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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More Affordable Housing for Yarmouth

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More than 50 people in Yarmouth will soon have a new place to call home.

    Premier Tim Houston was in the town today, July 16, to announce the Province’s investment in 24 housing units, a project of the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia.

    “We said that we would build more homes faster, and we are doing just that,” said Premier Houston. “This project in Yarmouth is the perfect example of what’s possible when all levels of government work together with non-profit organizations and developers to ensure every Nova Scotian has a place to call home.”

    Two multi-unit buildings will include studio and one- and two-bedroom apartments as well as three-bedroom townhouses. There will be 14 affordable units with rents from $397 to $1,085, and the other units will have market rates of $1,000 to $1,675.

    Residents are expected to start moving in early next year.

    The Province contributed $2.66 million to the project through the Affordable Housing Development Program and $1.5 million in funding it manages through Canada’s National Housing Strategy initiatives; another $3.9 million is from the federal government’s Affordable Housing Fund, and the Town of Yarmouth donated the land.

    Since 2023, more than $120 million has been invested in more than 1,400 affordable units across Nova Scotia.

    Quotes:

    “Our government is committed to providing communities the support they need to build capacity to develop local solutions to homelessness. Access to adequate, affordable housing is the foundation for socio-economic success. It supports better education and health outcomes, better employment prospects and better community engagement and cohesion, not to mention economic growth and financial security.”
    — Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada

    “Shaw Avenue in Yarmouth is our next example of how AHANS is creating a scaling portfolio of affordable, sustainable housing across the province. Through passive house design standards and quality building materials, we are delivering another 24 units of housing that is good for community and the environment. We thank CMHC and the Province of Nova Scotia for their continued support for our various projects and the Town of Yarmouth for their contribution of the land. These types of collaborations are exactly what will provide a meaningful portfolio of alternative housing stock for Nova Scotians that is affordable, dignified and part of a complete community. We know that we can accomplish meaningful things for our province when we work together, and Shaw Avenue demonstrates that value.”
    — Michael Kabalen, Executive Director, Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia

    “It’s exciting to watch this build happen because of what it means. It’s affordable housing for those in need and adds so much to our community. Thanks to the Province for funding and our team for putting this together. She’s going to be a beauty!”
    — Pam Mood, Mayor, Town of Yarmouth

    Quick Facts:

    • the Shaw Avenue units are built from factory-assembled panelized wood frame walls, floors and roof, with a concrete slab foundation
    • both buildings are designed for net-zero emissions using passive house standards, energy efficient mechanical and heating systems and solar panels
    • each unit will have energy efficient appliances (fridge, stove, washer and dryer)
    • since 2023, the Province has supported the creation of 51,352 new housing units under the Our Homes, Action for Housing plan
    • the Affordable Housing Fund is a $14.6-billion program under the National Housing Strategy that gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous people, people living with disabilities, people with mental health or addiction issues, veterans and young adults
      • as of March, the Government of Canada has committed almost $12 billion through the fund to support the creation of more than 46,000 units and the repair of more than 174,000 units

    Additional Resources:

    Department of Growth and Development housing programs: https://beta.novascotia.ca/housing-programs-department-growth-and-development

    Our Homes, Action for Housing: https://novascotia.ca/action-for-housing/

    News release – Housing Plan Progress Exceeds Targets in First Year: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/02/24/housing-plan-progress-exceeds-targets-first-year

    Affordable Housing Fund: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/affordable-housing-fund

    Other than cropping, Province of Nova Scotia photos are not to be altered in any way.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REP. HILL’S BILL TO TURN VACANT FEDERAL BUILDING INTO COMMUNITY SPACE IN PERRY COUNTY ADVANCES THROUGH COMMITTEE

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

     Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today released the following statement after his bill, H.R. 3187, advanced out of the House Committee on Natural Resources with unanimous consent. The bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey a vacant U.S. Forest Service building and surrounding land to Perry County.

    Rep. Hill said, “I’m pleased to see my bill to transfer a long-vacant U.S. Forest Service building to Perry County unanimously passed the House Natural Resources Committee. That building has sat empty for years, and now it’s one step closer to being put to good use for youth programs, agricultural education, and local conservation efforts. It’s a smart use of public resources and a clear win for Perry County.

    “I’m especially thankful to my friend and fellow Arkansan, Chairman Westerman, for moving this bill through his committee. As it heads to the House Floor, I’ll keep working to get my bill passed so local leaders can finally put the building to work for the people of Perry County.”

    Following the passage of H.R. 3187 through the House Committee on Natural Resources, Chairman Westerman said, “Congressman Hill’s simple land transfer removes a burden from the American taxpayer and will help support the needs of a local community in my home state. This commonsense legislation will provide Perry County with new resources to support the community. I’d like to thank Congressman Hill for his work on this bill and for his work for Arkansans.”

    Background

    The 0.81-acre parcel, located at 1069 Fourche Avenue, includes a federal building operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The building is vacant, and the U.S. Forest Service has no plans to use it going forward. While the building will require repairs and updates, Perry County has the funds to make the necessary improvements. Once conveyed and repaired, the property will support permanent operations of the University of Arkansas Extension Program and the Perry County Conservation District and serve as the meeting space for the 4-H Youth Development Program.

    Several local leaders and Perry County residents have voiced their support for the building to be conveyed to Perry County.

    You can read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Alectra urges customers to stay cool and conserve energy as prolonged heatwave continues across Southern Ontario

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With a multi-day stretch of extreme heat and humidity continuing across Southern Ontario, Alectra Utilities is encouraging residents to prioritize their health and safety while taking steps to reduce electricity consumption.

    Environment Canada has issued a heat warning with daytime highs of 31 to 35 C and humidex values reaching up to 42. The intense conditions are expected to persist through Thursday night.

    With extreme heat events becoming more frequent, investing in renewing aging equipment and installing new infrastructure remains crucial to meet the growing grid demand. For more information on Alectra’s capital construction investments, please visit: alectrautilities.com/improving-reliability. To help manage electricity consumption and lower summertime bills, Alectra recommends the following tips:

    • Use a programmable thermostat to regulate indoor temperatures.
    • Close curtains or blinds during peak sun hours.
    • Delay using major appliances, such as dishwashers or dryers, until the evening.
    • Use ceiling or portable fans to circulate air.
    • Keep windows and doors closed while using air conditioning.

    If your home is too hot, consider visiting a cooling centre, public library, mall or community centre. Follow the advice of your local public health authority.

    For more tips, visit alectrautilities.com/tips-resources.

    For more information about how you can save energy this summer and avoid higher bills, visit alectrautilities.com/tips-resources.

    About Alectra Utilities

    Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.

    X: https://twitter.com/alectranews

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alectranews/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alectranews/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/16178435/admin/

    Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alectranews.bsky.social

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alectranews

    Media Contact

    Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com |
    Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Major progress on Welmoed housing development

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, has announced significant progress on the Welmoed housing development in Cape Town, where bulk civil engineering infrastructure works have already been completed.

    The Welmoed development is part of the Southern Corridor Integrated Human Settlements Programme and will provide a total of 3 296 housing opportunities. 

    This includes a mix of affordable housing and private development units.

    Beneficiaries of the housing project will mainly come from sub council 14 and nearby informal settlements, addressing a critical housing need in the area.

    Providing an update on the project, on Tuesday, Simmers said the project will be implemented in phases and is expected to create up to 6 000 job opportunities. 

    “These jobs will arise as contractors are encouraged to employ local labour and subcontractors within the sub council area,” Simmers said.

    Electrical works well underway

    Meanwhile, the MEC noted that the electrical engineering works are well underway and expected to be completed by August 2026. 

    Simmers said civil and bulk earthworks commenced earlier this year, while the installation of internal engineering services is scheduled to start in May 2026. 

    This will be followed by the construction of the housing units, which is set to commence in October 2026.

    “We are pleased with the steady progress made at Welmoed, despite significant challenges posed by unlawful occupations. 

    “The Western Cape Government condemns and continues to fight the unlawful occupation of land and buildings earmarked for affordable housing delivery. We strongly urge communities, activist groups, and political parties in the Western Cape to support our efforts and refrain from encouraging unlawful activities,” the MEC said. 

    A beneficiary verification process is scheduled for September 2025 to determine the final housing allocations, ensuring inclusivity and transparency throughout.

    “Since the start of my current term in office, building partnerships has become paramount to ensure the successful delivery of vital infrastructure projects, including human settlements, and our communities are our most valued partners.”

    Simmers and officials of the department will soon host public meetings in each ward within subcouncil 14 to provide communities with a detailed progress update of the Welmoed housing project. 

    “I look forward to meeting with residents soon to discuss the progress of this much-needed housing development in the area. I also encourage all potential beneficiaries to participate actively in the verification drive to help us achieve a fair and inclusive outcome,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators King, Collins, Smith Introduce Bill to Combat Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Tina Smith (D-MN) today introduced legislation to reauthorize the Kay Hagan Tick Act, their landmark legislation to improve research, prevention, diagnostics, and treatment for tick-borne diseases, which became law in 2019. Senator Angus King (I-ME) joins them as an original co-sponsor. The Kay Hagan Tick Act unites the effort to confront the alarming public health threat posed by Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. Confirmed cases of Lyme disease reached a record number in Maine – 3,035 – last year. Senators Collins and Smith named their bill in honor of former Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC) who passed away on October 28th, 2019, due to complications from the tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus.

    “Our state has been battling diseases like Lyme for decades, so it is critical we continue to invest in our research and understanding of these vector-borne diseases to better protect Maine residents and visitors,” said Senator King. “The Kay Hagan Tick Act will further the prevention efforts that keep us safe by funding research, testing and diagnostics along with resources for improved data collection. I am proud to work on this critical bipartisan legislation that will help mitigate this long-term public health threat for the future safety and health of all Maine people.”

    “Last year, Maine reported over 3,000 cases of Lyme disease—a record in our state. The reauthorization of our Tick Act is urgently needed to continue to support those who struggle with Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses and keep improving research, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention for these terrible diseases,” said Senator Collins. “Resources from the Tick Act have led to exciting developments such as the first-ever clinical trial for a Lyme disease vaccine for people, which is underway right now at the MaineHealth Institute for Research.”

    “My home state of Minnesota is proud to have more than 10,000 lakes and thousands of rivers for us to enjoy, and we’re always especially eager to get outside after a long winter,” said Senator Smith. “Unfortunately, the number of Lyme disease cases in the state—and states across the country—is on the rise. This bill would empower regional centers to lead the response against these diseases and expanded the federal government’s role in researching, testing and treating these diseases. For the sake of Americans’ health and well-being, we need to keep moving this bill forward.”

    “Reauthorizing the Kay Hagan Tick Act will continue the nation’s coordinated framework for tick-borne disease surveillance, diagnostics, and prevention”, said Griffin Dill, Director of the University of Maine Tick Lab. Continued support means earlier detection, targeted interventions, and fewer families facing the physical and financial burden of Lyme disease and other emerging infections. Through this investment, Congress can ensure a proactive approach to safeguarding our communities from increasing threats related to ticks.”

    “With an estimated 500,000 new cases of Lyme disease each year, it is critical that the United States is equipped to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to this growing public health threat,” said Bonnie Crater, co-founder and board member at Center for Lyme Action. “We applaud the foundation laid by the Kay Hagan Tick Act, which established the National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control Vector-Borne Diseases in Humans and we are committed to working with Congress and federal agencies to ensure this strategy is fully implemented and strengthened.  We commend Senator Collins, Senator King, and Senator Smith for their bipartisan leadership in advancing the reauthorization of this vital legislation to protect the health and safety of Americans nationwide.”

    Using a three-pronged approach, the Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act would:

    1. Require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to continue implementing and updating, as appropriate, its National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control Vector-Borne Diseases in People.  This strategy has been integral in expanding research into tick-borne diseases, improving testing and diagnostics, and coordinating efforts across the federal government.
    1. Reauthorize Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Disease for five years. Funding for these centers, which was allotted in 2017, expires this year. These Centers have led the scientific response against tick-borne diseases, which now make up 75 percent of vector-borne diseases in the U.S.  There are four centers located at universities in California, Florida, Texas, and Wisconsin. 
    1. Reauthorize CDC Grants to State Health Departments to improve data collection and analysis, support early detection and diagnosis, improve treatment, and raise awareness.  These awards would help states continue to build a public health infrastructure for Lyme and other vector-borne diseases and amplify their initiatives through public-private partnerships.   

    In May, Senator Collins delivered the opening remarks at the Center for Lyme Action Congressional Series and spoke to the need for continued federal funding for tick-borne disease research. Click here to watch and here to download her remarks. Senator Collins has also urged leading health officials to continue to support the development of treatment for these illnesses, including the clinical trials currently ongoing in Maine for the first Lyme disease vaccine for people.

    Senator King is a longtime advocate for the elimination of vector-borne diseases. His SMASH Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize critical public health tools that support states and localities in their mosquito surveillance and control efforts, especially those linked to mosquitos that carry the Zika virus, and improve the nation’s preparedness for Zika and other mosquito-borne threats like West Nile virus, chikungunya, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (“triple-e”) virus was signed into law in 2019. A re-authorization of SMASH was introduced in 2023 and included in the Pandemic All-Hazards Preparedness Act Reauthorization.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: How marketers are using AI-driven digital twins to scale creative content faster, more efficiently

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: How marketers are using AI-driven digital twins to scale creative content faster, more efficiently

    AI offers retail and consumer goods brands a wealth of solutions that transform creativity and reduce time and cost of resource-intensive tasks across the content supply chain. As witnessed at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity in June 2025, AI is the new “plus one” to marketing chiefs and agency leaders. However, the potential of AI unleashed new pressure to chief marketing officers to not only scale proof of concepts (POCs), but prove their value—all while keeping the marketing engine running at a breakneck pace.

    For consumer packaged goods (CPGs), delivering personalized content across channels requires multiple iterations of product images, constant reshoots, tweaks, packaging design adjustments, and localization by region. This can be all-consuming for creatives, who are rebuilding or recreating imagery constantly to meet the moment.

    Discover solutions with Microsoft Cloud for Retail

    Imagine if brands could leverage AI digital twins to create and integrate high-quality, personalized product content at scale—simply, cost-effectively, and in a fraction of the time. AI and 3D digital twins make it possible, proving AI investments deliver on reduced time and speed to innovation.

    In a recent post, we discussed how AI isn’t just a tool—it’s the foundation for building competitive advantage. Let’s walk through three strategic areas where digital twins offer exceptional outcomes for marketing teams looking to deliver more.

    1. Starting with product imagery

    According to EMARKETER, content creation will be the top budget priority AI use case for chief marketing officers worldwide. Why? Producing product images today requires brands to spend a massive chunk of their budget to constantly reshoot and edit images. With digital twins, brands have the flexibility and scalability at low cost to create thousands of variants on a single product image, including labels, packaging, and language formats—all within a single file.

    AI empowers not only productivity but creativity. Digital twins are hyper-realistic, enabling content managers to easily and endlessly modify or expand on a concept using a 3D product model with a few clicks. Creatives can reallocate time spent in operational “to do’s” to storytelling, strategy, and delivery by channel. Brands can even showcase products in both static and dynamic formats because AI models aren’t limited to one dimension.

    Net-net: Digital twins for product images, videos, and interactive experiences simplify content workflows and allow you to:

    • Generate endless product images or videos using a single digital twin.
    • Refresh imagery for markets or seasons without reshoots.
    • Reduce repetitive labor for creatives while shortening production timelines.
    • Test creative concepts instantly without adding costs.
    • Update visuals across brands seamlessly.

    Making it real: Nestlé reduces associated time and cost by 70% with scaling digital twins

    Recently, Nestlé—the world’s largest food and beverage company—collaborated with Microsoft, Accenture Song, and NVIDIA to build and launch a new AI-powered in-house service to create high-quality product content at scale.

    With its new digital twin content supply chain powered by NVIDIA Omniverse on Microsoft Azure and using Microsoft AI solutions, content creators across Nestlé’s 45 content studios around the world can deliver high-quality creative assets at scale for e-commerce and marketing communications. Nestlé’s Integrated Marketing Services (IMS)—250 marketing experts in seven hubs—are working on scaling the digital twins and driving content localization.

    Nestlé already has a baseline of 4,000 3D digital products, mainly for global brands, with the ambition to convert a total of 10,000 products into digital twins in the next two years across global and local brands.

    Proving the value of AI investments in digital twins:

    • 70% reduced time and cost associated with scaling digital twins.
    • Faster content production for several brands, including Purina, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, and Nespresso.
    • Better ability to position iconic brands in a fast-moving digital environment.
    • Seamless updates for seasonal campaigns or channel-specific formats.

    For Nestlé, these technologies are proving to be catalysts for creative ingenuity, revolutionizing creative workflows in design, supercharging content creation, and enabling nuanced personalization—positioning Nestlé at the forefront of marketing.

    Learn more from this video about conversations Chief Marketing Officers had with Microsoft at the recent Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity event:

    2. Digital twins enable game-changing one-to-one consumer experiences

    Digital twins are generating realistic virtual experiences that not only enhance the shopper journey but also hyper-personalize each touchpoint to create memorable brand moments. AI has enabled interoperability between datasets to unlock online configurators, virtual reality product trials and visualizations, and in-store displays.

    Net-net: Embedding AI in user experiences is allowing consumer and retail goods companies to enable:

    • Try-ons for beauty products and fashion.
    • Configurators for custom merchandise.
    • Interactive, 360-degree product views.

    The era of AI ushers in a world of “intelligence on tap.”

    Imagine if AI-powered digital product twins merge product imagery and consumer insights to create visuals targeted to specific audience segments or even individual customers.

    A combination of insights and digital twin content creation empowers marketers to optimize for better impact and even map future trends. The value of building digital twins goes beyond endless product image creation. CPG brands are now leveraging AI to connect real-time campaign insights to their content studios as a primary use case to prove value. Agents are being built to perform audience simulations, test images, content, and even segmentation strategy to drive higher return on ad spend (ROAS) or even predict impact.

    Net-net: Use AI to connect media insights and content to:

    • Simulate, refine, and test marketing scenarios and consumer responses.
    • Increase campaign effectiveness with real-time, iterative feedback.
    • Test and optimize personalized marketing strategies at scale.
    • Model customer segments and predict campaign outcomes.

    As AI continues to evolve traditional processes and enhance productivity, marketers know human creativity remains a critical resource. With digital simulations and AI together, you can reallocate your valuable resources to more strategic, creative tasks; reduce costs and risk; and help your marketing teams optimize spend and focus on your number one KPI: growth.

    Learn more

    Microsoft Cloud for Retail

    Connect your customers, your people, and your data

    Michele Fisher

    Global Strategy Director

    Michele Fisher (she/her) is a Global Strategy Director at Microsoft and a sought-after brand consultant specializing in marketing innovation with AI. Her expertise spans multiple sectors, with particular focus on retail and consumer goods. She’s led innovative solution strategies at the intersection of technology and customer experience at Microsoft, Amazon Ads, and The Walt Disney Company. Michele lives in Kirkland, Washington, with her husband, three kids, and furry coworker, Butters the Labradoodle.

    See more articles from this author

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the world of books and artifacts: participants of the SPbPU library forum visited a rare excursion

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A library forum was recently held at the Polytechnic University “KorFor-2025”A special gift for the forum guests was a tour of rare and often closed to the general public libraries of St. Petersburg.

    For example, the tour participants got acquainted with the oldest military library in Russia, which is located in the historical building of the General Staff on Palace Square. Over 210 years, the Military Historical Library of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation has collected a unique collection on military history and military art from ancient times to the present day. A special pride is the richest collection of maps of military operations for more than 200 years of history. The employees talked about their work, about new technologies used in the library, which carefully stores not only documents, but also the memory of great events in the history of our Motherland.

    The history of the Scientific Library of the Russian Academy of Arts begins at the time of the founding of the Academy of Arts in 1757. The basis of the library’s collection was a gift from the founder of the Academy of Arts, Ivan Ivanovich Shuvalov. Currently, the library collection contains more than half a million printed publications, engravings, photographs, reproductions, illustrations, revealing the entire diversity of world artistic culture.

    The excursionists walked through the unique halls of the library, learned about the history of its creation and development. And what awe and admiration were caused by the rare editions of the 15th-18th centuries, offsets, engravings, lithographs! The time spent in a warm, welcoming atmosphere flew by in an instant and left unforgettable impressions on all the excursion participants.

    During the visit to the Scientific Library of the Russian Geographical Society, the specialists got acquainted with a rare collection of books, maps and documents. These materials reflect almost all expeditions in Russia and other countries that took place under the auspices of the Russian Geographical Society. The reports on Arctic expeditions and the history of the discovery of the Northern Sea Route deserve special attention. The guests had the opportunity to get acquainted with rare editions of the 17th-19th centuries, representing historical and cultural significance.

    Head of the library Maria Bystrova told the guests in detail about the unique collections and modern methods of cataloguing and storing valuable materials.

    The librarians also got a glimpse into the inner life of the St. Petersburg Theological Academy of the Russian Orthodox Church: they walked along the rector’s corridor, visited the museum and classrooms, looked into the cozy reading room and, of course, into the library, the largest in the Orthodox world. Currently, its collection contains about 315,000 books, periodicals and musical editions. The library collection contains books mainly of theological and church-historical content. The excursionists were especially impressed by the academic temple in the name of the Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, which houses the revered icon of the Mother of God “The Sign” of Tsarskoye Selo and other holy relics.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pic of the Week – Bizzell Memorial Library, Historic Landmark and Home to Library of Congress History

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    My summer travels always end at a library. Every library I have visited, from the one of my childhood home to my current place of employment, is special to me, not to mention the communities they continue to serve. On a visit to Oklahoma, I discovered another.

    The Bizzell Memorial Library is located in Norman, on the campus of the University of Oklahoma. Built in 1929, the library’s architectural style is Cherokee Gothic, like many other buildings on the campus. In 2001, it was made a National Historic Landmark.

