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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu Honors Local Leaders at 2025 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – On Saturday, Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted her annual Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony, honoring nine remarkable individuals and organizations from across California’s 28th Congressional District for their outstanding service and contributions to their communities. The event was emceed by acclaimed actress and community advocate Tamlyn Tomita, best known for her roles in The Karate Kid Part II, The Joy Luck Club, and Star Trek: Picard. 

     “After everything our communities have been through, especially in the wake of the Eaton Fire, these leaders stepped up,” said Rep. Chu. “Many of our honorees have helped families rebuild, uplifted young people, supported our seniors, empowered immigrant communities, and brought hope during some of the hardest times. They’re educators, volunteers, activists, and small business owners. I’m so proud to recognize them for all they’ve done and all they continue to do. They really do represent the very best of the San Gabriel Valley.”

    This year’s honorees include:

    • Wendy Sinnette – Educator of the Year (La Cañada Flintridge): Wendy Sinnette was recognized for her compassionate and resilient leadership as Superintendent of the La Cañada Unified School District, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the Eaton Fire.
       
    • San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity – Nonprofit of the Year: SGV Habitat for Humanity was celebrated for its decades-long commitment to affordable housing and rapid response to the Eaton Fire, including innovative rebuilding efforts and community-driven volunteer mobilization.
       
    • Pastor Jonathan “Jon” DeCuir – Community Activist of the Year (Altadena): Pastor DeCuir was honored for transforming Victory Bible Church into a relief hub after the Eaton Fire and launching the Legacy Land Project to support long-term recovery and housing.
       
    • Jason Kim & Johanna Quach – Businesspeople of the Year (San Gabriel): The leadership of Paris Baguette San Gabriel, Jason Kim & Johanna Quach, were recognized for their philanthropic support of local schools, emergency responders, and inclusive hiring practices. 
       
    • Rev. Gene Boutilier – Volunteer of the Year (Claremont): A lifelong advocate for social justice, Rev. Gene Boutilier has dedicated decades to volunteer service across Southern California and was instrumental in launching Claremont’s first low-income housing project – Larkin Place. 
       
    • National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) – Nonprofit of the Year (Pasadena): NDLON was commended for their leadership in defending day laborers and immigrants, including its response to ICE raids and coordination of fire recovery work through the Pasadena Community Job Center.
       
    • Tzi Ma – Community Activist of the Year (Pasadena): Tzi Ma is a renowned actor and activist, honored for decades of advocacy for AAPI representation in entertainment and media, civil rights activism, and his leadership in #WashTheHate social media campaign during the rise in anti-Asian hate amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
       
    • Nic Arnzen – Building Bridges Award (Altadena): Nic Arnzen is the Vice Chair of the Altadena Town Council, recognized for his leadership during the Eaton Fire and for founding Altadena Pride, fostering visibility, inclusivity, and healing.
       
    • Edgar McGregor – Courageous Service of the Year (Altadena/Pasadena): Edgar McGregor is a local meteorologist awarded for issuing life-saving warnings ahead of the Eaton Fire, helping thousands of residents evacuate safely and avoid disaster.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Maybe this is the last minutes you are living’: how the war is impacting young Ukrainians

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ashley Humphrey, Lecturer in Social Sciences, Monash University

    Now into its fourth year, the war that followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has taken a devastating toll.

    An estimated 60,000 to 100,0000 Ukrainian lives have been lost and more than 10 million citizens displaced, and entire cities have been devastated.

    Daily life in Ukraine is disrupted by frequent power outages, significant interruptions to school and work routines and the recurrent warnings of air raid sirens.

    We sought to understand the war’s impact on young Ukrainians by interviewing those still in, and outside of Ukraine.

    Stolen youth

    Young adults (aged 18-35) tend to be in a transitional phase of life, working towards establishing a career, starting a family and making future plans.

    For many young Ukrainians, these developmental processes have been severely impeded during the war.

    Our work provides insights into how young Ukrainians have navigated the severe intrusion to their development, as well as how they have coped psychologically during this time.

    Our research drew on in-depth interviews with young Ukrainians who had lived in Ukraine for either the entirety or part of the war.

    Conducted both in person in Ukraine as well as online, these interviews looked specifically at how the ongoing war has affected young people’s employment or study situation, their aspirations for the future and mental health, while also seeking to understand what support they need.

    Responses from the participants varied.

    Those who were working were now exclusively engaged in work centred on assisting the war effort, including in some cases having joined the armed forces.

    Those who were studying had shifted to online mediums. The COVID pandemic ensured online learning platforms were largely already in place, allowing some to continue their studies from locations outside of Ukraine.

    While perhaps an alluring prospect to some, this flexibility while studying was also accompanied by chaos and disorientation, with short-term visas forcing young Ukrainians to move from one country to another.

    As one student explained:

    We went to Ukraine for two weeks and then we moved to Georgia for three months. Now we’re in Thailand for one month, and now we’re going to be in Australia for two or three months. Then we’re probably going to go to Japan for a year maybe.

    Local residents walk past buildings damaged as a result of a missile strike in Odesa.
    OLEKSANDR GIMANOV/AFP via Getty Images

    Depression, stress and surprising optimisim

    Despite enduring the horrors of the war, the participants generally spoke of their futures with admirable optimism.

    Remarkably, many commented on the way the war had redefined their goals toward helping their country in some way. One respondent told us:

    When you are starting a new project, when you are applying for a job, you are having a constant filter: how does this affect Ukraine? Am I helping Ukraine? Am I helping Ukraine enough? What else can I do?’

    Another shared:

    I know we are fighting for our future. And I want to be a part of Ukraine and be a part of its reconstruction. Because I am like this bright future – I am the youth that will be reconstructing Ukraine because of their knowledge and money and everything else.

    Unsurprisingly, some were also apathetic or dismissive of their futures, commenting on broken dreams and stating it was not a time for making future plans. They felt let down by the United Nations and the “international global order”.

    Participants commented on the ways the war has affected their mental health.

    Symptoms of PTSD, elevated stress, depression, constant anxiety as well as existential dread were raised, with one young Ukrainian telling us:

    Every time when I hear alerts […] you’re thinking, maybe this is the last minutes you are living because the bomb can strike your flat.

    The fear of loud noises, the harrowing plight of their country and the associated stress were emergent themes.

    Yet, some indicated they had become resilient to this stress:

    I think I became quite resistant to the stress as well, because I think I faced the scariest moments of my life, where I can die, and I understand that when you cannot control the situation and what’s going on, I cannot control whether a missile is going to be in my house.

    This notion of resilience was both surprising and inspiring and this finding corroborated with past studies on war-affected Ukrainians.

    As one participant explained:

    If there was no war, I wouldn’t be who I am right now. It has really changed me. It has given me strength, this optimistic outlook.

    A need for greater support

    There is much to learn from these inspiring young people. But more pressingly, they need help.

    As the relentless shelling of Ukrainian cities continues, the participants call for greater access to mental health and counselling services, ongoing investment in online learning tools and job opportunities and basic resources to support their wellbeing.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Maybe this is the last minutes you are living’: how the war is impacting young Ukrainians – https://theconversation.com/maybe-this-is-the-last-minutes-you-are-living-how-the-war-is-impacting-young-ukrainians-260800

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Agricultural Supply Chain

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) led 16 of his colleagues in introducing legislation to remove regulatory roadblocks for heavy vehicle operators when renewing their commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act enables seasonal drivers to renew their CDL online while providing greater flexibility in the types of commercial vehicles they can operate. As the American Trucking Association estimates a national truck driver shortage of 115,000 by the end of 2025, Rep. Mann’s legislation reforms the Farm-Related Restricted Commercial Driver’s License program by allowing states to develop an online registration and renewal system for farm-related service providers, enabling drivers to more easily renew their seasonal license.

    “Successfully feeding, clothing, and fueling the world doesn’t stop when crops are harvested,” said Rep. Mann. “The entire agriculture supply chain relies on timely and reliable delivery every step of the way from production to consumption. If our nation’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers can’t access the machinery they need to operate their farms or transport their products to storage, it would be impossible for them to fulfill their calling or deliver products to consumers. Our bill strengthens the entire agricultural supply chain by enacting commonsense reforms that make it easier for farm-service drivers to simply do their jobs and serve customers and consumers. Food security is national security that we can and should protect by removing regulatory burdens.”

    Joining Rep. Mann in introducing the Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act are Reps. Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Ron Estes (KS-04), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Jack Berman (MI-01), John Rose (TN-06), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Mike Flood (NE-01), David Kustoff (TN-08), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Tim Burchett (TN-02), and Bruce Westerman (AR-04).

    “This bill delivers commonsense wins that will make it easier for the ag sector to keep essential goods moving,” said Rep. Flood. “By streamlining the CDL process and clarifying federal definitions, we’re reducing red tape without compromising safety. This is a smart step toward strengthening our nation’s ag supply chain.”

    “The work of Hoosier farmers never stops as they feed Americans and the world,” said Rep. Messmer. “I am proud to support Congressman Mann’s bill to get government red tape out of the way and let farmers do what they do best!”

    The Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act is supported by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Corn Growers Association, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Sorghum Producers, Kansas Soybean Association, Agribusiness Association of Iowa, Agribusiness Association of Kentucky, Agribusiness Council of Indiana, Agricultural Council of Arkansas, Agricultural Retailers Association, Agriculture Transportation Coalition, American Cotton Shippers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Feed Industry Association, American Honey Producers Association, American Malting Barley Association, Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology, Far West Agribusiness Association, Farm Credit Council, Florida Fertilizer & Agrichemical Association, Georgia Agribusiness Council, Idaho Grain Producers Association, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Michigan Agri-Business Association, Minnesota Crop Production Retailers, Mississippi Agricultural Industry Council, Missouri Agribusiness Association, Montana Agricultural Business Association, National Aquaculture Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Grain and Feed Association, National Grange, National Farmers Union, National Milk Producers Federation, National Pork Producers Council, National Sunflower Association, National Sorghum Producers, Nebraska Agri-Business Association, Nebraska Cooperative Council, North American Millers’ Association, North American Renderers Association, North Carolina AgriBusiness Council, North Dakota Agricultural Association, North Dakota Grain Dealers Association, Louisiana Ag Industries Association, Ohio AgriBusiness Association, Pet Food Institute, Rocky Mountain Agribusiness Association, South Dakota Agri-Business Association, Southern Crop Production Association, Texas Ag Industries Association, Texas Grain & Feed Association, The Fertilizer Institute, USA Rice, U.S. Canola Association, US Rice Producers Association, Virginia Agribusiness Council, Washington Association of Wheat Growers, Wisconsin Agri-Business Association, Wyoming Ag Business Association and the Wyoming Wheat Growers Association.

    “This important legislation, championed by Representative Tracey Mann and the original co-sponsors, provides critical support for agricultural retailers who deliver essential products and services to our farms and livestock operations,” said Richard Gupton, the Senior Vice President of Public Policy for the Agricultural Retailers Association. “By modernizing outdated regulations, this bill empowers retailers to operate more efficiently and reliably, strengthening the entire agricultural supply chain and helping our rural communities thrive. Additionally, by allowing for increased load capacities, the proposal helps alleviate the industry’s chronic driver shortage, enabling businesses to make fewer trips with the same workforce and ensuring that essential goods reach their destinations in a timely manner.”

