliens to the Unites States causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, conspiracy to transport aliens within the Unites States causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, attempted transportation of aliens for commercial advantage or private financial gain, and aiding and abetting the attempted transportation of aliens.

    “This case is a tragic reminder of the dangers of Human Smuggling. It is a clear example of how organizations exploit people for financial gain, regardless of the risk. The victims experienced the worst-case scenario firsthand; horrific conditions, injury, and death. We’re glad the smugglers are receiving consequences, but the crimes remain inexcusable. I’m proud of our agent’s persistence and collaboration between agencies; it is a testament to our commitment to border security,” said Special Operations Supervisor Ryan Gilberg of U.S. Border Patrol.

    In imposing sentence, U.S. District Court Judge John R. Tunheim explained that “Border smuggling is a very serious problem,” one that “exploits victims.” He noted that the night this family died was one “one of the coldest nights of the winter” and that these were “very dangerous conditions.”  Judge Tunheim said that the defendants “could have done something” and it “might have made a difference”—but they did nothing.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”). The RCMP and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance.

    The sentencings are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This case is 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 organization and protect our communities for the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota and the Department of Justice’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section. Acting United States Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick represented the government at the sentencing hearings.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Role in International Human Smuggling Conspiracy that Resulted in the Death of a Family of Four

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Two men were sentenced today in the District of Minnesota after being convicted at a jury trial for their roles in an international human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of four Indian nationals, including a three-year-old and 11-year-old child, in January 2022.   

    Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel, 29, an Indian national formerly of Florida, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in prison for his role in the conspiracy. Patel will be removed from the United States following his sentence. His co-conspirator, Steve Anthony Shand, 50, of Florida, was sentenced to six years and six months in prison followed by two years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at trial, Patel and Shand were part of a large-scale human-smuggling operation that brought Indian nationals to Canada on fraudulent student visas and then smuggled them into the United States across the northern border. Patel organized the logistics of smuggling aliens from Manitoba, Canada, into the United States, with other co-conspirators, and Shand picked up the aliens just south of the Canadian border in the United States and drove them to Chicago. Both men were paid for their roles in the conspiracy and disregarded the risks posed to the aliens by the cold weather at the northern border. According to evidence at trial, the going rate to be smuggled from India through Canada into the United States was $100,000.

    “Patel and Shand endangered thousands of lives for their personal enrichment and are responsible for the deaths of two small children who froze to death on their watch,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This case demonstrates the grave danger associated with human smuggling operations. I thank the prosecutors and our law enforcement partners in the U.S. and in Canada who are working to secure the northern border and end the perilous smuggling of aliens into the United States.”

    “Every time I think about this case I think about this family—including two beautiful little children—who the defendants left to freeze to death in a blizzard,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick for the District of Minnesota.  “As we’ve seen time and time again, human traffickers care nothing for humanity. I am proud of the work of our law enforcement partners in holding these defendants accountable for their unspeakable crimes.”

    On Jan. 18 and 19, 2022, Patel and Shand, despite repeated warnings about the dangers, organized the smuggling of 11 aliens from Canada into the United States on foot in severe winter weather conditions, including a family of four – two adults, and their 11-year-old daughter and three-year-old son. On the evening of January 18, Shand sent Patel a screenshot with a blizzard alert warning of wind gusts as high as 50 mph and wind chill temperatures below -45 degrees. The recorded wind chill temperature on the morning of Jan. 19 was -36 degrees. In the early morning hours of Jan. 19, during blizzard conditions in Minnesota, a U.S. Border Patrol agent found Shand’s van stuck in the snow and arrested Shand along with two aliens. Contrary to Shand’s statement to law enforcement that there were no other aliens out in the snow, five more aliens emerged from the fields, including one suffering hypothermia with an internal temperature below 90 degrees who was airlifted to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota. Later that day, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) found the dead bodies of the family of four frozen in an isolated area on the Canadian side of the international border. The boy was wrapped in a blanket with his father’s frozen glove covering his face. As proven at trial, Patel and Shand had been paid to smuggle the family into the United States.

    In November 2024, a federal jury convicted both defendants of conspiracy to bring aliens to the United States causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, conspiracy to transport aliens within the United States causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, attempted transportation of aliens for commercial advantage or private financial gain, and aiding and abetting the attempted transportation of aliens.

    “Today’s sentencing marks a crucial moment of accountability in a case that revealed the harrowing realities of human smuggling,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul. “The callous disregard for life that led to the tragic deaths of an entire family will not be forgotten. At HSI, we remain steadfast in our mission to work with our partners across borders to dismantle criminal smuggling networks, bring justice to those responsible, and safeguard human dignity.”

    HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. The RCMP and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance.

    The sentencings are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This case was also supported by the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    Trial Attorney Ryan Lipes of the Criminal Division’s HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael P. McBride of the District of Minnesota prosecuted the case.

    This case is 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 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Corp. Announces 1-for-10 Reverse Stock Split

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (“HUSA” or the “Company”) announced today that its Board of Directors approved a reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock at a ratio of 1-for-10. The reverse stock split is intended to increase the market price per share of the Company’s common stock and help the Company satisfy the initial listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange American (the “NYSE”) in connection with the closing of HUSA’s previously announced acquisition of Abundia Global Impact Group, LLC (“AGIG”).

    On April 24, 2025, at the Company’s special meeting of stockholders, the Company’s stockholders approved a reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock at a ratio in the range of 1-for-5 to 1-for-60, with such ratio to be determined by the Company’s Board of Directors. The reverse stock split is expected to be effective after market close on June 6, 2025 (the “Effective Time”) and the Company’s common stock will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on the NYSE at the market open on June 9, 2025.

    At the Effective Time, every 10 issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock will be converted into one share of the Company’s common stock. Once effective, the reverse stock split will reduce the number of issued and outstanding shares of common stock from approximately 15,686,533 to approximately 1,568,653 shares.

    Each stockholder’s percentage ownership interest in the Company will remain unchanged as a result of the reverse stock split. No fractional shares shall be issued in connection with the reverse stock split, and any fractional shares resulting from the reverse stock split will be rounded up at the participant level with The Depository Trust Company. Each certificate that immediately prior to the Effective Time represented shares of common stock shall thereafter represent that number of shares of common stock into which the shares of common stock represented by the certificate shall have been combined, subject to the elimination of fractional share interests as described above. Holders of the Company’s common stock held in book-entry form or through a bank, broker or other nominee do not need to take any action in connection with the reverse stock split. Stockholders of record will be receiving information from Standard Registrar & Transfer Co., Inc., the Company’s transfer agent, regarding their stock ownership following the reverse stock split.