    The Peggy V. Helmerich Great Reading Room of Bizzell Library on a summer day. Photo by Bailey DeSimone.

    While exploring the halls, I learned that the library was an important part of a civil rights case. In McLaurin v. Oklahoma State Regents (229 U.S. 637 (1950)), a unanimous court ruled that George W. McLaurin, the first African American to attend the University of Oklahoma, was deprived of his 14th Amendment rights in the “separate but equal” segregation practices of the University. Before this ruling, McLaurin “was required to sit apart at a designated desk in an anteroom adjoining the classroom” and “a designated desk on the mezzanine floor of the library, but not to use the desks in the regular reading room.” (p. 4.) The ruling was also delivered on the same day as Sweatt v. Painter (339 U.S. 629 (1950)), a case in which Herman Marion Sweatt, an African American applicant to the University of Texas School of Law, was ruled to have had his 14th Amendment rights violated when he was denied admittance on the grounds of his race.

    Also in the Bizzell Library is a select collection of awards granted to, and publications by, Daniel J. Boorstin, a notable author and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1974. He went on to serve as the Librarian of Congress from 1975 to 1987. Though not an alumnus of the University, Boorstin did grow up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and was inducted into the Tulsa Hall of Fame in 1989.

    The Daniel J. Boorstin Collection at the University of Oklahoma Bizzell Memorial Library. Photo by Bailey DeSimone.

    I am grateful to every library that has welcomed me through its doors, and I am glad to add Bizzell Library to the list. I learn something new and interesting every time. This summer, check out your local library for their current displays and see what you learn!

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pic of the Week – Bizzell Memorial Library, Historic Landmark and Home to Library of Congress History

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    My summer travels always end at a library. Every library I have visited, from the one of my childhood home to my current place of employment, is special to me, not to mention the communities they continue to serve. On a visit to Oklahoma, I discovered another.

    The Bizzell Memorial Library is located in Norman, on the campus of the University of Oklahoma. Built in 1929, the library’s architectural style is Cherokee Gothic, like many other buildings on the campus. In 2001, it was made a National Historic Landmark.

    The Peggy V. Helmerich Great Reading Room of Bizzell Library on a summer day. Photo by Bailey DeSimone.

    While exploring the halls, I learned that the library was an important part of a civil rights case. In McLaurin v. Oklahoma State Regents (229 U.S. 637 (1950)), a unanimous court ruled that George W. McLaurin, the first African American to attend the University of Oklahoma, was deprived of his 14th Amendment rights in the “separate but equal” segregation practices of the University. Before this ruling, McLaurin “was required to sit apart at a designated desk in an anteroom adjoining the classroom” and “a designated desk on the mezzanine floor of the library, but not to use the desks in the regular reading room.” (p. 4.) The ruling was also delivered on the same day as Sweatt v. Painter (339 U.S. 629 (1950)), a case in which Herman Marion Sweatt, an African American applicant to the University of Texas School of Law, was ruled to have had his 14th Amendment rights violated when he was denied admittance on the grounds of his race.

    Also in the Bizzell Library is a select collection of awards granted to, and publications by, Daniel J. Boorstin, a notable author and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1974. He went on to serve as the Librarian of Congress from 1975 to 1987. Though not an alumnus of the University, Boorstin did grow up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and was inducted into the Tulsa Hall of Fame in 1989.

    The Daniel J. Boorstin Collection at the University of Oklahoma Bizzell Memorial Library. Photo by Bailey DeSimone.

    I am grateful to every library that has welcomed me through its doors, and I am glad to add Bizzell Library to the list. I learn something new and interesting every time. This summer, check out your local library for their current displays and see what you learn!

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: How rising living costs are changing the way we date, live and love

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Melise Panetta, Lecturer of Marketing in the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University

    Young adults in their 20s and 30s face an altered social landscape where financial realities influence their relationships. (Rene Ranisch/Unsplash)

    If it feels like rising prices are affecting your dating life or friendships, you’re not imagining it. Around the world, economic pressures are taking a significant toll on personal relationships.

    From strained romantic partnerships to postponed life milestones, financial uncertainty is changing the way people connect and relate to with one another.

    Young adults in their 20s and 30s, in particular, are facing an altered social landscape where even the most fundamental aspects of relationships are being influenced by financial realities.

    Dating today can feel like a mix of endless swipes, red flags and shifting expectations. From decoding mixed signals to balancing independence with intimacy, relationships in your 20s and 30s come with unique challenges. Love IRL is the latest series from Quarter Life that explores it all.

    These research-backed articles break down the complexities of modern love to help you build meaningful connections, no matter your relationship status.

    Financial stress and relationship strain

    Money has long been one of the biggest sources of conflict in relationships, but today’s economic landscape has made financial stress an even greater burden.

    In Canada, a staggering 77 per cent of couples report financial strain, and 62 per cent say they argue over money. The rising cost of rent, food and everyday expenses has forced many couples to make difficult financial decisions, sometimes at the expense of their relationship.

    These concerns are not unique to Canadian couples. A study in the United Kingdom found that 38 per cent of people in a relationship admit to having a secret account or “money stashed away” that their partner doesn’t know about. And in the United States, couples surveyed reported having 58 money-related arguments per year.

    Money has long been one of the biggest sources of conflict in relationships.
    (Shutterstock)

    Even more concerning, financial instability is affecting how long relationships last. A recent RBC poll found 55 per cent of Canadians feel they need to be in a relationship to afford their lifestyle.

    The economic barriers to independence are particularly pronounced for those contemplating separation or divorce. Traditionally, a breakup meant one partner moving out, but now more divorced and separated couples are finding themselves cohabitating simply because they can’t afford to live alone.

    Understanding how to maintain a healthy relationship when facing financial troubles is essential for couples to navigate these difficult times.

    Postponing major life decisions

    The cost-of-living crisis is also delaying key life milestones for young adults worldwide. A Statistics Canada survey found that 38 per cent of young adults have postponed moving out due to economic uncertainty, an increase from 32 per cent in 2018.

    This issue is not only delaying the journey to independent adulthood, it is also reversing it. For example, in the United Kingdom, one in five young adults who moved out have had to move back into their family home due to the cost of living crisis.

    Housing affordability plays a major role in these delays. With housing prices soaring in Canada, the U.S., the U.K. and elsewhere, home ownership feels out of reach for many. For instance, 55 per cent of young Canadians report the housing crisis is fuelling their decision to delay starting a family.

    The cost-of-living crisis is also delaying key life milestones for young adults worldwide. Real estate signs seen in Calgary in May 2023.
    (Shutterstock)

    These delays have cascading effects on individuals and on broader societal trends, including lower fertility rates and shifts toward smaller families.

    Dating in a cost-conscious era

    One side effect of the rising cost of living is that couples are moving in together sooner than they might have otherwise in order to split living expenses. Others are adopting a more pragmatic approach to dating and bringing up topics like financial stability, job security and housing much earlier in their relationships.

    A dating trend known as “future-proofing” is also spreading. According to Bumble’s annual trend report, 95 per cent of singles say their worries about the future are impacting who they date and how they approach relationships. Top concerns include finances, job security, housing and climate change.



    Read more:
    The price of love: Why millennials and Gen Zs are running up major dating debt

    At the same time, financial strain is leading to simpler and cheaper date nights. More than half of Canadians say the rising cost of living is affecting dating. Many people are opting for budget-friendly activities like coffee dates, picnics or home-cooked meals instead of expensive dinners or weekend getaways.

    In the U.K., inflation and other day-to-day expenses have also made 33 per cent of the nation’s young singles less likely to go on dates. Around one-quarter of them say it has made them less likely to seek out a romantic partner altogether.

    Financial strain is leading fewer people to go on expensive, extravagent date nights.
    (Shutterstock)

    These costs are forcing single Americans to adjust their dating plans. With 44 per cent of single Americans reporting adjusting a date for financial reasons, and 27 per cent outright cancelling plans due to financial pressures, it is clear that the cost of living is fundamentally changing how Americans date.

    Also, with 38 per cent of dating Canadians saying the costs associated with dating have negatively impacted their ability to reach their financial goals, some are even skipping dating altogether.

    The cost of friendship

    Friendships, too, are feeling the pinch. Gone are the days of casually grabbing dinner or catching a concert on the weekend. Nearly 40 per cent of Canadians, 42 per cent of Britons and 37 per cent of Americans have cut back on social outings due to financial constraints.

    While this may seem like a small sacrifice, the decline in social interactions carries serious consequences. Regular social engagement is critical for mental health, resilience and career development. The more social activities are reduced, the greater the risk of loneliness and isolation — two factors that can significantly impact emotional well-being.

    For many, socializing now means opting for budget-friendly alternatives. However, even with creative adjustments, financial pressures are making it harder to maintain strong social ties.

    The changing landscape of connection

    If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you’ve probably felt the way the economic realities of today are reshaping what relationships look like. Rising costs are influencing everything, from who you live with, how you date and when — or if — you take major life steps.

    Maybe you’ve moved in with a partner sooner than planned to split rent, swapped nights out for budget-friendly hangs or put off milestones like starting a family. You’re not alone. Financial pressures are redefining how we connect with each other.

    Finding ways to maintain strong relationships under economic stress is essential. Research shows providing emotional support to your partner, employing positive problem-solving skills and engaging in open communication are key maintaining high-quality relationships.

    Melise Panetta 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. How rising living costs are changing the way we date, live and love – https://theconversation.com/how-rising-living-costs-are-changing-the-way-we-date-live-and-love-252709

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ showcases Donald Trump’s penchant for visual cruelty

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Marycarmen Lara Villanueva, PhD Candidate, Department of Social Justice Education, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto

    The United States government recently announced the opening of a massive immigrant detention facility built deep within the Florida Everglades that’s been dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz.” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a media briefing that “there is only one road leading in … and the only way out is a one-way flight.”

    For some taking in her remarks, the moment felt dystopian. According to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, the facility is surrounded by swamps and alligators and is equipped with more than 200 security cameras, 8,500 metres of barbed wire and a security force of 400 personnel.

    Accounts from some of the first detainees at the facility have shed light on the inhumane conditions. They’ve described limited access to water and fresh air, saying they received only one meal a day and that the lights are on 24/7.

    Apparently designed to be an immigration deterrence and a display of cruelty, Alligator Alcatraz is much more than infrastructure. It is visual policy aimed to stage terror as a message while making Trump’s authoritarian and fascist politics a material reality.

    Contributing to this fascist visual apparatus, AI-generated images of alligators wearing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) hats have circulated widely on social media. Some have questioned whether these images were satire or state propaganda.

    A screenshot of a June 2025 Homeland Security post on X, formerly Twitter.

    Surveillance, migration, debilitation

    In a moment of growing right-wing rhetoric and support for anti-immigrant violence, understanding how visual regimes operate, and what they attempt to normalize, is important.



    Read more:
    Nearly 54% of extreme conservatives say the federal government should use violence to stop illegal immigration

    Surveillance and deterrence technologies used along the U.S.–Mexico border for decades were intentionally designed to restrict the movement of undocumented migrants. According to Human Rights Watch, this has resulted in more than 10,000 deaths.

    Since 1994, U.S. Border Patrol has been accused of directing migrants away from urban crossings along the southern border, intentionally funnelling them into harsh and inhospitable terrain like the Sonora Desert.

    The desert serves as a deterrent to prevent immigrants from reaching their destiny. American theorist Jasbir Puar’s concept of debility is useful in making sense of the strategic process whereby the state works not to kill, but to weaken, as a form of slow violence that wears people down over time. The desired outcome is deterrence.

    On the southern U.S. border, severe dehydration and kidney failure can be outcomes of this debilitating process, potentially resulting in disability or death.

    Infrastructures of violence

    Sarah Lopez, a built environment historian and migration scholar in the U.S., describes the architecture of migrant immobilization as existing on a continuum with prison design. She’s highlighted the increasingly punitive conditions of immigration detention facilities, such as small dark cells or the absence of natural light.

    French architect and writer Léopold Lambert explains that architecture isn’t just about buildings, but about how space is used to organize and control people. He coined and developed the term weaponized architecture to describe how spaces are designed to serve the political goals of those in power.

    Colonialism, capitalism and modernity are closely connected, and architecture has played a key role in making them possible. Alligator Alcatraz sits at the intersection of all three, intentionally created to invoke danger and isolation. In other words, it’s cruel by design.

    As Leavitt put it, the facility is “isolated and surrounded by dangerous wildlife and unforgiving terrain.” The Trump administration has essentially transformed land into infrastructure and migrants into disposable threats.

    Terrorizing the marginalized

    State-sanctioned “unforgiving terrains” are not new, and the use of alligators to terrorize people of colour isn’t new either.

    The grotesque history of Black children being used as “alligator bait” in Jim Crow-era imagery is well-documented.

    So when Trump publicly fantasized about alligators eating immigrants trying to escape the new detention centre, it came as no surprise to those familiar with the long racist visual history linking alligators to representations of Black people.

    This logic is redeployed in the form of a racial terror that is made visible, marketable and even humorous in mainstream political discourse.

    Visuality and migration

    “Visuality” is a key term in the field of visual and cultural studies, originally coined by Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle and reintroduced in the early 2000s by American cultural theorist Nicholas Mirzoeff. It can be understood as the socially, historically and culturally constructed ways of seeing and understanding the visual world.

    Visual systems have historically been used to justify western imperial and colonial rule by controlling how people see and understand the world.

    While Alligator Alcatraz is a brand-new detention facility, it draws from a longer visual and spatial history of domination.

    The AI-generated images of alligators wearing ICE hats can be seen as part of a broader visual system that makes racialized violence seem normal, justified and even funny. In this absurd transformation, the alligator is reimagined as a legitimate symbol of border enforcement.

    Migrant death by water

    The spectacle of Alligator Alcatraz, with its swampy inhospitable landscape, cannot be divorced from the long visual history of migrant death by water that’s relied on the circulation of images to provoke outrage — and sometimes state action.

    Examples include the iconic image of Aylan Kurdi, the Syrian child whose lifeless body washed ashore in Turkey in 2015, and the devastating photo of Oscar Alberto Martínez Ramírez and his two-year-old daughter who both drowned crossing the Rio Grande in 2019.

    These images sparked global concern, but they also reinforced the idea that migrant lives only matter when they end in death — as if borders only become visible when they cause deaths.

    Alligator Alcatraz was built in eight days. The fact that a detention camp — or what some have called a concentration camp — can be assembled almost overnight, while basic human needs like clean drinking water or emergency warning systems go unmet for years, speaks volumes about where political will and government priorities lie.

    Marycarmen Lara Villanueva 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. ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ showcases Donald Trump’s penchant for visual cruelty – https://theconversation.com/alligator-alcatraz-showcases-donald-trumps-penchant-for-visual-cruelty-260566

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Biology is complex and diverse, so scientific research approaches need to be too

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Thomas Merritt, Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Laurentian University

    The beautiful, fascinating and often perplexing world around us grows from intricate and convoluted interactions of millions of pieces. As scientists, we work to understand and describe the parts and interactions of these systems.

    Scientific understanding is only as good as the questions we ask. Observing the world from a variety of viewpoints and asking questions from a diversity of perspectives helps us recognize and understand biological complexity. Science, and our own experience, tells us that diverse collaborations lead to better questions and more innovative solutions — but diversity in research is under threat.

    A major advancement in modern biology, specifically in the world of modern genetics that our research team works in, has been the realization that genes are far more complicated than we thought 20 years ago. When the human genome was first sequenced in 2001, scientists realized that each person’s DNA contained around 20,000 genes. Earlier estimates had been between 80,000 and 100,000.

    This drastic downsize may seem like a step back in complexity, but the reduced number means genes must be more complex in order to fulfil multiple roles and functions. There are fewer genes, but each gene has a complicated set of multiple functions modulated through intricate, interconnected and interactive gene-regulation mechanisms.

    Model species, surprising discoveries

    Our research group studies gene regulation using the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) as a model species — a non-human species studied extensively to reveal more about other organisms. Flies, like humans, have two copies of each chromosome, each copy with a full set of genes. Typically, regulation of each copy has been assumed to be independent.

    Flies, like humans, have two copies of each chromosome.
    (Mr.checker/Wikimedia)

    Unexpectedly, our research has found that in fruit flies, the copies on separate chromosomes physically interact to modulate each other’s regulation. This means that the chromosomes aren’t independent: they co-regulate in a way that depends on genome structure, or what we call chromosome architecture.

    This form of inter-chromosomal gene regulation, called transvection, was originally described in the 1950s, but is largely unknown. Its potential role to drive biological complexity is underappreciated because its effects are often (but not always) subtle and generally overshadowed by “typical” mechanisms of gene regulation along a single chromosome, cis-regulation.



    Read more:
    How to kill fruit flies, according to a scientist

    Complex genetic interactions

    Our transvection research focuses on subtle differences between individuals and environments. Too often, biology assumes that phenomena are simple, uniform and discreet.

    A classic example, taught in high school biology classes, demonstrates this thinking. Austrian biologist Gregor Mendel studied genetics in pea plants to propose dominant and recessive hereditary traits. His data was a little too clean, too good to be true: Mendel’s peas were either wrinkled or round, yellow or green.

    Genetics is works in more complex ways: think of eye colour. Our eyes are not a dichotomous brown or blue. Colour varies in a spectrum of shades of blues, greens, grays, hazels and browns.

    Similarly, we have shown that transvection, itself an unexpected twist, varies subtly and substantially, in unexpected ways. Recognizing that inter-chomosomal regulation was even possible, let alone could itself be modulated and variable, meant looking at our results from a non-typical view point, a different perspective.

    Our research into stress biology has drawn similar conclusions; diverse responses are the norm and appreciating this variability is absolutely fundamental to understanding the system.

    Differences between male and female biologies

    In our research into metabolism, we have repeatedly found significant and substantial differences between male and females. For example, in recent unpublished data, we find that differences between male and female fruit fly responses to metal toxicity were as large as we would have expected to occur between different species.

    Past conventional wisdom in the field assumed that the biology in the two sexes was interchangeable, with females essentially being just hypervariable males, although recent research in our lab and others is broadly pushing back against this misconception.



    Read more:
    Sex matters: Male bias in the lab is bad science

    The male and female responses are similar but distinct, and this is an important point. To understand biology, our research indicates, we need to identify, appreciate and study these subtle differences in order to produce more thorough scientific investigations.

    Unexpected complexity

    Our research regularly reveals unexpected biological complexity and, not coincidentally, the studies listed above were all collaborations. The technical complexity of research often requires involving experts in multiple disciplines.

    A typical project can involve half a dozen or more experiments and methods, ranging from biochemistry to genetics to life history, and techniques from enzyme kinetic assays to mass spectrometry and DNA sequencing.

    We are part of a genetics research group at Laurentian University whose diversity has greatly strengthened the quality and originality of contributions we have made to the field. In our experience, diverse collaborations combining different perspectives and viewpoints lead to innovative conclusions.

    The literature bears this out: a series of large-scale studies involving millions of researchers and publications repeatedly show that diverse groups of scientists ask more interesting, perceptive and innovative questions and pose more interesting solutions.

    Diversity and innovation

    But this diversity-innovation connection is under attack in the current social and political climate. This has been most visible under the current political regime in the United States, but is also present here in Canada.

    If successful, these attacks will narrow the perspective of scientific research and cripple scientific advances. Current diversity is the result of decades of programs fighting generations of systematic discrimination. Many researchers have been making research a more diverse and inclusive place.



    Read more:
    Want to reach out to an Indigenous scholar? Awesome! But first, here are 10 things to consider

    Sustainability is essential to the long-term health of scientific research. The research, and our own experiences, clearly shows that diverse groups of researchers conduct more creative, innovative and impactful science. Visibility in scientific research is important to ensure its sustainability. More young students will pursue careers in research if they can see themselves in that role.

    Our hope is that a broader appreciation of the importance of diversity in research, will lead to greater community and political, support for research programs that recognize the fundamental importance of diversity, equity and inclusion.

    The biological world is a beautifully diverse and complex place. To truly understand that world, the research laboratory must to be, too.

    Thomas Merritt receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

    Allie Hutchings 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. Biology is complex and diverse, so scientific research approaches need to be too – https://theconversation.com/biology-is-complex-and-diverse-so-scientific-research-approaches-need-to-be-too-260696

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Three MS-13 Members Charged with Racketeering Conspiracy Involving Murder

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Three alleged members of the notorious gang La Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, made their initial appearance in the District of Maryland yesterday for their role in a racketeering conspiracy, including murder and drug trafficking.

    “As alleged, the defendants are MS-13 members who carried out a brutal and senseless murder in exchange for promotions within the gang and drugs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their actions furthered MS-13’s reign of terror across communities in Maryland. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue charges against MS-13 members and associates and will not relent until this dangerous gang is eradicated from our streets.”

    “The brutal retaliatory murder of this victim is a chilling reminder of the MS-13 gang’s callous disregard for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Those who assault and kill others must be brought to justice and ultimately held accountable for their actions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will continue to work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent criminal organizations that terrorize our communities.”

    “The FBI and our partners are committed to using every tool available to prevent violent criminals from terrorizing the communities they live in,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “We will not let up. We will relentlessly pursue those who engage in violent activity like murder and drug trafficking until they are held accountable.”

    According to court documents, on July 4, 2024, Maxwell Ariel Quijano-Casco, 24, of El Salvador; Daniel Isaias Villanueva-Bautista, 19, of El Salvador; and Josue Mauricio Lainez, 21, of Hyattsville, Maryland, allegedly killed a homeless man as part of their involvement with MS-13. On July 5, 2024, a passerby called 911 after seeing the victim sitting in a blue 2008 Dodge Caravan that was parked in a used car lot in Hyattsville, Maryland. When the police arrived, they found the deceased victim, who appeared to have been stabbed in the neck. Investigators obtained video surveillance from a nearby business that captured the incident.