    “The Agriculture Transportation Coalition has long recognized that there is nothing we produce in agriculture in the United States that cannot be sourced somewhere else in the world,” said Peter Friedmann, Executive Director of the Agriculture Transportation Coalition. “If we are unable to transport and deliver affordably and dependably, our international customers will buy from those other countries, and US farmers, ranchers, processors will lose those sales. The international agriculture supply chain begins at the farms here in the United States. The need to enhance transport efficiency at the very beginning of the supply chain, namely the harvest at the field, has never been greater. The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act, will advance this essential component of the domestic and international export supply chain, to keep our agriculture competitive in the global and domestic marketplace. The AgTC strongly supports this bill.”

    “As America’s oldest grassroots agriculture and rural life advocacy organization, the National Grange appreciates Representative Mann taking the lead on the Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act,” said Burton Eller, Executive Director of National Grange. “The seasonal ag CDL is a critical link in the success of our harvest chain in rural America.”

    “The Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act is a major win for the Wisconsin Agri-Business Association and its members,” said Grace Howe, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Agri-Business Association. “By extending the restricted seasonal CDL period and aligning licensing with the calendar year, it provides agribusinesses with more flexibility during peak planting and harvest seasons. This change reduces administrative burdens, streamlines compliance with federal and state rules, and ensures a more reliable seasonal workforce, and ultimately saving time, cutting costs, and supporting smoother operations across Wisconsin’s ag supply chain.”

    “The Pet Food Institute (PFI), whose members make the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the U.S., supports Rep. Tracey Mann (R-Kan.) in proposing updates to the Farm-Related Service Industries Restricted CDL program that will set a new federal definition for implements of husbandry,” said PFI’s president and CEO, Dana Brooks. “U.S. pet food is predominantly made with ingredients produced on American farms, and pet food manufacturing is a major contributor to agricultural and rural economies. We recognize that modern agriculture depends on a broad array of vehicles and equipment to operate efficiently, to innovate and to continue producing safe, quality food for people and pets.”

    “Montana agricultural businesses and producers already face major challenges, from weather and drought to delays getting product across our borders,” said Tanner Hoversland, Montana Agricultural Business Association Board Chair. “Legislation like the Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act is good government policy that makes improvements to this essential licensing process, and removes burdens instead of throwing up more roadblocks, especially for our rural operators. The Montana Agricultural Business Association and its members are grateful to Rep. Mann for introducing this commonsense proposal.”

    ###

    For more information about Representative Mann, visit: www.mann.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “HOUSE REPUBLICANS ARE MARCHING US TOWARD A POSSIBLE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN THAT WILL HURT THE AMERICAN PEOPLE”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Know Your Immigration Rights

    If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

    Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

    Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

    Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

    The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

    Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces Filing of Final Short Form Base Shelf Prospectus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) announced today that it has filed, and received receipt for, a final short form base shelf prospectus (the “Prospectus”). The Prospectus was filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada. DIV’s prior short form base shelf prospectus dated June 19, 2023, expired on July 19, 2025. Accordingly, DIV filed the Prospectus to maintain financial flexibility and efficient access to Canadian capital markets to pursue strategic initiatives. A copy of the Prospectus is available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The Prospectus is valid for a 25-month period during which time DIV may, from time to time, issue common shares, warrants, subscription receipts, debt securities, convertible securities or rights or any combination thereof, including in the form of units (collectively, the “Securities”). The specific terms of any offering of Securities will be described in one or more shelf prospectus supplements which will be filed at the time of the offering of such Securities. There is no certainty any Securities will be offered or sold under the Prospectus within the 25-month effective period.  

    About Diversified Royalty Corp.

    DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

    DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions, BarBurrito and Cheba Hut trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada. Cheba Hut is a fast casual toasted sub sandwich franchise with locations in the United States.

    DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

    Forward-Looking Information

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the Prospectus being filed to provide DIV with financial flexibility

    and efficient access to Canadian capital markets to pursue strategic initiatives; the specific terms of any offering of Securities will be described in one or more shelf prospectus supplements which will be filed at the time of the offering of such Securities; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information.

    DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: DIV will complete any offerings of Securities under the Prospectus; DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 24, 2025 and in its most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, copies of each of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that, among other things: DIV will complete one or more offerings of Securities under the Prospectus and one or more shelf prospectus supplements and DIV will successfully deploy the proceeds therefrom; DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

    All of the forward-looking information in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

    THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Additional Information

    Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Contact:
    Sean Morrison, Chief Executive Officer and Director
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8470

    Greg Gutmanis, President and Chief Financial Officer
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8471

    The MIL Network –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: West Virginia Delegation Applauds Disaster Declaration Approval for Ohio and Marion Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), as well as U.S. Reps. Carol Miller (W.Va.-01) and Riley Moore (W.Va.-02), applauded President Donald Trump’s approval of a Major Disaster Declaration and an Emergency Declaration for Ohio and Marion counties.

    “The West Virginia Congressional Delegation is grateful to the Trump administration for the major disaster declaration and emergency declaration giving the approval of our state’s request for federal disaster aid. The flooding that occurred saw devastating loss of life and property, and we are glad that much-needed help is on the way to help these communities recover and rebuild. We commend the bravery of the first responders who sprang into action and the local leaders, churches, and charities who have been on the ground helping victims begin to rebuild their lives,” the lawmakers said. 

    The Major Disaster Declaration means that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance program will be able to provide financial aid to homeowners and renters affected by the June flooding. 

    The delegation sent a letter to President Trump and FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Hutchinson expressing strong support of the governor’s Major Disaster Declaration request in Ohio and Marion counties. You can view a copy of that letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Coons, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect State and Local Judges

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) today introduced the Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act, which would establish a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to provide technical assistance, training, and threat monitoring for state and local judges and court personnel:

    “With threats against judges and their families increasing at an alarming rate, more must be done to protect them,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would establish a much-needed resource center to identify and respond to bad actors, ensuring our nation’s courts and the Americans who work in them every day are safe.”

    “Public servants should be able to do their jobs free from threats to themselves or their families – and that includes our state and local judges,” said Sen. Coons. “Our nation has seen increasing political violence that has too often ended in tragedy – threatening those just trying to serve their country and threatening our democratic system built on respect for the rule of law. I’m proud this bipartisan bill unanimously passed the Senate last year and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill to the president’s desk.”

    “Judges perform a critical community service at every level of our justice system,” said Sen. Moran. “Regardless of how a judge rules on a case, any form of harassment or intimidation is unacceptable. In response to growing threats and attacks against members of the judiciary, this legislation would provide needed resources and support to local law enforcement tasked with protecting judges and courthouses.”

    “Online mobs have increasingly lobbed violent threats against judges, including in Rhode Island, for ruling against the Trump administration.  Judges and court officials must be able to conduct their work without fearing for their lives or their family’s safety,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “This timely bipartisan bill would bolster security at courthouses and judges’ homes to help protect the integrity of our judicial system.  We also need to make sure that orchestration of threats is properly investigated.”

    “We’re seeing an alarming surge of dangerous threats and actions targeting judges across this nation – stoking the flames of violence towards public servants and their families,” said Sen. Shaheen. “Our bipartisan legislation offers a commonsense solution to this troubling trend by establishing a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to implement enhanced security measures to keep judges, their families and their staff out of harm’s way.”

    U.S. Representatives Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Lucy McBath (GA-06) introduced companion legislation in the House.

    Background:

    The Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act would create a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to:

    • Provide technical assistance to state and local judges and court personnel around judicial security;
    • Provide physical security assessments for courts, homes, and other facilities where judicial officers and staff conduct court-related business;
    • Conduct research to identify, examine, and advance best practices around judicial security;
    • And be housed within the existing State Justice Institute, a private nonprofit and nonpartisan corporation established by Congress in 1984.

    The legislation is supported by the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ), Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA), Council of Chief Judges of the State Courts of Appeal (CCJSCA), National Association for Presiding Judges and Court Executive Officers (NAPCO), National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), National Center for State Courts (NCSC), American Judges Association (AJA), National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), and National Center for State Courts (NCSC).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: reAlpha Tech Corp. Announces Closing of $5 Million Registered Direct Offering Priced At-The-Market Under Nasdaq Rules

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Ohio, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) (the “Company” or “reAlpha”), an AI-powered real estate technology company, today announced the closing of its previously announced registered direct offering priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules for the purchase and sale of 14,285,718 shares of its common stock at a purchase price of $0.35 per share. In a concurrent private placement, the Company issued unregistered warrants to purchase up to 14,285,718 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.35 per share that are exercisable upon issuance and will expire five years from the effective date of the registration statement covering the resale of the shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the unregistered warrants.

    H.C. Wainwright & Co. acted as the exclusive placement agent for the offering.

    The gross proceeds from the offering, before deducting the placement agent’s fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company, were approximately $5 million. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for working capital and general corporate purposes, which could include repayment of debt, future acquisitions, capital expenditures and the purchase of cryptocurrencies in accordance with the Company’s cryptocurrency investment policy.

    The common stock (but not the unregistered warrants and the shares of common stock underlying the unregistered warrants) described above were offered by the Company pursuant to a “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-283284) that was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on November 26, 2024. The offering of the shares of common stock was made only by means of a prospectus, including a prospectus supplement, forming a part of the effective registration statement. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the registered direct offering was filed with the SEC. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus may be obtained on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov or by contacting H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC at 430 Park Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, New York 10022, by phone at (212) 856-5711 or e-mail at placements@hcwco.com.

    The unregistered warrants described above were offered in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and/or Regulation D promulgated thereunder and, along with the shares of common stock underlying such unregistered warrants, have not been registered under the Securities Act, or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the unregistered warrants and underlying shares of common stock may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and such applicable state securities laws.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    About reAlpha Tech Corp.

    reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) is an AI-powered real estate technology company transforming the multi-trillion-dollar U.S. real estate services market. reAlpha is developing an end-to-end platform that streamlines real estate transactions through integrated brokerage, mortgage, and title services. With a strategic, acquisition-driven growth model and proprietary AI infrastructure, reAlpha is building a vertically integrated ecosystem designed to deliver a simpler, smarter, and more affordable path to homeownership. For more information, visit www.realpha.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements.” Any statements other than statements of historical fact contained herein, including statements as to the intended use of net proceeds from the offering, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may”, “should”, “could”, “might”, “plan”, “possible”, “project”, “strive”, “budget”, “forecast”, “expect”, “intend”, “will”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “predict”, “potential” or “continue”, or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: reAlpha’s ability to regain and sustain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s continued listing standards and remain listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market; reAlpha’s ability to pay contractual obligations; reAlpha’s liquidity, operating performance, cash flow and ability to secure adequate financing; reAlpha’s limited operating history and that reAlpha has not yet fully developed its AI-based technologies; whether reAlpha’s technology and products will be accepted and adopted by its customers and intended users; reAlpha’s ability to commercialize its developing AI-based technologies; reAlpha’s ability to successfully enter new geographic markets; reAlpha’s ability to integrate the business of its acquired companies into its existing business and the anticipated demand for such acquired companies’ services; reAlpha’s ability to scale its operational capabilities to expand into additional geographic markets and nationally; the potential loss of key employees of reAlpha and of its subsidiaries; the outcome of certain outstanding legal proceedings against reAlpha; reAlpha’s ability to obtain, and maintain, the required licenses to operate in the U.S. states in which it, or its subsidiaries, operate in, or intend to operate in; reAlpha’s ability to successfully identify and acquire companies that are complementary to its business model; the inability to maintain and strengthen reAlpha’s brand and reputation; any accidents or incidents involving cybersecurity breaches and incidents; the inability to accurately forecast demand for AI-based real estate-focused products; the inability to execute business objectives and growth strategies successfully or sustain reAlpha’s growth; the inability of reAlpha’s customers to pay for reAlpha’s services; the inability of reAlpha to obtain additional financing or access the capital markets to fund its ongoing operations on acceptable terms and conditions; the outcome of any legal proceedings that might be instituted against reAlpha; changes in applicable laws or regulations, and the impact of the regulatory environment and complexities with compliance related to such environment; and other risks and uncertainties indicated in reAlpha’s SEC filings. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although reAlpha believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. reAlpha’s future results, level of activity, performance or achievements may differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking statements. For more information about the factors that could cause such differences, please refer to reAlpha’s filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and reAlpha does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Media Contact:
    Cristol Rippe, Chief Marketing Officer
    cristol@realpha.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Adele Carey, VP of Investor Relations
    investorrelations@realpha.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Auckland is NZ’s ‘primate city’ but its potential remains caged in by poor planning and vision

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Welch, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Getty Images

    The recent report comparing Auckland to nine international peer cities delivered an uncomfortable truth: our largest city is falling behind, hampered by car dependency, low-density housing and “weak economic performance”.