    The reverse stock split will not modify any rights or preferences of the Company’s common stock. The trading symbol for the Company’s common stock will remain “HUSA.” The new CUSIP number for the Company’s common stock following the reverse stock split will be 44183U 308.

    Additional information about the reverse stock split can be found in the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on April 11, 2025, a copy of which is also available at www.sec.gov or at www.houstonamerican.com under the SEC Filings tab located in the Reports and Filings page.

    About HUSA

    HUSA is an independent oil and gas company focused on the development, exploration, exploitation, acquisition, and production of natural gas and crude oil properties. Our principal properties, and operations, are in the U.S. Permian Basin. Additionally, we have properties in the Louisiana U.S. Gulf Coast region. For more information, please visit: https://houstonamerican.com/

    Important Information About the Proposed Acquisition and Where to Find It

    This press release relates to the previously announced proposed acquisition of Abundia Global Impact Group, LLC (“AGIG”), pursuant to the share exchange agreement, dated as of February 20, 2025, by and among HUSA and AGIG (the “Proposed Acquisition”). For additional information on the Proposed Acquisition, see HUSA’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on February 24, 2025, as well as the proxy statement dated April 11, 2025, that was delivered to HUSA’s stockholders as of the applicable record date established for voting on the Proposed Acquisition. HUSA also will file other documents regarding the Proposed Acquisition with the SEC.

    Investors and stockholders of HUSA are urged to carefully read the entire proxy statement and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements thereto, because they will contain important information about the Proposed Acquisition. The documents filed by HUSA with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to HUSA at 801 Travis Street, Suite 1425, Houston, Texas 77002.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of, and subject to the safe harbor created by, Section 27A of the Securities Act, Section 21E of the Exchange Act and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are referred to as the “safe harbor provisions.” Statements contained or incorporated by reference in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding HUSA’s or AGIG’s business and future financial and operating results, and other aspects of HUSA’s or AGIG’s operations or operating results. Words such as “may,” “should,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “project,” and similar phrases that denote future expectations or intent regarding HUSA’s or AGIG’s financial results, operations, and other matters are intended to identify forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions. Investors are cautioned not to rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release including:

    • risks relating to fluctuations of the market value of common stock, including as a result of uncertainty as to the long-term value of the common stock of HUSA or as a result of broader stock market movements;
    • the occurrence of any event, change, or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Share Exchange Agreement;
    • failure to attract, motivate and retain executives and other key employees;
    • disruptions in the business of HUSA or AGIG, which could have an adverse effect on their respective businesses and financial results;
    • the unaudited pro forma combined consolidated financial information in the proxy statement is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be reflective of the operating results and financial condition of the combination of HUSA and AGIG; and
    • other risks and uncertainties set forth in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in the proxy statement, as well as HUSA’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other documents filed by HUSA from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

    The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. HUSA does not undertake to update, alter, or revise any forward-looking statements made in this report to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Abbott Responds to Rep. Pfluger’s Work on Securing Texas Reimbursements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Governor Abbott (TX) released the following statement in response to the $12 billion in border reimbursements for states that stepped up, including Texas, that Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) and others fought to secure in the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    “Texas thanks the U.S. House and the Texas Congressional Delegation for including $12 billion in the reconciliation package that will help Texas in its response to the unprecedented illegal immigration in Texas,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “This is a national issue that Texas was proud to address, and we are grateful for the allocation that reduces the financial burden that Texas incurred.”

    “The devastating impact of the previous administration’s open border policies has been felt nationwide—but no state has carried the burden more than Texas. Texas spent $11.1 billion on border security, including $5.87 billion on personnel costs and $4.75 billion on border wall and barriers. When the federal government failed to secure our border and protect our communities, Texans stepped up. Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve fought tirelessly to get our state the reimbursements it’s owed, and now, that fight is finally paying off,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Background:

    Texas had to take on a massive financial burden to protect our communities when the previous administration failed to do so. Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Pfluger has fought to reimburse Texas for securing the southern border, including

    • Lone Star Reimbursement Act (2022)
    • This bill aimed to pay the State of Texas back for the costs of Operation Lone Star incurred in FY21 and FY22, which total $1.43 billion.
    • Co-led with Rep. Fallon
    • FY24, FY25, and FY26 Appropriations Requests (2023, 2024, 2025) 
    • FY24: Led a letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas for $5.1 billion.
    • FY25: Led a letter with 18 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.26 billion.
    • FY26: Led a letter with 19 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.2 billion.
    • Efforts to Reimburse Texas through Supplemental Funding Vehicle
    • Although the measure failed, Rep. Pfluger led the charge on including Texas reimbursement through supplemental funding packages in the spring of 2024.
    • Rep. Pfluger has also consigned H.R. 424 and H.R. 1222, and H.R. 3464 to reimburse Texas 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington State Sues Trump Administration to Protect Scientific Research and Education Programs

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown today joined a coalition of 15 other attorneys general to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s illegal attempts to cut critical National Science Foundation (NSF) programs and funding that help maintain the United States’ position as a global leader in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

    On April 18, NSF began terminating projects focused on increasing the participation of women, minorities, and people with disabilities in STEM fields. On May 2, NSF announced that it would also cap “indirect costs” of research projects like laboratory space, equipment, and facility services at 15 percent. This arbitrary limit on indirect costs would slash millions of dollars for groundbreaking scientific research across the country, jeopardizing national security, the economy, and public health.

    With this lawsuit, Attorney General Brown and the coalition are seeking a court order blocking the implementation of NSF’s new directives to eliminate programs addressing diversity in STEM and cut vital funding for research across the country.

    “Washington’s college and university system is at the forefront of critical research and emerging technologies, and relies heavily on support from the National Science Foundation,” said Brown. “Congress created the NSF to promote the progress of science and has recognized America’s need for a preeminent STEM workforce. The Trump administration does not have the authority to unilaterally cut NSF grants and their terminations threaten our national security and economic dominance.”

    NSF also has a Congressionally mandated focus on improving diversity in STEM fields. Congress has instructed in law that a “core strategy” of NSF’s work must be to increase the participation of people who have historically been left out of STEM occupations. This policy has been a success. As the coalition of attorneys general notes, between 1995 and 2017, the number of women in science and engineering occupations, or with science or engineering degrees, has doubled. During that same time, people of color went from 15 percent to 35 percent of science and engineering job or degree holders. As a result of NSF’s April 18 directive to terminate programs seeking to increase diversity in STEM, dozens of projects have been canceled.