    The surveillance video shows that at approximately 11:35 p.m Quijano-Casco and another person approach the victim. The video shows the victim wielding what looks like a metal pole at Quijano-Casco, at which point Quijano-Casco and the other person flee on foot and the victim returns to the Dodge Caravan. About 15 minutes later, Quijano-Casco returns with co-defendants Villanueva-Bautista, Lainez, and another person. At approximately 11:48 p.m., the video surveillance shows all four of them approaching the blue Dodge Caravan. 

    The surveillance video then shows Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, Lainez, and the unnamed person opening the van’s rear sliding driver’s side door, reaching inside, and moving as if striking someone. 

    The victim does not exit the blue Dodge Caravan after the attack.

    On Aug. 23, 2024, Prince George’s County Police arrested Quijano-Casco and Villanueva-Bautista. Quijano-Casco was in possession of a black Ruger P95DC semi-automatic handgun and about eight grams of cocaine at the time of his arrest. Quijano-Casco and Villanueva both admitted that they were present for the altercation where the victim was murdered. Quijano-Casco allegedly admitted to Prince George’s County Police to stabbing the individual.

    Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, and Lainez are each charged with racketeering conspiracy, including the July 4, 2024, murder. If convicted, Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, and Lainez face a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI and Prince George’s County Police Department are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Christina Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Crespo for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: NextNRG Signs Letter of Intent for Two Healthcare Facility Smart Microgrid Projects in Los Angeles County

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Strategic expansion into essential healthcare sector demonstrates NextNRG’s energy-agnostic technology and own-and-operate model

    Projects establish NextNRG as dedicated energy provider under long-term contracts to facilities requiring mandatory continuous power

    MIAMI, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextNRG, Inc. (NASDAQ: NXXT), a pioneer in AI driven energy innovation transforming how energy is produced, managed, and delivered through its Next Utility Operating System®, smart microgrids, wireless EV charging, and mobile fuel delivery, today announced it has signed a letter of intent to develop critical energy infrastructure for two healthcare facilities operated by Sunnyside Nursing and Post-Acute Care (Sunnyside) and Topanga Terrace Rehabilitation & Subacute (Topanga) in Los Angeles, California.

    NextNRG will own and operate the complete smart microgrid systems and sell electricity directly to both facilities under separate 28-year Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), establishing predictable long-term revenue streams in the essential healthcare sector where continuous, reliable power is not just preferred but mandatory. The PPA for the Sunnyside facility will generate revenue at $0.25 per kWh with a 2% annual escalator, while the Topanga facility will generate revenue at $0.22 per kWh with a 2% annual escalator, providing NextNRG with contracted cash flows extending through 2053.

    NextNRG will design, build, own and operate comprehensive smart microgrid systems for each facility, then sell electricity from these NextNRG-owned grids to the healthcare facilities. The energy infrastructure will incorporate generation through solar and renewable sources, as well as battery storage for enhanced reliability. All components will be integrated into comprehensive smart microgrids powered by NextNRG’s proprietary UOS (Utility Operating System) and SmartGrid technology. Each system will feature up to 830 kWh DC of solar photovoltaic capacity and 2.2 MWh of battery energy storage with ground-mounted solar arrays.

    By combining batteries with generators, NextNRG will significantly reduce the risk of power outages while ensuring compliance with HCAI (Healthcare Access and Information) requirements. The healthcare facilities gain operational resilience and access to tax incentives, while NextNRG establishes a strategic foothold in the highly regulated and lucrative healthcare sector.

    “These projects represent our strategic entry into the healthcare market, where energy reliability is mandatory rather than optional,” said Michael D. Farkas, Founder and CEO of NextNRG. “The 28-year contracted revenue from selling electricity generated by our owned infrastructure provides exceptional visibility and stability, while demonstrating our software’s ability to manage and optimize power from any source. This energy-agnostic functionality positions us to capture significant opportunities across the healthcare sector, where facilities require uninterrupted power for life-safety systems and patient care.”

    The projects showcase NextNRG’s proprietary technology platform designed to optimize and manage diverse energy inputs through advanced artificial intelligence, including traditional grid power, renewable sources, solar, and emerging technologies. This energy-agnostic capability provides maximum flexibility for healthcare facilities while demonstrating NextNRG’s ability to serve as a complete energy solution provider rather than just a renewable energy company.

    Healthcare facilities represent a particularly compelling market opportunity for NextNRG’s own-and-operate model. Hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities prioritize energy reliability and long-term cost predictability, making them ideal candidates for long-term PPA arrangements. The healthcare sector’s essential nature and regulatory requirements create a stable customer base with predictable energy needs and willingness to pay for enhanced reliability.

    The addressable market for NextNRG’s smart microgrid solutions in the healthcare sector is substantial, with 15,300 nursing homes and 32,231 assisted living facilities across the United States. These facilities are subject to stringent regulatory requirements mandating backup power systems to ensure continuous operation of life-safety equipment, HVAC systems, and critical care infrastructure. NextNRG’s comprehensive smart microgrids provide a superior alternative to traditional diesel generators, offering cleaner, more reliable backup storage while meeting all applicable healthcare regulations and emergency preparedness standards. NextNRG’s TAM in healthcare microgrids is roughly $3.2 billion in annual revenue opportunity today, growing into the $7–8 billion range by the early 2030s, driven by resilient infrastructure needs, AI integration, and regulatory tailwinds.

    “The healthcare sector represents a massive market opportunity where our ownership model and technology create significant value,” added Mr. Farkas. “These facilities cannot afford power interruptions, and our comprehensive smart microgrid solutions powered by machine learning provide the energy security they require while generating stable, long-term cash flows for NextNRG from our owned energy assets. We see substantial potential to replicate this ownership and energy sales model across thousands of healthcare facilities nationwide.”

    These projects build on NextNRG’s recent momentum, including its partnership with Hudson Sustainable Group, inclusion in the Russell 2000® and Russell 3000® indexes, and record-breaking revenue growth with preliminary May 2025 revenue of $6.6 million representing 148% year-over-year growth. The healthcare market expansion complements NextNRG’s established mobile fueling operations across six U.S. states with 144 active delivery trucks.

    The agreement advances NextNRG’s strategy of deploying next-generation energy infrastructure through its integrated ecosystem of AI-optimized solutions, establishing the company as a leader in intelligent energy management and delivery across essential service sectors.

    About NextNRG, Inc.

    NextNRG Inc. (NextNRG) is Powering What’s Next by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into renewable energy, next-generation energy infrastructure, battery storage, wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging and on-demand mobile fuel delivery to create an integrated ecosystem.

    At the core of NextNRG’s strategy is its Next Utility Operating System®, which leverages AI and ML to help make existing utilities’ energy management as efficient as possible; and the deployment of NextNRG smart microgrids, which utilize AI-driven energy management alongside solar power and battery storage to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and improve grid resiliency. These microgrids are designed to serve commercial properties, healthcare campuses, universities, parking garages, rural and tribal lands, recreational facilities, and government properties, expanding energy accessibility while supporting decarbonization initiatives.

    NextNRG continues to expand its growing fleet of fuel delivery trucks and national footprint, including the acquisition of Yoshi Mobility’s fuel division and Shell Oil’s trucks, further solidifying its position as a leader in the on-demand fueling industry. NextNRG is also integrating sustainable energy solutions into its mobile fueling operations. The company hopes to be an integral part of assisting its fleet customers in their transition to EV, providing fuel delivery while advancing efficient energy adoption. The transition process is expected to include the deployment of NextNRG’s innovative wireless EV charging solutions.

    To find out more visit: www.nextnrg.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statement describing NextNRG’s goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions, or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Words such as “expect,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to NextNRG’s business and macroeconomic and geopolitical events. These and other risks are described in NextNRG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. NextNRG’s forward-looking statements involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although NextNRG’s forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by NextNRG. Except as required by law, NextNRG undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact

    NextNRG, Inc.
    Sharon Cohen
    SCohen@nextnrg.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Say goodbye to cryptocurrency speculation anxiety! Decryption: Get a stable daily income of $9 to $19,494 through ETHRANSACTION cloud mining

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Watching the market late at night, heartbeats soaring with the K-line – this is the daily life of retail investors in cryptocurrency trading. When Bitcoin broke through $120,000 and Ethereum fluctuated violently, countless people lost all their money due to leverage liquidation. However, a group of “lazy investors” quietly made money: the numbers on their mobile phone screens jumped steadily every day, $9, $50, and even $9,000… What’s the secret? The answer is ETHRANSACTION, a cloud mining platform that sweeps the world.

    Why did 8 million users give up cryptocurrency trading and choose ETHRANSACTION?

    Traditional cryptocurrency trading is like a casino, and ETHRANSACTION has reshaped the rules – turning fluctuations into daily cash flow. With three core advantages, the platform has become a safe haven for retail and team investors:

    Absolutely stable daily income:
    Regardless of market ups and downs, ETHRANSACTION contracts automatically pay dividends every day. For example:

    $100 trial contract: $18 profit in 2 days, $9 per day

    $33,000 advanced contract: daily profit up to $613.8, principal doubled in 40 days

    Users do not need to analyze the market, and the profit is credited to the account on time like wages, completely saying goodbye to “roller coaster anxiety”.

    “Lazy Revolution” with zero threshold

    ✅ No hardware required: abandon mining machines and sky-high electricity bills, and rent cloud computing power with one click;

    ✅ 3-step start: register → select contract → wait for profit, 24-hour automatic settlement;

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    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Zonal pricing is dead – here’s how the UK should change its electricity system instead

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Cassandra Etter-Wenzel, DPhil Candidate in Energy Policy, University of Oxford

    Marcin Rogozinski/Shutterstock

    The UK government has decided against setting different prices for electricity based on the locations of consumers.

    Zonal pricing would have categorised Britain into distinct zones, each with wholesale electricity prices that reflect how much power is generated locally, and how much demand there is for it. It would have raised prices in areas with lots of demand but low generation, like London, and lowered them where supply outstrips demand, such as in the turbine-rich Scottish Highlands.

    This might have caused an immediate increase in the energy bills of already vulnerable households in some high-demand, low-generation areas, such as Tower Hamlets in London and Blackpool in north-west England.

    But the idea was to encourage the construction of renewable energy to meet high demand in higher-priced zones, and prompt big electricity consumers to move to where electricity is cheaper. It was also intended to ease the need for new infrastructure to transmit electricity over long distances, like pylons. Australia, Norway and several EU nations already use this method.

    The ultimate goal of zonal pricing was to make the price of electricity more accurately reflect generation and transmission costs. However, one thing has significantly inflated electricity prices in recent years, which this pricing method wouldn’t have addressed on its own: gas.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Gas is expensive, even more so since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Britain’s electricity system operator brings power plants onto the system to meet demand in order of the lowest to highest marginal costs.

    The point at which supply meets demand forms the wholesale price of electricity. Renewable sources, like wind and solar, have zero or very low marginal costs. But most of the time the wholesale price is set by gas plants, because they can readily fill a gap in supply but have high and erratic marginal costs (largely tied to what they pay for fuel).

    We need another, cheaper technology to set the wholesale price of electricity. Batteries, which can store electricity over several hours, and options capable of storing energy for longer, such as compressed air and low-carbon hydrogen, could be just the thing.

    The idea is simple: batteries can be charged at times when there is a lot of surplus electricity generation (on a bright, windy day, for example) and discharge it at times of peak demand (or when the sun doesn’t shine and the wind doesn’t blow). This would entail grid operators (and ultimately, consumers) not having to pay gas plants to fire up when renewable generation cannot meet the shortfall.

    Unfortunately, batteries comprised just 6% of Britain’s total electricity capacity in 2024. Investment in energy storage has lagged behind what the government forecasts is necessary to meet its 2030 clean power goals, but it is at least increasing.

    Research shows that the more money that is invested in batteries, the more associated costs come down. If used instead of gas to stabilise the grid, energy storage could significantly lower the wholesale cost of the UK’s energy over time, and with the right balance of policies, household bills too. This would require subsidies to cover some of the cost of making and installing batteries, and planning mandates to build new renewables alongside new batteries.

    Affordable and fair

    The government could also try alternatives to zonal pricing. Wholesale electricity prices could reflect the “strike” price in renewable energy contracts. This is the price at which developers have agreed to build clean electricity generation projects, like wind farms. This would mean that gas no longer sets the wholesale price, but stable, predictable prices agreed years in advance, which would help to regulate the retail costs consumers pay.

    Solar arrays installed on farmland in Devon, southern England.
    Pjhpix/Shutterstock

    These types of reforms can help set efficient energy prices, which the government usually talks about as the price needed to encourage investment in new energy technologies. But just because prices are efficient, it doesn’t mean they’re fair. Some households struggle to afford their energy bills even when markets are working efficiently. So, when prices change to encourage cleaner energy, it can hit them harder.

    The government should implement new policies and expand eligibility for existing measures to take the burden off energy-poor households. These include social tariffs, which offer discounted rates to vulnerable consumers, and discounts for blocks of electricity use when renewables are generating a lot of it.

    Transition funds could help poorer households meet bills, while schemes to encourage home insulation and other improvements could see more homes with rooftop solar panels and battery storage.

    This support, combined with increasing investment in energy storage and renewables, will lower the wholesale price of electricity over time – and make energy more affordable (and fair) for everyone.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Anupama Sen has previously received funding from the Quadrature Climate Foundation and Children’s Investment Fund Foundation.

    Cassandra Etter-Wenzel and Sam Fankhauser 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. Zonal pricing is dead – here’s how the UK should change its electricity system instead – https://theconversation.com/zonal-pricing-is-dead-heres-how-the-uk-should-change-its-electricity-system-instead-260985

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: MethaneSat: The climate spy satellite that went quiet

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Vincent Gauci, Professorial Fellow, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham

    Satellites circling the Earth have many different functions, including navigation, communications and Earth observation. About 8%-10% of all active satellites are military or “dual use” serving intelligence or reconnaissance functions as spy satellites.

    But it was a climate satellite serving as both spy and “name and shame” police officer in the sky that recently caught the world’s attention when it went quiet.

    MethaneSat was developed to spot emission hot spots or plumes of invisible methane pollution from space. Built by the US non-profit, the Environmental Defense Fund with Nasa’s support, it tracked methane leaks from oil and gas sites, farms and landfills across the globe.

    These are among the biggest human-caused emission sources. But methane emissions are traditionally hard to spot because they come from so many relatively small point sources or plumes.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    This specialist observation satellite was developed and deployed because methane acts differently to other greenhouse gas emissions. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that, over 20 years, is more than 80 times more powerful a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

    Since 1750, additional human-caused methane emissions have contributed directly and indirectly, to around 60% of the global warming of carbon dioxide over that time.

    Methane also has a short lifetime. Where carbon dioxide stays in the atmosphere for in excess of 100 years, relying on plant uptake for its removal from the atmosphere and conversion into other carbon forms, methane is broken down in the atmosphere by molecules known as hydroxyl radicals. These are nicknamed “the atmosphere’s detergent”, because they effectively remove methane from the atmosphere in less than ten years.

    A gas flare at an oil refinery – one of many pinpoint sources of methane emissions.
    hkhtt hj/Shutterstock

    This combination of short lifetime and high global warming potential (a measure of the climate strength of the gas relative to carbon dioxide) makes methane both a problem and an ideal target for reduction. In fact, growth in atmospheric methane is occurring at such a rate that it is placing us dangerously off track from meeting our Paris agreement obligations to stay within 1.5°C of climate warming by 2050 and 2°C by 2100.

    Eyes in the sky

    But how can we achieve these reductions and what was the role of MethaneSat in seeking to meet this objective?

    There are two ways atmospheric methane concentrations can be reduced. A recent and more challenging proposition is that methane is actively removed from the atmosphere.

    This is difficult because it relies on technological advances that are at their earliest stages (although growing more trees can go some way to achieving this). Another more realistic approach is to reduce emissions and then to let atmospheric chemistry do the work of removing excess methane in the atmosphere.

    The global methane pledge was announced in 2021 at the UN climate summit, Cop26, in Glasgow. This aimed to reduce human-caused methane emissions by 30% on 2020 levels by 2030. More than 150 countries have now signed up to this pledge. If successful, it could reduce warming by up to 0.2°C by 2050. That’s why MethaneSat was so useful.

    MethaneSat is fitted with a hyperspectral sensor – which can record sunlight reflected off Earth in hundreds of narrow colour bands across the spectrum, far beyond what our eyes can see. It’s capable of picking up concentrations of methane in air at minute quantities.

    This sensor allowed the satellite to spot individual plumes of methane, so it had a crucial role in identifying those problem areas. Given that these are dispersed but also individual point sources, it was invaluable in intervening in the leaks, permitting identification of those responsible so they could be held to account and so address the problem.

    No one instrument can cover what MethaneSat could do with freely available data. It had high precision, high spatial resolution and, critically, global coverage and it was particularly useful at identifying plumes in nations that don’t have the resources for the sort of regional surveys using aircraft mounted systems that can fill the gap in developed regions.

    Now that MethaneSat is no longer operational, there are some other tools to identify small anthropogenic emissions sources, but they tend to be regionally focused like the aircraft measurements mentioned.

    Other satellites gather similar data but that data sits behind commercial paywalls, whereas MethaneSat data was freely available. Collectively, these drawbacks mean that it’s just going to be that much harder to spot the emissions MethaneSat was so good at tracking.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Vincent Gauci receives funding from the NERC, Spark Climate Solutions, the JABBS Foundation and has received funding from the Royal Society, Defra and the AXA Research Fund.

    – ref. MethaneSat: The climate spy satellite that went quiet – https://theconversation.com/methanesat-the-climate-spy-satellite-that-went-quiet-261022

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three MS-13 Members Charged with Racketeering Conspiracy Involving Murder

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Three alleged members of the notorious gang La Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, made their initial appearance in the District of Maryland yesterday for their role in a racketeering conspiracy, including murder and drug trafficking.

    “As alleged, the defendants are MS-13 members who carried out a brutal and senseless murder in exchange for promotions within the gang and drugs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their actions furthered MS-13’s reign of terror across communities in Maryland. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue charges against MS-13 members and associates and will not relent until this dangerous gang is eradicated from our streets.”

    “The brutal retaliatory murder of this victim is a chilling reminder of the MS-13 gang’s callous disregard for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Those who assault and kill others must be brought to justice and ultimately held accountable for their actions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will continue to work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent criminal organizations that terrorize our communities.”

    “The FBI and our partners are committed to using every tool available to prevent violent criminals from terrorizing the communities they live in,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “We will not let up. We will relentlessly pursue those who engage in violent activity like murder and drug trafficking until they are held accountable.”

    According to court documents, on July 4, 2024, Maxwell Ariel Quijano-Casco, 24, of El Salvador; Daniel Isaias Villanueva-Bautista, 19, of El Salvador; and Josue Mauricio Lainez, 21, of Hyattsville, Maryland, allegedly killed a homeless man as part of their involvement with MS-13. On July 5, 2024, a passerby called 911 after seeing the victim sitting in a blue 2008 Dodge Caravan that was parked in a used car lot in Hyattsville, Maryland. When the police arrived, they found the deceased victim, who appeared to have been stabbed in the neck. Investigators obtained video surveillance from a nearby business that captured the incident.

    The surveillance video shows that at approximately 11:35 p.m Quijano-Casco and another person approach the victim. The video shows the victim wielding what looks like a metal pole at Quijano-Casco, at which point Quijano-Casco and the other person flee on foot and the victim returns to the Dodge Caravan. About 15 minutes later, Quijano-Casco returns with co-defendants Villanueva-Bautista, Lainez, and another person. At approximately 11:48 p.m., the video surveillance shows all four of them approaching the blue Dodge Caravan. 

    The surveillance video then shows Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, Lainez, and the unnamed person opening the van’s rear sliding driver’s side door, reaching inside, and moving as if striking someone. 

    The victim does not exit the blue Dodge Caravan after the attack.

    On Aug. 23, 2024, Prince George’s County Police arrested Quijano-Casco and Villanueva-Bautista. Quijano-Casco was in possession of a black Ruger P95DC semi-automatic handgun and about eight grams of cocaine at the time of his arrest. Quijano-Casco and Villanueva both admitted that they were present for the altercation where the victim was murdered. Quijano-Casco allegedly admitted to Prince George’s County Police to stabbing the individual.

    Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, and Lainez are each charged with racketeering conspiracy, including the July 4, 2024, murder. If convicted, Quijano-Casco, Villanueva-Bautista, and Lainez face a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI and Prince George’s County Police Department are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Christina Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Crespo for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: California farmers identify a hot new cash crop: Solar power

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Jacob Stid, Ph.D. student in Hydrogeology, Michigan State University

    This dairy farm in California’s Central Valley has installed solar panels on a portion of its land. George Rose/Getty Images

    Imagine that you own a small, 20-acre farm in California’s Central Valley. You and your family have cultivated this land for decades, but drought, increasing costs and decreasing water availability are making each year more difficult.

    Now imagine that a solar-electricity developer approaches you and presents three options:

    • You can lease the developer 10 acres of otherwise productive cropland, on which the developer will build an array of solar panels and sell electricity to the local power company.
    • You can select 1 or 2 acres of your land on which to build and operate your own solar array, using some electricity for your farm and selling the rest to the utility.
    • Or you can keep going as you have been, hoping your farm can somehow survive.

    Thousands of farmers across the country, including in the Central Valley, are choosing one of the first two options. A 2022 survey by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that roughly 117,000 U.S. farm operations have some type of solar device. Our own work has identified over 6,500 solar arrays currently located on U.S. farmland.

    Our study of nearly 1,000 solar arrays built on 10,000 acres of the Central Valley over the past two decades found that solar power and farming are complementing each other in farmers’ business operations. As a result, farmers are making and saving more money while using less water – helping them keep their land and livelihood.

    A hotter, drier and more built-up future

    Perhaps nowhere in the U.S. is farmland more valuable or more productive than California’s Central Valley. The region grows a vast array of crops, including nearly all of the nation’s production of almonds, olives and sweet rice. Using less than 1% of all farmland in the country, the Central Valley supplies a quarter of the nation’s food, including 40% of its fruits, nuts and other fresh foods.