    The Deloitte State of the City analysis was no surprise to anyone who has watched successive governments treat the city as a problem to manage, rather than an engine to fuel.

    The report’s findings were stark: Auckland rates 82nd out of 84 cities globally for pedestrian friendliness, and its car-dependent transport system is more carbon-intensive and slower to decarbonise than peer cities.

    This is the direct result of decades of planning failures, including what urban researchers call the 1970s “great down-zoning” which halved central Auckland’s housing capacity.

    This isn’t just Auckland’s problem. When we mismanage what geographers call a “primate city,” it reveals our fundamental misunderstanding of how modern economies work.

    The concept of the primate city was formalised by geographer Mark Jefferson in 1939. Such cities are defined as being “at least twice as large as the next largest city and more than twice as significant”.

    Auckland fits this definition perfectly. With more than 1.7 million people, it is over four times larger than Christchurch or the greater Wellington region. The city accounts for 34% of New Zealand’s population and is projected to hit 40% of the working-age population by 2048.

    Auckland contributes 38% of New Zealand’s gross domestic product and its per-capita GDP is 15% higher than the rest of the country’s. Its most productive area, the central business district, enjoys a 40% productivity premium over the national average.

    To economists, these numbers represent the “agglomeration benefits” research shows primate cities generate. It is the economic effect of combining businesses, talent and infrastructure.

    Yet New Zealand systematically underinvests in the very place generating this outsized economic contribution.

    A pattern of infrastructure failure

    Auckland’s infrastructure deficit follows a predictable pattern. The City Rail Link, while progressing, has grown from an initial budget of NZ$2-3 billion to $5.5 billion, with opening delayed until 2026.

    Light rail was cancelled entirely after years of planning. A second harbour crossing has been studied for decades without a shovel hitting dirt. Each represents billions in opportunity costs while congestion worsens.

    This goes well beyond project mismanagement. It is a deep structural problem.

    The Infrastructure Commission-Te Waihanga identifies a $210 billion national infrastructure shortfall, with Auckland bearing a disproportionate burden despite generating a disproportionately high level of revenue.

    International research by the OECD shows successful countries treat metropolitan regions as engines of national growth, not a burden.

    The ‘Wellington problem’

    Public policy expert Ian Shirley called it the “Wellington Problem”: the way Auckland’s governance became an obsession for politicians and bureaucrats based in Wellington.

    The tension dates to 1865 when the capital was moved from Auckland to Wellington, establishing a pattern where political power was deliberately separated from economic power.

    Auckland loses an estimated $415.35 million annually in GST collected on rates. This goes to Wellington and into government revenue rather than being reinvested locally. Central government properties in Auckland, worth $36.3 million in rates, are exempt from payment while still using Auckland’s infrastructure.

    When Auckland speaks with “one voice” through its unified council, Wellington responds with legislative overrides.

    The recent National Land Transport Programme, for example, cut Auckland’s transport funding by $564 million. Mayor Wayne Brown said the government’s transport policy “makes zero sense for Auckland”.

    Learning from others

    The contrast with international approaches reveals just how counterproductive New Zealand’s approach has been.

    London has an integrated Transport for London authority with congestion charging powers, generating £136 million annually for reinvestment. Paris is investing more than €35 billion in the Grand Paris Express transit project.

    Japan’s “Quality Infrastructure Investment” principles include ¥13.2 trillion in regional infrastructure investment. Australia’s A$120 billion infrastructure programme explicitly recognises its largest cities contribute over 50% of GDP and require proportional investment.

    Research has shown excessive urban concentration in one country can create problems. But denying the primate city resources only leads to a “deterioration in the quality of life” that drags down the entire national economy.

    The solution lies in making strategic investments that maximise the benefits of agglomeration while managing any negative costs to the national economy.

    Growing pains

    Auckland isn’t a problem to be managed, it is an asset to be leveraged. Every successful developed economy has learned this lesson. Paris generates 31% of France’s GDP and gets treated accordingly.

    Seoul produces 23% of South Korea’s output and receives massive infrastructure investment. Tokyo drives Japan’s economy.

    The international evidence is unambiguous: countries that strategically invest in their primate cities achieve higher productivity growth and maintain competitive advantages.

    Auckland doesn’t need sympathy or special treatment. It needs what every primate city in every successful economy gets: infrastructure investment proportional to its economic contribution, governance structures that reflect its scale, and political leadership that understands agglomeration economics.

    The question isn’t whether Auckland is too big. The question is whether New Zealand is big enough to nurture its primate city.

    Timothy Welch does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Auckland is NZ’s ‘primate city’ but its potential remains caged in by poor planning and vision – https://theconversation.com/auckland-is-nzs-primate-city-but-its-potential-remains-caged-in-by-poor-planning-and-vision-261176

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: UK bans Gaza protest group – could the same thing happen in Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Bosch, Associate Professor (Law), Edith Cowan University

    More than 100 people were arrested in the United Kingdom on the weekend for supporting Palestine Action, a protest group that opposes Britain’s support of Israel.

    Palestine Action was recently proscribed as a terrorist organisation, placing it in the same category as Hamas, al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

    Many of those arrested were simply holding signs that read: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action”. They were predominantly aged over 60.

    In recent weeks, an 83-year-old vicar, a former government lawyer and various pensioners have been taken into custody and could be jailed for up to 14 years if found guilty of belonging to the protest group.

    Simply holding a sign or wearing a T-shirt with the words “Palestine Action” could be punishable with a six-month jail term.

    The protesters say they refuse to be silenced:

    If we cannot speak freely about the genocide that is occurring […], if we cannot condemn those who are complicit in it […] then the right to freedom of expression has no meaning, and democracy and human rights in this country are dead.

    Police arresting protestors calling for the terrorism ban to be overturned.

    So what is Palestine Acton and why is “middle England” up in arms over its designation as a terrorist group?

    Activist network

    Palestine Action is a UK-based activist network founded in 2020 with the stated aim of “ending global participation in Israel’s genocidal and apartheid regime”.

    The group views the British government as complicit in Israeli war crimes in Gaza. It also aspires to halt UK arms exports through disruptive protests and vandalism.

    Members have generally targeted Israeli-linked businesses, such as defence company Elbit Systems, by damaging equipment or blocking entrances.

    Supporters include grassroots activists, civil liberties advocates, health professionals, clergy and prominent figures such as Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters.

    Serious concerns

    Palestine Action was officially proscribed in the UK on July 5, after campaigners sprayed paint into the engines of two Voyager aircraft at an air force base.

    The final vote was overwhelming: 385 MPs supported the ban, while just 26 opposed it.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000, membership, support, or public endorsement of a proscribed group is a criminal offence punishable by sentences up to 14 years.

    The UK government argues the group’s actions exceeded legal protest and raised serious security concerns.

    Since then, scores of people have been searched and arrested at rallies in support of Palestine Acton.

    Blurring the lines

    Critics, including Amnesty International, civil liberties groups and The Guardian editorial board warn the ban blurs the line between non-violent civil disobedience and terrorism. They argue it also threatens democratic dissent through a statutory abuse of power.

    Counter-terrorism laws permit extraordinary interference in due process and other fundamental human rights protections. Consequently, they must always be used with the highest degree of restraint.

    The UK already had legislation in place to deal with criminal damage and violent disorder.

    United Nations legal and human rights experts have spoken out against treating the actions of protesters who damage property without the intent to injure people as terrorism:

    According to international standards, acts of protest that damage property, but are not intended to kill or injure people, should not be treated as terrorism.

    Abuse of power

    Designating Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation appears to be aimed at curtailing free expression, the assembly and association of those who support the protest action against Israel’s war on Gaza.

    Placing it in the same legal category as Hamas seems designed to reduce public sympathy for the group.

    Palestine Action is challenging its proscription in the UK High Court. Lawyers for the group argue the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre has assessed the vast majority of its activities to be lawful:

    On nature and scale, the home secretary [Yvette Cooper] accepts that only three of Palestine Action’s at least 385 actions would meet the statutory definition of terrorism […] itself a dubious assessment.

    The lawyers further argue proscription was “repugnant” and an “authoritarian abuse of power”.

    Australian version?

    There are no indications from the intelligence community that any direct affiliate of Palestine Action (UK) operates in Australia.

    However, there are pro-Palestinian activist organisations, including a Palestine Action Group Sydney, which is part of the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN).

    Broader solidarity movements such as Students for Palestine, are active in protests on university campuses and against arms shipments to Israel.

    Domestic terrorism powers

    Traditional boundaries between “activism”, “extremism”, “hate-crime” and “terrorism” are rapidly blurring in Australia.

    The attorney general may list (“proscription” is a UK term) any organisation as a “terrorist organisation” if they are satisfied it is “advocating terrorism”. This would mean criminalising the expression of support, instruction, or praise of terrorist acts or offences.

    The latest addition to the 31-member list is Terrorgram, an online terrorism advocacy chatroom.

    Australia’s extensive definition of “terrorist act”, currently under review, expressly excludes

    advocacy, protest, dissent or industrial action and which is not intended to cause serious or life-endangering harm or death or to create a serious risk to the safety or health of the public.

    This suggests an Australian version of a Palestine Action undertaking similar conduct to its UK cousin would not meet the legal threshold for listing.

    However, the recent Terrorgram listing makes reference to advocacy for “attacks on minority groups, critical infrastructure and specific individuals”.

    This suggests the UK and Australian governments are becoming more aligned in interpreting “violent” protest to include violence against property, rather than just against people.

    Short of listing, a significant suite of investigative, coercive and preventative executive exists that could be deployed if a similar organisation appears in Australia.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. UK bans Gaza protest group – could the same thing happen in Australia? – https://theconversation.com/uk-bans-gaza-protest-group-could-the-same-thing-happen-in-australia-261562

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Climate disasters are pushing people into homelessness – but there’s a lot we can do about it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Heffernan, Lecturer in Anthropology, Australian National University

    Almost half of all Australian properties are at risk of bushfire, while 17,500 face risk of coastal erosion. By 2030, more than 3 million will face riverine flood risk.