    The coalition also asserts in the lawsuit that NSF’s directive to cap indirect costs at 15 percent would devastate scientific research at universities throughout the country. NSF’s new cap would mean essential research and infrastructure would be cut, leading to critical projects being abandoned, staff laid off, and research essential to national security, public health, and economic stability ending. The administration’s unlawful attempts to cap indirect costs at 15 percent for National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Department of Energy (DOE) grants have already been stopped by courts, in part due to a lawsuit brought by Attorney General Brown and 21 other attorneys general.

    Brown and the coalition argue that NSF’s directives violate the Administrative Procedure Act and the Constitution by unlawfully changing NSF policy and ignoring Congress’s intent for how NSF should function. The lawsuit seeks a court order ruling NSF’s new policies are illegal and blocking them from being implemented.

    Joining the Washington state Attorney General’s Office in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.

    The lawsuit is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: South Carolina Man Charged for Multimillion-Dollar Medicare Fraud and Ponzi Schemes

    Source: US State of California

    Two indictments were unsealed today charging a South Carolina man with defrauding Medicare through a laboratory test scheme during the COVID-19 pandemic and with defrauding customers of his private charter jet company, AeroVanti Inc.

    As alleged in the first indictment, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Patrick Britton-Harr, 41, of Charleston, South Carolina, formerly of Annapolis, Maryland, offered COVID-19 screening tests to nursing home patients across the country. Britton-Harr then allegedly fraudulently billed Medicare, through his company Provista Health, for expensive respiratory pathogen panel (RPP) tests for these patients. As alleged, these RPP tests were medically unnecessary, were never ordered by a treating physician as required, and many were never actually performed, including for patients who had died. Through Provista Health, Britton-Harr allegedly caused more than $15 million in fraudulent claims for RPP tests to be submitted to Medicare, for which Medicare paid more than $5 million.

    As alleged in the second indictment, Britton-Harr owned and controlled AeroVanti and its affiliated entities. AeroVanti was a private air club that offered members a la carte access to private jets. Britton-Harr allegedly encouraged “Top Gun” members to pay $150,000 upfront to secure block flight hours. In return, Britton-Harr allegedly promised to use their money to purchase specific aircraft, in which the Top Gun members would have a securitized interest. Britton-Harr allegedly recruited nearly 100 Top Gun members, who collectively paid nearly $15 million in upfront payments, to purchase five aircraft. Instead of buying those aircraft, Britton-Harr allegedly misappropriated members’ money for his own personal benefit, including to purchase yachts and jewelry, to pay his living expenses, and to rent a property near Tampa, Florida. As alleged, Britton-Harr then attempted to conceal his fraud by obtaining a $1.5 million loan to purchase one of the aircraft he had already claimed to have purchased with Top Gun member funds by withholding material information from the lender to obtain the loan.

    “The defendant allegedly perpetrated two fraud schemes, first exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic to defraud Medicare out of millions of dollars and then stealing millions more from customers of his aviation company, all for his personal benefit,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These indictments demonstrate the Criminal Division’s commitment to rooting out bad actors who steal from taxpayer-supported health care programs and defraud American consumers.”

    “It is unconscionable for someone to defraud the government and others for personal gain, especially as we faced a global health crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Britton-Harr showed a total disregard for those who depend on our Medicare system for health care services and for the individuals he scammed through his private-jet company. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our federal law enforcement partners to bring those to justice who break the law and take advantage of others.”

    “Patrick Britton-Harr’s repeated crimes reveal a man with no moral compass motivated by pure greed. His deceit and scheming resulted in a staggering amount of loss to American taxpayers and the public,” says Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “He tried to fleece the U.S. government out of millions by taking advantage of a national crisis. After his laboratory testing business failed, Britton-Harr again turned to deception. Time and again, he chose to lie, steal, and deceive. No more. This investigation holds Britton-Harr accountable for his crimes and sends a clear message that the FBI and our partners will not allow such despicable behavior to go unchecked.”

    “Individuals who steal from Medicare waste taxpayer dollars and create incisions in the fabric that holds our health care system together,” stated Special Agent in Charge Maureen R. Dixon with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue the pursuit of upholding the integrity, trust, and confidence in federal health care programs, which benefits the people they serve. HHS-OIG, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, will continuously investigate alleged attempts to defraud these programs.”

    “The scope of the alleged fraud is staggering and underscores the extraordinary lengths to which individuals will go to deceive and exploit others under the guise of legitimate business, including private aviation services,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Thompson of the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG), Mid-Atlantic Region. “The DOT-OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to working in coordination with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to pursue those who engage in egregious schemes designed solely for personal enrichment.”

    Britton-Harr is charged with five counts of health care fraud and one count of money laundering in the indictment related to his RPP scheme. Additionally, Britton-Harr is charged with six counts of wire fraud in the indictment related to his AeroVanti scheme. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each wire fraud count and 10 years in prison on each health care fraud  and money laundering count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI, HHS-OIG, and DOT-OIG are investigating the cases.

    Trial Attorneys David Peters and Chris Wenger of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Phelps and Ari D. Evans for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the cases.

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde Investigates the Merger of BioSig Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: BSGM)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York , May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 / GlobeNewswire/ —

    Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating BioSig Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: BSGM), relating to the proposed Merger with Streamex Exchange Corporation, pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement, the Company, through ExchangeCo, will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Streamex (the “Purchased Shares”) from the Shareholders.

    Click here for more info  https://monteverdelaw.com/case/biosig-technologies-inc/.  It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
     350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Student loan applications: opening soon!

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DelBene Announces 15 Community Projects for $40M in Federal FY26 Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) nominated 15 community projects in Washington’s 1st Congressional District for dedicated Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) funding. The projects, totaling more than $40 million, include road and trail upgrades, water infrastructure projects, and public safety improvements. 

    “The requests submitted in this year’s federal FY26 funding package continue to be a critical resource for our community, providing investments for programs that Washington’s 1st Congressional District needs to continue meeting the needs of our growing region,” said DelBene. “These 15 projects will enhance infrastructure, improve transportation services, guarantee access to safe drinking water, and expand early childhood education programs and access to health care, further strengthening our district.” 

    The 15 community projects spanning the 1st Congressional District include: 

    • $14.1 million for projects in King County 
    • $26.6 million for projects in Snohomish County 

    The projects submitted are listed below:  

    Applicant

    Project

    Amount

    Description

    City of Arlington

    SR-531 Trail

    $1,000,000

    This project will build a multi-use trail to provide a safe pathway for pedestrians and bicyclists

    City of Bellevue

    Lake Washington Sanitary Sewer Lake Lines Program

    $500,000

    This project will help Bellevue and nearby areas plan to replace old sewer pipes along Lake Washington.