    The food, fuel and fiber that these farms produce are a bedrock of the nation’s economy, food system and way of life.

    But decades of intense cultivation, urban development and climate change are squeezing farmers. Water is limited, and getting more so: A state law passed in 2014 requires farmers to further reduce their water usage by the mid-2040s.

    California’s Central Valley is some of the most productive cropland in the country.
    Citizen of the Planet/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    The trade-offs of installing solar on agricultural land

    When the solar arrays we studied were installed, California state solar energy policy and incentives gave farm landowners new ways to diversify their income by either leasing their land for solar arrays or building their own.

    There was an obvious trade-off: Turning land used for crops to land used for solar usually means losing agricultural production. We estimated that over the 25-year life of the solar arrays, this land would have produced enough food to feed 86,000 people a year, assuming they eat 2,000 calories a day.

    There was an obvious benefit, too, of clean energy: These arrays produced enough renewable electricity to power 470,000 U.S. households every year.

    But the result we were hoping to identify and measure was the economic effect of shifting that land from agricultural farming to solar farming. We found that farmers who installed solar were dramatically better off than those who did not.

    They were better off in two ways, the first being financially. All the farmers, whether they owned their own arrays or leased their land to others, saved money on seeds, fertilizer and other costs associated with growing and harvesting crops. They also earned money from leasing the land, offsetting farm energy bills, and selling their excess electricity.

    Farmers who owned their own arrays had to pay for the panels, equipment and installation, and maintenance. But even after covering those costs, their savings and earnings added up to US$50,000 per acre of profits every year, 25 times the amount they would have earned by planting that acre.

    Farmers who leased their land made much less money but still avoided costs for irrigation water and operations on that part of their farm, gaining $1,100 per acre per year – with no up-front costs.

    The farmers also conserved water, which in turn supported compliance with the state’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act water use reduction requirements. Most of the solar arrays were installed on land that had previously been irrigated. We calculated that turning off irrigation on this land saved enough water every year to supply about 27 million people with drinking water or irrigate 7,500 acres of orchards. Following solar array installation, some farmers also fallowed surrounding land, perhaps enabled by the new stable income stream, which further reduced water use.

    Irrigation is key to cropland productivity in California’s Central Valley. Covering some land with solar panels eliminates the need for irrigation of that area, saving water for other uses elsewhere.
    Citizen of the Planet/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    Changes to food and energy production

    Farmers in the Central Valley and elsewhere are now cultivating both food and energy. This shift can offer long-term security for farmland owners, particularly for those who install and run their own arrays.

    Recent estimates suggest that converting between 1.1% and 2.4% of the country’s farmland to solar arrays would, along with other clean energy sources, generate enough electricity to eliminate the nation’s need for fossil fuel power plants.

    Though many crops are part of a global market that can adjust to changes in supply, losing this farmland could affect the availability of some crops. Fortunately, farmers and landowners are finding new ways to protect farmland and food security while supporting clean energy.

    One such approach is agrivoltaics, where farmers install solar designed for grazing livestock or growing crops beneath the panels. Solar can also be sited on less productive farmland or on farmland that is used for biofuels rather than food production.

    Even in these areas, arrays can be designed and managed to benefit local agriculture and natural ecosystems. With thoughtful design, siting and management, solar can give back to the land and the ecosystems it touches.

    Farms are much more than the land they occupy and the goods they produce. Farms are run by people with families, whose well-being depends on essential and variable resources such as water, fertilizer, fuel, electricity and crop sales. Farmers often borrow money during the planting season in hopes of making enough at harvest time to pay off the debt and keep a little profit.

    Installing solar on their land can give farmers a diversified income, help them save water, and reduce the risk of bad years. That can make solar an asset to farming, not a threat to the food supply.

    Jacob Stid works for Michigan State University. Funding for this work came from the US Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture program and the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Michigan State University. He also receives funding from the Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research.

    Annick Anctil receives funding from NSF and USDA.

    Anthony Kendall receives funding from the USDA, NASA, the NSF, and the Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research. He is an Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, and serves on the nonprofit board of the FLOW Water Advocates.

    – ref. California farmers identify a hot new cash crop: Solar power – https://theconversation.com/california-farmers-identify-a-hot-new-cash-crop-solar-power-259653

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: OPTIZMO™ Returns as the Official Email Compliance Sponsor for MailCon 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OPTIZMO Technologies, the leading platform for email suppression list management, data security, and email compliance, proudly announces its return as the Official Email Compliance Sponsor for MailCon 2025, taking place on Sunday, August 3, at Convene, Times Square, in New York City.

    Hosted and operated by Phonexa, MailCon has become the premier destination for high-volume email marketers and performance-driven acquisition professionals. It brings together advertisers, lead gen experts, and marketing technologists to explore the evolving future of email, multichannel, and compliance strategies at scale.

    This year’s event will spotlight key industry trends, including inbox engagement, the impact of AI on email strategy, compliance, and consent in cold outreach, and vertical-specific acquisition strategies across sectors like insurance, health, finance, automotive, and home services. With an emphasis on monetization, offer scaling, and long-term value, MailCon offers a one-day agenda packed with insights and tactical sessions designed for practitioners and decision-makers alike.

    MailCon 2025 also introduces several new experiences this year:

    • A reimagined exhibit hall designed to keep traffic flowing and conversations energized throughout the day
    • The launch of Amplify by Phonexa, a new live content studio spotlighting partner interviews, thought leadership, and product launches
    • The Zero Parallel Cocktail Reception, providing a casual, pre-event networking opportunity at the Convene
    • The return of the MailCon Mixer, hosted at Ascent Lounge NYC, offering attendees a signature after-party with panoramic skyline views

    As a longtime MailCon sponsor and advocate for compliant email practices, OPTIZMO is committed to driving innovation, transparency, and compliance across the industry.

    “As a long-time supporter of MailCon, it’s great to return as the Official Email Compliance Sponsor again in 2025,” said Khris Thayer, CEO and Co-Founder of OPTIZMO. “It’s an exciting time for the email industry, and we’re proud to contribute to the conversations that are shaping its future.”

    As part of the MailCon agenda, OPTIZMO’s Chief Operating Officer, Tom Wozniak, will be featured in a Fireside Chat titled “Compliance, Credibility, and the Cost of Doing Nothing”. Joined by Jack Wrigley, VP of Partner Development at Webbula.

    Attendees are encouraged to visit Booth #129 to connect with the OPTIZMO team, learn more about their flagship compliance platform, Suppress, and get an exclusive first look at OPTIZMO’s newest product. It is a platform built to bring smarter orchestration, optimized workflows, and better performance to email campaign management.

    Following MailCon, OPTIZMO will also attend Affiliate Summit East (Meet Market Table #2405), taking place August 4-5 in New York. With a full team on-site, including members from their U.S. and Australia offices, OPTIZMO will continue connecting with partners and clients, highlighting innovations in email compliance and campaign execution. 

    About OPTIZMO
    OPTIZMO Technologies is the recognized thought leader in the email and online marketing space for email suppression list management and compliance, campaign orchestration and optimization, data management, and risk mitigation services. With an expert staff in pursuit of unrivaled efficiency, innovative technology, and an insatiable desire to problem-solve, clients find a customer-centric business model that not only enhances the way OPTIZMO clients do business but drives the company forward. The company is headquartered in Austin, TX, and has offices and team members in Charleston, Denver, and Brisbane, Australia.

    Media Contact:
    Antonio Jones
    Marketing Manager
    antonio@optizmo.com

    Tom Wozniak
    Chief Operating Officer
    tom@optizmo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Plumas Bancorp Reports Second Quarter 2025 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RENO, Nev., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plumas Bancorp (Nasdaq:PLBC), the parent company of Plumas Bank, today announced earnings during the second quarter of 2025 of $6.3 million or $1.07 per share, a decrease of $465 thousand from $6.8 million or $1.15 per share during the second quarter of 2024. Diluted earnings per share decreased to $1.05 per share during the three months ended June 30, 2025 down from $1.14 per share during the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

    Return on average assets was 1.56% during the current quarter, down from 1.67% during the second quarter of 2024. Return on average equity decreased to 13.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, down from 17.1% during the second quarter of 2024.

    Net interest income decreased by $222 thousand from $18.4 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024, to $18.2 million during the current quarter. The provision for credit losses decreased from $925 thousand during the second quarter of 2024 to $860 thousand during the current quarter.

    Non-interest income increased by $159 thousand from $2.2 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $2.4 million during the second quarter of 2025.

    Non-interest expense increased by $616 thousand from $10.4 million during the second quarter of 2024 to $11.0 million during the current quarter. Of this amount, $481 thousand relates to costs associated with our acquisition of Cornerstone Community Bancorp. We signed a definitive agreement to acquire Cornerstone Community Bancorp on January 28, 2025 and we completed the merger on July 1, 2025. Merger transaction costs that facilitate the merger are not deductible for income tax purposes. Of the $481 thousand in merger related costs, $239 thousand is estimated to be not deductible for state and federal income tax.

    The provision for income taxes decreased by $149 thousand from $2.5 million, 26.9% of pre-tax income, during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $2.4 million, or 27.1% of pre-tax income, during the current quarter.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Company reported net income of $13.5 million or $2.28 per share, an increase of $461 thousand from $13.0 million or $2.21 per share earned during the six months ended June 30, 2024. Earnings per diluted share increased to $2.25 during the six months ended June 30, 2025, up $0.06 from $2.19 during the first six months of 2024.     

    Return on average assets was 1.67% during the six months ended June 30, 2025, up from 1.61% during the first half of 2024. Return on average equity decreased to 14.7% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, down from 16.7% during the first half of 2024.

    Net interest income increased by $860 thousand from $35.9 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024, to $36.7 million during the current period. The provision for credit losses decreased from $1.7 million during the first half of 2024 to $1.1 million during the current period.

    Non-interest income increased by $1.2 million from $4.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $5.5 million during the first half of 2025 related primarily to a legal settlement totaling $1.1 million. This settlement related to the Dixie Fire which swept through the town of Greenville, California in August of 2021. The fire caused severe damage to the Greenville area, including the telecommunications infrastructure which adversely affected our ability to service our customers in this area during the last few years.

    Non-interest expense increased by $1.7 million from $20.8 million during the first half of 2024 to $22.5 million during the current period. Of this amount, $1.1 million relates to costs associated with our pending acquisition of Cornerstone Community Bancorp. Of the $1.1 million in merger related costs, $801 thousand is estimated to be not deductible for state and federal income tax.

    The provision for income taxes increased by $583 thousand from $4.6 million, or 26.2% of pre-tax income, during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $5.2 million, or 27.8% of pre-tax income, during the current period.

    Balance Sheet Highlights
    June 30, 2025 compared to June 30, 2024

    • Gross loans increased by $21 million, or 2%, to $1.0 billion.
    • Total deposits increased by $62 million, or 5%, to $1.4 billion.
    • Borrowings decreased by $105 million, or 88% to $15 million.
    • Total equity increased by $28 million, or 17%, to $193 million.
    • Book value per share increased by $4.53, or 16%, to $32.54.

    President’s Comments

    Andrew J. Ryback, director, president, and chief executive officer of Plumas Bancorp and Plumas Bank, announced, “The third quarter of 2025 began with a major development for Plumas; we successfully completed our acquisitions of Cornerstone Community Bank and Bancorp, expanding our presence in California’s northern Sacramento Valley. We are thrilled to have Ken Robison, formerly a director at Cornerstone, join the boards of Plumas Bancorp and Bank. We also welcome Matt Moseley, former President and CEO of Cornerstone Community Bank, to the executive team as Market President. Their extensive leadership experience and market knowledge will be instrumental in the ongoing success of our combined organization.”

    Ryback continued, “Beyond the acquisition, we have also been focused on internal advancements. We are expanding our treasury management services to provide comprehensive, personalized banking solutions with enhanced security features. Simultaneously, we have gained efficiency in our lending process through on-going refinements to our lending platforms and department structures.”

    Ryback concluded, “We extend a warm welcome to the clients, employees, and shareholders of Cornerstone. We look forward to providing long-term value to our expanded shareholders, clients, team members, and communities.”

    Loans, Deposits, Investments and Cash

    Gross loans increased by $21 million, or 2%, from $997 million at June 30, 2024, to $1.0 billion at June 30, 2025. Increases in loans included $85 million in commercial real estate loans and $3 million in equity lines of credit; these items were partially offset by decreases of $29 million in automobile loans, $27 million in construction loans, $10 million in agricultural loans and $1 million in residential real estate loans.

    On   June 30, 2025, approximately 78% of the Company’s loan portfolio was comprised of variable rate loans. The rates of interest charged on variable rate loans are set at specific increments in relation to the Company’s lending rate or other indexes such as the published prime interest rate or U.S. Treasury rates and vary with changes in these indexes. The frequency at which variable rate loans reprice can vary from one day to several years. Most of our commercial real estate portfolio reprices every five years. Approximately 76% of the variable rate loans are indexed to the five year T-Bill rate and reprice every five years. Loans indexed to the prime interest rate were approximately 21% of the Company’s variable rate loan portfolio; these loans reprice within one day to three months of a change in the prime rate.

    Total deposits increased by $62 million to $1.4 billion at June 30, 2025 from $1.3 billion at June 30, 2024. The increase in deposits includes increases of $67 million in money market accounts and $29 million in time deposits. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases of $2 million in demand deposits and $32 million in savings deposits. We attribute much of the increase in money market accounts to higher rate public entity deposits. At June 30, 2025, 49% of the Company’s deposits were in the form of non-interest-bearing demand deposits. The Company had no brokered deposits at June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024.

    Total investment securities decreased by $5 million from $445 million at June 30, 2024, to $440 million at June 30, 2025. The Bank’s investment security portfolio consists of debt securities issued by US Government agencies, US Government sponsored agencies and municipalities. Cash and due from banks decreased by $31 million from $110 million at June 30, 2024, to $79 million at June 30, 2025.

    Asset Quality

    Nonperforming assets (which are comprised of nonperforming loans, other real estate owned (“OREO”) and repossessed vehicle holdings) at June 30, 2025 were $13.7 million, up from $9.1 million at June 30, 2024. Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets increased to 0.84% at June 30, 2025 up from 0.56% at June 30, 2024. OREO decreased by $50 thousand from $141 thousand at June 30, 2024 to $91 thousand at June 30, 2025. Nonperforming loans were $13.6 million at June 30, 2025 and $9.0 million at June 30, 2024. Nonaccrual loans totaled $13.6 million at June 30, 2025 and $2.5 million at June 30, 2024. At June 30, 2025 there were no loans 90 days or more past due that were not on nonaccrual. The difference between the $2.5 million in nonaccrual loans at June 30, 2024 and the $9 million in nonperforming loans in 2024 were loans that were over 90 days past due, but not on nonaccrual. Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans increased to 1.34% at June 30, 2025, up from 0.90% at June 30, 2024. The increase in nonperforming loans is related to one agricultural loan relationship of 15 loans totaling $9.9 million. The borrower on these loans was unable to meet his commitments under modified loan agreements and therefore during the quarter we placed the loans on nonaccrual status. Interest reversed on these loans during the current quarter totaled $344 thousand and specific loan loss reserves totaling $931 thousand were applied against the loans.

    During the first half of 2025 we recorded a provision for credit losses of $1.1 million consisting of a provision for credit losses on loans of $1.1 million and a decrease in the reserve for unfunded commitments of $40 thousand. The $1.1 million mostly relates to the specific loan loss reserves noted in the previous paragraph. This compares to a provision for credit losses of $1.7 million consisting of a provision for credit losses on loans of $1.8 million and a decrease in the reserve for unfunded commitments of $79 thousand during the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Net charge-offs totaled $137 thousand and $610 thousand during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The allowance for credit losses totaled $14.2 million at June 30, 2025 and $14.1 million at June 30, 2024. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans was 1.39% and 1.41% at June 30, 2025 and 2024.

    The following tables present the activity in the allowance for credit losses and the reserve for unfunded commitments during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands).

    Allowance for Credit Losses   June 30, 2025     June 30, 2024
    Balance, beginning of period $ 13,196     $ 12,867  
    Provision charged to operations   1,150       1,825  
    Losses charged to allowance   (506 )     (1,010 )
    Recoveries                                   369       400  
    Balance, end of period $     14,209     $     14,082  
    Reserve for Unfunded
    Commitments    		  

    June 30, 2025

    		    

    June 30, 2024
    Balance, beginning of period $                                620     $ 799  
    Provision charged to operations   (40 )     (79 )
    Balance, end of period $                                 580     $ 720  

    Shareholders’ Equity

    Total shareholders’ equity increased by $27.9 million from $165.2 million at June 30, 2024, to $193.1 million at June 30, 2025. The $27.9 million includes earnings during the twelve-month period totaling $29.1 million, a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $4.4 million and restricted stock and stock option activity totaling $1.1 million. These items were partially offset by the payment of cash dividends totaling $6.7 million.

    Bank Term Funding Program (BTFP)

    At June 30, 2024, the Company had outstanding borrowings under BTFP totaling $105 million. All BTFP borrowings were paid off during 2024. Interest expense recognized on the BTFP borrowings for the three and six-months ended June 30, 2024, was $1.3 million and $2.5 million, respectively.

    Liquidity

    The Company manages its liquidity to provide the ability to generate funds to support asset growth, meet deposit withdrawals (both anticipated and unanticipated), fund customers’ borrowing needs and satisfy maturity of short-term borrowings. The Company’s liquidity needs are managed using assets or liabilities, or both. On the asset side, in addition to cash and due from banks, the Company maintains an investment portfolio which includes unpledged U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities that are classified as available-for-sale. On the liability side, liquidity needs are managed by offering competitive rates on deposit products and the use of established credit lines.

    The Company is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLB) and can borrow up to $255 million from the FHLB secured by commercial and residential mortgage loans with carrying values totaling $439 million. The Company is also eligible to borrow at the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) Discount Window. At June 30, 2025, the Company could borrow up to $98 million at the Discount Window secured by investment securities with a fair value of $101 million. In addition to its FHLB borrowing line and the Discount Window, the Company has unsecured short-term borrowing agreements with two of its correspondent banks in the amounts of $50 million and $20 million. There were no outstanding borrowings to the FHLB, FRB Discount Window or the correspondent banks at June 30, 2025 and 2024.

    Customer deposits are the Company’s primary source of funds. Total deposits increased by $62 million to $1.4 billion at June 30, 2025 from $1.3 billion at June 30, 2024. Deposits are held in various forms with varying maturities. The Company estimates that it has approximately $516 million in uninsured deposits which include uninsured deposits of Plumas Bancorp. Of this amount, $206 million represents deposits that are collateralized such as deposits of states, municipalities and tribal accounts.

    The Company’s securities portfolio, Discount Window advances, FHLB advances, and cash and due from banks serve as the primary sources of liquidity, providing adequate funding for loans during periods of high loan demand. During periods of decreased lending, funds obtained from the maturing or sale of investments, loan payments, and new deposits are invested in short-term earning assets, such as cash held at the FRB and investment securities, to serve as a source of funding for future loan growth. Management believes that the Company’s available sources of funds, including borrowings, will provide adequate liquidity for its operations in the near future.

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin – Three Months Ended June 30, 2025

    Net interest income was $18.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, a decrease of $222 thousand from the same period in 2024. The decrease in net interest income includes a decrease of $527 thousand in interest income partially offset by a decrease of $305 thousand in interest expense. Interest and fees on loans increased by $200 thousand related to growth in the loan portfolio partially offset by a decline in yield.

    Average loan balances increased by $39 million, while the average yield on these loans decreased by 18 basis points from 6.32% during the second quarter of 2024 to 6.14% during the current quarter. Of the 18 basis points decrease, 13 basis points relate to the reversal of $344 thousand in interest previously described under “Asset Quality” The average prime interest rate decreased from 8.5% during the second quarter of 2024 to 7.5% during the current quarter. Approximately 16% of the Company’s loans are tied to the prime interest rate and most of these reprice within one to three months with a change in prime. Additionally, during the second quarter of 2024 we recovered $316 thousand in interest on loans that were classified as nonaccrual and which were paid off in full during the quarter which elevated loan yield during the 2024 quarter. The effect of these items was partially offset by an increase in average yield on the bank’s fixed rate portfolio which includes growth in fixed rate SBA loans which totaled $75 million at June 30, 2025, and $62 million at June 30, 2024. The weighted average rate earned on this portfolio at June 30, 2025, was 8.3%. The Bank is also benefiting from the repricing of a portion of our Commercial Real Estate loans. Most of these loans are indexed to the 5-year Treasury note and reprice every five years.

    Interest on investment securities decreased by $30 thousand as yield on these securities decreased slightly from 4.11% during the 2024 quarter to 4.08% during the current quarter and average investment securities declined from $444 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $442 million during the current quarter.

    Interest on cash balances decreased by $697 thousand related to a decline in average balance of $42 million and a decrease in average rate paid on cash balances of 104 basis points from 5.51% during the second quarter of 2024 to 4.47% during the current quarter. This decline in yield was mostly related to a decline in rate paid on balances held at the FRB. The average rate earned on FRB balances decreased from 5.40% during the second quarter of 2024 to 4.40% during the current quarter.

    Interest expense decreased by $305 thousand, related to the repayment of the BTFP borrowings as discussed earlier. The average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased from 1.44% during the 2024 quarter to 1.33% in 2025 related to the decrease in these borrowings.

    Interest paid on deposits increased by $968 thousand and is broken down by product type as follows: money market accounts – $815 thousand, savings deposits – $83 thousand and time deposits $70 thousand. The increase in interest paid on money market accounts mostly relates to an increase in public entity balances and the rate earned on these balances. During the second half of 2024 and continuing into 2025, we have offered a premium money market rate on large balances of public entities in our service area, matching the rate they could earn from the California local agency investment fund. This has led to the significant increase in balances and rate paid on money market accounts. The average balance of money market accounts during the current quarter was $288 million, an increase of $72 million from $216 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024. The average rate paid on money market accounts increased 92 basis points to 1.79%. The increase in interest on savings accounts was driven by an increase in the average rate paid of 12 basis points to 34 basis points. The increase in interest on time deposits includes an increase in average balance of $23 million partially offset by a decline in average rate paid of 33 basis points to 2.53% as promotional time deposits issued in 2024 matured. Many of these promotional time deposits were renewed at lower rates. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased from 0.84% during the second quarter of 2024 to 1.30% during the current quarter. The average balance of interest-bearing deposits increased from $633 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $705 million during the quarter.