    Meanwhile, housing demand continues to outpace supply. With climate-related disasters projected to increase in frequency and severity, the task of ensuring safe and adequate housing for all Australians remains a challenge.

    In other words, disasters are worsening the housing shortage, rendering more people at risk of homelessness.

    There is growing consensus in the homelessness and emergency management sectors that Australia needs a national policy response.

    We must ensure secure and safe housing options are a disaster planning priority.

    Like ‘living a disaster every day’

    Climate disasters displace 22,261 Australians on average each year. People with the lowest incomes make up 80% of this. The very poorest 3%, despite being small, make up 14% of displaced households.

    Australia is not alone. Globally, 70% of internal displacement in 2024 resulted from disasters, often disproportionately affecting low socioeconomic areas.

    Loss of housing affects everything from a person’s health and employment to education and relationships. One person who’d experienced disaster-related housing loss said it was like

    living a disaster every day, but without the assistance and support given to most disaster survivors.

    Renters, rough sleepers and people living in unattached dwellings are most vulnerable.

    Slipping through the cracks

    The catastrophic Northern Rivers floods in 2022 provide an instructive example.

    The floods rendered over 3,500 homes uninhabitable and more than 8,000 were damaged. Over 1,400 people were displaced and offered emergency accommodation by the New South Wales government.

    The total number of people experiencing homelessness post-floods remains unclear. This is due to existing overcrowding and because people left the area or became uncontactable.

    Recent research colleagues and I conducted with homeowners and renters, commissioned by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, examined 17 people’s experiences of securing shelter after disaster.

    In Lismore, a key barrier was poor communication and increased competition for rental housing. One person told us:

    The real estate basically dropped the ball after a month. I had to chase them up, and the return of my bond and all that. […] I applied for ten different properties and never heard back. […] I ended up sourcing my own accommodation, a camper trailer, and camped out at the local showgrounds.

    For renters, the disaster couldn’t have come at a worse time. A preexisting rental crisis across the region meant the private market was already tight.

    Homeowners, by contrast, were able to use insurance to cover transitional housing costs or were eligible for several funding sources to repair properties. This highlights a policy emphasis toward homeowners.

    In this context, people can slip through the cracks, increasing the risk of homelessness.

    Post-disaster housing can compound vulnerability

    Temporary shelters – such as crisis shelters, motels, short-term rentals, pods, cabins and caravans – can be a stop-gap against the risk of homelessness after disaster. However, temporary shelter comes with trade-offs and downsides.

    Crisis and commercial options can be damaged during disaster, limiting their use. Pod villages provide mass shelter but are costly, slow to deliver, and there’s often no meaningful plan for people to transition out of them.

    Some 18 months after the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, 1,021 people were still living in temporary pod villages and 257 people remained in caravans.

    Rent is not usually charged. When relied on beyond the immediate term, this can compound vulnerability by creating gaps in people’s rental history.

    A NSW government audit found 724 households were on the waitlist for temporary housing a year after the floods, though this list was rarely updated.

    Overall, relatively few households have secured long-term housing solutions. This year, four pod villages will be demobilised amid the region’s ongoing rental crisis.

    This comes at a time when Australia is facing a shortfall of 640,000 social and affordable homes.

    Around 110,000 requests for homelessness services go unassisted annually.

    A national framework is needed

    In 2024, a national symposium, convened by the Australian Red Cross, Homelessness Australia and UNSW Sydney’s HowWeSurvive initiative, brought together 125 professionals from the housing, homelessness, emergency management, government and academic sectors.

    The report, released in June 2025, called for a national framework focused on disasters, housing and homelessness.

    Several policies deal separately with these areas at the Commonwealth, state and territory levels. A unified approach, however, would reposition shelter after disaster from a stop-gap to a central part of disaster planning.

    The aim is to strengthen housing options before a natural hazard occurs and prevent disaster-related homelessness.

    Australia needs a coordinated strategy and taskforce to align housing, homelessness, and disaster policies and programs. Homelessness planning should be part of disaster planning, and vice versa, to ensure housing type and tenure does not place people at risk of homelessness when disaster strikes.

    This requires going beyond just linking displaced households with crisis services.

    We must plan for each stage of housing before and after a disaster and anticipate diverse needs, especially for renters and those at risk of homelessness.

    Responses should be trauma-informed and able to adapt individual experiences.

    Now is the time to act – before the next disaster strikes.

    This article was developed with the Australian Red Cross and Homelessness Australia, co-facilitators of the Housing, Homelessness and Disasters National Symposium held in Melbourne in 2024. The symposium was supported by National Shelter and the Community Housing Industry Association, and event funding was provided by the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation.

    Timothy Heffernan has received funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), the NSW government and the National Health and Medical Research Council. He is an Honorary Research Fellow at HowWeSurvive, UNSW Sydney.

    – ref. Climate disasters are pushing people into homelessness – but there’s a lot we can do about it – https://theconversation.com/climate-disasters-are-pushing-people-into-homelessness-but-theres-a-lot-we-can-do-about-it-259149

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Calls on Senate Republicans to Reject Trump Administration’s Devastating Housing Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) called on the members of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee overseeing housing funding to reject the Trump Administration’s proposed cuts to affordable housing programs. The proposed 44 percent cut to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) budget in the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request would eliminate or severely reduce funding for critical programs that Nevadans and Americans nationwide depend on.
    “The Trump Administration’s proposed cuts threaten many of the key housing programs Nevadans depend on to be able to afford a home,” wrote Senator Rosen. “HUD programs have helped build thousands of homes in Nevada, with CDBG assisting nearly 4,800 low-income households and the HOME program building or preserving nearly 9,000 homes in the state. With Nevada facing the largest shortfall of affordable housing nationwide, eliminating these successful programs will undoubtedly worsen the current housing shortage.”
    “If enacted, it is clear the Trump Administration’s proposed housing cuts would have catastrophic impacts in Nevada – hindering affordable housing development, threatening the housing security of thousands of Nevadans, and crippling the ability of Public Housing Agencies and nonprofits to provide housing resources,” she continued. “To avoid these consequences, I call on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development to reject President Trump’s harmful proposed cuts and fully fund the proven federal affordable housing, homelessness, and community development programs communities in Nevada and across the country rely on.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has long championed efforts to make housing more affordable for hardworking Nevadans. She helped introduce the Housing Choice Vouchers Fairness Act, which updates HUD’s outdated voucher allocation formula to ensure rapid-growth cities like Las Vegas receive more funding. Senator Rosen is also a co-sponsor of the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act to raise low‑income housing tax credits by 50 percent to spur new affordable developments across the state. Last year, Senator Rosen celebrated securing over $43 million in HUD housing grants for Nevada, which helped fund Community Development Block Grants and HOME Investment Partnership Program investments.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Colleagues Push to Prevent Corporations From Using Trump’s Chaotic Tariffs as Cover to Price Gouge Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined Senate colleagues in a letter calling on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate and stop corporations that may be using Donald Trump’s tariffs as a cover to raise prices on all goods, regardless of whether they are actually subject to new tariffs, and increase prices above and beyond what is necessary to cover any additional costs. In June 2025, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released new survey results showing that “a significant share” of companies raised prices of goods and services that are not subject to tariffs.
    “This Administration’s reckless approach to trade is spiking costs for small businesses and creating opportunities for billion-dollar companies to grow their profits and take advantage of consumers,” wrote the lawmakers. “The FTC should be utilizing its full authority to prevent these unfair practices.”
    Senator Rosen has helped lead the fight opposing Trump’s reckless tariffs and defending consumers. She helped introduce the Tariff Transparency Act, which would require the U.S. International Trade Commission to study and publicly report on the economic effects of tariffs on Canada and Mexico– key trading partners for Nevada industries. She’s also repeatedly pushed back against price gouging, calling on the DOJ to curb price gouging at the gas pump and in the housing market.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China strengthens disability support systems in 14th Five-Year Plan period

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A sign language interpreter works at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Millions of people living with disabilities have seen their lives improve as China made major strides in accessibility, inclusion and support during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

    At a press conference held in Beijing on Tuesday, senior officials from the China Disabled Persons’ Federation (CDPF) outlined the major achievements in disability support during the period and shared new goals for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

    “The enrollment rate of children and adolescents with disabilities in compulsory education in China has reached 97 percent, with over 30,000 disabled students entering universities each year,” said Cheng Kai, chairman of the CDPF, at the press conference.

    The next five-year plan is set to prioritize high-quality development in the disability sector, according to the press conference.

    Learning and earning

    According to Cheng, China’s education system for individuals with disabilities has undergone further improvement. Currently, 75,800 students with disabilities study in secondary vocational schools nationwide, while 59,800 attend regular high schools.

    Li Dongmei, vice chair of the federation, noted that a special campaign was launched to equip school campuses with assistive devices, benefiting nearly 100,000 students with disabilities. Standardized textbooks have been developed for special schools, as well as sign-language textbooks for nine subjects.

    Financially, in 2025, the per capita subsidy for students with disabilities receiving compulsory education was increased to more than 7,000 yuan (about 980 U.S. dollars) per year. Those whose families have financial difficulties are eligible to receive 12 years of free education from primary school to senior high school.

    With stronger educational and financial support, individuals with disabilities are better equipped to enter the workforce. The annual net income of families with disabled members in China grew at an average rate of 6.9 percent per year from 2020 to 2023, roughly matching the pace of the country’s GDP growth, according to Cheng.

    During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, more than 400,000 persons with disabilities were newly employed every year, Li said. The employment rate of the disabled population grew by nearly 5 percentage points.

    Better access, better care

    The participation rate of persons with disabilities in China’s basic medical insurance has remained above 95 percent. Meanwhile, over 90 percent of persons with disabilities in China are covered by basic pension insurance for both urban and rural residents, said Cheng.

    By June 2025, living allowances for the disabled in financial difficulty and nursing subsidies for the severely disabled had benefited 11.88 million and 16.4 million, respectively.

    A total of 10.5 million persons with disabilities are covered by the country’s subsistence allowance system, Cheng added.

    Public services have also been enhanced to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. A nationwide campaign for barrier-free home renovations benefited 1.28 million households with severely disabled members during the period, surpassing the original target of 1.1 million, Cheng said.

    China is also exploring the use of advanced technologies such as smart bionic hands and guide robots to improve the well-being of persons with disabilities, ensuring that scientific and technological progress benefits this community.

    Zhou Changkui, chairperson of the Board of Executive Directors of the CDPF, said that the federation and some other governmental departments have jointly issued a guiding document to promote the use of technology in supporting persons with disabilities. It is also collaborating with universities, research institutes and high-tech companies to boost the development of relevant technologies and industries.

    Toward a fairer, smarter future

    As China charts a path for the 15th Five-Year Plan, the emphasis on high-quality development in the disability sector remains central, with a focus on stronger support systems and innovation-driven solutions.

    A key focus will be improving livelihood security for persons with disabilities. Efforts will include refining basic, inclusive, and guaranteed social protection systems, as well as better support for persons with disabilities in rural areas, said Zhou.

    Public services will also see significant upgrades. Zhou noted that long-term care for the severely disabled and rehabilitation programs for children with autism will be expanded in the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

    Zhou said that to safeguard equal rights, China will revise and step up enforcement of key disability-related laws. Enhanced legal services and stronger judicial protections will help ensure that persons with disabilities can fully enjoy fairness and justice.

    Moreover, during the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period, China will continue to promote the application of artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies to serve persons with disabilities, and ensure that advanced technologies better meet their needs, according to Zhou.