    City of Bothell

    Woodcrest Utility Replacement Project

    $3,333,000

    This project will replace the Woodcrest neighborhood’s failing water utilities and provide improved water infrastructure.

    City of Kenmore

    Environmentally Sustainable Public Works Operations Center

    $2,400,000

    This project will modernize infrastructure throughout Kenmore.

    City of Marysville

    156th St. NE Railroad Overcrossing Project

    $5,000,000

    This project will reinstate an overcrossing on the railroad track at 156th Street NE.

    City of Monroe

    Railroad Grade Separation

    $1,400,000

    This project will assess and design five critical railroad crossings to improve safety and emergency response.

    City of Mountlake Terrace

    Community Center Resiliency Project

    $2,500,000

    This project will fund repairs for the Mountlake Terrace emergency services shelter building

    City of Redmond

    AC Water Main Replacement

    $3,500,000

    This project will replace an asbestos-cement water pipe that has reached the end of its useful life.

    City of Snohomish

    Infrastructure Investments for Public Safety & City Services Campus

    $5,000,000

    This project will create a new safety campus for the City of Snohomish Fire and Police Departments while revitalizing critical infrastructure along Pine Ave and throughout the Pilchuck District.

    Community Transit

    Swift Green Line Extension Southern Terminal Facility

    $3,800,000

    This project will extend Sound Transit’s Green Line, connecting Canyon Park to downtown Bothell.

    EvergreenHealth Monroe

    EvergreenHealth Monroe Specialty Care Expansion

    $3,000,000

    This project will expand EvergreenHealth in Monroe’s specialty care facilities to improve medical services for residents.

    Lake Washington Institute of Technology

    The Early Learning Center Childcare Project

    $2,500,000

    This project will allow Lake Washington Institute of Technology to expand its early childhood learning program.

    Snohomish Conservation District

    Natural Resources Center

    $2,000,000

    This project will create the Snohomish County Natural Resources Center, an all-ages educational facility.

    Snohomish County

    Alderwood Mall Parkway: SR525 to 168th St SW

    $4,000,000

    This project will widen the SR 525 Northbound On and Off Ramps.

    Sno-Isle Intercounty Rural Library District

    Lake Stevens Early Learning Library

    $750,000

    This project will fund the construction of a new, high-tech library

    Descriptions of the 15 projects submitted by DelBene can be found here.

    The House and Senate must reach an agreement on the FY26 package, which will determine which projects are ultimately approved and how much they are funded for. In previous years, DelBene secured a total of $44.4 million in dedicated federal funding for projects. 

    Project submissions came directly from non-profit, city, county, and Tribal entities. More information about the House FY26 government funding process can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint ICE San Diego, CBP case sends Guatemalan drug trafficker to 14 years in prison

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN DIEGO — An illegal alien from Guatemala was sentenced in federal court May 23 to 14 years in prison for managing a cocaine trafficking organization that smuggled more than 1,000 pounds of cocaine into the United States from Guatemala. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

    “This sentencing sends the message that those who traffic dangerous drugs into our country will be held accountable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Diego Special Agent in Charge Shawn Gibson. “Thanks to the outstanding investigative work and strong domestic and international law enforcement partnerships, we were able to disrupt a key supply line of a major drug trafficking network. We remain committed to targeting high-level drug trafficking organizations and keeping deadly narcotics, like cocaine, out of our communities.”

    Following his surrender to U.S. authorities in June 2024 at Los Angeles International Airport, Arnoldo Oswaldo Vargas-Samayoa, 50, of Zacapa, Guatemalan, pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to import cocaine that were filed in January 2020.

    In imposing sentence, U.S. District Judge Cathy Ann Bencivengo noted that Vargas-Samayoa was a “manager of a very extensive international drug ring” and money laundering effort who did not make a “mistake” but rather “chose a lifestyle.”

    Vargas admitted he sourced the cocaine from two different Guatemalan suppliers and coordinated delivery to a Mexico-based drug trafficker. Vargas and the Mexico-based trafficker arranged for the drugs to be hidden in vehicles and smuggled into the United States through ports of entry in Southern California and Southern Texas.

    Vargas, whose communications were being intercepted by law enforcement, messaged with the trafficker while cocaine loads were being moved into the United States to confirm the drugs were successfully smuggled. Once in the United States, some of that cocaine was moved to the Chicago area for further distribution. Vargas received a commission of $1,000 U.S. dollars for each kilogram of cocaine he delivered to the Mexico-based trafficker.

    “Cocaine continues to be a dangerous and highly addictive drug with devastating consequences for individuals and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “We remain committed to dismantling the entire supply chain — from powerful cartel leaders to street-level dealers — and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.”

    The U.S. Attorney’s office has previously convicted, and the court has sentenced, multiple couriers attempting to smuggle narcotics for the same drug trafficking organization as well as individuals engaged in related money laundering efforts. Through the related investigation of this matter, law enforcement has seized more than 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, more than $2 million in bulk currency, and firearms.   

    Vargas’ father, Arnoldo Vargas Estrada, is the former mayor of Zacapa, Guatemala who was convicted by a jury in the Eastern District of New York in Case No. 90cr00855-SJF of five counts related to the importation of narcotics. He was sentenced to 365-months in custody. Vargas Estrada was one of the first Guatemalan drug traffickers to be extradited to the United States in the early 1990s. He was released in 2017, returned to Guatemala, and then reelected as mayor of Zacapa holding that position until 2024.

    This case is 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, 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Casper.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Dallas apprehends Venezuelan woman who fled scene of jet ski accident that killed woman on kayak at Grapevine Lake

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    DALLAS — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in a joint operation with state and federal law enforcement, arrested Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez, a 22-year-old citizen of Venezuela in Dallas, Texas, May 27, following a state warrant execution for felony manslaughter.

    Gonzales was operating a personal watercraft with a female passenger at high speed near the shoreline of Oak Grove Park when it collided with a kayak occupied by 18-year-old Ava Moore, May 25, resulting in her death. Gonzalez fled the scene with her passenger onboard.

    Gonzalez and the passenger returned to Oak Grove Park. The passenger remained on scene with witnesses and was interviewed by Grapevine Police Department, while Gonzalez left in a vehicle with 21-year-old Maikel Coello Perozo, also of Venezuela.

    Perozo has been charged with hindering apprehension. As the investigation unfolds, more state charges could be filed.