    Net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 decreased 6 basis points to 4.83%, down from 4.89% for the same period in 2024. Excluding the $344 thousand in interest reversed described earlier, net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 would have been 4.93%.

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin – Six Months Ended June 30, 2025

    Net interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $36.7 million, an increase of $860 thousand from the $35.9 million earned during the same period in 2024. The increase in net interest income includes an increase of $36 thousand in interest income and a reduction in interest expense of $824 thousand.

    Interest and fees on loans increased by $1.0 million related to an increase in average balance partially offset by a decline in yield. The average balance of loans during the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $1.0 billion, an increase of $44 million from $972 million during the same period in 2024. The average yield on loans decreased by 6 basis points from 6.21% during the first six months of 2024 to 6.15% during the current period.

    Interest on investment securities increased by $84 thousand related to an increase in yield of 21 basis points to 4.10% partially offset by a decline in average balance. The increase in investment yields is consistent with the increase in market rates and the restructuring of the investment portfolio in February of 2024. Average investment securities declined from $462 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $443 million during the current period.

    Interest on cash balances declined by $1.1 million related to both a decline in balance and a decline in yield. The rate earned on cash balances declined by 104 basis points to 4.5% and the average balance declined from $81.8 million during the first six months of 2024 to $53.8 million during the current period.

    Related to a $2.5 million decline in interest on BTFP borrowings partially offset by an increase in interest bearing deposits and an increase in the cost of these deposits, interest expense decreased from $5.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $4.5 million during the current period. The average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased from 1.39% during the 2024 period to 1.24% in 2025.

    Interest paid on deposits increased by $1.7 million and is broken down by product type as follows: money market accounts – $1.6 million and savings deposits – $109 thousand. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased from 0.79% during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to 1.21% during the current period. Average interest-bearing deposits totaled $698 million during the first half of 2025 an increase of $62 million from $636 million during the first half of 2024.

    Net interest margin for the six months ended June 30, 2025 increased 13 basis points to 4.89%, up from 4.76% for the same period in 2024.

    Non-Interest Income/Expense – Three Months Ended June 30, 2025

    Non-interest income increased by $159 thousand to $2.4 million during the current quarter. The largest increase was related to a $184 thousand adjustment to the value of our stock holdings in one of our correspondent banks.

    During the three months ended June 30, 2025, total non-interest expense increased by $616 thousand from $10.4 million during the second quarter of 2024 to $11.0 million during the current quarter. The largest components of this increase were merger related expenses of $481 thousand and salary and benefit expense of $270 thousand. The increase in salary and benefit expense includes an increase in salary expense of $216 thousand related primarily to merit and promotional salary increases. A decrease in deferred loan origination fees of $144 thousand was offset by a decline in commission expense of $180 thousand. Both items mostly relate to a decline in SBA loan production during the comparison quarters.

    Non-Interest Income/Expense – Six Months Ended June 30, 2025

    During the six months ended June 30, 2025, non-interest income totaled $5.6 million, an increase of $1.2 million from the six months ended June 30, 2024. The largest component of this increase was a legal settlement totaling $1.1 million related to the Dixie Fire in August of 2021.

    During the six months ended June 30, 2025, total non-interest expense increased by $1.7 million from $20.8 million during the first half of 2024 to $22.5 million during the current period. The largest components of this increase were merger related expenses of $1.1 million, salary and benefit expenses of $784 thousand and occupancy and equipment expenses of $425 thousand. The increase in salary and benefit expense included an increase in salary expense of $484 thousand related primarily to merit and promotional salary increases. A decrease in deferred loan origination fees of $257 thousand was offset by a decline in commission expense of $317 thousand. Both items mostly relate to a decline in SBA loan production during the comparison periods. The increase in occupancy and equipment expense mostly relates to an increase in rent expense of $374 thousand related to the February 2024 sales/leaseback transaction. Partially offsetting these increases in expense were several reductions in non-interest expense the largest of which was a reduction in professional fees of $320 thousand. Included in professional fees during the six months ended June 30, 2024 were legal expenses totaling $188 thousand related to a litigation matter that was settled in the second half of 2024.

    Plumas Bancorp is headquartered in Reno, Nevada. Plumas Bancorp’s principal subsidiary is Plumas Bank, which was founded in 1980. Plumas Bank is a full-service community bank headquartered in Quincy, California. The bank operates nineteen branches: seventeen located in the California counties of Butte, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sutter and Tehama and two branches located in Nevada in the counties of Carson City and Washoe. The bank also operates two loan production offices located in Auburn, California and Klamath Falls, Oregon. Plumas Bank offers a wide range of financial and investment services to consumers and businesses and has received nationwide Preferred Lender status with the United States Small Business Administration. For more information on Plumas Bancorp and Plumas Bank, please visit our website at www.plumasbank.com.

    This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and Plumas Bancorp intends for such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Future events are difficult to predict, and the expectations described above are necessarily subject to risk and uncertainty that may cause actual results to differ materially and adversely.

    Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include the words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” or “may.” These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management’s views as of any subsequent date. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those presented, either expressed or implied, in this news release. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to: the Company’s ability to successfully execute its business plans and achieve its objectives; changes in general economic and financial market conditions, either nationally or locally in areas in which the Company conducts its operations; changes in interest rates; continuing consolidation in the financial services industry; new litigation or changes in existing litigation; increased competitive challenges and expanding product and pricing pressures among financial institutions; legislation or regulatory changes which adversely affect the Company’s operations or business; loss of key personnel; and changes in accounting policies or procedures as may be required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other regulatory agencies.

    Contact: Jamie Huynh
    Investor Relations
    Plumas Bancorp
    5525 Kietzke Lane Ste. 100
    Reno, NV 89511
    775.786.0907 x8908
    investorrelations@plumasbank.com

    PLUMAS BANCORP
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      As of June 30,        
      2025   2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    ASSETS              
    Cash and due from banks $ 79,266   $ 109,852   $ (30,586)   (27.8)%
    Investment securities 439,676   445,132   (5,456)   (1.2)%
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses 1,006,873   986,517   20,356   2.1%
    Premises and equipment, net 12,065   12,868   (803)   (6.2)%
    Right-of-use assets 23,912   24,975   (1,063)   (4.3)%
    Bank owned life insurance 16,736   16,310   426   2.6%
    Real estate acquired through foreclosure 91   141   (50)   (35.5)%
    Goodwill 5,502   5,502   –   0.0%
    Accrued interest receivable and other assets 44,396   40,800   3,596   8.8%
    Total assets $ 1,628,517   $ 1,642,097   $ (13,580)   (0.8)%
                   
    LIABILITIES AND              
       SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
    Deposits $ 1,366,827   $ 1,304,587   $ 62,240   4.8%
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities 53,611   52,355   1,256   2.4%
    Borrowings 15,000   120,000   (105,000)   (87.5)%
    Total liabilities 1,435,438   1,476,942   (41,504)   (2.8)%
    Common stock 29,803   28,656   1,147   4.0%
    Retained earnings 183,954   161,608   22,346   13.8%
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net (20,678)   (25,109)   4,431   17.6%
    Shareholders’ equity 193,079   165,155   27,924   16.9%
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 1,628,517   $ 1,642,097   $ (13,580)   (0.8)%
                   
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
                   
    FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025   2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
                   
    Interest income $ 20,633   $ 21,160   $ (527)   (2.5)%
    Interest expense 2,450   2,755   (305)   (11.1)%
    Net interest income before provision for credit losses 18,183   18,405   (222)   (1.2)%
    Provision for credit losses 860   925   (65)   (7.0)%
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses 17,323   17,480   (157)   (0.9)%
    Non-interest income 2,361   2,202   159   7.2%
    Non-interest expense 11,012   10,396   616   5.9%
    Income before income taxes 8,672   9,286   (614)   (6.6)%
    Provision for income taxes 2,351   2,500   (149)   (6.0)%
    Net income $ 6,321   $ 6,786   $ (465)   (6.9)%
                   
    Basic earnings per share $ 1.07   $ 1.15   $ (0.08)   (7.0)%
    Diluted earnings per share $ 1.05   $ 1.14   $ (0.09)   (7.9)%
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
              Dollar   Percentage
    FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025   2024   Change   Change
                   
    Interest income $ 41,223   $ 41,187   $ 36   0.1%
    Interest expense 4,501   5,325   (824)   (15.5)%
    Net interest income before provision for credit losses 36,722   35,862   860   2.4%
    Provision for credit losses 1,110   1,746   (636)   (36.4)%
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses 35,612   34,116   1,496   4.4%
    Non-interest income 5,574   4,342   1,232   28.4%
    Non-interest expense 22,477   20,793   1,684   8.1%
    Income before income taxes 18,709   17,665   1,044   5.9%
    Provision for income taxes 5,208   4,625   583   12.6%
    Net income $ 13,501   $ 13,040   $ 461   3.5%
                   
    Basic earnings per share $ 2.28   $ 2.21   $ 0.07   3.2%
    Diluted earnings per share $ 2.25   $ 2.19   $ 0.06   2.7%
             
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
                       
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      6/30/2025   3/31/2025   6/30/2024   6/30/2025   6/30/2024
    EARNINGS PER SHARE                  
    Basic earnings per share $ 1.07     $ 1.21     $ 1.15     $ 2.28     $ 2.21  
    Diluted earnings per share $ 1.05     $ 1.20     $ 1.14     $ 2.25     $ 2.19  
    Weighted average shares outstanding   5,929       5,911       5,896       5,920       5,892  
    Weighted average diluted shares outstanding   6,006       6,002       5,946       6,006       5,946  
    Cash dividends paid per share 1 $ 0.30     $ 0.30     $ 0.27     $ 0.60     $ 0.54  
                       
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS (annualized for the three months)            
    Return on average assets   1.56 %   1.79 %   1.67 %   1.67 %     1.61 %
    Return on average equity   13.4 %   16.0 %   17.1 %   14.7 %     16.7 %
    Yield on earning assets   5.48 %   5.50 %   5.62 %   5.49 %     5.46 %
    Rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities   1.33 %   1.14 %   1.44 %   1.24 %     1.39 %
    Net interest margin   4.83 %   4.95 %   4.89 %   4.89 %     4.76 %
    Noninterest income to average assets   0.58 %   0.80 %   0.54 %   0.69 %     0.54 %
    Noninterest expense to average assets   2.72 %   2.85 %   2.56 %   2.79 %     2.57 %
    Efficiency ratio 2   53.6 %   52.7 %   50.4 %   53.1 %     51.7 %
                       
      6/30/2025   3/31/2025   6/30/2024   12/31/2024   12/31/2023
    CREDIT QUALITY RATIOS AND DATA                  
    Allowance for credit losses $ 14,209     $ 13,319     $ 14,082     $ 13,196     $ 12,867  
    Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans   1.39 %     1.32 %     1.41 %     1.30 %     1.34 %
    Nonperforming loans $ 13,652     $ 3,686     $ 8,974     $ 4,105     $ 4,820  
    Nonperforming assets $ 13,747     $ 3,787     $ 9,148     $ 4,307     $ 5,315  
    Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans   1.34 %     0.36 %     0.90 %     0.40 %     0.50 %
    Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets   0.84 %     0.23 %     0.56 %     0.27 %     0.33 %
    Year-to-date net charge-offs $ 137     $ 127     $ 610     $ 1,046     $ 954  
    Year-to-date net charge-offs as a percentage of average   0.03 %     0.05 %     0.13 %   0.11 %     0.10 %
    loans (annualized)      
                       
    CAPITAL AND OTHER DATA                  
    Common shares outstanding at end of period   5,934       5,922       5,896       5,903       5,872  
    Shareholders’ equity $ 193,079     $ 187,603     $ 165,155     $ 177,899     $ 147,317  
    Book value per common share $ 32.54     $ 31.68     $ 28.01     $ 30.14     $ 25.09  
    Tangible common equity3 $ 186,874     $ 181,354     $ 158,763     $ 171,606     $ 140,823  
    Tangible book value per common share4 $ 31.49     $ 30.62     $ 26.93     $ 29.07     $ 23.98  
    Tangible common equity to total assets   11.5 %     11.1 %     9.7 %     10.6 %     8.7 %
    Gross loans to deposits   74.7 %     73.6 %     76.4 %     74.1 %     71.9 %
                       
    PLUMAS BANK REGULATORY CAPITAL RATIOS              
    Tier 1 Leverage Ratio   12.7 %     12.3 %     11.3 %     11.9 %     10.8 %
    Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio   17.9 %     17.8 %     16.4 %     17.3 %     15.7 %
    Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio   17.9 %     17.8 %     16.4 %     17.3 %     15.7 %
    Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio   19.2 %     19.0 %     17.6 %     18.5 %     16.9 %
    (1) The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per share on February 17, 2025, May 15, 2025 and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share on February 15, 2024, May 15, 2024, August 15, 2024 and November 15, 2024 and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on February 15, 2023, May 15, 2023 , August 15, 2023 and November 15, 2023.
    (2) Efficiency ratio is defined as noninterest expense divided by total revenue (net interest income and total noninterest income).   
    (3) Tangible common equity is defined as common equity less core deposit intangibles and goodwill.      
    (4) Tangible common book value per share is defined as tangible common equity divided by common shares outstanding.    
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                             
    The following table presents for the three-month periods indicated the distribution of consolidated average assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity.
                             
        For the Three Months Ended   For the Three Months Ended
        6/30/2025   6/30/2024
        Average       Yield/   Average       Yield/
        Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
    Interest-earning assets:                        
    Loans (2) (3)   $ 1,020,004   $ 15,612   6.14 %   $ 980,723   $ 15,412   6.32 %
    Investment securities     369,624     3,913   4.25 %     367,841     3,932   4.30 %
    Non-taxable investment securities (1)     72,719     591   3.26 %     76,275     602   3.17 %
    Interest-bearing deposits     46,368     517   4.47 %     88,607     1,214   5.51 %
    Total interest-earning assets     1,508,715     20,633   5.48 %     1,513,446     21,160   5.62 %
    Cash and due from banks     26,880             26,859        
    Other assets     87,117             90,092        
    Total assets   $ 1,622,712           $ 1,630,397        
                             
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                        
    Money market deposits     287,707     1,283   1.79 %     215,614     468   0.87 %
    Savings deposits     298,989     257   0.34 %     322,919     174   0.22 %
    Time deposits     118,057     744   2.53 %     94,684     674   2.86 %
    Total deposits     704,753     2,284   1.30 %     633,217     1,316   0.84 %
    Borrowings     15,000     146   3.90 %     120,000     1,431   4.80 %
    Other interest-bearing liabilities     17,265     20   0.46 %     16,809     8   0.19 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     737,018     2,450   1.33 %     770,026     2,755   1.44 %
    Non-interest-bearing deposits     659,554             663,094        
    Other liabilities     37,112             37,794        
    Shareholders’ equity     189,028             159,483        
    Total liabilities & equity   $ 1,622,712           $ 1,630,397        
    Cost of funding interest-earning assets (4)           0.65 %           0.73 %
    Net interest income and margin (5)       $ 18,183   4.83 %       $ 18,405   4.89 %
                             
    (1) Not computed on a tax-equivalent basis.            
    (2) Average nonaccrual loan balances of $4.1 million for 2025 and $4.2 million for 2024 are included in average loan balances for computational purposes.  
    (3) Net costs included in loan interest income for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 were $196 thousand and $338 thousand, respectively.  
    (4) Total annualized interest expense divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    (5) Annualized net interest income divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                             
    The following table presents for the six-month periods indicated the distribution of consolidated average assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity.
                             
        For the Six Months Ended   For the Six Months Ended
        6/30/2025   6/30/2024
        Average       Yield/   Average       Yield/
        Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
    Interest-earning assets:                        
    Loans (2) (3)   $ 1,016,008   $ 31,008   6.15 %   $ 972,427   $ 30,005   6.21 %
    Investment securities     369,376     7,840   4.28 %     369,815     7,537   4.10 %
    Non-taxable investment securities (1)     73,795     1,174   3.21 %     92,225     1,393   3.04 %
    Interest-bearing deposits     53,845     1,201   4.50 %     81,807     2,252   5.54 %
    Total interest-earning assets     1,513,024     41,223   5.49 %     1,516,274     41,187   5.46 %
    Cash and due from banks     26,679             26,722        
    Other assets     86,732             85,300        
    Total assets   $ 1,626,435           $ 1,628,296        
                             
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                        
    Money market deposits     283,469     2,429   1.73 %     213,399     844   0.80 %
    Savings deposits     311,151     463   0.30 %     329,242     354   0.22 %
    Time deposits     103,304     1,288   2.51 %     93,092     1,304   2.82 %
    Total deposits     697,924     4,180   1.21 %     635,733     2,502   0.79 %
    Borrowings     15,000     290   3.90 %     117,170     2,798   4.80 %
    Other interest-bearing liabilities     19,216     31   0.33 %     19,260     25   0.26 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     732,140     4,501   1.24 %     772,163     5,325   1.39 %
    Non-interest-bearing deposits     670,961             668,441        
    Other liabilities     37,602             31,118        
    Shareholders’ equity     185,732             156,574        
    Total liabilities & equity   $ 1,626,435           $ 1,628,296        
    Cost of funding interest-earning assets (4)           0.60 %           0.70 %
    Net interest income and margin (5)       $ 36,722   4.89 %       $ 35,862   4.76 %
                             
    (1) Not computed on a tax-equivalent basis.            
    (2) Average nonaccrual loan balances of $3.9 million for 2025 and $4.8 million for 2024 are included in average loan balances for computational purposes.  
    (3) Net costs included in loan interest income for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 were $471 thousand and $682 thousand, respectively.  
    (4) Total annualized interest expense divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    (5) Annualized net interest income divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest income for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Three Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Interchange income $ 784   $ 782     2     0.3 %
    Service charges on deposit accounts   781     743     38     5.1 %
    Loan servicing fees   148     186     (38 )   (20.4 )%
    FHLB Dividends   135     136     (1 )   (0.7 )%
    Earnings on life insurance policies   108     104     4     3.8 %
    Other   405     251     154     61.4 %
    Total non-interest income $ 2,361   $ 2,202   $ 159     7.2 %
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest expense for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Three Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 5,553   $ 5,283   $ 270     5.1 %
    Occupancy and equipment   2,050     1,949     101     5.2 %
    Outside service fees   1,160     1,184     (24 )   (2.0 )%
    Merger and acquisition expenses   481     –     481     100.0 %
    Advertising and shareholder relations   273     214     59     27.6 %
    Armored car and courier   224     220     4     1.8 %
    Professional fees   219     329     (110 )   (33.4 )%
    Business development   188     210     (22 )   (10.5 )%
    Deposit insurance   180     185     (5 )   (2.7 )%
    Director compensation and expense   155     199     (44 )   (22.1 )%
    Telephone and data communication   124     204     (80 )   (39.2 )%
    Loan collection expenses   51     117     (66 )   (56.4 )%
    Amortization of Core Deposit Intangible   44     51     (7 )   (13.7 )%
    Other   310     251     59     23.5 %
    Total non-interest expense $ 11,012   $ 10,396   $ 616     5.9 %
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest income for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Six Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024     Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Service charges on deposit accounts $ 1,486   $ 1,458     $ 28     1.9 %
    Interchange income   1,474     1,522       (48 )   (3.2 )%
    Loan servicing fees   334     388       (54 )   (13.9 )%
    FHLB Dividends   272     273       (1 )   (0.4 )%
    Earnings on life insurance policies   217     200       17     8.5 %
    Gain (loss) on sale of investment securities   3     (19,826 )     19,829     (100.0 )%
    Gain on sale of buildings   –     19,854       (19,854 )   (100.0 )%
    Other   1,788     473       1,315     278.0 %
    Total non-interest income $ 5,574   $ 4,342     $ 1,232     28.4 %
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest expense for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Six Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024     Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 11,433   $ 10,649     $ 784     7.4 %
    Occupancy and equipment   4,064     3,639       425     11.7 %
    Outside service fees   2,424     2,316       108     4.7 %
    Merger and acquisition expenses   1,050     –       1,050     100.0 %
    Advertising and shareholder relations   535     458       77     16.8 %
    Professional fees   448     768       (320 )   (41.7 )%
    Armored car and courier   441     422       19     4.5 %
    Deposit insurance   362     372       (10 )   (2.7 )%
    Business development   355     363       (8 )   (2.2 )%
    Director compensation and expense   321     366       (45 )   (12.3 )%
    Telephone and data communication   298     426       (128 )   (30.0 )%
    Loan collection expenses   122     221       (99 )   (44.8 )%
    Amortization of Core Deposit Intangible   87     102       (15 )   (14.7 )%
    Other   537     691       (154 )   (22.3 )%
    Total non-interest expense $ 22,477   $ 20,793     $ 1,684     8.1 %
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                     
    The following table shows the distribution of loans by type at June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                     
            Percent of       Percent of
            Loans in Each       Loans in Each
        Balance at End Category to   Balance at End Category to
        of Period   Total Loans   of Period   Total Loans
        6/30/25   6/30/25   6/30/24   6/30/24
    Commercial   $ 81,118   8.0 %   $ 81,170   8.1 %
    Agricultural     113,850   11.2 %     123,661   12.4 %
    Real estate – residential     11,053   1.1 %     11,755   1.2 %
    Real estate – commercial     673,129   66.1 %     588,332   59.0 %
    Real estate – construction & land     40,798   4.0 %     67,960   6.8 %
    Equity Lines of Credit     41,620   4.1 %     38,446   3.9 %
    Auto     51,487   5.1 %     80,751   8.1 %
    Other     4,791   0.4 %     5,259   0.5 %
    Total Gross Loans   $ 1,017,846   100 %   $ 997,334   100 %
                     
    The following table shows the distribution of Commercial Real Estate loans at June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                     
            Percent of       Percent of
            Loans in Each       Loans in Each
        Balance at End Category to   Balance at End Category to
        of Period   Total Loans   of Period   Total Loans
        6/30/25   6/30/25   6/30/24   6/30/24
    Owner occupied   $ 294,765   43.8 %   $ 240,346   40.9 %
    Investor     378,364   56.2 %     347,986   59.1 %
    Total real estate – commercial   $ 673,129   100 %   $ 588,332   100 %
                     
                     
    The following table shows the distribution of deposits by type at June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                     
            Percent of       Percent of
            Deposits in Each     Deposits in Each
        Balance at End Category to   Balance at End Category to
        of Period   Total Deposits   of Period   Total Deposits
        6/30/25   6/30/25   6/30/24   6/30/24
    Non-interest bearing   $ 668,086   48.9 %   $ 670,652   51.4 %
    Money Market     281,516   20.6 %     214,063   16.4 %
    Savings     290,440   21.2 %     322,081   24.7 %
    Time     126,785   9.3 %     97,791   7.5 %
    Total Deposits   $ 1,366,827   100 %   $ 1,304,587   100 %
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Plumas Bancorp Reports Second Quarter 2025 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RENO, Nev., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plumas Bancorp (Nasdaq:PLBC), the parent company of Plumas Bank, today announced earnings during the second quarter of 2025 of $6.3 million or $1.07 per share, a decrease of $465 thousand from $6.8 million or $1.15 per share during the second quarter of 2024. Diluted earnings per share decreased to $1.05 per share during the three months ended June 30, 2025 down from $1.14 per share during the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

    Return on average assets was 1.56% during the current quarter, down from 1.67% during the second quarter of 2024. Return on average equity decreased to 13.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, down from 17.1% during the second quarter of 2024.