    The plan will also highlight cultural and spiritual wellbeing. Community-based sports and cultural programs will be expanded, while greater support will be extended to persons with disabilities in artistic creation and cultural industries. As Zhou emphasized, achieving a better life for people living with disabilities means enriching both body and spirit. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Arkansas Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by April Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Arkansas small businesses, private nonprofits and residents affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding occurring April 2‑22. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from Gov. Sarah Sanders on July 18.

    The disaster declaration includes the Arkansas counties of Cross, Hempstead, Lawrence and Little River.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s physical damage loans.”

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is Sept. 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications April 22, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Sets the Record Straight on Trump Administration’s Harmful Mass Deportation Agenda

    US Senate News:

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

    WATCH: Padilla Sets the Record Straight on Trump Administration’s Harmful Mass Deportation Agenda

    Highlighted testimony from Alejandro Barranco — a veteran and the son of Narciso, who was violently detained by masked CBP agents in Orange County

    WATCH: Padilla criticizes Trump and Republicans for backtracking on pledge to target violent criminalsWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, joined a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing to set the record straight on President Trump and Stephen Miller’s cruel mass deportation campaign, blasting the Administration for intentionally stoking fear and scapegoating immigrants.
    Padilla emphasized that far from the Trump Administration’s stated plan to target violent criminals, less than 10 percent of immigrants whom Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has taken into custody have serious criminal convictions, and there has been a staggering 500 percent increase in the number of arrests of noncitizens without criminal records. He stressed that these ICE sweeps often illegally profile and target people based on their race, accents, or occupation, while hurting the economy by ripping away farm workers, service industry employees, and other essential workers.
    Padilla called out Republicans for attempting to distract from the sharp turn in public opinion away from the President’s immigration policy by relitigating complaints from the Biden presidency more than six months into Trump’s second term. An all-time record 79 percent of Americans believe immigration is a good thing for the country.
    He also criticized the $150 billion funding surge to carry out Trump’s enforcement agenda in Republicans’ billionaire-first reconciliation bill, underscoring that ICE’s budget is now larger than the budget of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); U.S. Marshals Service, and Bureau of Prisons combined.
    “It’s clear why we’re here today: we’re here because Donald Trump is scapegoating immigrants,” Padilla said in committee. “It’s always been his outlet. This is their break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option when public sentiment turns against them and their agenda. It hasn’t been about only targeting violent criminals and it’s certainly not about fixing or modernizing our immigration system.”
    Padilla questioned three witnesses on the Trump Administration’s harmful immigration enforcement. He asked Deborah Fleischaker, a former ICE Acting Chief of Staff and longtime Department of Homeland Security official, to set the record straight that the Biden Administration encouraged ICE to do its job to detain violent criminals. He also highlighted the need for additional funding beyond immigration enforcement to support the hiring of more immigration judges and asylum officers.
    Padilla heard further from Alejandro Barranco — a Marine veteran and the eldest son of Narciso Barranco, who was violently detained by masked Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Orange County — about the dangers of indiscriminate immigration enforcement, including sweeping up hardworking people with no history of violent crime.
    PADILLA: The way they present it, the way they talk about President Biden’s administration and prior Democratic administrations is like it was never a priority for Democratic administrations to go after criminals, and that Democrats and Democratic administrations just didn’t care about the presence of dangerous people in our communities. Simply not true. … Ms. Fleischaker, you were in ICE leadership. In your view, in your experience, did the Biden Administration ever restrain ICE from pursuing serious criminals?
    FLEISCHAKER: We absolutely did not stop ICE agents from enforcing the law and going after public safety threats. In fact, we encouraged them to do so. We very much want to want to find and arrest public safety threats in the community. […]
    PADILLA: I don’t think anyone here would disagree with the idea of rooting out the ‘worst of the worst,’ even if we disagree over what immigration policy should be, but I believe it’s unacceptable that these raids are so indiscriminate that they end up sweeping up people with no history of violent crime, hardworking people trying to give their children a better life, like Alejandro’s father, Narciso. Alejandro, question is for you. … Is there anything else that you would like to share about the cruelty with which your father was treated or what your family’s gone through?
    BARRANCO: I think that the way they treated him and the way they handled that situation was very unprofessional. It showed men who were not trained. It doesn’t seem like it. … They were running with guns in their hand, with fingers on the trigger, pointing it at civilian vehicles. And honestly, I don’t think that’s for the best of public safety, and I believe that they should have better training and go out and chase after the real criminals.
    PADILLA: Well, I couldn’t agree more, and the more resources, personnel, funding, and otherwise that’s directed at again, just broad-based enforcement is less focus, less prioritization of those violent criminals that we know are out there, the Administration knows are out there, but they’re not the clear priority or focus.
    Padilla also expressed concern about indiscriminate immigration raids creating widespread fear, keeping people home from work, businesses, church, and public spaces, while limiting the reporting of crimes. He heard from Dr. Giovanni Veliz, a retired Minneapolis Police Department Commander, about the importance of building trust with immigrant communities to combat crime and keep police officers safe.
    Video of Senator Padilla’s opening remarks is available here, and his questions are available here.
    More information on the hearing is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The incredible impact of Ozzy Osbourne, from Black Sabbath to Ozzfest to 30 years of retirement tours

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Lachlan Goold, Senior Lecturer in Contemporary Music, University of the Sunshine Coast

    Ozzy Osbourne photographed in London in 1991. Martyn Goodacre/Getty Images

    Ozzy Osbourne, the “prince of darkness” and godfather of heavy metal, has died aged 76, just weeks after he reunited with Black Sabbath bandmates for a farewell concert in his hometown of Birmingham in England.

    His family posted a brief message overnight: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning.”

    John Michael Osbourne changed the sound of rock music and leaves behind a stellar career spanning six decades, numerous Grammy awards, multiple hall of fame inductions – and a wave of controversy.

    An agent of change

    In 1969, from the ashes of various bands, Geezer Butler (bass), Tony Iommi (guitar), Bill Ward (drums) and Osbourne formed the band Earth.

    Realising the name was taken, they quickly changed their name to Black Sabbath, an homage to the 1963 Italian horror anthology film.

    With the Summer of Love a recent memory, Black Sabbath were part of a heavy music revolution, providing an antidote to the free loving hippies of the late 60s period.

    Despite making their first two albums cheaply, Black Sabbath, released in February 1970, and Paranoid, released September that same year, they were a global success.

    Their approach was laden with sarcasm and irony. American audiences mistook this for satanic worship, positioning them as outsiders (albeit popular ones).

    Black Sabbath pose for a group portrait with gold discs, London, 1973, L-R Bill Ward, Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler.
    Michael Putland/Getty Images

    After Black Sabbath’s early successes, they were managed by the notorious Don Arden, whose daughter Sharon Levy was the receptionist. More than any musical bond Osbourne had in his life, Sharon would be the most influential character throughout his life.

    Osbourne recorded eight albums with Black Sabbath (some to critical acclaim) and was then kicked out (by Sharon) due to his troubles with drugs and alcohol.

    Ozzy solo

    Osbourne’s solo career has always been managed by Sharon. While recording his second solo album, Diary of a Madman, guitarist Rhodes died in a tragic light plane crash. Osbourne was close to Rhodes and fell into a deep depression, after never having lost someone so close.

    Sharon and Osbourne married only months after this incident. His struggle with drug use did not stop him from making further solo records alongside various guitar players, continuing with moderate success throughout his career.

    On the road, Osbourne put the John Farnham’s last tour trope to shame.

    He held his last ever gig more times than one can count with names like No More Tours (1992–93), Retirement Sucks (1995–96) and No More Tours 2 (2018–19).

    Osbourne ‘retired’ many times over 30 years. Here he performs in California in 2022.
    Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

    This lament for touring led to the most successful era of Osbourne’s career. After being rejected for the 1995 Lollapaloza festival bill, Sharon (and their son Jack) started Ozzfest; initially an annual two-day multiband festival headlined by Osbourne, held in Phoenix, Arizona, and Devore, California.

    Subsequently becoming a national – and then international – tour, Ozzfest led to a successful partnership with MTV, which led to the reality TV show The Osbournes premiering in 2002. Here, his previous and ongoing battle with drugs was obvious, proudly on display – and ridiculed – to huge global audiences.

    The spectacle of a rich rockstar and his family featured a constant barrage of swearing, battles with lavish TV remotes, canine therapy, never-ending chaos, and Osbourne constantly yelling “Sharrrooon” like a twisted maniacal loop of A Street Car Named Desire.

    Struggles and controversies

    Osbourne suffered multiple health conditions over the years, rarely concealing the state of his physical or mental wellbeing.

    Notably he’s struggled with drug and alcohol abuse his whole career with drug recovery centres using Osbourne as an exemplar. In 2007 he disclosed he suffered from the Parkinson’s adjacent condition Parkinsonian syndrome. In 2019 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

    Black Sabbath photographed in the 1970s. Left to right: Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, Bill Ward and Ozzy Osbourne.
    Chris Walter/WireImage

    This resulted in him being unable to walk for his final Back to the Beginning show in Birmingham on July 5 2025.

    And Osbourne’s career had more than its fair share of controversy. He bit the head off a dove and a bat (celebrated with a commemorative toy), and urinated on the Alamo cenotaph. He was taken to court multiple times, but was never convicted.

    Ozzy and me

    As a white middle-class boy growing up in the Brisbane suburbs in the 80s, heavy metal music appealed to my testosterone and pimple filled body.

    Exploring the secondhand record shops of Brisbane, I would’ve bought my first copy of Black Sabbath around 1985. The sound of thunder and a distant church bell before the first drop-D riff enters seemed like the antithesis to sunny Queensland and 80s pop.

    As my life became obsessed with the recording studio and the vociferous music scene in Brisbane in the post-Joh era, and those drop-D riffs influenced a new style that swept the world in the early 90s.

    Osbourne’s influence was huge and through grunge, his sound was reborn. Grunge was a marriage of the Sabbath-like drop-D riffs with the energy of punk and the melody of the Beatles.

    Listening to Black Sabbath and Ozzy records, equipped me with a sonic palette ready to capture the wave of alternative music emmerging from the Brisbane scene.

    While Ozzy’s death is no surprise (except for those who never thought he’d last this long), we should take pause and remember an icon with an endless energy for entertaining, a passion for music, and changing the expectations of popular culture for more than 50 years.

    Lachlan Goold does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The incredible impact of Ozzy Osbourne, from Black Sabbath to Ozzfest to 30 years of retirement tours – https://theconversation.com/the-incredible-impact-of-ozzy-osbourne-from-black-sabbath-to-ozzfest-to-30-years-of-retirement-tours-258820

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – US and NZ Army leaders strengthen strategic partnership

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force

    United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) Commanding General, General Ronald P. Clark, met this week with New Zealand Chief of Army, Major General Rose King, to reaffirm the strong and enduring military relationship between the two nations and advance efforts to bolster security cooperation, readiness, and interoperability across the Indo-Pacific region.

    Over the course of the senior leaders’ and their delegations meeting in Wellington, as well as a visit to the NZ Army’s training and cultural home in Waiouru, the deepening defence relationship was reflected between both countries, rooted in shared democratic values and more than a century of military cooperation dating back to the First World War.

    “Our armies have stood side by side in every major conflict of the past century,” said General Clark. “Today, that legacy continues as we build the integrated landpower network required to meet today’s challenges and preserve peace in the Indo-Pacific.”