    “This criminal alien and her boyfriend will account for the tragic accident that ended the life of a young woman who exhibited enormous potential,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas acting Field Office Director Josh Johnson. ICE Dallas will remain steadfast in our commitment to arresting and removing criminal aliens who pose a threat to the safety of our communities.”

    ERO Dallas lodged immigration detainers with the Grapevine Police Department following the arrest of Gonzalez and Coello. Both are in removal proceedings pursuant to the policies of the Immigration and Nationality Act as aliens present without admission or parole.

    “Our partnerships with law enforcement across jurisdictions are key during these types of investigations,” said Special Agent in Charge for ICE Homeland Security Investigations Dallas Travis Pickard. “This investigation will continue to be driven by facts, evidence and a firm commitment to

    justice. The arrests of these two illegal aliens reflect the diligence and professionalism of our law enforcement team.”

    On Sept. 28, 2023, Gonzalez illegally entered the United States without inspection or parole by an immigration officer. On that same day, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested and processed Gonzalez as a Notice to Appear and released on an order of recognizance.

    On Jan. 22, 2023, Maikel Alexander Coello-Perozo arrived at the Camino Real Port of Entry without authorization. Coello was released pending an immigration hearing.

    This investigation included law enforcement from the following agencies: The Texas Department of Wildlife, the Grapevine Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Office of the Attorney General, the Dallas Police Department, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas, Homeland Security Investigations Dallas, and the Dallas U.S. Marshals office.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form .

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @ERODallas or @HSI_Dallas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Palomar Holdings, Inc. Announces Participation in the William Blair 45th Annual Growth Stock Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LA JOLLA, Calif., May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Palomar Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLMR) (“Palomar”) today announced that Mac Armstrong, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Chris Uchida, Chief Financial Officer, will participate in the William Blair Growth Stock Conference at the Loews Chicago Hotel on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. In addition to participating in one-on-one investor meetings, management is scheduled to present at 1:20 pm Central Time.

    Interested investors and other parties can access a live webcast of the presentation by visiting the Investor Relations section of Palomar’s website at https://ir.palomarspecialty.com/. An online replay will be available on the same website following the presentation.

    About Palomar Holdings, Inc.
    Palomar Holdings, Inc. is the holding company of subsidiaries Palomar Specialty Insurance Company (“PSIC”), Palomar Specialty Reinsurance Company Bermuda Ltd. (“PSRE”), Palomar Insurance Agency, Inc., Palomar Excess and Surplus Insurance Company (“PESIC”), Palomar Underwriters Exchange Organization, Inc. (“PUEO”), First Indemnity of America Insurance Co. (“FIA”), and Palomar Crop Insurance Services, Inc. (“PCIS”). Palomar’s consolidated results also include Laulima Exchange (“Laulima”), a variable interest entity for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Palomar is an innovative specialty insurer serving residential and commercial clients in five product categories: Earthquake, Inland Marine and Other Property, Casualty, Fronting, and Crop. Palomar’s insurance subsidiaries, PSIC, PSRE, and PESIC, have a financial strength rating of “A” (Excellent) from A.M. Best. FIA carries an “A-” (Stable) rating from A.M. Best.

    To learn more, visit PLMR.com.

    Follow Palomar on LinkedIn: @PLMRInsurance

    Contact
    Media Inquiries
    Lindsay Conner
    1-551-206-6217
    lconner@plmr.com

    Investor Relations
    Jamie Lillis
    1-203-428-3223
    investors@plmr.com

    Source: Palomar Holdings, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    May 28, 2025

    For Immediate Release: May 28, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  –  Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) announced Teakki Rain Legg from Florence as Oregon’s Fourth District’s winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. Winners have their artwork featured in the U.S. Capitol for one year and receive a round-trip ticket to Washington, D.C. for themselves and a guardian to be recognized at an annual awards ceremony when the art is displayed.

    “Teakki Legg’s artistry and attention to detail stood out with his entry into this year’s competition, Shining Light, which depicts the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast,” Rep. Hoyle said. “His work will hang in the U.S. Capitol for the next year, representing the best of our district. Beyond his artwork, Teakki is a model student giving back to his community, serving on the board of the Florence Regional Arts Alliance and teaching art classes. I also want to commend his teachers, Lauren Suveges of Siuslaw High School and John Leasure at the Florence Regional Arts Alliance, for nurturing Teakki’s talents and pushing him to enter this competition. I look forward to meeting Teakki and his parents, Roanne and Brandt, and welcoming them to our office in Washington, D.C.”

    ‘Shining Light’ by Teakki Rain Legg

    A Word from the Artist

    My name is Teakki Legg and I’m a 16 year-old artist raised in Oregon. My piece, Shining Light, was heavily inspired by the Oregon coast where I live, which is populated by many lighthouses, such as Heceta Head and Yaquina. The lighthouse is a metaphor to illuminate possibilities and connection in the world, which sometimes can feel dark, but there’s always a light to go toward. As an artist, I simply can’t help but be inspired by the beauty of Oregon, in particular the coast. 

    I mainly work in watercolor and ink, but my painting was done in oil, a relatively new medium I’ve been experimenting with. I’ve had a great oil teacher, John Leasure, as well as my wonderful High School art teacher, Lauren Suveges, who also encouraged me to enter the Congressional art competition. Oil allows me to be more expressive with my colors and strokes, due to the fact that oil paint is so much thicker. 

    I’m so excited for the opportunity to go to Washington DC to see my painting hanging in the Capitol.  Thank you!

    Teakki Rain Legg

    Teakki Rain Legg, 16, was born in the art colony of Taos, New Mexico into a creative family filled with artists and writers. Home-schooled since birth, Teakki completed his first commissioned work at age 13. 

    Teakki’s work has won him multiple recognitions, including an Artist’s Choice Award. At age 15, Teakki began serving on the board of the Florence Regional Arts Alliance (FRAA). In his spare time, he teaches classes in watercolor, and pen and ink. 

    Some of his favorite artists include M. C. Escher, Rob Gonsalves, Bob Ross, Mark Kistler, and his grandfather, Martin Goldman. He enjoys and is inspired by comics, such as Calvin and Hobbes, and plans to pursue a career as an artist.

    You can see more of Teakki’s work here.

    The Congressional Art Competition

    The Congressional Art Competition is a bipartisan initiative to incentivize arts education for high school students across America. Every district that chooses to participate selects one winner annually. More information can be found on Rep. Hoyle’s website. 

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 723, Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 723 would require the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to process and review mortgage packages involving property located on tribal land held in trust by deadlines specified in the bill. The bill also would establish a position within BIA to serve as an intermediary between the bureau and tribes, tribal members, and lenders.