    Net interest income decreased by $222 thousand from $18.4 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024, to $18.2 million during the current quarter. The provision for credit losses decreased from $925 thousand during the second quarter of 2024 to $860 thousand during the current quarter.

    Non-interest income increased by $159 thousand from $2.2 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $2.4 million during the second quarter of 2025.

    Non-interest expense increased by $616 thousand from $10.4 million during the second quarter of 2024 to $11.0 million during the current quarter. Of this amount, $481 thousand relates to costs associated with our acquisition of Cornerstone Community Bancorp. We signed a definitive agreement to acquire Cornerstone Community Bancorp on January 28, 2025 and we completed the merger on July 1, 2025. Merger transaction costs that facilitate the merger are not deductible for income tax purposes. Of the $481 thousand in merger related costs, $239 thousand is estimated to be not deductible for state and federal income tax.

    The provision for income taxes decreased by $149 thousand from $2.5 million, 26.9% of pre-tax income, during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $2.4 million, or 27.1% of pre-tax income, during the current quarter.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Company reported net income of $13.5 million or $2.28 per share, an increase of $461 thousand from $13.0 million or $2.21 per share earned during the six months ended June 30, 2024. Earnings per diluted share increased to $2.25 during the six months ended June 30, 2025, up $0.06 from $2.19 during the first six months of 2024.     

    Return on average assets was 1.67% during the six months ended June 30, 2025, up from 1.61% during the first half of 2024. Return on average equity decreased to 14.7% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, down from 16.7% during the first half of 2024.

    Net interest income increased by $860 thousand from $35.9 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024, to $36.7 million during the current period. The provision for credit losses decreased from $1.7 million during the first half of 2024 to $1.1 million during the current period.

    Non-interest income increased by $1.2 million from $4.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $5.5 million during the first half of 2025 related primarily to a legal settlement totaling $1.1 million. This settlement related to the Dixie Fire which swept through the town of Greenville, California in August of 2021. The fire caused severe damage to the Greenville area, including the telecommunications infrastructure which adversely affected our ability to service our customers in this area during the last few years.

    Non-interest expense increased by $1.7 million from $20.8 million during the first half of 2024 to $22.5 million during the current period. Of this amount, $1.1 million relates to costs associated with our pending acquisition of Cornerstone Community Bancorp. Of the $1.1 million in merger related costs, $801 thousand is estimated to be not deductible for state and federal income tax.

    The provision for income taxes increased by $583 thousand from $4.6 million, or 26.2% of pre-tax income, during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $5.2 million, or 27.8% of pre-tax income, during the current period.

    Balance Sheet Highlights
    June 30, 2025 compared to June 30, 2024

    • Gross loans increased by $21 million, or 2%, to $1.0 billion.
    • Total deposits increased by $62 million, or 5%, to $1.4 billion.
    • Borrowings decreased by $105 million, or 88% to $15 million.
    • Total equity increased by $28 million, or 17%, to $193 million.
    • Book value per share increased by $4.53, or 16%, to $32.54.

    President’s Comments

    Andrew J. Ryback, director, president, and chief executive officer of Plumas Bancorp and Plumas Bank, announced, “The third quarter of 2025 began with a major development for Plumas; we successfully completed our acquisitions of Cornerstone Community Bank and Bancorp, expanding our presence in California’s northern Sacramento Valley. We are thrilled to have Ken Robison, formerly a director at Cornerstone, join the boards of Plumas Bancorp and Bank. We also welcome Matt Moseley, former President and CEO of Cornerstone Community Bank, to the executive team as Market President. Their extensive leadership experience and market knowledge will be instrumental in the ongoing success of our combined organization.”

    Ryback continued, “Beyond the acquisition, we have also been focused on internal advancements. We are expanding our treasury management services to provide comprehensive, personalized banking solutions with enhanced security features. Simultaneously, we have gained efficiency in our lending process through on-going refinements to our lending platforms and department structures.”

    Ryback concluded, “We extend a warm welcome to the clients, employees, and shareholders of Cornerstone. We look forward to providing long-term value to our expanded shareholders, clients, team members, and communities.”

    Loans, Deposits, Investments and Cash

    Gross loans increased by $21 million, or 2%, from $997 million at June 30, 2024, to $1.0 billion at June 30, 2025. Increases in loans included $85 million in commercial real estate loans and $3 million in equity lines of credit; these items were partially offset by decreases of $29 million in automobile loans, $27 million in construction loans, $10 million in agricultural loans and $1 million in residential real estate loans.

    On   June 30, 2025, approximately 78% of the Company’s loan portfolio was comprised of variable rate loans. The rates of interest charged on variable rate loans are set at specific increments in relation to the Company’s lending rate or other indexes such as the published prime interest rate or U.S. Treasury rates and vary with changes in these indexes. The frequency at which variable rate loans reprice can vary from one day to several years. Most of our commercial real estate portfolio reprices every five years. Approximately 76% of the variable rate loans are indexed to the five year T-Bill rate and reprice every five years. Loans indexed to the prime interest rate were approximately 21% of the Company’s variable rate loan portfolio; these loans reprice within one day to three months of a change in the prime rate.

    Total deposits increased by $62 million to $1.4 billion at June 30, 2025 from $1.3 billion at June 30, 2024. The increase in deposits includes increases of $67 million in money market accounts and $29 million in time deposits. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases of $2 million in demand deposits and $32 million in savings deposits. We attribute much of the increase in money market accounts to higher rate public entity deposits. At June 30, 2025, 49% of the Company’s deposits were in the form of non-interest-bearing demand deposits. The Company had no brokered deposits at June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024.

    Total investment securities decreased by $5 million from $445 million at June 30, 2024, to $440 million at June 30, 2025. The Bank’s investment security portfolio consists of debt securities issued by US Government agencies, US Government sponsored agencies and municipalities. Cash and due from banks decreased by $31 million from $110 million at June 30, 2024, to $79 million at June 30, 2025.

    Asset Quality

    Nonperforming assets (which are comprised of nonperforming loans, other real estate owned (“OREO”) and repossessed vehicle holdings) at June 30, 2025 were $13.7 million, up from $9.1 million at June 30, 2024. Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets increased to 0.84% at June 30, 2025 up from 0.56% at June 30, 2024. OREO decreased by $50 thousand from $141 thousand at June 30, 2024 to $91 thousand at June 30, 2025. Nonperforming loans were $13.6 million at June 30, 2025 and $9.0 million at June 30, 2024. Nonaccrual loans totaled $13.6 million at June 30, 2025 and $2.5 million at June 30, 2024. At June 30, 2025 there were no loans 90 days or more past due that were not on nonaccrual. The difference between the $2.5 million in nonaccrual loans at June 30, 2024 and the $9 million in nonperforming loans in 2024 were loans that were over 90 days past due, but not on nonaccrual. Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans increased to 1.34% at June 30, 2025, up from 0.90% at June 30, 2024. The increase in nonperforming loans is related to one agricultural loan relationship of 15 loans totaling $9.9 million. The borrower on these loans was unable to meet his commitments under modified loan agreements and therefore during the quarter we placed the loans on nonaccrual status. Interest reversed on these loans during the current quarter totaled $344 thousand and specific loan loss reserves totaling $931 thousand were applied against the loans.

    During the first half of 2025 we recorded a provision for credit losses of $1.1 million consisting of a provision for credit losses on loans of $1.1 million and a decrease in the reserve for unfunded commitments of $40 thousand. The $1.1 million mostly relates to the specific loan loss reserves noted in the previous paragraph. This compares to a provision for credit losses of $1.7 million consisting of a provision for credit losses on loans of $1.8 million and a decrease in the reserve for unfunded commitments of $79 thousand during the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Net charge-offs totaled $137 thousand and $610 thousand during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The allowance for credit losses totaled $14.2 million at June 30, 2025 and $14.1 million at June 30, 2024. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans was 1.39% and 1.41% at June 30, 2025 and 2024.

    The following tables present the activity in the allowance for credit losses and the reserve for unfunded commitments during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands).

    Allowance for Credit Losses   June 30, 2025     June 30, 2024
    Balance, beginning of period $ 13,196     $ 12,867  
    Provision charged to operations   1,150       1,825  
    Losses charged to allowance   (506 )     (1,010 )
    Recoveries                                   369       400  
    Balance, end of period $     14,209     $     14,082  
    Reserve for Unfunded
    Commitments    		  

    June 30, 2025

    		    

    June 30, 2024
    Balance, beginning of period $                                620     $ 799  
    Provision charged to operations   (40 )     (79 )
    Balance, end of period $                                 580     $ 720  

    Shareholders’ Equity

    Total shareholders’ equity increased by $27.9 million from $165.2 million at June 30, 2024, to $193.1 million at June 30, 2025. The $27.9 million includes earnings during the twelve-month period totaling $29.1 million, a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $4.4 million and restricted stock and stock option activity totaling $1.1 million. These items were partially offset by the payment of cash dividends totaling $6.7 million.

    Bank Term Funding Program (BTFP)

    At June 30, 2024, the Company had outstanding borrowings under BTFP totaling $105 million. All BTFP borrowings were paid off during 2024. Interest expense recognized on the BTFP borrowings for the three and six-months ended June 30, 2024, was $1.3 million and $2.5 million, respectively.

    Liquidity

    The Company manages its liquidity to provide the ability to generate funds to support asset growth, meet deposit withdrawals (both anticipated and unanticipated), fund customers’ borrowing needs and satisfy maturity of short-term borrowings. The Company’s liquidity needs are managed using assets or liabilities, or both. On the asset side, in addition to cash and due from banks, the Company maintains an investment portfolio which includes unpledged U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities that are classified as available-for-sale. On the liability side, liquidity needs are managed by offering competitive rates on deposit products and the use of established credit lines.

    The Company is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLB) and can borrow up to $255 million from the FHLB secured by commercial and residential mortgage loans with carrying values totaling $439 million. The Company is also eligible to borrow at the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) Discount Window. At June 30, 2025, the Company could borrow up to $98 million at the Discount Window secured by investment securities with a fair value of $101 million. In addition to its FHLB borrowing line and the Discount Window, the Company has unsecured short-term borrowing agreements with two of its correspondent banks in the amounts of $50 million and $20 million. There were no outstanding borrowings to the FHLB, FRB Discount Window or the correspondent banks at June 30, 2025 and 2024.

    Customer deposits are the Company’s primary source of funds. Total deposits increased by $62 million to $1.4 billion at June 30, 2025 from $1.3 billion at June 30, 2024. Deposits are held in various forms with varying maturities. The Company estimates that it has approximately $516 million in uninsured deposits which include uninsured deposits of Plumas Bancorp. Of this amount, $206 million represents deposits that are collateralized such as deposits of states, municipalities and tribal accounts.

    The Company’s securities portfolio, Discount Window advances, FHLB advances, and cash and due from banks serve as the primary sources of liquidity, providing adequate funding for loans during periods of high loan demand. During periods of decreased lending, funds obtained from the maturing or sale of investments, loan payments, and new deposits are invested in short-term earning assets, such as cash held at the FRB and investment securities, to serve as a source of funding for future loan growth. Management believes that the Company’s available sources of funds, including borrowings, will provide adequate liquidity for its operations in the near future.

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin – Three Months Ended June 30, 2025

    Net interest income was $18.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, a decrease of $222 thousand from the same period in 2024. The decrease in net interest income includes a decrease of $527 thousand in interest income partially offset by a decrease of $305 thousand in interest expense. Interest and fees on loans increased by $200 thousand related to growth in the loan portfolio partially offset by a decline in yield.

    Average loan balances increased by $39 million, while the average yield on these loans decreased by 18 basis points from 6.32% during the second quarter of 2024 to 6.14% during the current quarter. Of the 18 basis points decrease, 13 basis points relate to the reversal of $344 thousand in interest previously described under “Asset Quality” The average prime interest rate decreased from 8.5% during the second quarter of 2024 to 7.5% during the current quarter. Approximately 16% of the Company’s loans are tied to the prime interest rate and most of these reprice within one to three months with a change in prime. Additionally, during the second quarter of 2024 we recovered $316 thousand in interest on loans that were classified as nonaccrual and which were paid off in full during the quarter which elevated loan yield during the 2024 quarter. The effect of these items was partially offset by an increase in average yield on the bank’s fixed rate portfolio which includes growth in fixed rate SBA loans which totaled $75 million at June 30, 2025, and $62 million at June 30, 2024. The weighted average rate earned on this portfolio at June 30, 2025, was 8.3%. The Bank is also benefiting from the repricing of a portion of our Commercial Real Estate loans. Most of these loans are indexed to the 5-year Treasury note and reprice every five years.

    Interest on investment securities decreased by $30 thousand as yield on these securities decreased slightly from 4.11% during the 2024 quarter to 4.08% during the current quarter and average investment securities declined from $444 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $442 million during the current quarter.

    Interest on cash balances decreased by $697 thousand related to a decline in average balance of $42 million and a decrease in average rate paid on cash balances of 104 basis points from 5.51% during the second quarter of 2024 to 4.47% during the current quarter. This decline in yield was mostly related to a decline in rate paid on balances held at the FRB. The average rate earned on FRB balances decreased from 5.40% during the second quarter of 2024 to 4.40% during the current quarter.

    Interest expense decreased by $305 thousand, related to the repayment of the BTFP borrowings as discussed earlier. The average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased from 1.44% during the 2024 quarter to 1.33% in 2025 related to the decrease in these borrowings.

    Interest paid on deposits increased by $968 thousand and is broken down by product type as follows: money market accounts – $815 thousand, savings deposits – $83 thousand and time deposits $70 thousand. The increase in interest paid on money market accounts mostly relates to an increase in public entity balances and the rate earned on these balances. During the second half of 2024 and continuing into 2025, we have offered a premium money market rate on large balances of public entities in our service area, matching the rate they could earn from the California local agency investment fund. This has led to the significant increase in balances and rate paid on money market accounts. The average balance of money market accounts during the current quarter was $288 million, an increase of $72 million from $216 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024. The average rate paid on money market accounts increased 92 basis points to 1.79%. The increase in interest on savings accounts was driven by an increase in the average rate paid of 12 basis points to 34 basis points. The increase in interest on time deposits includes an increase in average balance of $23 million partially offset by a decline in average rate paid of 33 basis points to 2.53% as promotional time deposits issued in 2024 matured. Many of these promotional time deposits were renewed at lower rates. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased from 0.84% during the second quarter of 2024 to 1.30% during the current quarter. The average balance of interest-bearing deposits increased from $633 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $705 million during the quarter.

    Net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 decreased 6 basis points to 4.83%, down from 4.89% for the same period in 2024. Excluding the $344 thousand in interest reversed described earlier, net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 would have been 4.93%.

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin – Six Months Ended June 30, 2025

    Net interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $36.7 million, an increase of $860 thousand from the $35.9 million earned during the same period in 2024. The increase in net interest income includes an increase of $36 thousand in interest income and a reduction in interest expense of $824 thousand.

    Interest and fees on loans increased by $1.0 million related to an increase in average balance partially offset by a decline in yield. The average balance of loans during the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $1.0 billion, an increase of $44 million from $972 million during the same period in 2024. The average yield on loans decreased by 6 basis points from 6.21% during the first six months of 2024 to 6.15% during the current period.

    Interest on investment securities increased by $84 thousand related to an increase in yield of 21 basis points to 4.10% partially offset by a decline in average balance. The increase in investment yields is consistent with the increase in market rates and the restructuring of the investment portfolio in February of 2024. Average investment securities declined from $462 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $443 million during the current period.

    Interest on cash balances declined by $1.1 million related to both a decline in balance and a decline in yield. The rate earned on cash balances declined by 104 basis points to 4.5% and the average balance declined from $81.8 million during the first six months of 2024 to $53.8 million during the current period.

    Related to a $2.5 million decline in interest on BTFP borrowings partially offset by an increase in interest bearing deposits and an increase in the cost of these deposits, interest expense decreased from $5.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $4.5 million during the current period. The average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased from 1.39% during the 2024 period to 1.24% in 2025.

    Interest paid on deposits increased by $1.7 million and is broken down by product type as follows: money market accounts – $1.6 million and savings deposits – $109 thousand. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased from 0.79% during the six months ended June 30, 2024 to 1.21% during the current period. Average interest-bearing deposits totaled $698 million during the first half of 2025 an increase of $62 million from $636 million during the first half of 2024.

    Net interest margin for the six months ended June 30, 2025 increased 13 basis points to 4.89%, up from 4.76% for the same period in 2024.

    Non-Interest Income/Expense – Three Months Ended June 30, 2025

    Non-interest income increased by $159 thousand to $2.4 million during the current quarter. The largest increase was related to a $184 thousand adjustment to the value of our stock holdings in one of our correspondent banks.

    During the three months ended June 30, 2025, total non-interest expense increased by $616 thousand from $10.4 million during the second quarter of 2024 to $11.0 million during the current quarter. The largest components of this increase were merger related expenses of $481 thousand and salary and benefit expense of $270 thousand. The increase in salary and benefit expense includes an increase in salary expense of $216 thousand related primarily to merit and promotional salary increases. A decrease in deferred loan origination fees of $144 thousand was offset by a decline in commission expense of $180 thousand. Both items mostly relate to a decline in SBA loan production during the comparison quarters.

    Non-Interest Income/Expense – Six Months Ended June 30, 2025

    During the six months ended June 30, 2025, non-interest income totaled $5.6 million, an increase of $1.2 million from the six months ended June 30, 2024. The largest component of this increase was a legal settlement totaling $1.1 million related to the Dixie Fire in August of 2021.

    During the six months ended June 30, 2025, total non-interest expense increased by $1.7 million from $20.8 million during the first half of 2024 to $22.5 million during the current period. The largest components of this increase were merger related expenses of $1.1 million, salary and benefit expenses of $784 thousand and occupancy and equipment expenses of $425 thousand. The increase in salary and benefit expense included an increase in salary expense of $484 thousand related primarily to merit and promotional salary increases. A decrease in deferred loan origination fees of $257 thousand was offset by a decline in commission expense of $317 thousand. Both items mostly relate to a decline in SBA loan production during the comparison periods. The increase in occupancy and equipment expense mostly relates to an increase in rent expense of $374 thousand related to the February 2024 sales/leaseback transaction. Partially offsetting these increases in expense were several reductions in non-interest expense the largest of which was a reduction in professional fees of $320 thousand. Included in professional fees during the six months ended June 30, 2024 were legal expenses totaling $188 thousand related to a litigation matter that was settled in the second half of 2024.

    Plumas Bancorp is headquartered in Reno, Nevada. Plumas Bancorp’s principal subsidiary is Plumas Bank, which was founded in 1980. Plumas Bank is a full-service community bank headquartered in Quincy, California. The bank operates nineteen branches: seventeen located in the California counties of Butte, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sutter and Tehama and two branches located in Nevada in the counties of Carson City and Washoe. The bank also operates two loan production offices located in Auburn, California and Klamath Falls, Oregon. Plumas Bank offers a wide range of financial and investment services to consumers and businesses and has received nationwide Preferred Lender status with the United States Small Business Administration. For more information on Plumas Bancorp and Plumas Bank, please visit our website at www.plumasbank.com.

    This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and Plumas Bancorp intends for such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Future events are difficult to predict, and the expectations described above are necessarily subject to risk and uncertainty that may cause actual results to differ materially and adversely.

    Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include the words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” or “may.” These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management’s views as of any subsequent date. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those presented, either expressed or implied, in this news release. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to: the Company’s ability to successfully execute its business plans and achieve its objectives; changes in general economic and financial market conditions, either nationally or locally in areas in which the Company conducts its operations; changes in interest rates; continuing consolidation in the financial services industry; new litigation or changes in existing litigation; increased competitive challenges and expanding product and pricing pressures among financial institutions; legislation or regulatory changes which adversely affect the Company’s operations or business; loss of key personnel; and changes in accounting policies or procedures as may be required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other regulatory agencies.