    Their meeting underscored not only the historical depth of the US–New Zealand Army partnership, but also the shared commitment to preparing their forces for the challenges of a rapidly evolving regional security environment.

    “New Zealand values its close and enduring relationship with the US Army,” said Major General Rose King. “Our cooperation is not just historical – it’s operational, forward-looking, and grounded in trust. Together, we are preparing our forces to meet shared challenges across the region with agility, adaptability and purpose.”

    Discussions focused on building further interoperability, advancing combined readiness initiatives, and the US Army’s recent transformation efforts. The leaders emphasised the critical role both armies play in shaping a free and open Indo-Pacific, especially as the region faces evolving threats and strategic competition.

    The meeting occurred as both nations’ armies participated in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia, where close to 700 New Zealand Defence Force troops trained alongside US, Australian, and other allied forces. The exercise demonstrated growing interoperability across air, land, maritime, cyber, and space domains.

    Major General King highlighted New Zealand’s commitment to maintaining a modern, combat-ready force capable of deploying globally and regionally. The New Zealand Army – 4,200 active and 2,000 reserve soldiers strong – regularly integrates seamlessly with allied partners across combined missions and operations, supports United Nations peacekeeping operations and delivers humanitarian assistance across the Pacific when called upon.

    “We know that we can’t contribute mass and scale, but we pride ourselves on the quality of our soldiers and our leaders, who regularly deploy to, and add significant value to multinational deployments and operations,” Major General King said. “To that end, it’s been great to be able to share some insight with General Clark and his team around how we go about training our people.”

    As part of its publicly announced modernisation efforts through the New Zealand Government’s Defence Capability Plan, the New Zealand Army is pursuing upgrades to its Javelin anti-tank missile system, investing in a Network Enabled Army to improve its digital communications and command-and-control interoperability, and planning the replacement of aging vehicle fleets to enhance mobility and sustainment in the field.

    “New Zealand is a stalwart partner in the Pacific,” said General Clark. “Whether in exercises like Talisman Sabre or standing shoulder to shoulder in peacekeeping operations, our soldiers share trust built on action, not just words.”

    This sentiment was echoed by Major General King, who emphasised the operational value of combined training and the practical steps both armies are taking to improve regional preparedness.

    “Participating in Talisman Sabre alongside US and Australian forces showcases our commitment to operational readiness and deepening interoperability,” said Major General King. “These exercises strengthen our collective capability to respond quickly and effectively in the region—whether in conflict, crisis, or humanitarian need.”

    Both generals acknowledged the strategic importance of the Pacific Islands region and affirmed their role in promoting regional security, development, and sovereignty.

    This visit underscored the enduring strength of the US–New Zealand partnership – one forged in the trenches of the First World War, battle-tested in the Pacific during the Second World War, and reaffirmed today through shared purpose and mutual respect.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – US and NZ Army leaders strengthen strategic partnership

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force

    United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) Commanding General, General Ronald P. Clark, met this week with New Zealand Chief of Army, Major General Rose King, to reaffirm the strong and enduring military relationship between the two nations and advance efforts to bolster security cooperation, readiness, and interoperability across the Indo-Pacific region.

    Over the course of the senior leaders’ and their delegations meeting in Wellington, as well as a visit to the NZ Army’s training and cultural home in Waiouru, the deepening defence relationship was reflected between both countries, rooted in shared democratic values and more than a century of military cooperation dating back to the First World War.

    “Our armies have stood side by side in every major conflict of the past century,” said General Clark. “Today, that legacy continues as we build the integrated landpower network required to meet today’s challenges and preserve peace in the Indo-Pacific.”

    Their meeting underscored not only the historical depth of the US–New Zealand Army partnership, but also the shared commitment to preparing their forces for the challenges of a rapidly evolving regional security environment.

    “New Zealand values its close and enduring relationship with the US Army,” said Major General Rose King. “Our cooperation is not just historical – it’s operational, forward-looking, and grounded in trust. Together, we are preparing our forces to meet shared challenges across the region with agility, adaptability and purpose.”

    Discussions focused on building further interoperability, advancing combined readiness initiatives, and the US Army’s recent transformation efforts. The leaders emphasised the critical role both armies play in shaping a free and open Indo-Pacific, especially as the region faces evolving threats and strategic competition.

    The meeting occurred as both nations’ armies participated in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia, where close to 700 New Zealand Defence Force troops trained alongside US, Australian, and other allied forces. The exercise demonstrated growing interoperability across air, land, maritime, cyber, and space domains.

    Major General King highlighted New Zealand’s commitment to maintaining a modern, combat-ready force capable of deploying globally and regionally. The New Zealand Army – 4,200 active and 2,000 reserve soldiers strong – regularly integrates seamlessly with allied partners across combined missions and operations, supports United Nations peacekeeping operations and delivers humanitarian assistance across the Pacific when called upon.

    “We know that we can’t contribute mass and scale, but we pride ourselves on the quality of our soldiers and our leaders, who regularly deploy to, and add significant value to multinational deployments and operations,” Major General King said. “To that end, it’s been great to be able to share some insight with General Clark and his team around how we go about training our people.”

    As part of its publicly announced modernisation efforts through the New Zealand Government’s Defence Capability Plan, the New Zealand Army is pursuing upgrades to its Javelin anti-tank missile system, investing in a Network Enabled Army to improve its digital communications and command-and-control interoperability, and planning the replacement of aging vehicle fleets to enhance mobility and sustainment in the field.

    “New Zealand is a stalwart partner in the Pacific,” said General Clark. “Whether in exercises like Talisman Sabre or standing shoulder to shoulder in peacekeeping operations, our soldiers share trust built on action, not just words.”

    This sentiment was echoed by Major General King, who emphasised the operational value of combined training and the practical steps both armies are taking to improve regional preparedness.

    “Participating in Talisman Sabre alongside US and Australian forces showcases our commitment to operational readiness and deepening interoperability,” said Major General King. “These exercises strengthen our collective capability to respond quickly and effectively in the region—whether in conflict, crisis, or humanitarian need.”

    Both generals acknowledged the strategic importance of the Pacific Islands region and affirmed their role in promoting regional security, development, and sovereignty.

    This visit underscored the enduring strength of the US–New Zealand partnership – one forged in the trenches of the First World War, battle-tested in the Pacific during the Second World War, and reaffirmed today through shared purpose and mutual respect.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: UK Economy – UK borrowing blow makes tax hikes ‘inevitable’ – deVere Group

    Source: deVere Group

    July 22 2025 – UK government borrowing came in higher than forecast in June, a setback for Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves that has markets jittery and households bracing for tax hikes.

    “Gilt yields climbed on the news—and so should awareness among individuals with UK assets. The time to protect your wealth is now,” says Nigel Green, CEO of global financial advisory giant deVere Group.

    In a sharp warning, he responds to today’s ONS data showing public sector borrowing reached £20.7bn last month—£3.5bn more than expected and the highest June figure outside of the pandemic era.

    “This borrowing shock is the flashing red light on the dashboard. The UK is headed toward a fiscal squeeze, and the Chancellor has limited room to manoeuvre. That makes tax rises not just likely—but, in our view, inevitable.”

    The increase in borrowing was driven by higher interest payments on inflation-linked debt and ballooning public spending, which has outpaced gains in tax revenues.

    The data raises questions about how the government can stick to its fiscal rules without turning to new or increased taxes.

    “Markets are already reacting. Gilts dropped and yields jumped, which is a clear signal that investors expect tougher measures ahead. And that usually means taxes—stealth or otherwise—will be deployed to stabilise the books.”

    With debt interest payments nearly doubling year-on-year in June and pressure mounting from backbench MPs for wealth and tourist taxes, Nigel Green says the direction of travel is now unambiguous.

    “The political noise is getting louder. Whether it’s capital gains, pension reliefs, property, or new forms of wealth taxation, something has to give.

    “The Chancellor has ruled out reopening departmental budgets, which narrows the options dramatically.”

    He warned that investors, business owners, and anyone with UK assets should not wait to react after the Autumn Budget.

    “By the time tax policy changes are announced, it’s often too late to respond effectively. The smart move is to plan proactively—now. When fiscal gaps this size appear, governments act fast, and retrospectively.”

    With borrowing at £57.8bn already this financial year and the Office for Budget Responsibility forecasting a potential £30bn hole in public finances by year-end, the deVere CEO says the government’s fiscal hand is being forced.

    “There’s no free money left. We’re past the era of cheap borrowing and blank-cheque economics. Markets want discipline. Voters want services. That tension will be resolved through taxation.”

    “Those with investment portfolios, property, pensions or inheritances tied to the UK need to assess their exposure and consider future-proofing strategies. This is smart wealth management.”

    Despite the political pledge to avoid day-to-day borrowing, the numbers tell a different story. The Treasury is borrowing more, not less, and paying more for it, not less.

    “Inflation-linked bonds and rising rates have made it brutally expensive to finance the national debt. That’s going to reshape the economic agenda—and likely your personal finances with it.”

    The chief executive called on clients and individuals to get ahead of potential tax changes now, while options remain open and planning is still effective.

    “Tax hikes can be disguised, delayed, or dressed up as reform—but they’re still tax hikes. We expect movement on capital gains, inheritance tax, and pension rules in particular, and we believe it would be reckless to assume otherwise.”

    He concludes: “We’re urging those with UK ties—whether you live in Britain, invest here, or hold assets here—to speak to advisors urgently.

    “Mitigating tax exposure takes time, insight, and action. This isn’t about headlines, it’s about protecting what you’ve built.”

    About deVere Group:
    deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Colleagues Press FTC to Implement “Click-to-Cancel”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led her colleagues in a letter to Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Andrew N. Ferguson, urging him to reissue and finalize its Negative Option Rule (known as “click-to-cancel”) that would make it easier for consumers to unsubscribe from subscriptions.

    “We write regarding the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) rulemaking to revise its Negative Option Rule to make it as easy for consumers to cancel a subscription as it was to sign up, frequently referred to as ‘click-to-cancel,’” wrote the Senators. “A review of more than 16,000 comments from the public made clear what should be obvious: Businesses should not be allowed to trap consumers in costly subscriptions by making it difficult to unsubscribe—costing consumers valuable time and money while stifling competition.” 

    “The FTC’s vital click-to-cancel rule was set to go into effect on July 14, 2025,” the Senators continued. “Yet, as you are aware, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the rule on procedural grounds. We urge the FTC to cure any perceived procedural defect and reissue the rule as quickly as possible to ensure consumers are protected from predatory subscription traps.”

    The letter was also signed by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), , Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Jeff Merkey (D-OR).

    The full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Chair Ferguson:

    We write regarding the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) rulemaking to revise its Negative Option Rule to make it as easy for consumers to cancel a subscription as it was to sign up, frequently referred to as “click-to-cancel.” A review of more than 16,000 comments from the public made clear what should be obvious: Businesses should not be allowed to trap consumers in costly subscriptions by making it difficult to unsubscribe—costing consumers valuable time and money while stifling competition. The FTC’s vital click-to-cancel rule was set to go into effect on July 14, 2025. Yet, as you are aware, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the rule on procedural grounds. We urge the FTC to cure any perceived procedural defect and reissue the rule as quickly as possible to ensure consumers are protected from predatory subscription traps.  