    In addition, the bill would require BIA to provide federal agencies and Indian tribes with access to relevant land documents from the Trust Asset and Accounting Management System. Finally, S. 723 would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report to the Congress about the digitization of documents related to mortgages on tribal land.

    Using information from the Department of the Interior, CBO expects the agency would need three employees at an average annual cost of $125,000 per employee in 2025. On that basis, and accounting for anticipated inflation, CBO estimates it would cost BIA $2 million over the 2025‑2030 period to implement those requirements. Based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that the cost to GAO to complete the report would not be significant. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Julia Aman. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 1047, Assisting Small Businesses Not Fraudsters Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 1047 would clarify that small businesses with associates who are convicted of falsely receiving financial assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA) for programs related to COVID-19 are ineligible for future financial assistance. Under current law, those people are already ineligible for future funding from the SBA.

    The SBA currently requires applicants for loans and grants to disclose whether they are being investigated for or have been convicted of defrauding a federal agency. In addition, the agency uses federal databases to identify applicants previously convicted of fraud and provides lenders with pre-approval screening to detect fraud before financial assistance is awarded.

    Because the SBA already reviews applications to verify that applicants who have falsely received assistance do not receive additional federal assistance, CBO estimates that implementing S. 1047 would have insignificant costs. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Aurora Swanson. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 642, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claim Settlement Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 642 would authorize the appropriation of $34 million in fiscal year 2026 for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community as compensation for the loss of land under the Swamp Land Act of 1850 and the Canal Land Act of 1852. The funds could be used by the tribe for any lawful purpose, including governmental services, economic development, natural resources protection, and land acquisition for purposes other than gaming. For this estimate, CBO assumes that the Congress will appropriate the specified amount in fiscal year 2026.

    S. 642 contains intergovernmental mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA). The cost of the mandates would not exceed the annual threshold established in that act ($103 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).

    The bill would extinguish claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community against owners of the Reservation Swamp Lands and the Reservation Canal Lands. Eliminating an existing right of action is a mandate because the right to seek redress and recover damages beyond what is provided in the bill would be lost. Based on information from the tribe, CBO expects it is unlikely that the tribe would pursue such claims. Therefore, CBO estimates that the cost, if any, of the mandate would be small.

    The bill would prohibit gambling on tribal land obtained by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community with funds from the settlement awarded under the bill. Because gaming on such land is currently allowed under federal law, the proposed ban would be a mandate. However, because the tribe has no plan to use settlement funds to obtain land for gaming purposes, the cost of the mandate would be small.

    The bill contains no private-sector mandates as defined in UMRA.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Julia Aman (for federal costs) and Rachel Austin (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Sues Trump Administration to Protect Scientific Research and Education Programs 

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today co-led a coalition of 15 other attorneys general in suing the Trump administration to stop its illegal attempts to cut critical National Science Foundation (NSF) programs and funding that help maintain the United States’ position as a global leader in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). On April 18, NSF began terminating projects focused on increasing the participation of women, minorities, and people with disabilities in STEM fields. On May 2, NSF announced that it would also cap “indirect costs” of research projects like laboratory space, equipment, and facility services at 15 percent. This arbitrary limit on indirect costs would slash millions of dollars for groundbreaking scientific research across the country, jeopardizing national security, the economy, and public health. With this lawsuit, Attorney General James and the coalition are seeking a court order blocking the implementation of NSF’s new directives to eliminate programs addressing diversity in STEM and cut vital funding for research across the country.

    “Every time we go online, scan a barcode at checkout, or get an MRI, we use technology made possible by the National Science Foundation,” said Attorney General James. “This administration’s attacks on basic science and essential efforts to ensure diversity in STEM will weaken our economy and our national security. Putting politics over science will only set our country back, and I will continue to fight to protect critical scientific research and education.”

    Since its creation in 1950, NSF has been an independent federal agency crucial to maintaining the United States’ dominance in STEM. From developing artificial intelligence (AI) technology to creating innovative solutions to environmental and energy challenges, NSF-funded research at American universities is vital to addressing the nation’s biggest challenges and maintaining the country’s competitive edge.

    NSF also has a Congressionally-mandated focus on improving diversity in STEM fields. Congress has instructed in law that a “core strategy” of NSF’s work must be to increase the participation of people who have historically been left out of STEM occupations. This policy has been a success. As Attorney General James and the coalition note, between 1995 and 2017, the number of women in science and engineering occupations, or with science or engineering degrees, has doubled. During that same time, people of color went from 15 percent to 35 percent of science and engineering job or degree holders.

    As a result of NSF’s April 18 directive to terminate programs seeking to increase diversity in STEM, dozens of projects have been canceled. In New York, these include 18 programs funded with $11 million in NSF funds within the City University of New York (CUNY) that specifically seek to promote participation in STEM fields by women, minorities, and people with disabilities. All of those programs have had their funding canceled.

    Attorney General James and the coalition also assert in the lawsuit that NSF’s directive to cap indirect costs at 15 percent would devastate scientific research at universities throughout the country. Twenty-three campuses across the State University of New York (SUNY) system participate in NSF-funded research and received over $104 million in NSF funding in fiscal year 2024. These funds supported cutting-edge research, including microelectronics research at the University at Buffalo, world-leading atmospheric science and climate research at the University at Albany, and the NSF Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine led by Binghamton University, which aims to establish a hub for new battery technology to decrease dependence on technology from China.

    As Attorney General James and the coalition argue, NSF’s new cap would mean essential research and infrastructure would be cut, leading to critical projects being abandoned, staff laid off, and research essential to national security, public health, and economic stability ending. In fiscal year 2025, SUNY expects to receive $24.6 million for indirect costs. A 15 percent cap on indirect costs would slash $18 million in critical research funding for the SUNY system. The administration’s unlawful attempts to cap indirect costs at 15 percent for National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Department of Energy (DOE) grants have already been stopped by courts, in part due to a lawsuit brought by Attorney General James and 21 other attorneys general.

    Attorney General James and the coalition argue that NSF’s directives violate the Administrative Procedure Act and the Constitution by unlawfully changing NSF policy and ignoring Congress’s intent for how NSF should function. The lawsuit seeks a court order ruling NSF’s new policies are illegal and blocking them from being implemented.

    Joining Attorney General James in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Washington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OEM Now Accepting SPIRE IV Grant Applications

    Source: US State of Oregon

    alem, OR—The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has announced that the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) Grant is open for applications—providing critical emergency preparedness equipment to local governments and other eligible recipients.

    All application packages must be submitted online by 5 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025. Applicants should ensure they review materials well in advance, as letters of support from partnering agencies are required.