    Contact: Jamie Huynh
    Investor Relations
    Plumas Bancorp
    5525 Kietzke Lane Ste. 100
    Reno, NV 89511
    775.786.0907 x8908
    investorrelations@plumasbank.com

    PLUMAS BANCORP
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      As of June 30,        
      2025   2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    ASSETS              
    Cash and due from banks $ 79,266   $ 109,852   $ (30,586)   (27.8)%
    Investment securities 439,676   445,132   (5,456)   (1.2)%
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses 1,006,873   986,517   20,356   2.1%
    Premises and equipment, net 12,065   12,868   (803)   (6.2)%
    Right-of-use assets 23,912   24,975   (1,063)   (4.3)%
    Bank owned life insurance 16,736   16,310   426   2.6%
    Real estate acquired through foreclosure 91   141   (50)   (35.5)%
    Goodwill 5,502   5,502   –   0.0%
    Accrued interest receivable and other assets 44,396   40,800   3,596   8.8%
    Total assets $ 1,628,517   $ 1,642,097   $ (13,580)   (0.8)%
                   
    LIABILITIES AND              
       SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
    Deposits $ 1,366,827   $ 1,304,587   $ 62,240   4.8%
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities 53,611   52,355   1,256   2.4%
    Borrowings 15,000   120,000   (105,000)   (87.5)%
    Total liabilities 1,435,438   1,476,942   (41,504)   (2.8)%
    Common stock 29,803   28,656   1,147   4.0%
    Retained earnings 183,954   161,608   22,346   13.8%
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net (20,678)   (25,109)   4,431   17.6%
    Shareholders’ equity 193,079   165,155   27,924   16.9%
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 1,628,517   $ 1,642,097   $ (13,580)   (0.8)%
                   
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
                   
    FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025   2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
                   
    Interest income $ 20,633   $ 21,160   $ (527)   (2.5)%
    Interest expense 2,450   2,755   (305)   (11.1)%
    Net interest income before provision for credit losses 18,183   18,405   (222)   (1.2)%
    Provision for credit losses 860   925   (65)   (7.0)%
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses 17,323   17,480   (157)   (0.9)%
    Non-interest income 2,361   2,202   159   7.2%
    Non-interest expense 11,012   10,396   616   5.9%
    Income before income taxes 8,672   9,286   (614)   (6.6)%
    Provision for income taxes 2,351   2,500   (149)   (6.0)%
    Net income $ 6,321   $ 6,786   $ (465)   (6.9)%
                   
    Basic earnings per share $ 1.07   $ 1.15   $ (0.08)   (7.0)%
    Diluted earnings per share $ 1.05   $ 1.14   $ (0.09)   (7.9)%
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
              Dollar   Percentage
    FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025   2024   Change   Change
                   
    Interest income $ 41,223   $ 41,187   $ 36   0.1%
    Interest expense 4,501   5,325   (824)   (15.5)%
    Net interest income before provision for credit losses 36,722   35,862   860   2.4%
    Provision for credit losses 1,110   1,746   (636)   (36.4)%
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses 35,612   34,116   1,496   4.4%
    Non-interest income 5,574   4,342   1,232   28.4%
    Non-interest expense 22,477   20,793   1,684   8.1%
    Income before income taxes 18,709   17,665   1,044   5.9%
    Provision for income taxes 5,208   4,625   583   12.6%
    Net income $ 13,501   $ 13,040   $ 461   3.5%
                   
    Basic earnings per share $ 2.28   $ 2.21   $ 0.07   3.2%
    Diluted earnings per share $ 2.25   $ 2.19   $ 0.06   2.7%
             
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
                       
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      6/30/2025   3/31/2025   6/30/2024   6/30/2025   6/30/2024
    EARNINGS PER SHARE                  
    Basic earnings per share $ 1.07     $ 1.21     $ 1.15     $ 2.28     $ 2.21  
    Diluted earnings per share $ 1.05     $ 1.20     $ 1.14     $ 2.25     $ 2.19  
    Weighted average shares outstanding   5,929       5,911       5,896       5,920       5,892  
    Weighted average diluted shares outstanding   6,006       6,002       5,946       6,006       5,946  
    Cash dividends paid per share 1 $ 0.30     $ 0.30     $ 0.27     $ 0.60     $ 0.54  
                       
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS (annualized for the three months)            
    Return on average assets   1.56 %   1.79 %   1.67 %   1.67 %     1.61 %
    Return on average equity   13.4 %   16.0 %   17.1 %   14.7 %     16.7 %
    Yield on earning assets   5.48 %   5.50 %   5.62 %   5.49 %     5.46 %
    Rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities   1.33 %   1.14 %   1.44 %   1.24 %     1.39 %
    Net interest margin   4.83 %   4.95 %   4.89 %   4.89 %     4.76 %
    Noninterest income to average assets   0.58 %   0.80 %   0.54 %   0.69 %     0.54 %
    Noninterest expense to average assets   2.72 %   2.85 %   2.56 %   2.79 %     2.57 %
    Efficiency ratio 2   53.6 %   52.7 %   50.4 %   53.1 %     51.7 %
                       
      6/30/2025   3/31/2025   6/30/2024   12/31/2024   12/31/2023
    CREDIT QUALITY RATIOS AND DATA                  
    Allowance for credit losses $ 14,209     $ 13,319     $ 14,082     $ 13,196     $ 12,867  
    Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans   1.39 %     1.32 %     1.41 %     1.30 %     1.34 %
    Nonperforming loans $ 13,652     $ 3,686     $ 8,974     $ 4,105     $ 4,820  
    Nonperforming assets $ 13,747     $ 3,787     $ 9,148     $ 4,307     $ 5,315  
    Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans   1.34 %     0.36 %     0.90 %     0.40 %     0.50 %
    Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets   0.84 %     0.23 %     0.56 %     0.27 %     0.33 %
    Year-to-date net charge-offs $ 137     $ 127     $ 610     $ 1,046     $ 954  
    Year-to-date net charge-offs as a percentage of average   0.03 %     0.05 %     0.13 %   0.11 %     0.10 %
    loans (annualized)      
                       
    CAPITAL AND OTHER DATA                  
    Common shares outstanding at end of period   5,934       5,922       5,896       5,903       5,872  
    Shareholders’ equity $ 193,079     $ 187,603     $ 165,155     $ 177,899     $ 147,317  
    Book value per common share $ 32.54     $ 31.68     $ 28.01     $ 30.14     $ 25.09  
    Tangible common equity3 $ 186,874     $ 181,354     $ 158,763     $ 171,606     $ 140,823  
    Tangible book value per common share4 $ 31.49     $ 30.62     $ 26.93     $ 29.07     $ 23.98  
    Tangible common equity to total assets   11.5 %     11.1 %     9.7 %     10.6 %     8.7 %
    Gross loans to deposits   74.7 %     73.6 %     76.4 %     74.1 %     71.9 %
                       
    PLUMAS BANK REGULATORY CAPITAL RATIOS              
    Tier 1 Leverage Ratio   12.7 %     12.3 %     11.3 %     11.9 %     10.8 %
    Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio   17.9 %     17.8 %     16.4 %     17.3 %     15.7 %
    Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio   17.9 %     17.8 %     16.4 %     17.3 %     15.7 %
    Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio   19.2 %     19.0 %     17.6 %     18.5 %     16.9 %
    (1) The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per share on February 17, 2025, May 15, 2025 and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share on February 15, 2024, May 15, 2024, August 15, 2024 and November 15, 2024 and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on February 15, 2023, May 15, 2023 , August 15, 2023 and November 15, 2023.
    (2) Efficiency ratio is defined as noninterest expense divided by total revenue (net interest income and total noninterest income).   
    (3) Tangible common equity is defined as common equity less core deposit intangibles and goodwill.      
    (4) Tangible common book value per share is defined as tangible common equity divided by common shares outstanding.    
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                             
    The following table presents for the three-month periods indicated the distribution of consolidated average assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity.
                             
        For the Three Months Ended   For the Three Months Ended
        6/30/2025   6/30/2024
        Average       Yield/   Average       Yield/
        Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
    Interest-earning assets:                        
    Loans (2) (3)   $ 1,020,004   $ 15,612   6.14 %   $ 980,723   $ 15,412   6.32 %
    Investment securities     369,624     3,913   4.25 %     367,841     3,932   4.30 %
    Non-taxable investment securities (1)     72,719     591   3.26 %     76,275     602   3.17 %
    Interest-bearing deposits     46,368     517   4.47 %     88,607     1,214   5.51 %
    Total interest-earning assets     1,508,715     20,633   5.48 %     1,513,446     21,160   5.62 %
    Cash and due from banks     26,880             26,859        
    Other assets     87,117             90,092        
    Total assets   $ 1,622,712           $ 1,630,397        
                             
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                        
    Money market deposits     287,707     1,283   1.79 %     215,614     468   0.87 %
    Savings deposits     298,989     257   0.34 %     322,919     174   0.22 %
    Time deposits     118,057     744   2.53 %     94,684     674   2.86 %
    Total deposits     704,753     2,284   1.30 %     633,217     1,316   0.84 %
    Borrowings     15,000     146   3.90 %     120,000     1,431   4.80 %
    Other interest-bearing liabilities     17,265     20   0.46 %     16,809     8   0.19 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     737,018     2,450   1.33 %     770,026     2,755   1.44 %
    Non-interest-bearing deposits     659,554             663,094        
    Other liabilities     37,112             37,794        
    Shareholders’ equity     189,028             159,483        
    Total liabilities & equity   $ 1,622,712           $ 1,630,397        
    Cost of funding interest-earning assets (4)           0.65 %           0.73 %
    Net interest income and margin (5)       $ 18,183   4.83 %       $ 18,405   4.89 %
                             
    (1) Not computed on a tax-equivalent basis.            
    (2) Average nonaccrual loan balances of $4.1 million for 2025 and $4.2 million for 2024 are included in average loan balances for computational purposes.  
    (3) Net costs included in loan interest income for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 were $196 thousand and $338 thousand, respectively.  
    (4) Total annualized interest expense divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    (5) Annualized net interest income divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                             
    The following table presents for the six-month periods indicated the distribution of consolidated average assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity.
                             
        For the Six Months Ended   For the Six Months Ended
        6/30/2025   6/30/2024
        Average       Yield/   Average       Yield/
        Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
    Interest-earning assets:                        
    Loans (2) (3)   $ 1,016,008   $ 31,008   6.15 %   $ 972,427   $ 30,005   6.21 %
    Investment securities     369,376     7,840   4.28 %     369,815     7,537   4.10 %
    Non-taxable investment securities (1)     73,795     1,174   3.21 %     92,225     1,393   3.04 %
    Interest-bearing deposits     53,845     1,201   4.50 %     81,807     2,252   5.54 %
    Total interest-earning assets     1,513,024     41,223   5.49 %     1,516,274     41,187   5.46 %
    Cash and due from banks     26,679             26,722        
    Other assets     86,732             85,300        
    Total assets   $ 1,626,435           $ 1,628,296        
                             
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                        
    Money market deposits     283,469     2,429   1.73 %     213,399     844   0.80 %
    Savings deposits     311,151     463   0.30 %     329,242     354   0.22 %
    Time deposits     103,304     1,288   2.51 %     93,092     1,304   2.82 %
    Total deposits     697,924     4,180   1.21 %     635,733     2,502   0.79 %
    Borrowings     15,000     290   3.90 %     117,170     2,798   4.80 %
    Other interest-bearing liabilities     19,216     31   0.33 %     19,260     25   0.26 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     732,140     4,501   1.24 %     772,163     5,325   1.39 %
    Non-interest-bearing deposits     670,961             668,441        
    Other liabilities     37,602             31,118        
    Shareholders’ equity     185,732             156,574        
    Total liabilities & equity   $ 1,626,435           $ 1,628,296        
    Cost of funding interest-earning assets (4)           0.60 %           0.70 %
    Net interest income and margin (5)       $ 36,722   4.89 %       $ 35,862   4.76 %
                             
    (1) Not computed on a tax-equivalent basis.            
    (2) Average nonaccrual loan balances of $3.9 million for 2025 and $4.8 million for 2024 are included in average loan balances for computational purposes.  
    (3) Net costs included in loan interest income for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 were $471 thousand and $682 thousand, respectively.  
    (4) Total annualized interest expense divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    (5) Annualized net interest income divided by the average balance of total earning assets.        
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest income for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Three Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Interchange income $ 784   $ 782     2     0.3 %
    Service charges on deposit accounts   781     743     38     5.1 %
    Loan servicing fees   148     186     (38 )   (20.4 )%
    FHLB Dividends   135     136     (1 )   (0.7 )%
    Earnings on life insurance policies   108     104     4     3.8 %
    Other   405     251     154     61.4 %
    Total non-interest income $ 2,361   $ 2,202   $ 159     7.2 %
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest expense for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Three Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024   Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 5,553   $ 5,283   $ 270     5.1 %
    Occupancy and equipment   2,050     1,949     101     5.2 %
    Outside service fees   1,160     1,184     (24 )   (2.0 )%
    Merger and acquisition expenses   481     –     481     100.0 %
    Advertising and shareholder relations   273     214     59     27.6 %
    Armored car and courier   224     220     4     1.8 %
    Professional fees   219     329     (110 )   (33.4 )%
    Business development   188     210     (22 )   (10.5 )%
    Deposit insurance   180     185     (5 )   (2.7 )%
    Director compensation and expense   155     199     (44 )   (22.1 )%
    Telephone and data communication   124     204     (80 )   (39.2 )%
    Loan collection expenses   51     117     (66 )   (56.4 )%
    Amortization of Core Deposit Intangible   44     51     (7 )   (13.7 )%
    Other   310     251     59     23.5 %
    Total non-interest expense $ 11,012   $ 10,396   $ 616     5.9 %
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest income for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Six Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024     Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Service charges on deposit accounts $ 1,486   $ 1,458     $ 28     1.9 %
    Interchange income   1,474     1,522       (48 )   (3.2 )%
    Loan servicing fees   334     388       (54 )   (13.9 )%
    FHLB Dividends   272     273       (1 )   (0.4 )%
    Earnings on life insurance policies   217     200       17     8.5 %
    Gain (loss) on sale of investment securities   3     (19,826 )     19,829     (100.0 )%
    Gain on sale of buildings   –     19,854       (19,854 )   (100.0 )%
    Other   1,788     473       1,315     278.0 %
    Total non-interest income $ 5,574   $ 4,342     $ 1,232     28.4 %
                   
    The following table presents the components of non-interest expense for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                   
      For the Six Months Ended        
      June 30,        
        2025     2024     Dollar
    Change    		   Percentage
    Change
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 11,433   $ 10,649     $ 784     7.4 %
    Occupancy and equipment   4,064     3,639       425     11.7 %
    Outside service fees   2,424     2,316       108     4.7 %
    Merger and acquisition expenses   1,050     –       1,050     100.0 %
    Advertising and shareholder relations   535     458       77     16.8 %
    Professional fees   448     768       (320 )   (41.7 )%
    Armored car and courier   441     422       19     4.5 %
    Deposit insurance   362     372       (10 )   (2.7 )%
    Business development   355     363       (8 )   (2.2 )%
    Director compensation and expense   321     366       (45 )   (12.3 )%
    Telephone and data communication   298     426       (128 )   (30.0 )%
    Loan collection expenses   122     221       (99 )   (44.8 )%
    Amortization of Core Deposit Intangible   87     102       (15 )   (14.7 )%
    Other   537     691       (154 )   (22.3 )%
    Total non-interest expense $ 22,477   $ 20,793     $ 1,684     8.1 %
                   
    PLUMAS BANCORP
    SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     (Dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
                     
    The following table shows the distribution of loans by type at June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                     
            Percent of       Percent of
            Loans in Each       Loans in Each
        Balance at End Category to   Balance at End Category to
        of Period   Total Loans   of Period   Total Loans
        6/30/25   6/30/25   6/30/24   6/30/24
    Commercial   $ 81,118   8.0 %   $ 81,170   8.1 %
    Agricultural     113,850   11.2 %     123,661   12.4 %
    Real estate – residential     11,053   1.1 %     11,755   1.2 %
    Real estate – commercial     673,129   66.1 %     588,332   59.0 %
    Real estate – construction & land     40,798   4.0 %     67,960   6.8 %
    Equity Lines of Credit     41,620   4.1 %     38,446   3.9 %
    Auto     51,487   5.1 %     80,751   8.1 %
    Other     4,791   0.4 %     5,259   0.5 %
    Total Gross Loans   $ 1,017,846   100 %   $ 997,334   100 %
                     
    The following table shows the distribution of Commercial Real Estate loans at June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                     
            Percent of       Percent of
            Loans in Each       Loans in Each
        Balance at End Category to   Balance at End Category to
        of Period   Total Loans   of Period   Total Loans
        6/30/25   6/30/25   6/30/24   6/30/24
    Owner occupied   $ 294,765   43.8 %   $ 240,346   40.9 %
    Investor     378,364   56.2 %     347,986   59.1 %
    Total real estate – commercial   $ 673,129   100 %   $ 588,332   100 %
                     
                     
    The following table shows the distribution of deposits by type at June 30, 2025 and 2024.
                     
            Percent of       Percent of
            Deposits in Each     Deposits in Each
        Balance at End Category to   Balance at End Category to
        of Period   Total Deposits   of Period   Total Deposits
        6/30/25   6/30/25   6/30/24   6/30/24
    Non-interest bearing   $ 668,086   48.9 %   $ 670,652   51.4 %
    Money Market     281,516   20.6 %     214,063   16.4 %
    Savings     290,440   21.2 %     322,081   24.7 %
    Time     126,785   9.3 %     97,791   7.5 %
    Total Deposits   $ 1,366,827   100 %   $ 1,304,587   100 %
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Smith, King Introduce Bill to Combat Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Tina Smith (D-MN) today introduced legislation to reauthorize the Kay Hagan Tick Act, their landmark legislation to improve research, prevention, diagnostics, and treatment for tick-borne diseases, which became law in 2019. Senator Angus King (I-ME) joins them as an original co-sponsor. The Kay Hagan Tick Act unites the effort to confront the alarming public health threat posed by Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. Confirmed cases of Lyme disease reached a record number in Maine – 3,035 – last year. Senators Collins and Smith named their bill in honor of former Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC) who passed away on October 28th, 2019, due to complications from the tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus.

    “Last year, Maine reported over 3,000 cases of Lyme disease—a record in our state. The reauthorization of our Tick Act is urgently needed to continue to support those who struggle with Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses and keep improving research, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention for these terrible diseases,” said Senator Collins. “Resources from the Tick Act have led to exciting developments such as the first-ever clinical trial for a Lyme disease vaccine for people, which is underway right now at the MaineHealth Institute for Research.”

    “My home state of Minnesota is proud to have more than 10,000 lakes and thousands of rivers for us to enjoy, and we’re always especially eager to get outside after a long winter,” said Senator Smith. “Unfortunately, the number of Lyme disease cases in the state—and states across the country—is on the rise. This bill would empower regional centers to lead the response against these diseases and expanded the federal government’s role in researching, testing and treating these diseases. For the sake of Americans’ health and well-being, we need to keep moving this bill forward.”

    “Our state has been battling diseases like Lyme for decades, so it is critical we continue to invest in our research and understanding of these vector-borne diseases to better protect Maine residents and visitors,” said Senator King. “The Kay Hagan Tick Act will further the prevention efforts that keep us safe by funding research, testing and diagnostics along with resources for improved data collection. I am proud to work on this critical bipartisan legislation that will help mitigate this long-term public health threat for the future safety and health of all Maine people.”

    “Reauthorizing the Kay Hagan Tick Act will continue the nation’s coordinated framework for tick-borne disease surveillance, diagnostics, and prevention”, said Griffin Dill, Director of the University of Maine Tick Lab. Continued support means earlier detection, targeted interventions, and fewer families facing the physical and financial burden of Lyme disease and other emerging infections. Through this investment, Congress can ensure a proactive approach to safeguarding our communities from increasing threats related to ticks.”

    “With an estimated 500,000 new cases of Lyme disease each year, it is critical that the United States is equipped to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to this growing public health threat,” said Bonnie Crater, co-founder and board member at Center for Lyme Action. “We applaud the foundation laid by the Kay Hagan Tick Act, which established the National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control Vector-Borne Diseases in Humans and we are committed to working with Congress and federal agencies to ensure this strategy is fully implemented and strengthened.  We commend Senator Collins, Senator King, and Senator Smith for their bipartisan leadership in advancing the reauthorization of this vital legislation to protect the health and safety of Americans nationwide.”

    Using a three-pronged approach, the Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act would:

    1. Require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to continue implementing and updating, as appropriate, its National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control Vector-Borne Diseases in People.  This strategy has been integral in expanding research into tick-borne diseases, improving testing and diagnostics, and coordinating efforts across the federal government.
    1. Reauthorize Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Disease for five years. Funding for these centers, which was allotted in 2017, expires this year. These Centers have led the scientific response against tick-borne diseases, which now make up 75 percent of vector-borne diseases in the U.S.  There are four centers located at universities in California, Florida, Texas, and Wisconsin. 
    1. Reauthorize CDC Grants to State Health Departments to improve data collection and analysis, support early detection and diagnosis, improve treatment, and raise awareness.  These awards would help states continue to build a public health infrastructure for Lyme and other vector-borne diseases and amplify their initiatives through public-private partnerships.   

    In May, Senator Collins delivered the opening remarks at the Center for Lyme Action Congressional Series and spoke to the need for continued federal funding for tick-borne disease research. Click here to watch and here to download her remarks. Senator Collins has also urged leading health officials to continue to support the development of treatment for these illnesses, including the clinical trials currently ongoing in Maine for the first Lyme disease vaccine for people.

    Senator King is a longtime advocate for the elimination of vector-borne diseases. His SMASH Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize critical public health tools that support states and localities in their mosquito surveillance and control efforts, especially those linked to mosquitos that carry the Zika virus, and improve the nation’s preparedness for Zika and other mosquito-borne threats like West Nile virus, chikungunya, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (“triple-e”) virus was signed into law in 2019. A re-authorization of SMASH was introduced in 2023 and included in the Pandemic All-Hazards Preparedness Act Reauthorization.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fengate Private Equity Launches CanPro Roofing Partners Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO and MONTREAL, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management (“Fengate”), today announced the formation of CanPro Roofing Partners (“CanPro” or “the Company”), a Canadian roofing platform in partnership with industry veteran Dino DiVito, who has joined as CEO. Fengate is managing this investment on behalf of the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada. 