    Putting this commonsense consumer protection in place is vital to foster competition, innovation, and fairness. In today’s digital economy, more and more of what consumers purchase are offered as fee-for-service subscription programs, whether it be for video and music streaming services, ecommerce membership programs, gaming subscriptions, meal kit delivery services, cloud storage, home security monitoring, magazine or news subscriptions, fitness memberships, and many others. While these services are valued by many consumers, the costs for subscription services often add up to far more than consumers think, and it is often difficult for consumers to navigate the complicated process of cancelling those subscriptions. Other firms that allow consumers to subscribe to a service with the click of a button require consumers to talk to a customer service agent or jump through other hoops just to unsubscribe, even though many such businesses tell consumers they can cancel at any time. These practices have no countervailing benefit or redeeming justification. They just make life difficult and expensive. 

    These unfair practices also deter competition and stifle innovation. Subscription traps make it more difficult for consumers to switch providers, even if the alternative offers better, cheaper, or more innovative services. Allowing these practices incentivizes firms to spend time and resources locking consumers into their subscriptions rather than working to retain them with lower prices and better products. It also creates barriers to entry for innovative startups to break into markets because it is difficult for them to win consumers locked into competing subscriptions they cannot easily escape.   

    We urge the FTC to take all the steps necessary to reissue and finalize the Negative Option Rule so that consumers can cancel subscriptions quickly and easily. 

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cutting-edge personalised treatments, made while you wait, will deliver specialised care to patients more quickly

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Cutting-edge personalised treatments, made while you wait, will deliver specialised care to patients more quickly

    New regulations effective today will make it faster and easier for cutting-edge cancer treatments and personalised gene therapies to be made right where patients are treated.

    Patients will receive faster access to life-saving, personalised treatments made at their hospital, clinic or near their homes instead of waiting weeks for therapies manufactured hundreds of miles away, under new UK legislation that comes into force today (23 July).

    This world first regulations, introduced by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), allows breakthrough personalised medicines to be prepared in small or individual batches – bringing care closer to the patient.

    A cancer patient could now have their immune cells collected, modified to fight their specific cancer, and returned within days rather than months. A child with a rare genetic disorder could receive a freshly prepared therapy with only minutes of shelf life, made and given on the spot.

    The change will cut waiting times where every hour counts, help free up NHS beds, and improve access to innovative therapies that were previously out of reach.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    “This world-first legislation is a game-changer for patients. Cancer treatments tailored in days, not months. Life-saving therapies made at your bedside, not hundreds of miles away.

    “Our Plan for Change promised to build an NHS fit for the future. Today we’re delivering on that pledge by bringing cutting-edge care directly to patients when they need it most.

    “We are turning around our NHS with waiting lists at their lowest for two years – this type of therapy means patients can be treated and return home more quickly.”

    Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

    “This world-first framework gives the NHS and innovators a clear, safe way to bring advanced treatments from the lab to the patient’s bedside. It’s a powerful example of how smart regulation can help more patients benefit from the best of British science.

    “We’re determined to clear the path for more health innovation of this sort. Our recently-published Life Sciences Sector Plan sets out our clear vision to do just that – with a view to unlocking growth, investment, and delivering a stronger, prevention-focused healthcare system.”

    MHRA Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon said:

    “Patients will now receive highly personalised treatments more quickly and nearer to their bedside, with the same rigorous standards as all medicines.

    “This is especially important where every hour matters, or where a treatment is so specific it simply can’t be made in advance.

    “It’s a landmark moment that opens the door to a future where highly personalised treatment – made for one person, in one place, at one time – becomes part of routine care.

    “The UK is leading the world in this next generation of medical innovation, and as the UK regulator for medicines and medical devices, we’re determined to play our role in providing the supportive regulatory framework to help our health partners and medicines innovators bring can bring these new treatments to patients.”

    From months to days

    Until now, personalised treatments such as CAR-T cancer therapy had to be sent to specialised manufacturing facilities often far away, causing long delays. In some cases, patients became too unwell to receive the therapy in time, or the medicine’s short shelf life meant it couldn’t be delivered at all.

    Hospitals were only able to offer these treatments through complicated, one-off arrangements, creating uncertainty for patients and doctors about whether treatment could go ahead.

    From today, hospitals, ambulances and local care settings in the UK have a pathway to carry out the final manufacturing steps for these personalised or time-sensitive treatments on-site, using clear, regulated protocols. This mirrors how chemotherapy or antibiotics are prepared locally, but with the same strict safeguards for more advanced therapies. A central control site will provide detailed instructions and oversight, while hospitals complete the process closer to the patient.

    Supporting care closer to home

    The legislation also supports the use of mobile manufacturing units – offering a safer alternative for patients too unwell to travel, or whose weakened immune systems mean hospital visits carry extra risk.

    This change enables care to be delivered where it’s most appropriate, including community settings or even at home, supporting the NHS ambition, as set out in the 10 Year Health Plan for England, to expand ‘hospital at home’ models such as virtual wards.

    Backed by law – and leading the world

    The legislation, known as The Human Medicines (Amendment) (Modular Manufacture and Point of Care) Regulations 2025, makes the UK the first country in the world to introduce a dedicated legal framework for medicines made at the point of care.

    Following strong support during the public consultation, the framework covers a broad range of innovative products, including cell and gene therapies, tissue-engineered treatments, 3D printed products, blood products, and medicinal gases.

    To support implementation, the MHRA published detailed guidance earlier this year and has worked closely with other UK regulators, the NHS, industry, academics and healthcare professionals to ensure clarity around how the legislation applies in practice. Today, the MHRA has added information on how to apply for a decentralised manufacture designation. Companies can also access MHRA scientific advice at any stage of development.

    The move strengthens the UK’s leadership in safe, decentralised manufacturing and is expected to boost research, trials and patient access to cutting-edge treatments. The MHRA is also working internationally to support similar changes in other countries, recently being centrally involved in the first global workshop on point-of-care manufacturing, through the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA).

    Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult Chief Executive Matthew Durdy said:

    “This change demonstrates how the MHRA is leading in the UK’s commitment to being at the forefront of modern healthcare, innovation and regulation. The MHRA has recognised that some practices are better with more flexibility, and that in a technology enabled world which allows better training, information and communication, flexibility can be enabled without compromising safety.

    “This is not just a step forward for innovative medicines such as cell and gene therapies, it is a step towards enabling truly personalised medicine. We applaud this change introduced by the MHRA and look forward to a future where more patients can receive therapeutics tailored to their needs, quickly, cost-effectively and sustainably.”

    NHS England National Director for Specialised Commissioning John Stewart said:

    “The NHS in England was the first health system in Europe to adopt personalised cancer medicines and has since built a strong track record as an early leader in the use of potentially curative gene therapies.

    “The advanced treatments of today, will become the everyday healthcare of tomorrow, and forward-thinking regulatory changes like this will help enable the NHS to evolve patient care to deliver complex treatments to more people, in more places.”  

    Notes to editors 

    1. The regulations will take effect across the UK from 23 July 2025. For more information, visit The Human Medicines (Amendment) (Modular Manufacture and Point of Care) Regulations 2025
    2. Supporting guidance and updates can be accessed at Decentralised manufacture hub – GOV.UK
    3. Products manufactured at the point of care are eligible for support through the MHRA ILAP pathway, which is in place to accelerate time to market and facilitate patient access.
    4. Government response to consultation on proposals to support the regulation of medicines manufactured at the Point of Care – GOV.UK
    5. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 
    6. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 
    7. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford Statement on President Trump’s Rescissions Package House Passage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on the House passage of President Trump’s rescissions package:

    “The House just passed legislation to slash over $9 BILLION in waste, fraud, and abuse AND end taxpayer funding for NPR, PBS, and USAID. Americans’ hard-earned money shouldn’t be used to bankroll leftist propaganda and organizations that act contrary to U.S. interests at home and abroad. That’s why I was proud to vote YES on President Trump’s rescissions package today to cut overseas and domestic spending to help get our country back on track.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Espaillat, Carbajal Demand Accountability from ICE Regarding California Immigration Enforcement Operations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) joined Congressman Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), and Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-CA) in a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons expressing serious concern about large scale immigration raids conducted across multiple counties in California during the week of July 8-12:

    “According to multiple reports, ICE agents conducted large-scale, coordinated raids—many targeting agricultural sites—resulting in the detention of hundreds of individuals, most of whom are long-time community members and workers, including U.S. citizens. These operations appear to have involved aggressive tactics, including warrantless intrusions, racial profiling, and denial of access to counsel. Such actions raise significant constitutional, legal, and humanitarian concerns,” wrote the lawmakers.

    In their letter, the Members requested detailed information about the enforcement operations in question, including how many individuals were detained and are being held, and whether ICE is adhering to humanitarian and legal detention standards.

    The lawmakers also requested information on how ICE will adhere to the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by a federal judge in Vasquez Perdomo v. Noem, which bans ICE officials from detaining individuals based on their appearance or ethnicity; speaking Spanish or speaking English with an accent; their presence at a particular location; or the work they do.

    The TRO further requires ICE to only detain individuals based on a reasonable suspicion that they are in violation of immigration law — a reasonable suspicion not based on any of the factors listed above — and to provide adequate access to legal assistance to individuals who are detained.

    “My district, which encompasses most of Ventura County, was recently the site of one of the largest ICE operations in the country, resulting in more than 360 detentions in a single day. The troubling way these raids have been carried out throughout California raises serious concerns about the tactics used by federal agents and their disregard for due process and the rule of law,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “This is not about public safety — it’s about instilling fear. These actions lack transparency, accountability, and basic respect for the legal rights of every person in this country. My Democratic colleagues and I are continuing to work to hold this administration accountable and to ensure that our immigration policies reflect our values and our commitment to justice.”

    “The Trump administration’s zeal to reach a million deportations in a year — a meaningless, arbitrary number — is pushing ICE agents to trample basic constitutional and human rights,” said Congressman Espaillat. “It’s also putting the federal government at odds with the social and economic well-being of our communities. The Trump administration needlessly changed the rules of the game overnight and everyone is paying the price, starting with the irreplaceable skilled laborers who grow our food.”

    “The Trump administration is using immigration enforcement as a political weapon, targeting working families to score political points,” said Congressman Carbajal. “This is not how you keep people safe. In fact, this kind of chaos only makes communities more insecure. I’ll continue working with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to push back on ICE and the Trump administration’s cruel and inhumane immigration enforcement tactics.”

    The full letter can be found here and below: 

    The Honorable Kristi Noem
    Secretary
    U.S. Department of Homeland Security
    2707 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., SE
    Washington, DC 20528-0525

    Mr. Todd M. Lyons
    Acting Director
    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
    500 12th Street, SW
    Washington, DC 20536-5010

    Dear Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons,

    We write to express serious concern regarding the recent series of enforcement actions reportedly carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across multiple counties in California, including Ventura, Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Kern, among others, during the week of July 8–12, 2025.

    According to multiple reports, ICE agents conducted large-scale, coordinated raids—many targeting agricultural sites—resulting in the detention of hundreds of individuals, most of whom are long-time community members and workers, including U.S. citizens. These operations appear to have involved aggressive tactics, including warrantless intrusions, racial profiling, and denial of access to counsel. Such actions raise significant constitutional, legal, and humanitarian concerns.

    These enforcement actions also target individuals who are essential to local and state economies. The immigrant workers detained during these raids are overwhelmingly hard-working individuals who contribute daily to California’s agricultural industry and food supply chain. Many have lived in the United States for decades, raising families and building deep ties in their communities. Targeting these essential workers not only harms families but disrupts vital economic sectors that depend on their labor and dedication.

    In light of these events, and in view of the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued on July 11, 2025, in Vasquez Perdomo v. Noem, we respectfully request the following detailed information about these enforcement operations:

    • How many individuals were detained during ICE operations in California from July 8 to July 12, 2025?
    • Where are those individuals currently being held? Please provide facility names and addresses.
    • Are individuals in your custody being provided with reliable access to basic needs? Please include when they are being provided water, food, sanitation, and hygiene.
    • What was the legal basis for the initial stops, arrests, and detentions, particularly in light of the court’s prohibition on reliance upon race, ethnicity, language, or occupation as justification?
    • Were administrative warrants obtained and presented prior to entering any private areas, including worker housing or vehicles? Please include a copy of the warrant.
    • Did ICE coordinate or communicate with any local or state law enforcement agencies during the planning or execution of these operations? If so, please detail the nature and scope of that cooperation.
    • How will ICE adjust its operational practices in California in light of the court’s TRO, which restricts stops lacking individualized suspicion and mandates access to legal counsel?

    We also request confirmation that individuals currently detained, as a result of these raids, are being granted regular and confidential access to legal representation, in accordance with the court’s ruling.

    Furthermore, we want to reiterate that Members of Congress have both the constitutional authority and the responsibility to conduct oversight of federal agencies, including ICE. This includes the right to observe enforcement operations and inspect detention facilities without prior notice, as affirmed by federal law and agency policy. Any attempt to obstruct congressional access during enforcement activities or to withhold information from elected representatives will be regarded as a serious violation of that duty and rights.

    These raids have caused widespread fear and disruption across communities, and they raise deeply troubling questions about ICE’s commitment to due process and constitutional norms. As Members of Congress, we will be closely monitoring any future enforcement actions to ensure they comply with federal court orders, respect individual rights, and uphold the rule of law.

    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We respectfully request a response by July 25, 2025.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Immigration, Local Issues

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tiffany’s Legislation to Help Wabeno Small Business Clears House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07)

    WASHINGTON, DC –Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany’s (WI-07) Wabeno Economic Development Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support. H.R. 3937 will expedite the conveyance of 14 acres of land in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix for fair market value.

    After years of not making progress with the U.S. Forest Service, Tony—the owner of Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix—turned to Congressman Tiffany’s office for help. His business is running out of nearby aggregate materials like stone, sand, and gravel, and they will exhaust supply in approximately 2 years. The adjacent parcel is critical for the business’s future and ability to stay in operation.

    “This conveyance will deliver long-term economic growth and protect local jobs for the people of Wabeno and Forest County,” said Congressman Tiffany. “It will ensure Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix stays open and continues serving the community for years to come.”

    Background:

    Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix has been serving the community for 25 years and currently employs 17 people. The company provides concrete for both contractors and homeowners across a 50-mile radius. Projects include large-scale work for the Forest County Potawatomi Community, local fire and rescue stations, town shops and offices, agricultural projects for local farmers, and residential construction and remodeling.

    Tony first began working with the Forest Service on this land exchange more than eight years ago. However, the agency made it clear the project was not a priority and lacked the resources to complete it. With much of Forest County under federal ownership as part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, there is limited private land available for small business expansion.  

    This legislation is supported by the Wabeno Area Chamber of Commerce, the Forest County Economic Development Partnership, and the Town of Wabeno. Tom Tallier, Forest County Board Supervisor for District 8, offered key testimony in favor of the bill last year.

    You can view Rep. Tiffany’s comments on the House floor here, and Rep. Debbie Dingell’s (MI-06) floor statement of support here. You can read the full text of the bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tiffany’s Legislation to Help Wabeno Small Business Clears House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07)

    WASHINGTON, DC –Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany’s (WI-07) Wabeno Economic Development Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support. H.R. 3937 will expedite the conveyance of 14 acres of land in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix for fair market value.

    After years of not making progress with the U.S. Forest Service, Tony—the owner of Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix—turned to Congressman Tiffany’s office for help. His business is running out of nearby aggregate materials like stone, sand, and gravel, and they will exhaust supply in approximately 2 years. The adjacent parcel is critical for the business’s future and ability to stay in operation.

    “This conveyance will deliver long-term economic growth and protect local jobs for the people of Wabeno and Forest County,” said Congressman Tiffany. “It will ensure Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix stays open and continues serving the community for years to come.”

    Background:

    Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix has been serving the community for 25 years and currently employs 17 people. The company provides concrete for both contractors and homeowners across a 50-mile radius. Projects include large-scale work for the Forest County Potawatomi Community, local fire and rescue stations, town shops and offices, agricultural projects for local farmers, and residential construction and remodeling.

    Tony first began working with the Forest Service on this land exchange more than eight years ago. However, the agency made it clear the project was not a priority and lacked the resources to complete it. With much of Forest County under federal ownership as part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, there is limited private land available for small business expansion.  

    This legislation is supported by the Wabeno Area Chamber of Commerce, the Forest County Economic Development Partnership, and the Town of Wabeno. Tom Tallier, Forest County Board Supervisor for District 8, offered key testimony in favor of the bill last year.

    You can view Rep. Tiffany’s comments on the House floor here, and Rep. Debbie Dingell’s (MI-06) floor statement of support here. You can read the full text of the bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Early warning system could prevent a stink when it comes to street tree roots blocking sewer pipes

    Source:

    23 July 2025

    Jacarandas are a favourite street tree in Australia, but also one of the major culprits for drain blockages due to their aggressive root systems that spread many metres.

    Researchers at the University of South Australia are calling for a major shift in how cities manage tree root intrusions into household sewer systems that cost millions of dollars in repair bills each year.

    A new study by UniSA’s Sustainable Infrastructure and Resource Management (SIRM) team reveals that current maintenance strategies are falling short, resulting in repeated pipe blockages, environmental contamination, and mounting damage bills.

    Instead, the engineering researchers propose a smarter, preventative approach using predictive analytics to identify high-risk areas before damage occurs.

    In a new paper published in Sustainability, the UniSA team reviewed global literature and maintenance practices, concluding that removing tree roots using mechanical and chemical measures is not the best solution. Roots can grow back, and the damage is costly to fix.

    In Adelaide alone, SA Water reported more than 30,000 cases of tree root intrusion in 2020, accounting for nearly 60% of all sewer failures. Each year, the utility spends approximately $5 million on repair works and maintenance caused by blocked sewer pipes.

    Tree root intrusions are a global headache, costing countries millions of dollars each year. Worldwide, remediation options include mechanical and chemical techniques to clear pipe systems and control root growth, as well as proactive approaches such as planting trees well clear of pipes.

    But the traditional responses are only temporary fixes, according to UniSA Water Science and Engineering Professor Chris Chow, a senior author on the paper.

    “Tree roots are the most common cause of pipe failures in many cities around the world,” Prof Chow says.

    “The challenge is that cutting roots or applying chemicals are not permanent solutions. The chemicals can contaminate the soil, and the roots often grow back more aggressively.”

    Instead, his team is advocating for a predictive approach, analysing key risk factors – such as pipe age, material, diameter, soil type, tree species and climate conditions – so that water utilities can model where tree root problems are most likely to occur.

    “It’s essentially an early warning system,” says lead author Oliver Yang, a Master of Research graduate at UniSA.

    “We can map out high-risk zones and guide smarter planting choices, better pipe materials and targeted maintenance,” Yang says.

    While predictive models already exist for pipe failures based on material or age, few incorporate environmental or vegetation factors. This gap is significant, the researchers say, given the complex interactions between roots, soil, moisture and infrastructure.

    Fast growing species such as eucalyptus, poplars, willows, jacarandas and desert ash are particularly aggressive, with root systems that can spread many metres in search of water – especially in dry or compacted soils.

    Trees such as hackberry, varnish or lacquer species, brush box, willow myrtle and kurrajong trees are less intrusive and better choices for street planting.

    “Globally, cities are spending millions each year fixing the same problems over and over,” says Yang. “With the right data and modelling, we can address this, saving money, protecting infrastructure and still enjoying the benefits of urban greenery.”

    The researchers are calling for more region-specific studies and the development of locally-calibrated predictive tools that incorporate tree, pipe, soil and environmental factors.

    ‘Review of Root Intrusions by Street Trees and Utilising Predictive Analytics to Improve Water Utility Maintenance Strategies’ is published in Sustainability. DOI: 10.3390/su17125263

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Researcher contact: Oliver Yang M: +61 401 857 790 E: chizhengping.yang@mymail.unisa.edu.au

    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard national security cutter returns to California following 121-day Bering Sea patrol

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/22/2025 07:00 PM EDT

     

    07/22/2025 06:43 PM EDT

    ALAMEDA, Calif. —T he crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) returned to their Alameda home port Wednesday following a 20,000-nautical-mile, 121-day deployment patrolling the Bering Sea. Munro departed Alameda mid-March and operated throughout the Bering Sea during a months-long Alaska Patrol in support of the Coast Guard’s Arctic District.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard national security cutter returns to California following 121-day Bering Sea patrol

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/22/2025 07:00 PM EDT

     

    07/22/2025 06:43 PM EDT

    ALAMEDA, Calif. —T he crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) returned to their Alameda home port Wednesday following a 20,000-nautical-mile, 121-day deployment patrolling the Bering Sea. Munro departed Alameda mid-March and operated throughout the Bering Sea during a months-long Alaska Patrol in support of the Coast Guard’s Arctic District.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls Trump’s Decision to Withdraw from UNESCO Uninformed and Ill-Conceived

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today submitted a Statement for the Congressional Record excoriating President Trump for withdrawing from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). In his statement, Senator Welch called the withdrawal from UNESCO ill-conceived, and warned this move will allow the Chinese government to expand its influence in the United Nations.  
    Read Senator Welch’s Statement for the Congressional Record below:  
    “Mr. President, of all the uninformed, ill-conceived, and self-inflicted errors of this Administration, the just-announced decision to withdraw from UNESCO stands out.   
    “The justification given by the State Department spokeswoman was a recitation of outdated, vague, and inaccurate criticisms of an organization that has seen dramatic reforms over the past seven years under the outstanding leadership of Director General Audrey Azoulay. Since her initial appointment in 2017, Director General Azoulay has made numerous trips to Washington to meet with leaders in the Congress and the Administration. I have heard consistently positive reactions to her leadership of UNESCO by Republicans and Democrats alike, including regarding UNESCO’s efforts to address antisemitism.   
    “Given Director General Azoulay’s success in focusing UNESCO on its mission of promoting international cooperation and peace in a manner consistent with democratic values and human rights and dignity, one can only conclude that the Administration officials behind this short-sighted decision never bothered to do their homework. Or they were guided purely by Project 2025’s mindless opposition to multilateralism, regardless of the facts. As far as I am aware they did not bother to consult anyone in Congress, including those who have regularly engaged with Director General Azoulay and her professional staff.   
    “Mr. President, most Republicans and Democrats have long recognized that it is far better for the United States to be in the room, rather than remain outside and cede our influence to those who don’t share our interests or values. The Chinese Government is looking for any opportunity to expand its influence in the United Nations, and UNESCO is no exception. We rejoined UNESCO in 2023 after a five-year absence, and now we are withdrawing again. It sends a terrible message that the United States can no longer be counted on. It is a message the Chinese will applaud.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 23, 2025
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