    Applicants in previous years have used the grant to purchase things like generators, sand bagging machines and search and rescue vehicles. This equipment can then be used by the local jurisdiction or lent to other jurisdictions during disaster response.

    Applicants can visit the OEM SPIRE webpage to access:

    • The SPIRE Application Form
    • SPIRE Guidance and Application Instructions, including the Equipment List
    • Anticipated Equipment Specifications
    • SPIRE Evaluation Criteria
    • Application form for review team members

    Funding for SPIRE grants is made available through bond sales by the state. Applications will be evaluated within regional, Tribal, and urban search and rescue (USAR) categories to ensure fair distribution of equipment. This process is designed to address capability gaps identified through the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA)/State Preparedness Report (SPR), ensuring representation from all disciplines and regions in decision-making and guaranteeing that awarded equipment has the greatest impact.

    “The SPIRE Grant plays a critical role in strengthening emergency preparedness across our state,” OEM Director Erin McMahon said. “By equipping local governments and response teams with the tools they need, we’re ensuring Oregon communities can respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies. We encourage eligible applicants to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their emergency response capabilities.”

    Our webpage also includes:

    • A map of current SPIRE-funded equipment, including items awarded but not yet arrived
    • Annual reporting forms and instructions for current SPIRE equipment holders (reports were due Oct. 15, 2024)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DAUPHIN COUNTY – Department of State to Begin Risk-Limiting Audit of 2025 Primary Election

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    May 29, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

    ADVISORY – DAUPHIN COUNTY – Department of State to Begin Risk-Limiting Audit of 2025 Primary Election

    Department of State officials and staff will begin the statewide risk-limiting audit (RLA) of Pennsylvania’s 2025 primary election. Department staff will roll 10-sided dice to generate a 20-digit “seed number,” which will be used to randomly determine which batches of ballots from the May 20 primary election will be audited over the next several days.

    WHO:
    Jonathan Marks, Deputy Secretary for Elections and Commissions
    Department of State staff members

    WHEN:
    TOMORROW, Thursday, May 29 at 2 P.M.

    PUBLIC LIVESTREAM:
    The livestream will be available at https://pacast.com/live/dos. A PACast with audio, video, and a press release will be available after the event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CUMBERLAND COUNTY – Shapiro Administration to Launch 8th Annual Great American Getaway Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    May 29, 2025 – Carlisle, PA

    ADVISORY – CUMBERLAND COUNTY – Shapiro Administration to Launch 8th Annual Great American Getaway Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail

    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will join Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger at Destiny Dairy Bar for the launch of the 2025 Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail and the start of June as dairy month.

    The event will highlight the Pennsylvania dairy and tourism industries connecting farm families and ice cream lovers and the partnership of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s PA Preferred® program, DCED’s Tourism Office, and the Center for Dairy Excellence. The 2025 ice cream trail will take visitors all across Pennsylvania with 51 creameries included in this year’s ice cream trail.

    Pennsylvania has six culinary trails for families to explore and support local farms while making sweet family memories. Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposes an increase of $13 million to the historic Agricultural Innovation Grant program to help farms across Pennsylvania compete and succeed.

    WHO:
    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger
    Pennsylvania Tourism Office Executive Director Kaitie Burger
    Destiny Dairy Bar Owner and Stover Farms Herd Manager Amy Brickner

    WHEN:
    Thursday, May 29 at 11 a.m.

    WHERE:
    Destiny Dairy Bar, 60 Horners Road, Carlisle, PA 17015

    RSVP:
    Press attending should RSVP with news outlet and photographer and reporter names to aginfo@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Brooge Energy Voluntarily Delists from Nasdaq

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brooge Energy Limited, (“BEL” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BROG), a Cayman Islands-based infrastructure provider, which is engaged in Clean Petroleum Products and Biofuels and Crude Oil storage and related services, today announced that it has provided notification to The Nasdaq Stock Market, LLC (“Nasdaq”) of its intent to voluntarily delist the Company’s ordinary shares (the “Shares”), from the Nasdaq Capital Market and subsequently deregister with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The Company intends to file a Form 25 (Notification of Removal from Listing) with the SEC and Nasdaq relating to the delisting of its Shares on or about June 9, 2025. As a result, the Company expects the last day of quotation of its Shares on Nasdaq will be on or about June 19, 2025. The Company does not intend to list the Shares on another securities exchange.

    Following the termination of the quotation of the Company’s Shares from Nasdaq, the Company intends to file a Form 15 with the SEC on or about June 19, 2025 to suspend its reporting obligations under the Exchange Act. As a result of the filing of the Form 15, the Company’s obligation to file certain Exchange Act reports and forms with the SEC, including Forms 20-F and 6-K, will immediately cease. Other SEC filing requirements will terminate upon the effectiveness of the deregistration. Although the Company will have no continuing requirement to file periodic reports with the SEC after June 19, 2025, the Company expects that the formal deregistration of its Securities will become effective 90 days after the filing of the Form 15 with the SEC. The documents filed with the SEC will be available at www.sec.gov.

    The withdrawal of the Shares from listing and registration is being undertaken following a determination by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) that such delisting and deregistration is in the best interest of the Company and the holders of its Shares. The Board’s decision was based on a careful review of numerous factors, including but not limited to, the lack of an active trading market for the Company’s securities, the required resources and expenses relating to continued Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Nasdaq disclosure and reporting requirements and related regulatory burdens which have resulted and would continue to result in significant operating expense and attention of the Company’s management team.

    About Brooge Energy Limited
    BEL is a Cayman Islands-based infrastructure provider which is engaged in Clean Petroleum Products and Biofuels and Crude Oil storage and related services. BEL conducts the business and operations through its subsidiary BPGIC FZE. BPGIC FZE is strategically located outside the Strait of Hormuz at the Port of Fujairah in the Emirate of Fujairah in the UAE Its business differentiates itself from competitors by providing customers with fast order processing times, excellent customer service and high accuracy blending services with low product losses.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements that are not historical facts and constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current views based on certain assumptions, and they involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results, events or performance may differ materially from the forward-looking statements due to a number of important factors, and will be dependent upon a variety of factors, including risks described in public reports filed by BEL with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. BEL does not undertake any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Investor Contact
    KCSA Strategic Communications
    Valter Pinto, Managing Director
    +1 212-896-1254
    BROG@kcsa.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco To Present at the Rosenblatt 5th Annual Technology Summit

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO, “Silvaco”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation, today announced that Silvaco’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Babak Taheri, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Keith Tainsky, and Chief Revenue Officer, Ian Chen, will participate in a fireside chat at the Rosenblatt 5th Annual Technology Summit on Wednesday, June 11, at 4 p.m. Eastern time.

    A live webcast, as well as a replay, of the presentation will be available on the company’s investor relations website at https://investors.silvaco.com/.

    About Silvaco
    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and AI through software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for process and device development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements based on Silvaco Group, Inc.’s current expectations. The words “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “project”, “will”, and similar phrases as they relate to Silvaco Group, Inc. are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views and assumptions of Silvaco Group, Inc. and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations.

    Investor Contact:
    Greg McNiff
    investors@silvaco.com

    Media Contact:
    Tiffany Behany
    press@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Cramer: DOT Awards $9.2 Million to North Dakota Department of Transportation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    BEULAH, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded two grants totaling $9,201,975 to the North Dakota Department of Transportation through the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief (ER) Program. The ER Program supplements state and local resources to help pay for substantial expenses resulting from extraordinary conditions. The awards will go toward the following repairs following extreme weather events in North Dakota:
    $8,946,150 to address the severe flooding in Eastern North Dakota which occurred on April 12, 2022. The flooding resulted in widespread damage to culverts and roadway erosion on state and county roadways.
    $255,825 to address damages from an overland and riverine flooding event on April 10, 2023. The flooding led to a landslide, damage of culverts, and erosion of state and county roadways.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Talon Metals Celebrate Advanced Nickel, Copper Minerals Processing Facility in Beulah

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    Project to advance American mineral production
    BEULAH, N.D. – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined Talon Metals leadership to celebrate securing a former Westmoreland Mining site where the company will develop its Beulah Minerals Processing Facility (BMPF). This facility is slated to be the world’s most advanced nickel and copper minerals processing facility.
    The BMPF will process nickel and copper, utilizing nickel ore from a Talon mine in Minnesota and the fly ash byproduct of Mercer County coal-fired power stations. The nickel concentrate processed at the Beulah facility will be used in cathodes for EV batteries, and the fly ash will help chemically neutralize and harden the tailings. The nickel concentrate and other byproducts, including cobalt and iron, from the Beulah facility will be used by Tesla for its EV batteries.
    Cramer, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) and Armed Services Committees, delivered remarks at the signing ceremony today in Beulah. 
    “You could not over exaggerate the significance of today, or the significance of what’s about to happen at the Westmoreland site,” said Cramer. “Its contribution to economic opportunity will be significant to national security, global security, and domestic supply chain development. I can hardly wait to see what happens next.”

    In 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded nearly $115 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Talon Metals for the construction of this facility, and Talon will provide a recipient cost share of nearly $320 million. This project includes workforce training in Mercer County and will offer employment opportunities to nearby communities and tribal members. The U.S. Department of Defense also awarded Talon over $20 million in Defense Production Act funding to increase exploration and development of domestic nickel. 
    Cramer is a longtime advocate for domestic critical minerals production, stressing the superiority of American labor and environmental standards and the importance of strategically decoupling supply chains from adversaries like China. He co-led a bipartisan letter with U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) to express their concerns regarding a potential critical mineral free trade agreement with Indonesia for the procurement of nickel. In 2022, Cramer also wrote a letter of support on behalf of Talon’s application to then-DOE Secretary Jennifer Granholm.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Tours CAMC, Hubbard Hospice House

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, made stops in Charleston, W.Va. focused on health care. 
    First, Senator Capito toured the Charleston Area Medical Center’s (CAMC) updated intensive care unit (ICU). During the visit, Senator Capito also met with CAMC leadership to discuss the updated ICU and the health system’s continued impact on the state. 
    “CAMC and Vandalia Health System provide tremendous care to West Virginians. I was excited to tour the updated ICU today to see how CAMC continues to provide premiere care to our neighbors in the greatest need,” Senator Capito said. 
    Later, Senator Capito visited the Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston, W.Va. to see the impact of the nearly complete renovation project she helped support through the Congressionally Directed Spending process. Hubbard Hospice House is a 24-bed inpatient hospice facility that is the first standalone hospice facility in the state of West Virginia.
    “The Hubbard Hospice House has long been a place of peace, dignity, and comfort for West Virginians during some of life’s most difficult moments,” Senator Capito said. “I was proud to advocate for this funding because preserving this facility means preserving a sanctuary for patients and their loved ones. As this vital wing reopens, it ensures families in the Kanawha Valley continue to have access to compassionate, community-based end-of-life care in a setting that feels like home.”
    “This isn’t just a building. It’s a place of peace, a sanctuary for families during some of life’s most difficult moments. Thanks to Senator Capito, our generous donors, and community partners, we’re building on a legacy of care that will last another 20 years—and beyond,” HospiceCare CEO Chris Rawlings said.
    Photos from today’s visits are below:

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours Charleston Area Medical Center’s (CAMC) intensive care unit (ICU) in Charleston, W.Va. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. 

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito meets with Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) leadership to discuss the updated intensive care unit (ICU) in Charleston, W.Va. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. 

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito visits Hubbard Hospice House to see their nearly complete renovation project in Charleston, W.Va. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Demands Immediate Action from Hospitals Failing to Meet Quality and Financial Oversight Standards in Pediatric Gender Procedures

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    CMS Demands Immediate Action from Hospitals Failing to Meet Quality and Financial Oversight Standards in Pediatric Gender Procedures

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today sent a letter to select hospitals performing pediatric sex trait modification procedures outlining urgent concerns with both the quality standards adherence and profits related to these harmful procedures

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Launches Oversight Initiative on Hospitals Performing Experimental Sex Trait Modification Procedures

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    CMS Launches Oversight Initiative on Hospitals Performing Experimental Sex Trait Modification Procedures

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today sent a letter to select hospitals performing pediatric sex trait modification procedures outlining urgent concerns with both the quality standards adherence and profits related to these harmful procedures

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 344

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 344
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    320 PM CDT Wed May 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Louisiana
    Southern Mississippi

    * Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 320 PM
    until 900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

    SUMMARY…At least an isolated downburst/damaging wind threat will
    exist through late afternoon and early evening across the region
    within a very moist and unstable air mass.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 65
    statute miles north and south of a line from 40 miles south
    southwest of Natchez MS to 50 miles east southeast of Pine Belt MS.
    For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 341…WW 342…WW 343…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector
    20025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 344 SEVERE TSTM LA MS 282020Z – 290200Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    40SSW HEZ/NATCHEZ MS/ – 50ESE PIB/PINE BELT MS/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM N/S /39NNW BTR – 29NNW SJI/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 20025.

    LAT…LON 32039156 32138855 30258855 30149156

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 344 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News –