    CanPro is committed to building a best-in-class roofing platform by partnering with high-quality companies focused on institutional, commercial and industrial end markets that provide roof replacement and maintenance services. 

    Concurrent to the formation of CanPro, the Company is pleased to announce its first partnership, with Toiture Perreault, a leading roof replacement business serving the greater Montreal area. Founder and President Vincent Perreault will continue to be involved in the business focusing on expanding its footprint across the Quebec market. He will retain a significant equity interest. 

    “We are excited to launch CanPro Roofing Partners and elevate the standard of commercial roof replacement and maintenance in Canada,” said Mohit Kansal, Managing Director, Fengate Private Equity. “We will achieve this through partnerships and acquisitions with best-in-class regional roofing firms across the country. We’re pleased to start the journey by partnering with Vincent Perreault and the entire Toiture Perreault team as well as industry veteran, Dino DiVito.” 

    “I am thrilled to partner with this exceptional team as we build a premier roofing platform across Canada,” adds Dino DiVito, CEO of CanPro. “With Fengate, we are equipped with the resources and expertise necessary to drive growth—both organically and through strategic partnerships. Under Vincent’s leadership, Toiture Perreault has earned an outstanding reputation by prioritizing customer service and achieving remarkable growth. Our strategy remains focused on thoughtfully selecting trusted partners who align with our long-term vision and to deliver lasting value for all stakeholders.” 

    “Joining CanPro as a founding partner was a strategic decision for us,” adds Vincent Perreault, President, Toiture Perreault. “I believe we have a unique opportunity to become the national leader in the roof replacement industry by bringing together the best roofing companies across Canada. With Fengate’s backing and Dino’s leadership, we’re building more than just a platform, we’re building a legacy of quality, safety, and growth that will reshape the future of commercial roofing in this country.” 

    Stikeman Elliott LLP and BDO Canada LLP served as advisors to Fengate. McCarthy Tétrault LLP and RBC Mid-Market M&A served as advisors to Toiture Perreault. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. 

    About CanPro Roofing Partners:
    CanPro Roofing Partners is committed to building a best-in-class Canadian roofing platform by partnering with high quality companies serving institutional, commercial and industrial markets with a focus on roof replacement and ongoing maintenance services. CanPro continues to explore new partnerships with leading commercial roofing companies across Canada. Founders and advisors interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out directly. Learn more at www.canproroofing.com.

    About Toiture Perreault: 
    Toiture Perreault, headquartered in Blainville, Quebec, is a roofing service provider for commercial, institutional, industrial and multi-residential clients. The company specializes in roof replacement, service and maintenance of roofs of multiple materials and complexities. The company offers a streamlined approach to project management leveraging the workforce’s diversified skillset in roofing. Learn more at www.toitureperreault.com. 

    About Fengate Asset Management: 
    Fengate Asset Management is a leading alternative investment manager, with more than $24 billion in assets under management, focused on private equity, infrastructure and real estate strategies. With offices and team members across Canada and the United States, Fengate leverages more than 50 years of entrepreneurial experience to deliver excellent investment results on behalf of its clients. Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management, is a differentiated investment platform supporting the growth ambitions of entrepreneurs through transformative capital. Learn more at www.fengate.com. 

    Contacts: 
    Dino DiVito 
    Chief Executive Officer 
    CanPro Roofing Partners 
    dino.divito@canproroofing.com 

    Vincent Perreault 
    President 
    Toiture Perreault 
    v.perreault@toitureperreault.com 

    Dale Gago 
    Communications and Marketing Business Partner 
    Fengate Asset Management 
    437 326 1473 
    dale.gago@fengate.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 Mission Gears Up for Space Station Research

    Source: NASA

    A host of scientific investigations await the crew of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission during their long-duration expedition aboard the International Space Station. NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, are set to study plant cell division and microgravity’s effects on bacteria-killing viruses, as well as perform experiments to produce a higher volume of human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients.
    Here are details on some of the research scheduled during the Crew-11 mission:

    A stem cell investigation called StemCellEx-IP1 evaluates using microgravity to produce large numbers of induced pluripotent stem cells. Made by reprogramming skin or blood cells, these stem cells can transform into any type of cell in the body and are used in regenerative medicine therapies for many diseases. However, producing enough cells on the ground is a challenge.
    Researchers plan to use the microgravity environment aboard the space station to demonstrate whether generating 1,000 times more cells is possible and whether these cells are of higher quality and better for clinical use than those made on Earth. If proven, this could significantly improve future patient outcomes.
    “This type of stem cell research is a chance to find treatments and maybe even cures for diseases that currently have none,” said Tobias Niederwieser of BioServe Space Technologies, which developed the investigation. “This represents an incredible potential to make life here on Earth better for all of us. We can take skin or blood cells from a patient, convert them into stem cells, and produce custom cell-therapy with little risk for rejection, as they are the person’s own cells.”

    Genes in Space is a series of competitions in which students in grades 7 through 12 design DNA experiments that are flown to the space station. Genes in Space-12 examines the effects of microgravity on interactions between certain bacteria and bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. Bacteriophages already are used to treat bacterial infections on Earth.
    “Boeing and miniPCR bio co-founded this competition to bring real-world scientific experiences to the classroom and promote molecular biology investigations on the space station,” said Scott Copeland of Boeing, and co-founder of Genes in Space. “This investigation could establish a foundation for using these viruses to treat bacterial infections in space, potentially decreasing the dependence on antibiotics.”
    “Previous studies indicate that bacteria may display increased growth rates and virulence in space, while the antibiotics used to combat them may be less effective,” said Dr. Ally Huang, staff scientist at miniPCR bio. “Phages produced in space could have profound implications for human health, microbial control, and the sustainability of long-duration remote missions. Phage therapy tools also could revolutionize how we manage bacterial infections and microbial ecosystems on Earth.”

    Some vitamins and nutrients in foods and supplements lose their potency during prolonged storage, and insufficient intake of even a single nutrient can lead to serious diseases, such as a vitamin C deficiency, causing scurvy. The BioNutrients-3 experiment builds on previous investigations looking at ways to produce on-demand nutrients in space using genetically engineered organisms that remain viable for years. These include yogurt and a yeast-based beverage made from yeast strains previously tested aboard station, as well as a new, engineered co-culture that produces multiple nutrients in one sample bag.
    “BioNutrients-3 includes multiple food safety features, including pasteurization to kill microorganisms in the sample and a demonstration of the feasibility of using a sensor called E-Nose that simulates an ultra-sensitive nose to detect pathogens,” said Kevin Sims, project manager at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley.
    Another food safety feature is a food-grade pH indicator to track bacterial growth.
    “These pH indicators help the crew visualize the progress of the yogurt and kefir samples,” Sims said. “As the organisms grow, they generate lactic acid, which lowers the pH and turns the indicator pink.”
    The research also features an investigation of yogurt passage, which seeds new cultures using a bit of yogurt from a finished bag, much like maintaining a sourdough bread starter. This method could sustain a culture over multiple generations, eliminating concerns about yogurt’s shelf life during a mission to the Moon or Mars while reducing launch mass.

    The JAXA Plant Cell Division investigation examines how microgravity affects cell division in green algae and a strain of cultured tobacco cells. Cell division is a fundamental element of plant growth, but few studies have examined it in microgravity.
    “The tobacco cells divide frequently, making the process easy to observe,” said Junya Kirima of JAXA. “We are excited to reveal the effects of the space environment on plant cell division and look forward to performing time-lapse live imaging of it aboard the space station.”
    Understanding this process could support the development of better methods for growing plants for food in space, including on the Moon and Mars. This investigation also could provide insight to help make plant production systems on Earth more efficient.
    For nearly 25 years, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge and conducting critical research for the benefit of humanity and our home planet. Space station research supports the future of human spaceflight as NASA looks toward deep space missions to the Moon under the Artemis campaign and in preparation for future human missions to Mars, as well as expanding commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit and beyond.
    Learn more about the International Space Station at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Rigetti Demonstrates Industry’s Largest Multi-Chip Quantum Computer; Halves Two-Qubit Gate Error Rate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BERKELEY, Calif., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rigetti Computing, Inc. (Nasdaq: RGTI) (“Rigetti” or the “Company”), a pioneer in full-stack quantum-classical computing, today announced that it has achieved its mid-year performance milestone of 99.5% median two-qubit gate* fidelity on its modular 36-qubit system, a 2x reduction in median two-qubit gate error rate from Rigetti’s previous best results on its 84-qubit single chip Ankaa™-3 system. Composed of four 9-qubit chips (“chiplets”) tiled together, the 36-qubit system is based on Rigetti’s proprietary modular chip technology and unlocks the Company’s path to building a 100+ qubit chiplet-based system. Rigetti plans to launch its 36-qubit system on August 15, and remains on track to release its 100+ qubit chiplet-based system at 99.5% median two-qubit gate fidelity before the end of 2025.

    “We benefit from the many advantages of superconducting qubits, including gate speeds more than 1,000x faster than other modalities like ion trap and pure atoms, and scalability. By leveraging well-known techniques from the semiconductor industry, we’ve developed proprietary technology that we believe is critical to enable scaling to higher qubit count systems,” says Dr. Subodh Kulkarni, Rigetti CEO. “We look forward to sharing more updates when we release our operating results for the second quarter of 2025.”

    *Rigetti implemented CZ gates, which are a commonly used two-qubit gate for executing quantum circuits and have equivalent computational power to iSWAP gates.

    About Rigetti
    Rigetti is a pioneer in full-stack quantum computing. The Company has operated quantum computers over the cloud since 2017 and serves global enterprise, government, and research clients through its Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services platform. In 2021, Rigetti began selling on-premises quantum computing systems with qubit counts between 24 and 84 qubits, supporting national laboratories and quantum computing centers. Rigetti’s 9-qubit Novera™ QPU was introduced in 2023 supporting a broader R&D community with a high-performance, on-premises QPU designed to plug into a customer’s existing cryogenic and control systems. The Company’s proprietary quantum-classical infrastructure provides high-performance integration with public and private clouds for practical quantum computing. Rigetti has developed the industry’s first multi-chip quantum processor for scalable quantum computing systems. The Company designs and manufactures its chips in-house at Fab-1, the industry’s first dedicated and integrated quantum device manufacturing facility. Learn more at www.rigetti.com.

    Rigetti Computing Media Contact:
    press@rigetti.com

    Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this communication may be considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements with respect to the Company’s expectations with respect to its future success and performance, including expectations that the performance milestone unlocks the Company’s path to building a 100+ qubit chiplet-based system, expectations to launch its 36-qubit system on August 15, expectations to release its 100+ qubit chiplet-based system at 99.5% median two-qubit gate fidelity before the end of 2025, expectations to benefit from the advantages of superconducting qubits, the belief that the developed proprietary technology is critical to enable scaling to higher qubit count systems, the belief that Rigetti’s demonstration is the largest multi-chip quantum computer, and the potential of the Company’s business and quantum computing generally. These forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company and its management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: the Company’s ability to achieve milestones, technological advancements, including with respect to its technology roadmap; the ability of the Company to obtain government contracts successfully and in a timely manner and the availability of government funding; the potential of quantum computing; the success of the Company’s partnerships and collaborations, including the strategic collaboration with Quanta; the Company’s ability to accelerate its development of multiple generations of quantum processors; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Company or others; the ability to maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and attract and retain management and key employees; costs related to operating as a public company; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the possibility that the Company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, or competitive factors; the Company’s estimates of expenses and profitability; the evolution of the markets in which the Company competes; the ability of the Company to implement its strategic initiatives and expansion plans; the expected use of proceeds from the Company’s past and future financings or other capital; the sufficiency of the Company’s cash resources; unfavorable conditions in the Company’s industry, the global economy or global supply chain, including rising inflation and interest rates, deteriorating international trade relations, political turmoil, natural catastrophes, warfare and terrorist attacks; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and the Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements other than as required by applicable law. The Company does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax® ETFs Announces Distributions on MARO, MRNY, ULTY, NVDY, LFGY, and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax® today announced distributions for the YieldMax®Weekly Payers and Group B ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Distribution Frequency Distribution per Share Distribution Rate2,4 30-Day
    SEC Yield3    		 ROC5 Ex-Date & Record Date Payment Date
    CHPY YieldMax® Semiconductor Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.3730 35.07% 0.04% 100.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    GPTY YieldMax® AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.2956 32.36% 0.00% 100.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    LFGY YieldMax® Crypto Industry & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.4799 62.40% 0.00% 90.24% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    QDTY YieldMax® Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.1906 22.29% 0.00% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    RDTY YieldMax® R2000 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3330 38.07% 1.65% 38.62% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    SDTY YieldMax® S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.1481 17.13% 0.07% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    ULTY YieldMax® Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Weekly $0.1035 85.69% 0.00% 81.67% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    YMAG YieldMax® Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.1515 51.27% 63.17% 50.61% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    YMAX YieldMax® Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.1041 39.01% 82.40% 76.75% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    BABO YieldMax® BABA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.3820 32.17% 3.22% 11.74% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    DIPS YieldMax® Short NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.1716 31.92% 3.59% 88.67% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    FBY YieldMax® META Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.4992 38.91% 2.87% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    GDXY YieldMax® Gold Miners Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.3321 29.03% 3.22% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    JPMO YieldMax® JPM Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.5085 38.99% 2.70% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    MARO YieldMax® MARA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $2.3718 125.17% 3.09% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    MRNY YieldMax® MRNA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.2004 101.03% 3.07% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    NVDY YieldMax® NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $1.0285 75.28% 2.78% 37.15% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    PLTY YieldMax® PLTR Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $2.5602 48.72% 2.99% 0.00% 7/17/25 7/18/25
    Weekly Payers & Group C ETFs scheduled for next week: CHPY GPTY LFGY QDTY RDTY SDTY ULTY YMAG YMAX ABNY AMDY CONY CVNY FIAT HOOY MSFO NFLY PYPY
     

    Standardized Performance and Fund details can be obtained by clicking the ETF Ticker in the table above or by visiting us at www.yieldmaxetfs.com

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (866) 864-3968.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH, YQQQ and WNTR are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs.”

    Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    1  All YieldMax®ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. YMAG has a management fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.83% for a gross expense ratio of 1.12%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax®ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.40%, and a net expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.

    2  The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on July 15, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

    3  The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended June 30, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.

    4  Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.

    5  ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage indicates how much the distribution reflects an investor’s initial investment. The figures shown for each Fund in the table above are estimates and may later be determined to be taxable net investment income, short-term gains, long-term gains (to the extent permitted by law), or return of capital. Actual amounts and sources for tax reporting will depend upon the Fund’s investment activities during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Your broker will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year to tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax® ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax® ETFs. As such, these funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax® ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    Russell 2000 Index Risks. The Index, which consists of small-cap U.S. companies, is particularly susceptible to economic changes, as these firms often have less financial resilience than larger companies. Market volatility can disproportionately affect these smaller businesses, leading to significant price swings. Additionally, these companies are often more exposed to specific industry risks and have less diverse revenue streams. They can also be more vulnerable to changes in domestic regulatory or policy environments.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA, HOOD, BRK.B, DKNG), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory, and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA, MSTR), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole. Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to CHPY)

    Semiconductor Industry Risk. Semiconductor companies may face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, and such competition may have an adverse effect on their profit margins. Semiconductor companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. Semiconductor companies’ supply chain and operations are dependent on the availability of materials that meet exacting standards and the use of third parties to provide components and services.

    The products of semiconductor companies may face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for the services of qualified personnel. Capital equipment expenditures could be substantial, and equipment generally suffers from rapid obsolescence. Companies in the semiconductor industry are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights. The loss or impairment of these rights would adversely affect the profitability of these companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax® ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, or YieldMax® ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax® ETFs

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Asante Gold Corp to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Asante Gold Corp (CSE: ASE; GSE: ASG; OTCQX: ASGOF), a Canadian gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market.

    Asante Gold Corp begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “ASGOF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Trading on the OTCQX Market offers companies efficient, cost-effective access to the U.S. capital markets. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    Dave Anthony, President and CEO, stated: “We are pleased that Asante’s common shares have been approved for trading on the OTCQX Best Market. This quotation will enhance Asante’s visibility within the U.S. investment community and provide U.S. investors with the ability to trade Asante shares in US dollars. Along with the Company’s application and conditional acceptance for listing the Company’s common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange, the OTCQX quotation is a further step in Asante’s growth strategy increasing North America market exposure diversifying the Company’s shareholder base.”

    About Asante Gold Corp
    Asante is a gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana. Asante is currently operating the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines and continues with detailed technical studies at its Kubi Gold Project. All mines and exploration projects are located on the prolific Bibiani and Ashanti Gold Belts. Asante has an experienced and skilled team of mine finders, builders and operators, with extensive experience in Ghana. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange and the Ghana Stock Exchange. Asante is also exploring its Keyhole, Fahiakoba and Betenase projects for new discoveries, all adjoining or along strike of major gold mines near the centre of Ghana’s Golden Triangle. Additional information is available on the Company’s website at www.asantegold.com.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.

    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, OTCID™ Basic Market and Pink Limited™ Market. Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC. To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

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    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • Facebook privacy practices the focus of $8 billion trial targeting Zuckerberg

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An $8 billion trial by Meta Platforms shareholders against Mark Zuckerberg and other current and former company leaders kicks off on Wednesday over claims that they illegally harvested the data of Facebook users in violation of a 2012 agreement with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

    Jeffrey Zients, White House chief of staff under President Joe Biden and a Meta director for two years starting in May 2018, is expected to be one of the first witnesses to take the stand in the non-jury trial before Kathaleen McCormick, chief judge of the Delaware Chancery Court.

    The case will feature testimony from Zuckerberg and other billionaire defendants including former Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, venture capitalist and board member Marc Andreessen, and former board members Peter Thiel, Palantir Technologies co-founder, and Reed Hastings, co-founder of Netflix.

    A lawyer for the defendants, who have denied the allegations, declined to comment.

    The case began in 2018, following revelations that data from millions of Facebook users was accessed by Cambridge Analytica, a now-defunct political consulting firm that worked for Donald Trump’s successful U.S. presidential campaign in 2016.

    The FTC fined Facebook $5 billion in the wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal, saying the company had violated a 2012 agreement with the FTC to protect user data.

    Shareholders want the defendants to reimburse Meta for the FTC fine and other legal costs, which the plaintiffs estimate total more than $8 billion.

    In court filings, the defendants described the allegations as “extreme” and said the evidence at trial will show Facebook hired an outside consulting firm to ensure compliance with the FTC agreement and that Facebook was a victim of Cambridge Analytica’s deceit.

    Meta, which is not a defendant, declined to comment. On its website, the company has said it has invested billions of dollars into protecting user privacy since 2019.

    The lawsuit is considered the first of its kind to go to trial which alleges board members consciously failed to oversee their company. This is often described as the hardest claim to prove in Delaware corporate law.

    Boeing’s current and former board members settled a case with similar claims in 2021 for $237.5 million, the largest ever in an alleged breach of oversight lawsuit. The Boeing directors did not admit to wrongdoing.

    In addition to privacy claims at the heart of the Meta case, plaintiffs allege that Zuckerberg anticipated that the Cambridge Analytica scandal would send the company’s stock lower and sold his Facebook shares as a result, pocketing at least $1 billion.

    Defendants said evidence will show that Zuckerberg did not trade on inside information and that he used a stock-trading plan that removes his control over sales and is designed to guard against insider trading.

    McCormick is expected to rule on liability and damages months after the trial concludes.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Town Hall restoration work set to get underway

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford City Council is pleased to announce a significant step forward in the restoration of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

    The historic Town Hall is set to undergo essential cleaning and stone repair works to preserve and enhance its impressive façade. 

    Following detailed planning and behind-the-scenes progress, the Council has now appointed PAYE Stonework & Restoration Ltd as the principal contractor to carry out the work. Recognised for their expertise in heritage restoration and holding a Royal Warrant, PAYE brings a wealth of experience from high-profile conservation projects across the UK. Work on site is due to begin later this year. 

    The restoration, guided by heritage specialists Jessop and Cook Architects, will focus on cleaning the stonework—an essential first step that will enable thorough assessment and repair of structural and surface condition issues. The project is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. 

    Comment

    “Oxford Town Hall is a landmark building, a valued community space and a source of great pride. This restoration project will help ensure that its historical and architectural legacy is safeguarded for future generations and will maintain it at the heart of our community.”
    Councillor Ed Turner, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management

    The historic Town Hall is set to undergo essential cleaning and stone repair works to preserve and enhance its impressive façade. 

    Following detailed planning and behind-the-scenes progress, the Council has now appointed PAYE Stonework & Restoration Ltd as the principal contractor to carry out the work. Recognised for their expertise in heritage restoration and holding a Royal Warrant, PAYE brings a wealth of experience from high-profile conservation projects across the UK. Work on site is due to begin later this year. 

    The restoration, guided by heritage specialists Jessop and Cook Architects, will focus on cleaning the stonework—an essential first step that will enable thorough assessment and repair of structural and surface condition issues. The project is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. 

    The Town Hall serves a wide range of functions: it is home to Oxford City Council’s municipal offices, houses the Museum of Oxford, and hosts concerts, weddings, and civic events throughout the year, bringing a substantial income stream to support frontline services. Its neo-Jacobean architecture and storied past, dating back to its opening by the then Prince of Wales, make it a cherished fixture in the city’s urban fabric. 

    This restoration will not only improve the building’s appearance but will also extend its lifespan, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Oxford’s heritage and civic life and that income from hiring out its rooms can continue to support frontline services. 

    For more information about the project and the history of Oxford Town Hall, visit: www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –