Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Mexico Governor mobilizes resources following catastrophic flooding in Ruidoso 

    Source: US State of New Mexico

    SANTA FE – New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued the following statement:

    Ruidoso endured devastating wildfires and flooding last summer, and now catastrophic flooding is hitting this resilient community again. This crisis demands immediate action.

    Tonight, I signed an emergency declaration request to get federal response teams and repair resources on the ground immediately. We’re encouraged that additional federal resources are already on the way.

    New Mexico is mobilizing every resource we have, but Ruidoso needs federal support to recover from this disaster. We’ve watched Texas receive the federal resources they desperately needed, and Ruidoso deserves that same urgent response.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor secures some federal resources for Ruidoso – State works with federal partners for additional financial assistance

    Source: US State of New Mexico

    SANTA FE – The state of New Mexico today received partial approval for a federal emergency declaration for flood-damaged communities, providing immediate federal personnel resources to support response and recovery efforts in Ruidoso while work continues to secure additional federal assistance.

    “This federal declaration is a critical first step, but it’s not everything Ruidoso needs and deserves,” said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. “We will continue working with the federal government for every dollar and resource necessary to help this resilient community fully recover from these devastating floods.”

    What was approved: The emergency declaration provides immediate assistance to the community for life saving activities like urban search and rescue teams and the support staff for the incident management team to begin work.

    What remains under federal review: The governor’s original request also sought additional assistance that remains pending including:

    • Direct financial assistance for individuals, households, and businesses in the affected areas of Lincoln and Valencia counties, including grants for:
      • Repair or replacement of homes destroyed in the disaster.
      • Necessary expenses and essential needs including medical, dental, funeral, personal property, and transportation costs.
      • A one-time payment for emergency supplies including water, food, first aid, breastfeeding supplies, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, and fuel for transportation.
      • Temporary housing including hotels, staying with family or friends, or other suitable options for displaced residents.
      • Transitional sheltering assistance.
    • Federal reimbursement for emergency work, including debris removal for Chaves, Lincoln, Otero, and Valencia counties.
    • Permanent repair of disaster-damaged facilities and public infrastructure for Chaves, Lincoln, Otero, and Valencia counties including:
      • Roads and bridges.
      • Water control facilities.
      • Public buildings and equipment.
      • Public utilities.
      • Parks, recreational, and other facilities.

    In support of the governor’s request, the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is actively working with FEMA to conduct preliminary damage assessments and provide additional documentation requested by FEMA.

    A state Disaster Recovery Center is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at ENMU-Ruidoso, 709 Mecham Dr, Ruidoso, N.M. 88345. State disaster case managers are on site, along with state agencies who can help residents replace documents, ask insurance questions, and find resources.

    Residents can also call the State Disaster Helpline at 1-833-663-4736 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or visit the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s website.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Vance Boelter Indicted for the Murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman, the Shootings of John and Yvette Hoffman, and the Attempted Shooting of Hope Hoffman

    Source: US FBI

    MINNEAPOLIS – Vance Boelter, 57, has been indicted on six federal charges in connection with the stalking and murders of Minnesota House of Representatives Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman, the stalking and shooting of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman, and the attempted shooting of their daughter Hope Hoffman, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.

    “Vance Boelter planned and carried out a night of terror that shook Minnesota to its core,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.  “He carried out targeted political assassinations the likes of which have never been seen in Minnesota. We grieve with the Hortman family and continue to pray for the recovery of the Hoffmans. Today, a grand jury indicted Boelter with the most serious of federal charges for these heinous political assassinations. Let me be clear: Boelter will see justice.”

    According to court documents, after extensive research and planning, Boelter embarked on a murderous rampage targeting Minnesota’s elected officials and their families. On June 14, 2025, the defendant disguised himself as a member of law enforcement and traveled to the homes of Democratic elected officials with the intent to intimidate and murder. Early that morning, the defendant traveled to the Hoffmans home in Champlin, Minnesota. By posing as a police officer, Boelter compelled the Hoffmans to answer their door. He then repeatedly shot Senator Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman and he attempted to shoot their daughter, Hope Hoffman.

    Boelter then traveled to the homes of two other Minnesota elected officials, only to find that no one at those locations was home. He next drove to the home of Speaker Emerita and Representative Melissa Hortman. There, Boelter repeatedly shot, and killed,  Representative Hortman and her husband, Mark. Following a two-day manhunt, law enforcement arrested the defendant near his family residence in Green Isle, Minnesota.

    The defendant is charged with numerous counts, including the stalking and murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman, the stalking and shooting of John and Yvette Hoffman, and the attempted shooting of Hope Hoffman. The defendant faces charges which include maximum penalties of up to life in prison or death. 

    “Last month, the State of Minnesota experienced fear and panic. Today, Vance Boelter was indicted by a federal grand jury, marking another step forward in our pursuit of justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “As alleged in the indictment, Boelter’s actions took the lives of Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman, both beloved members of our community. The indictment also alleges that Boelter seriously wounded Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. This targeted violence was an attack on the rule of law, resulting in a manhunt involving hundreds of law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly until Boelter was apprehended.  The FBI remains grateful to our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners for their dedication throughout this investigation. Together, we will ensure that justice is served and that a price is paid for the reign of terror and violence our community endured.”

    “Vance Boelter’s evil acts did unspeakable harm and terrorized our entire state that night,” Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said. “A lot of work has been happening and we are glad to see these next steps taken toward holding Mr. Boelter accountable for his actions.”

    “Political violence has no place in our society and Boelter will be held accountable for his crimes. Today’s indictment reflects the tireless efforts of the dedicated professionals who work every day to protect our communities,” said Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley.

    “Today marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of justice. This case transcends headlines; it highlights the collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies who refused to rest until Vance Boelter was taken into custody, and it also captures the importance of due process in bringing justice,” said Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt. “I’m grateful for everyone involved, including the HCSO staff who spent countless hours during the manhunt—responding to tips, conducting searches, offering intelligence and data support, and more to help bring accountability. As we move forward, our thoughts will remain with the victims and their families affected by this tragedy.”

    “The path to justice for the lives torn apart by Vance Boelter’s actions is far from over, but this indictment is a powerful step forward,” said Travis Riddle, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “What began as fear and chaos is now moving toward accountability thanks to the tireless work of so many law enforcement partners. ATF is honored to stand with them in pursuit of a prosecution that brings answers and a measure of peace to the communities impacted by this violence.”

    “The harm caused by Boelter’s actions was not confined to any one place—it was felt widely, including here in Minneapolis. His conduct endangered the safety of our communities and undermined trust in police. We are thankful to our U.S. Attorney’s Office and all federal, state, and local law enforcement that have worked tirelessly to hold this killer accountable,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, ATF, Brooklyn Park Police Department, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Champlin Police Department, and New Hope Police Department, together with several other state and local partners. The National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section also assisted in the investigation. This investigation has proceeded with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in strong partnership with the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Jacobs, Bradley M. Endicott, Matthew D. Forbes, and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: USDT-Staking Empowers Investors to Earn Daily Passive Income Through Stable and Secure USDT Staking

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — USDT-Staking has been developed to support simplicity, transparency, and access to staking when utilizing USDT compared to other cryptocurrencies. USDT-Staking offers a unique pledge-based staking model that provides consistent returns and total user control over one’s own assets. USDT-Staking allows first time or seasoned investors to safely stake USDT and develop engagement in the digital economy in a simple way.

    A New Way to Make Money in Crypto – No Trading or Mining Required

    Unlike platforms that rely on volatile tokens or energy-consuming mining processes, USDT-Staking offers a low-risk investment solution built around USDT, one of the most stable digital assets in the market. Through its pledge model, users deposit their USDT, choose a plan, and receive fixed returns daily.

    This innovative approach, also known as pledge investing, removes the guesswork from earning with crypto. There’s no need to watch charts, time the market, or worry about price crashes. Users earn while their principal remains protected in a stable asset.

    “We’ve created a platform that delivers true financial freedom. With USDT-Staking, anyone can earn passive income with confidence,” said a spokesperson for the company.

    Why USDT? Stability Meets Profitability

    USDT (Tether) is a stablecoin pegged to the value of the U.S. dollar, which helps to mitigate a lot of the volatility typically associated with cryptocurrency. The nature of USDT makes it the ideal mechanism for staking due to its stability.  This ultimately signifies it is good for anyone seeking predictable returns rather than speculative gains.

    By staking USDT, investors can receive compoundable daily earnings while avoiding the fevered volatility of Bitcoin, Ethereum and many altcoins. USDT-Staking represents a smart staking model ideal for conservative investors, retirees, and individuals wishing to preserve capital while growing wealth.

    Key Features of USDT-Staking

    • Daily Interest Payouts – Earnings are deposited to users’ accounts every 24 hours.
    • Flexible Pledge Plans – Choose from short or long-term staking options based on your goals.
    • Zero Volatility Exposure – Your funds stay in USDT, minimizing risk.
    • No Lock-in Restrictions – Withdraw your capital or rewards anytime with no penalties.
    • User-Centric Dashboard – Easily track performance, manage funds, and reinvest earnings.
    • Fully Transparent – Operates on smart contracts with visible, verifiable transactions.
    • Secure Infrastructure – Built on industry-standard encryption and decentralized architecture.

    How to Get Started on USDT-Staking

    Getting started is simple. In just a few steps, anyone can start earning from their USDT holdings:

    1. Visit https://usdt-staking.xyz/#/?ref=292005
    2. Sign Up – Quick registration with a secure account setup
    3. Deposit USDT – Use your wallet to fund your account
    4. Choose a Plan – Select the pledge period and rate that fits your needs
    5. Start Earning – Sit back and enjoy daily returns deposited directly to your balance

    Whether staking for a week or several months, USDT-Staking offers plans that suit every type of investor.

    The Future of Passive Crypto Income is here

    Pledge investing is emerging as one of the safest and most practical DeFi strategies. By locking in USDT and earning interest over time, users are creating steady financial growth without having to become experts in the crypto space.

    USDT-Staking has taken this concept and perfected it with user-first tools, instant withdrawals, and high APYs. While some staking platforms make it difficult to access funds or provide unclear reward structures, USDT-Staking keeps everything transparent, automated, and predictable.

    Who Can Benefit from USDT-Staking?

    • Crypto Beginners who want to earn without trading experience
    • Passive Income Seekers looking for safer options than DeFi tokens or NFTs
    • Long-Term Holders who want to put idle USDT to work
    • Traditional Investors exploring stable crypto returns
    • Global Users seeking access to borderless, permissionless income tools

    Whether you’re investing $10 or $10,000, USDT-Staking scales with your financial vision.

    Security, Simplicity, and Support

    Security is at the core of USDT-Staking’s infrastructure. The platform uses encrypted connections, decentralized smart contracts, and real-time monitoring to ensure funds are safe and users remain in control at all times.

    In addition, a responsive support team is available 24/7 to guide users through any questions, from wallet setup to choosing the right plan.

    About USDT-Staking

    USDT-Staking is a decentralized pledge investment platform offering stable and high-yield staking services for USDT holders. With its commitment to transparency, user empowerment, and zero-risk investing, USDT-Staking is redefining what it means to earn in the world of crypto. The platform enables global access to reliable staking plans backed by security, simplicity, and consistency.

    Conclusion: Your Gateway to Consistent Crypto Earnings

    As the cryptocurrency industry matures, there is an ever growing interest in finding safer ways to grow digital assets – and USDT-Staking is a trusted and innovative platform for earning stable, secure, and sustainable income through USDT staking.

    USDT-Staking is perfect for those looking to better enhance their crypto portfolios in a big way. USDT-Staking has extremely simple set up and use, transparent and predictable rewards, and you start earning every day. This could be an excellent option for everyone to unlock the true potential of your crypto portfolio, all while avoiding the risks typically associated with cryptocurrency trading and cryptocurrency mining.

    USDT-Staking is a proven way for both new and seasoned investors to earn income on a consistent and long-term basis in the decentralized economy.

    To learn more about our platform, staking plans, and how you can start earning passive income today, please visit our official website: https://usdt-staking.xyz/#/?ref=292005

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Chu, Colleagues Join Union Workers to Announce Legislation to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Chu, Colleagues Join Union Workers to Announce Legislation to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

    WATCH: Padilla pushes for enforceable workplace heat stress protections after hottest year on record

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, on the heels of another harsh heat wave across California, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28) joined union workers from the United Farm Workers (UFW), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and United Steelworkers to announce their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to implement federal enforceable workplace heat stress protections.

    Co-leads of the legislation include U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.-03), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, and Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12).

    To address the increasing risks from extreme temperatures, the lawmakers introduced the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act, legislation to protect the safety and health of indoor and outdoor workers who are exposed to dangerous heat conditions in the workplace. The legislation would protect workers against occupational exposure to excessive heat by requiring the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to establish an enforceable federal standard to protect workers in high-heat environments with commonsense measures like paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, limitations on time exposed to heat, and emergency response for workers with heat-related illness. The bill also directs employers to provide training for their employees on the risk factors that can lead to heat illness and guidance on the proper procedures for responding to symptoms.

    The bill is named in honor of Asunción Valdivia, who died in 2004 after picking grapes for 10 hours straight in 105-degree temperatures. Mr. Valdivia fell unconscious, but instead of calling an ambulance, his employer told Mr. Valdivia’s son to drive his father home. On his way home, he died of heat stroke at the age of 53.

    “Asunción Valdivia’s death was completely preventable, yet his story is sadly not unique. As the planet continues to grow hotter, there is still no federally enforceable heat safety standard for workers. That’s not just dangerous for the farm workers and construction workers who work all day outside in the sun — it’s also dangerous for the factory and restaurant workers in boiling warehouses and kitchens,” said Senator Padilla. “Every family deserves to know that even on the hottest day, their loved one will come back home. A national heat safety standard would provide that peace of mind and finally give workers the safety they deserve.”

    “Even as heat waves become more frequent, longer-lasting, and more severe, red state politicians are rolling back heat protections and child labor protections across the country. It’s not rocket science—you cannot be pro-worker if you are anti-heat protection,” said Senator Markey. “Our legislation would provide workers with basic, effective protections: access to water, access to shade, time limits on high heat exposure, and procedures for emergency medical response. Every worker deserves to know when they clock in that they will return home safe at the end of their shift.  The thermometer is rising and the clock is ticking. Republicans want to sacrifice working Americans. Let’s save our workers instead.”

    “From farmhands to construction workers, America’s essential workforce is doing important work while under extreme heat conditions,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Temperatures continue to reach record highs in Nevada and across the United States. We must act now to protect our communities’ vital workers.” 

    “As we continue to experience record-breaking summer heat waves, we’re also seeing a distressing increase in cases of workers collapsing and even losing their lives due to excessive heat. I will never forget people like Asunción Valdivia or Esteban Chavez Jr., who passed away in Pasadena, California in 2022 after a day of delivering packages in 90-degree heat in a truck without air conditioning. Unfortunately, their tragic deaths were entirely preventable,” said Representative Chu. “Whether on a farm, driving a truck, or working in a warehouse, workers like Asunción and Esteban keep our country running while enduring some of the most difficult conditions—often without access to water or rest. To protect our workforce and save lives, we must pass this bill into law and establish comprehensive and enforceable federal standards addressing heat stress on the job.”

    “This summer, Americans across the country are grappling with some of the hottest temperatures on record. Yet workers in this country still have no legal protection against excessive heat—one of the oldest, most serious, and most common workplace hazards. Heat illness affects workers in our nation’s fields, warehouses, and factories, and climate change is making the problem more severe every year,” said Ranking Member Scott, House Committee on Education and Workforce. “This legislation will require OSHA to issue a heat standard on a much faster track than the normal OSHA regulatory process. I was proud to advance this important bill in 2022, and I urge Chairman Walberg and Committee Republicans to do so again this Congress. Workers deserve nothing less, particularly as heat-related illnesses and deaths rise.”

    “As we face record temperatures, it has never been more important that we protect our workers facing extreme heat in the workplace,” said Representative Adams. “Last year, a North Carolina postal worker Wendy Johnson lost her life to heat illness after spending hours in the back of a postal truck on a 95-degree day with no air conditioning. Her death was entirely preventable, and Wendy should still be with us today. I’m proud to introduce this bill so we can honor her memory and ensure every worker has the protections from extreme heat that Wendy deserved.” 

    According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2024 was the warmest year on record for the United States. The past decade, including 2024, was the hottest on record, marking a decade of extreme heat that will only get worse. Heat-related illnesses can cause heat cramps, organ damage, heat exhaustion, stroke, and even death. Between 1992 and 2017, heat stress injuries killed 815 U.S. workers and seriously injured more than 70,000. The Washington Center for Equitable Growth estimates hot temperatures caused at least 360,000 workplace injuries in California from 2001 to 2018, or about 20,000 injuries a year. The failure to implement simple heat safety measures costs U.S. employers nearly $100 billion every year in lost productivity.

    From 2011-2020, heat exposure killed at least 400 workers and caused nearly 34,000 injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work; both are likely vast underestimates. Farm workers and construction workers suffer the highest incidence of heat illness. And no matter what the weather is outside, workers in factories, commercial kitchens, and other workplaces, including ones where workers must wear personal protective equipment (PPE), can face dangerously high heat conditions all year round.

    The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act has the support of a broad coalition of over 250 groups, including: Rural Coalition, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE!, Communication Workers of America, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Sierra Club, United Farm Workers, Farmworker Justice, Public Citizen, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Union of Concerned Scientists, United Steelworkers, National Resources Defense Council, American Lung Association, and Health Partnerships.

    “Every worker safety rule in America is written in blood,” said UFW President Teresa Romero. “The UFW has been fighting for heat safety protections for decades. Over 20 years later, Asuncion Valdivia’s death still hurts. There are so many other farm workers — many whose names we do not know — who have also been killed by extreme heat on the job in the years since. Enough is enough. Every farm worker deserves access to water, shade, and paid rest breaks — it’s past time for Congress get this done.”

    “Too many workers – including AFSCME members – have lost their lives on the job as a result of blistering heat waves and record-breaking temperatures,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “As the number of heat-related illnesses and fatalities continue to rise, it is well past time we adopt nationwide safeguards to better protect the workers who maintain our infrastructure, keep our streets clean, harvest our food, and keep our economy moving. We at AFSCME thank Senator Padilla and Representative Chu for introducing the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act, which will ensure essential workers who brave the heat can do their jobs safely and effectively, and most importantly, make it home alive.”

    “For the Steelworkers Union, we represent workers in manufacturing settings and in a host of other areas where not only is it hot outside, but the areas that they work around are as hot as up to 3,000 degrees and they must wear protective equipment. The Asunción Valdivia Heat, Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act is important because it will provide a basic standard for not just outdoor, but indoor workplaces as well to ensure that there is proper rest breaks and the ability to stay cool. The Steelworkers are absolutely supportive of this bill and are going to work with Republicans and Democrats to ensure that heat illness is the last thing a worker should worry about,” said Roy Houseman, Legislative Director of United Steelworkers. 

    “Everyone deserves safe working conditions, but powerful corporations have not done enough to protect their workers from hot working environments, exacerbated by the climate crisis,” said Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO. “Extreme heat is increasingly causing indoor and outdoor workers to collapse or even die on the job, and our union family has already lost too many members to preventable, work-related heat illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) must issue a strong heat rule, not a weak one, to ensure workers have specific protections they need and to be able to raise unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation.”

    “It’s long past time for meaningful legislation to protect Teamsters and other workers from the effects of prolonged heat exposure and dangerous heat levels while at work,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, and limitations on time exposed to heat are simple common sense steps that should be mandated immediately. Waiting to implement these measures is unacceptable and will result in the further loss of lives.”

    “Workers in America are facing unprecedented dangers from climate-driven heat and extreme weather, and things are only getting worse. It is far past time for a strong national standard to protect workers from illness and death caused by exposure to extreme heat. The provisions mandated in this bill, including temperature triggers, acclimatization, water, shade and paid rest breaks, would save countless lives. They represent a common sense and common decency approach that employers could quickly adopt. American workers deserve no less, and they urgently need it. Today, OSHA is in the final stage of issuing a final rule on this issue. It is imperative that the rule maintain the integrity and high standards called for in the Asuncíon Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act. We applaud Senators Padilla, Markey, and Cortez Masto and Representatives Chu, Adams, and Scott, as well as the dozens of Senators and Congresspersons who have joined them in this long effort. It’s time to bring a high quality, protective standard to the finish line for American workers,” said Ernesto Archila, Climate and Financial Regulation Policy Director, Public Citizen.

    “Every summer high temperature records get broken in states across the country, and while public health officials urge residents to stay inside and stay safe millions of workers have to report for work. From fields to warehouses, airports to schools, construction sites to manufacturing plants, and many more industries, too many workers are at risk of not getting home safely at the end of the day due to exposure to heat on the job. We know how to prevent these dangers. In fact, both outdoor and indoor workers in states like Oregon, California, and Maryland have strong, enforceable protections in place already. And in Washington, Colorado, and Minnesota at least some categories of workers are being kept safe from heat. But millions labor in other states where there are no protections; worker safety is left to the federal government in these states, and absent strong rules workers are left to protect themselves and hope for the best. We must extend workplace protections from heat to all workers. The National Employment Law Project thanks Senator Padilla and Representative Chu, as well as the dozens of Senators and Congresspersons who have cosponsored the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act of 2025,” said Anastasia Christman, Senior Policy Analyst, National Employment Law Project.

    The bill is cosponsored by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Senator Padilla has acted urgently to address the threats posed by extreme heat as the climate crisis becomes more severe. Padilla successfully called on OSHA to establish the first-ever federal safety standard to protect workers from the severe risks of excessive heat, implementing key provisions from the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act. Padilla and his colleagues also led 112 members of Congress in calling on the Biden Administration to implement a workplace federal heat standard as quickly as possible. The letter urged OSHA to model the standard after the provisions in the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act. Additionally, Padilla and Markey’s Preventing Health Emergencies and Temperature-related (HEAT) Illness and Deaths Act advanced out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation last year.

    Padilla previously joined union members and workers from UFW and the Kern, Inyo, and Mono Counties Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO in Forty Acres, California in 2023 to announce his legislation to implement an enforceable federal workplace heat standard.

    A one-pager on the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act is available here.

    A section-by-section of the bill is available here.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Joins McCollum and 45 Bicameral Colleagues In Letter Opposing Cuts To The Corporation For Public Broadcasting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Lawmakers emphasize importance of emergency broadcasting funding to keep Americans safe amid natural disasters and emergencies

    Washington, DC — On Wednesday, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), joined Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) in leading a letter alongside 45  bicameral Congressional colleagues to President Trump urging him to reconsider his decision to defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The CPB supports America’s children with educational programming and ensures that emergency broadcasting keeps Americans safe amid natural disasters and emergencies. The proposed rescission to the CPB will force small stations around the country to close, leaving significant gaps in coverage for Americans who rely on these vital services for noncommercial, high-quality, localized content and telecommunications. 

    The letter comes amid Congressional Republicans’ attempt to pass President Trump’s proposal to rescind $10 Billion in federal funding that Congress approved four months ago on a bipartisan basis. Despite bipartisan opposition to the bill, the US Senate voted to move forward to debating and amending the legislation on Wednesday by the slimmest possible margin following a tie-breaking vote cast by Vice President JD Vance. 

    “We write to express our deep concern regarding the $1.1 Billion claw back of funds to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) included in the proposed recissions you sent to Congress on May 28, 2025,” said the lawmakers in their letter to the White House. “The package was passed through the House of Representatives on June 12, over the objections of all Democratic and four Republican Members. The cuts to CPB in the recission package undermine the public media that Americans rely on for unfettered access to information, educational programming for kids, cultural programming, and nationwide emergency alerting.

    “Public media has received bipartisan support for the past 50 years because Congress has continuously recognized that access to public media is in the public’s best interest. The Public Radio Satellite System (PRSS) is the backbone of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Amber Alerts and plays a critical role in keeping Americans informed and safe during emergencies. As key local news providers, public radio stations leverage their reporting resources to offer live news and information on disasters and other emergencies, providing real-time information on where local audiences can access resources and safe locations.

    “As our nation experiences increased instances of severe weather and climate shocks, this service is more important than ever. In Minnesota, Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) delivers programming and services across the state, and in some areas is the only local source for news and updates during an emergency. When the power goes out, and cell networks or the internet go down, MPR is the most reliable form of communication in an emergency and provides essential backstopping for all other emergency alerting services and activities across the public media system. This is true across all 50 states, and losing this important service in the middle of hurricane, flood, and tornado season will prove devastating nationwide.

    “Of the $1.1 Billion included in the rescission proposal, 70% of these funds will be pulled out of local stations that are independently owned and operated in our communities. For many smaller stations in rural communities across the country, these cuts will prove utterly devastating, because they provide local, state, and regional news that is no longer provided through other outlets. These small stations will not survive, resulting in news deserts for these communities and putting thousands of American lives at risk.

    “We ask your administration to withdraw this rescission proposal and protect the vital services that CPB provides. If the rescissions go ahead as planned, we will be requesting a report to Congress as to how your administration plans to fill the void left behind, particularly in the areas of emergency alerting and local news reporting.”

    The letter is co-signed by Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and 44 Democratic Representatives: Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Ami Bera (CA-06), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Shontel Brown (OH-11), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Danny Davis (IL-07), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Laura Friedman (CA-30), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), William Keating (MA-09), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), James McGovern (MA-02), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Dave Min (CA-47), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Richard Neal (MA-01), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Adam Smith (WA-09), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

    Click here to read the letter. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham Lauds Actions to Clarify Whistleblower Protections for CFTC Staff

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham Lauds Actions to Clarify Whistleblower Protections for CFTC Staff | CFTC

    /PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/phamstatement071625
    Skip to main content

    July 16, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – CFTC Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham today made the following comment regarding a CFTC Office of Inspector General review that clarified whistleblower protections for agency employees.
    “I’m pleased that the inspector general conducted a thorough review of the CFTC’s policies to ensure our employees are adequately informed of their whistleblower rights and protections. Whistleblowers are critical to promoting a well-functioning government, and I applaud the agency efforts to make these protections abundantly clear,” Acting Chairman Pham said.

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Violent Gang Sentenced to Decade in Prison for Racketeering and Drug and Firearms Trafficking

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

    BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in Cameron Street, a violent Boston gang.

    Felisberto Lopes, also known as “Chee-B,” 40, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In November 2024, Lopes pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and multiple counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 6, 2025. In May 2023, Lopes was one of 22 individuals named in a multi-count superseding indictment charging him and others with racketeering conspiracy, drug and firearms trafficking and other offenses.

    Lopes was identified as a member of Cameron Street, a violent gang based largely in Dorchester that uses violence to preserve, protect and expand its territory, promote fear and enhance its reputation. According to the charging documents, members use social media applications to promote Cameron Street, celebrate murders and other violent crimes committed by the gang, as well as denigrate rival gangs. Cameron Street members allegedly possess, carry and use firearms to murder and assault gang rivals as well as protect narcotics and drug proceeds. Cameron Street members also allegedly distribute controlled substances and firearms, commit armed robberies and engage in human trafficking in part to generate income for the Cameron Street enterprise.

    During the investigation Lopes distributed several firearms as well as cocaine to a cooperating witness. On Feb. 26, 2022, law enforcement responded to a shooting that took place at Lopes’ residence in Dorchester. During a search of his residence, a half kilogram of cocaine, over $25,000, two plastic bags containing crack cocaine, two scales with cocaine residue, a bag of oxycodone pills and over 400 rounds of various calibers of ammunition were seized. Lopes was taken into custody nearby.

    Lopes had previously been convicted in Suffolk Superior Court of aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury and served a four-year state prison sentence.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Scott Riordan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced for Possessing More than 65 Pounds of Methamphetamine and Seven Firearms

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

    TULSA, Okla. – A Mexican national was sentenced today for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

    U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Marcos Javier Suazo-Mancilla, 23, to 270 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release.

    In October 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating a drug trafficking organization believed to be responsible for trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine in the Tulsa area. When law enforcement conducted a search warrant at a residence, Suazo-Mancilla was present, and documentation showed that he was residing in the home. During a search of the residence, approximately 26 pounds of methamphetamine, 41 grams of cocaine, seven firearms, and more than $9k in cash were found. The investigation further revealed that this organization rented an auto body shop. When law enforcement searched that business, they found an additional 39 pounds of methamphetamine.   

    Suazo-Mancilla was previously removed from the United States in August 2018. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons and is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nasar prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: AvePoint Announces Redemption of Outstanding Public Warrants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AvePoint (Nasdaq: AVPT), the global leader in data security, governance and resilience, today announced that it has completed the redemption of its publicly traded warrants (the “Warrants”) to purchase shares of AvePoint’s common stock, $0.0001 par value per share (“Common Stock”), that were issued under the Warrant Agreement, dated September 16, 2019, by and between AvePoint’s predecessor company, Apex Technology Acquisition Corporation (“Apex”), and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as warrant agent, (the “Warrant Agreement”) as part of the units sold in Apex’s initial public offering, that remained unexercised at 5:00 p.m., New York City time on July 11, 2025 (the “Redemption Date”) for a redemption price of $0.01 per Warrant (the “Redemption Price”).

    On June 11, 2025, AvePoint filed a Form 8-K/A stating that, pursuant to the Warrant Agreement, it would redeem all Warrants that remained outstanding at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Redemption Date at the Redemption Price. Of the 1,242,994 Warrants that were outstanding as of the date AvePoint announced the redemption of its public warrants on June 11, 2025, 1,053,498 were subsequently exercised. Total cash proceeds generated from the Warrant exercises were approximately $12.1 million. A total of 189,496 Warrants remained unexercised as of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Redemption Date, and AvePoint redeemed those Warrants for an aggregate redemption price of approximately $1,895. Following the Redemption Date, AvePoint had no Warrants outstanding and 211,879,134 shares of Common Stock outstanding.

    In connection with the redemption, the Warrants ceased trading on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) and will be delisted, with the trading suspension effective as of July 11, 2025. The Common Stock continues to trade on Nasdaq under the symbol “AVPT.”

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of AvePoint, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    About AvePoint 

    Beyond Secure. AvePoint is a global leader in data security, governance, and resilience, going beyond traditional solutions to ensure a robust data foundation and enable organizations everywhere to collaborate with confidence. Over 25,000 customers worldwide rely on the AvePoint Confidence Platform to prepare, secure, and optimize their critical data across Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, and other collaboration environments. AvePoint’s global channel partner program includes over 5,000 managed service providers, value-added resellers and systems integrators, with our solutions available in more than 100 cloud marketplaces. To learn more, visit www.avepoint.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws including statements regarding the future performance of and market opportunities for AvePoint. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: changes in the competitive and regulated industries in which AvePoint operates, variations in operating performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting AvePoint’s business and changes in AvePoint’s ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and ability to identify and realize additional opportunities, and the risk of downturns in the market and the technology industry. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of AvePoint’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Copies of these and other documents filed by AvePoint from time to time are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. 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 AvePoint does not assume any obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. AvePoint does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations. Unless the context otherwise indicates, references in this press release to the terms “AvePoint”, “the Company”, “we”, “our” and “us” refer to AvePoint, Inc. and its subsidiaries

    Disclosure Information

    AvePoint uses the https://www.avepoint.com/ir website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. 

    Investor Contact 
    AvePoint 
    Jamie Arestia 
    ir@avepoint.com 
    (551) 220-5654 

    Media Contact 
    AvePoint 
    Nicole Caci 
    pr@avepoint.com 
    (201) 201-8143 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Berry Corporation Announces Date for Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Conference Call/Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Berry Corporation (bry) (NASDAQ: BRY) (“Berry” or the “Company”) today announced it will report second quarter 2025 results on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, after the close of U.S. financial markets and will host a conference call and webcast Thursday, August 7, 2025, to discuss these results; details and links are provided below:

    Earnings Call Information

    Call Date:  Thursday, August 7, 2025
    Call Time: 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time / 10:00 a.m. Central Time / 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time
       

    Join the live listen-only audio webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/nngi4arf or at https://bry.com/category/events

    If you would like to ask a question on the live call, please pre-register using the following link:

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb2be5f52d4874ace92c29a164ea18802

    Once registered, you will receive the dial-in numbers and a unique PIN number. You may then dial in or have a call back. When you dial in, you will input your PIN and be placed into the call. If you register and forget your PIN or lose your registration confirmation email, you may simply re-register and receive a new PIN.

    A web based audio replay will be available shortly after the broadcast and will be archived at https://ir.bry.com/reports-resources or visit https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/nngi4arf or https://bry.com/category/events

    About Berry Corporation (BRY)

    Berry is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: BRY) western United States independent upstream energy company with a focus on onshore, low geologic risk, long-lived oil and gas reserves. We operate in two business segments: (i) exploration and production (“E&P”) and (ii) well servicing and abandonment services. Our E&P assets are located in California and Utah, are characterized by high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population. Our California assets are in the San Joaquin Basin (100% oil), and our Utah assets are in the Uinta Basin (65% oil). We provide our well servicing and abandonment services to third party operators in California and our California E&P operations through C&J Well Services (CJWS). More information can be found at the Company’s website at www.bry.com.

    COMPANY CONTACT:                
    Christopher Denison – Director of Investor Relations
    ir@bry.com
    (661) 616-3811

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Expand Energy Provides 2025 Second Quarter Earnings Conference Call Information

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OKLAHOMA CITY, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expand Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: EXE) announced today that it will release its 2025 second quarter operational and financial results after market close on July 29, 2025. A conference call to discuss the results has been scheduled for July 30, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Participants can view the live webcast here. Participants who would like to ask a question, can register here, and will receive the dial-in info and a unique PIN to join the call. Links to the conference call will be provided on Expand Energy’s website. A replay will be available on the website following the call.

    About Expand Energy
    Expand Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: EXE) is the largest natural gas producer in the United States, powered by dedicated and innovative employees focused on disrupting the industry’s traditional cost and market delivery model to responsibly develop assets in the nation’s most prolific natural gas basins. Expand Energy’s returns-driven strategy strives to create sustainable value for its stakeholders by leveraging its scale, financial strength and operational execution. Expand Energy is committed to expanding America’s energy reach to fuel a more affordable, reliable, lower carbon future.

    INVESTOR CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACT:
    Chris Ayres Brooke Coe
    (405) 935-8870 (405) 935-8878
    ir@expandenergy.com media@expandenergy.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: SPS Commerce Announces Date of Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MINNEAPOLIS, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SPS Commerce, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPSC), a leader in retail supply chain cloud services, today announced that it will issue its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, after the market close on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. SPS Commerce will host a call to discuss the results at 3:30 p.m. Central Time (4:30 p.m. Eastern Time) on the same day.

    To access the call, please dial 1-833-816-1382, or outside the U.S. 1-412-317-0475 at least 15 minutes prior to the 3:30 p.m. CT start time. Please ask to join the SPS Commerce conference call. A live webcast of the call will also be available at http://investors.spscommerce.com under the Events and Presentations menu. The replay will also be available on our website at http://investors.spscommerce.com.

    About SPS Commerce

    SPS Commerce is the world’s leading retail network, connecting trading partners around the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all retail partners. We support data-driven partnerships with innovative cloud technology, customer-obsessed service, and accessible experts so our customers can focus on what they do best. Over 50,000 recurring revenue customers in retail, grocery, distribution, supply, manufacturing, and logistics are using SPS as their retail network. SPS has achieved 97 consecutive quarters of revenue growth and is headquartered in Minneapolis. For additional information, contact SPS at 866-245-8100 or visit www.spscommerce.com.

    SPS COMMERCE, SPS, SPS logo and INFINITE RETAIL POWER are marks of SPS Commerce, Inc. and registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, along with other SPS marks. Such marks may also be registered or otherwise protected in other countries.

    Contact:

    Investor Relations
    The Blueshirt Group
    Irmina Blaszczyk
    Lisa Laukkanen
    SPSC@blueshirtgroup.com
    415-217-4962

    SPS-F

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nasdaq Halts Bowen Acquisition Corp.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Nasdaq Stock Market® (Nasdaq: NDAQ) announced that trading was halted on July 15, 2025 in Bowen Acquisition Corp. at 17:45:19 Eastern Time for additional information requested from the company. The last sale price of the company’s securities was:

    • Ordinary shares (Nasdaq: BOWN) $9.19
    • Rights (Nasdaq: BOWNR) $0.2252
    • Units (Nasdaq: BOWNU) $13.02

    Trading will remain halted until Bowen Acquisition Corp. has fully satisfied Nasdaq’s request for additional information.

    For news and additional information about the company, please contact the company directly or check under the company’s symbol using InfoQuotesSM on the Nasdaq® Web site.

    For more information about The Nasdaq Stock Market, visit the Nasdaq Web site at http://www.nasdaq.com.

    Nasdaq Media Contact:

    Sophia Weiss
    sophia.weiss@nasdaq.com

    NDAQO

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Schedules Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (Nasdaq: PTMN) (“Portman Ridge” or the “Company”) is to release its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, on Thursday, August 7, 2025, after market close. The Company will host a conference call on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET to discuss these results.

    By Phone: To access the call, please dial (646) 307-1963 approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the conference call and use the conference ID 1430967.
                    
    A replay of this conference call will be available shortly after the live call through August 15, 2025.

    By Webcast: A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed via the Internet, on a listen-only basis at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/aty7k6qp. The online archive of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website shortly after the call at www.portmanridge.com in the Investor Relations section under Events and Presentations.

    About Portman Ridge Finance Corporation

    PTMN is a publicly traded, externally managed closed-end investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. PTMN’s middle market investment business originates, structures, finances and manages a portfolio of term loans, mezzanine investments and selected equity securities in middle market companies. PTMN’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Partners Advisors L.P.

    PTMN’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), earnings releases, press releases and other financial, operational and governance information are available on Portman Ridge’s website at www.portmanridge.com.

    Contacts:
    Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
    650 Madison Avenue, 3rd floor
    New York, NY 10022
    info@portmanridge.com

    Brandon Satoren
    Chief Financial Officer
    Brandon.Satoren@bcpartners.com
    (212) 891-2880

    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    lcati@equityny.com
    (212) 836-9611

    The Equity Group Inc.
    Val Ferraro
    vferraro@equityny.com
    (212) 836-9633

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Triumph Releases Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS , July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Triumph Financial, Inc. (Nasdaq: TFIN) has released its second quarter 2025 financial results. The 2Q 2025 financial results and shareholder letter are available on the Company’s website at ir.triumph.io through the News & Events, Events & Presentations links.

    Aaron P. Graft, Vice Chairman & CEO, and Brad Voss, CFO, will review the financial results in a conference call with investors and analysts beginning at 9:30 a.m. central time on Thursday, July 17, 2025.

    The live video conference option may be accessed directly through this link, https://triumph-financial-q2-2025-earnings.open-exchange.net/ or via the Company’s IR website at ir.triumph.io through the News & Events, Events & Presentations links. An archive of this conference call will subsequently be available at the same location, referenced above, on the Company’s website.

    About Triumph

    Triumph (Nasdaq: TFIN) is a financial and technology company focused on payments, factoring, intelligence and banking to modernize and simplify freight transactions. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, its portfolio of brands includes Triumph, TBK Bank and LoadPay.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Investors are cautioned that such statements are predictions and that actual events or results may differ materially. Triumph Financial’s expected financial results or other plans are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see “Risk Factors” and the forward-looking statement disclosure contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 11, 2025. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and Triumph Financial undertakes no duty to update the information.

    Source: Triumph Financial, Inc.

    Investor Relations:
    Luke Wyse
    Executive Vice President, Head of Investor Relations
    lwyse@tfin.com
    214-365-6936

    Media Contact:
    Amanda Tavackoli
    Senior Vice President, Director of Corporate Communication
    atavackoli@tfin.com
    214-365-6930

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Synaptics to Report Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2025 Results on August 7, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Synaptics® Incorporated (Nasdaq: SYNA) today announced that it will report financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of fiscal 2025 on Thursday, August 7, 2025, after the market closes. The Company will host a corresponding conference call for analysts and investors at 2:00 p.m. PT (5:00 p.m. ET), to discuss the results.

    To participate on the live call, analysts and investors should pre-register at Synaptics Q4 FY2025 Earnings Call Registration.
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIf75ecb14f9714f7d81a1df40e7a7f797

    Registrants will receive dial-in information and a unique passcode to access the call. We encourage participants to dial-in at least ten minutes before the scheduled start time.

    A live and archived webcast of the conference call, as well as associated materials, will be accessible from the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at https://investor.synaptics.com.

    About Synaptics Incorporated:
    Synaptics (Nasdaq: SYNA) is driving innovation in AI at the Edge, bringing AI closer to end users and transforming how we engage with intelligent connected devices, whether at home, at work, or on the move. As a go-to partner for forward-thinking product innovators, Synaptics powers the future with its cutting-edge Synaptics Astra™ AI-Native embedded compute, Veros™ wireless connectivity, and multimodal sensing solutions. We’re making the digital experience smarter, faster, more intuitive, secure, and seamless. From touch, display, and biometrics to AI-driven wireless connectivity, video, vision, audio, speech, and security processing, Synaptics is a force behind the next generation of technology enhancing how we live, work, and play. 

    Follow Synaptics on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook, or visit www.synaptics.com.

    For further information, please contact:
    Munjal Shah
    Synaptics
    +1-408-518-7639
    munjal.shah@synaptics.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: South Plains Financial, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LUBBOCK, Texas, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — South Plains Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPFI) (“South Plains” or the “Company”), the parent company of City Bank (“City Bank” or the “Bank”), today reported its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Net income for the second quarter of 2025 was $14.6 million, compared to $12.3 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $11.1 million for the second quarter of 2024.
    • Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2025 was $0.86, compared to $0.72 for the first quarter of 2025 and $0.66 for the second quarter of 2024.
    • Average cost of deposits for the second quarter of 2025 was 214 basis points, compared to 219 basis points for the first quarter of 2025 and 243 basis points for the second quarter of 2024.
    • Net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 4.07% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 3.81% for the first quarter of 2025 and 3.63% for the second quarter of 2024.
    • Return on average assets for the second quarter of 2025 was 1.34%, compared to 1.16% for the first quarter of 2025 and 1.07% for the second quarter of 2024.
    • Tangible book value (non-GAAP) per share was $26.70 as of June 30, 2025, compared to $26.05 as of March 31, 2025 and $24.15 as of June 30, 2024.
    • The consolidated total risk-based capital ratio, common equity tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, and tier 1 leverage ratio at June 30, 2025 were 18.17%, 13.86%, and 12.12%, respectively.

    Curtis Griffith, South Plains’ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We delivered solid second quarter results highlighted by steady margin expansion, continued loan growth despite high levels of loan payoffs, which were expected, and healthy capital levels that continued to build through the quarter. Additionally, we believe the credit quality of our loan portfolio remained solid through the quarter. We believe that we are in a strong position to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves and are pursuing a strategy to increase the assets of the Bank primarily focused on expanding our lending capabilities. Our community-based deposit franchise continues to provide a stable, lower-cost funding source for loan growth across our markets and our team has done a terrific job growing our loan portfolio over the last five years. We believe that we have opportunities to accelerate that growth by further expanding our lending platform and adding experienced commercial lenders who share our culture and values, and who can bring high quality customer relationships to the Bank. We recruited several experienced lenders in the Dallas market during the second quarter and will continue to add talent in the quarters to come as we expand our reach and continue to work to take market share.”

    Results of Operations, Quarter Ended June 30, 2025

    Net Interest Income

    Net interest income was $42.5 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $38.5 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $35.9 million for the second quarter of 2024. Net interest margin, calculated on a tax-equivalent basis, was 4.07% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 3.81% for the first quarter of 2025 and 3.63% for the second quarter of 2024. The average yield on loans was 6.99% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 6.67% for the first quarter of 2025 and 6.60% for the second quarter of 2024. The average cost of deposits was 214 basis points for the second quarter of 2025, which is 5 basis points lower than the first quarter of 2025 and 29 basis points lower than the second quarter of 2024. There was a recovery of $1.7 million in interest during the second quarter of 2025, related to a full repayment of a loan that had previously been on nonaccrual. This recovery positively impacted the net interest margin by 17 basis points and the loan yield by 23 basis points during the second quarter of 2025.

    Interest income was $64.1 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $59.9 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $59.2 million for the second quarter of 2024. Interest income increased $4.2 million in the second quarter of 2025 from the first quarter of 2025, which was primarily comprised of an increase of $3.3 million in loan interest income and an increase of $888 thousand in interest income on other earning assets. The increase in loan interest income was due primarily to the $1.7 million recovery of interest and growth of $20.0 million in average loans outstanding during the second quarter of 2025. The increase in interest income on other earning assets was mainly due to an increase of $69.8 million in average other interest-earning assets during the second quarter of 2025. Interest income increased $4.9 million in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the second quarter of 2024. This increase was primarily due to the $1.7 million recovery of interest and an increase of average loans of $12.0 million and higher loan interest rates during the period, resulting in growth of $3.3 million in loan interest income.

    Interest expense was $21.6 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $21.4 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $23.3 million for the second quarter of 2024. Interest expense increased $237 thousand compared to the first quarter of 2025 and decreased $1.7 million compared to the second quarter of 2024. The $237 thousand increase was primarily as a result of a $21.2 million increase in average interest-bearing deposits during the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the first quarter of 2025. The $1.7 million decrease was primarily as a result of a 42 basis point decline in the cost of interest-bearing deposits, partially offset by an increase of $151.3 million in average interest-bearing deposits in the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the second quarter of 2024.

    Noninterest Income and Noninterest Expense

    Noninterest income was $12.2 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $10.6 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $12.7 million for the second quarter of 2024. The increase from the first quarter of 2025 was primarily due to an increase of $1.5 million in mortgage banking revenues, mainly as a result of an increase of $1.4 million in the fair value adjustment of the mortgage servicing rights assets as interest rates that affect the value stabilized in the second quarter of 2025 after declining in the first quarter of 2025. The decrease in noninterest income for the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the second quarter of 2024 was primarily due to a decrease of $523 thousand in income from investments in Small Business Investment Companies.

    Noninterest expense was $33.5 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $33.0 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $32.6 million for the second quarter of 2024. The $513 thousand increase from the first quarter of 2025 was largely the result of an increase of $267 thousand in personnel expenses and $144 thousand in increased professional service expenses. The $971 thousand increase in noninterest expense for the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the second quarter of 2024 was largely the result of an increase of $509 thousand in personnel expenses, mainly a result of annual salary adjustments.

    Loan Portfolio and Composition

    Loans held for investment were $3.10 billion as of June 30, 2025, compared to $3.08 billion as of March 31, 2025 and $3.09 billion as of June 30, 2024. The increase of $23.1 million, or 3.0% annualized, during the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the first quarter of 2025 occurred primarily as a result of organic loan growth experienced broadly across the portfolio, partially offset by a decrease of $52.6 million in multi-family property loans mainly due to the payoff of three loans totaling $49.1 million. As of June 30, 2025, loans held for investment increased $4.7 million, or 0.2%, from June 30, 2024.

    Deposits and Borrowings

    Deposits totaled $3.74 billion as of June 30, 2025, compared to $3.79 billion as of March 31, 2025 and $3.62 billion as of June 30, 2024. Deposits decreased by $53.6 million, or 1.4%, in the second quarter of 2025 from March 31, 2025. Deposits increased by $114.4 million, or 3.2%, at June 30, 2025 as compared to June 30, 2024. Noninterest-bearing deposits were $998.8 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $966.5 million as of March 31, 2025 and $951.6 million as of June 30, 2024. Noninterest-bearing deposits represented 26.7% of total deposits as of June 30, 2025. The quarterly change in total deposits was mainly due to a seasonal decrease of $73.7 million in public fund deposits, partially offset by organic growth in retail and commercial deposits. The year-over-year increase in total deposits was primarily the result of continued organic growth in retail and commercial deposits.

    Asset Quality

    The Company recorded a provision for credit losses in the second quarter of 2025 of $2.5 million, compared to $420 thousand in the first quarter of 2025 and $1.8 million in the second quarter of 2024. The provision during the second quarter of 2025 was largely attributable to an increase in specific reserves, net charge-off activity, increased loan balances, and several credit quality downgrades.

    The ratio of allowance for credit losses to loans held for investment was 1.45% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 1.40% as of March 31, 2025 and 1.40% as of June 30, 2024.

    The ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets was 0.25% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 0.16% as of March 31, 2025 and 0.57% as of June 30, 2024. Annualized net charge-offs were 0.06% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 0.07% for the first quarter of 2025 and 0.10% for the second quarter of 2024.

    Capital

    Book value per share increased to $27.98 at June 30, 2025, compared to $27.33 at March 31, 2025. The change was primarily driven by $12.2 million of net income after dividends paid, partially offset by a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income of $2.3 million. The ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP) increased 34 basis points to 9.98% during the second quarter of 2025.

    Conference Call

    South Plains will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results today, July 16, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Investors and analysts interested in participating in the call are invited to dial 1-877-407-9716 (international callers please dial 1-201-493-6779) approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. A live audio webcast of the conference call and conference materials will be available on the Company’s website at https://www.spfi.bank/news-events/events.

    A replay of the conference call will be available within two hours of the conclusion of the call and can be accessed on the investor section of the Company’s website as well as by dialing 1-844-512-2921 (international callers please dial 1-412-317-6671). The pin to access the telephone replay is 13754259. The replay will be available until July 30, 2025.

    About South Plains Financial, Inc.

    South Plains is the bank holding company for City Bank, a Texas state-chartered bank headquartered in Lubbock, Texas. City Bank is one of the largest independent banks in West Texas and has additional banking operations in the Dallas, El Paso, Greater Houston, the Permian Basin, and College Station, Texas markets, and the Ruidoso, New Mexico market. South Plains provides a wide range of commercial and consumer financial services to small and medium-sized businesses and individuals in its market areas. Its principal business activities include commercial and retail banking, along with investment, trust and mortgage services. Please visit https://www.spfi.bank for more information.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Some of the financial measures included in this press release are not measures of financial performance recognized in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). These non-GAAP financial measures include Tangible Book Value Per Share, Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Assets, and Pre-Tax, Pre-Provision Income. The Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide both management and investors a more complete understanding of the Company’s financial position and performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental and are not a substitute for any analysis based on GAAP financial measures.

    We classify a financial measure as being a non-GAAP financial measure if that financial measure excludes or includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of excluding or including amounts, that are included or excluded, as the case may be, in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP as in effect from time to time in the United States in our statements of income, balance sheets or statements of cash flows. Not all companies use the same calculation of these measures; therefore, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures as presented by other companies.

    A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP financial measures is provided at the end of this press release.

    Available Information

    The Company routinely posts important information for investors on its web site (under www.spfi.bank and, more specifically, under the News & Events tab at www.spfi.bank/news-events/press-releases). The Company intends to use its web site as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD (Fair Disclosure) promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, investors should monitor the Company’s web site, in addition to following the Company’s press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts.

    The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, the Company’s web site is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this document.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect South Plains’ current views with respect to future events and South Plains’ financial performance. Any statements about South Plains’ expectations, beliefs, plans, predictions, forecasts, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not historical facts and may be forward-looking. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “believes,” “can,” “could,” “may,” “predicts,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” “estimate,” “plans,” “projects,” “continuing,” “ongoing,” “expects,” “intends” and similar words or phrases. South Plains cautions that the forward-looking statements in this press release are based largely on South Plains’ expectations and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are subject to change based on factors which are, in many instances, beyond South Plains’ control. Factors that could cause such changes include, but are not limited to, the impact on us and our customers of a decline in general economic conditions and any regulatory responses thereto; potential recession in the United States and our market areas; the impacts related to or resulting from uncertainty in the banking industry as a whole; increased competition for deposits in our market areas and related changes in deposit customer behavior; the impact of changes in market interest rates, whether due to a continuation of the elevated interest rate environment or further reductions in interest rates and a resulting decline in net interest income; the lingering inflationary pressures, and the risk of the resurgence of elevated levels of inflation, in the United States and our market areas; the uncertain impacts of ongoing quantitative tightening and current and future monetary policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; changes in unemployment rates in the United States and our market areas; adverse changes in customer spending and savings habits; declines in commercial real estate values and prices; a deterioration of the credit rating for U.S. long-term sovereign debt or uncertainty regarding United States fiscal debt, deficit and budget matters; cyber incidents or other failures, disruptions or breaches of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of our third-party vendors or other service providers, including as a result of cyber-attacks; severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, geopolitical instability or other external events, including as a result of the policies of the current U.S. presidential administration or Congress; the impacts of tariffs, sanctions and other trade policies of the United States and its global trading counterparts and the resulting impact on the Company and its customers; competition and market expansion opportunities; changes in non-interest expenditures or in the anticipated benefits of such expenditures; the risks related to the development, implementation, use and management of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learnings; potential costs related to the impacts of climate change; current or future litigation, regulatory examinations or other legal and/or regulatory actions; and changes in applicable laws and regulations. Additional information regarding these risks and uncertainties to which South Plains’ business and future financial performance are subject is contained in South Plains’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q on file with the SEC, including the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of such documents, and other documents South Plains files or furnishes with the SEC from time to time, which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, or implied by the forward-looking statements due to additional risks and uncertainties of which South Plains is not currently aware or which it does not currently view as, but in the future may become, material to its business or operating results. Due to these and other possible uncertainties and risks, the Company can give no assurance that the results contemplated in the forward-looking statements will be realized and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Any forward-looking statements presented herein are made only as of the date of this press release, and South Plains does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in assumptions, new information, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking statements, express or implied, included in the press release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

    Contact: Mikella Newsom, Chief Risk Officer and Secretary
      (866) 771-3347
      investors@city.bank
       

    Source: South Plains Financial, Inc.

     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Consolidated Financial Highlights – (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)
     
      As of and for the quarter ended
      June 30,
    2025
      March 31,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
    Selected Income Statement Data:                            
    Interest income $ 64,135     $ 59,922     $ 61,324     $ 61,640     $ 59,208  
    Interest expense   21,632       21,395       22,776       24,346       23,320  
    Net interest income   42,503       38,527       38,548       37,294       35,888  
    Provision for credit losses   2,500       420       1,200       495       1,775  
    Noninterest income   12,165       10,625       13,319       10,635       12,709  
    Noninterest expense   33,543       33,030       29,948       33,128       32,572  
    Income tax expense   4,020       3,408       4,222       3,094       3,116  
    Net income   14,605       12,294       16,497       11,212       11,134  
    Per Share Data (Common Stock):                            
    Net earnings, basic $ 0.90     $ 0.75     $ 1.01     $ 0.68     $ 0.68  
    Net earnings, diluted   0.86       0.72       0.96       0.66       0.66  
    Cash dividends declared and paid   0.15       0.15       0.15       0.14       0.14  
    Book value   27.98       27.33       26.67       27.04       25.45  
    Tangible book value (non-GAAP)   26.70       26.05       25.40       25.75       24.15  
    Weighted average shares outstanding, basic   16,231,627       16,415,862       16,400,361       16,386,079       16,425,360  
    Weighted average shares outstanding, dilutive   16,886,993       17,065,599       17,161,646       17,056,959       16,932,077  
    Shares outstanding at end of period   16,230,475       16,235,647       16,455,826       16,386,627       16,424,021  
    Selected Period End Balance Sheet Data:                            
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 470,496     $ 536,300     $ 359,082     $ 471,167     $ 298,006  
    Investment securities   570,000       571,527       577,240       606,889       591,031  
    Total loans held for investment   3,098,978       3,075,860       3,055,054       3,037,375       3,094,273  
    Allowance for credit losses   45,010       42,968       43,237       42,886       43,173  
    Total assets   4,363,674       4,405,209       4,232,239       4,337,659       4,220,936  
    Interest-bearing deposits   2,740,179       2,826,055       2,685,366       2,720,880       2,672,948  
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   998,759       966,464       935,510       998,480       951,565  
    Total deposits   3,738,938       3,792,519       3,620,876       3,719,360       3,624,513  
    Borrowings   111,799       110,400       110,354       110,307       110,261  
    Total stockholders’ equity   454,074       443,743       438,949       443,122       417,985  
    Summary Performance Ratios:                            
    Return on average assets (annualized)   1.34 %     1.16 %     1.53 %     1.05 %     1.07 %
    Return on average equity (annualized)   13.05 %     11.30 %     14.88 %     10.36 %     10.83 %
    Net interest margin (1)   4.07 %     3.81 %     3.75 %     3.65 %     3.63 %
    Yield on loans   6.99 %     6.67 %     6.69 %     6.68 %     6.60 %
    Cost of interest-bearing deposits   2.91 %     2.93 %     3.12 %     3.36 %     3.33 %
    Efficiency ratio   61.11 %     66.90 %     57.50 %     68.80 %     66.72 %
    Summary Credit Quality Data:                            
    Nonperforming loans $ 10,463     $ 6,467     $ 24,023     $ 24,693     $ 23,452  
    Nonperforming loans to total loans held for investment   0.34 %     0.21 %     0.79 %     0.81 %     0.76 %
    Other real estate owned $ 535     $ 600     $ 530     $ 973     $ 755  
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.25 %     0.16 %     0.58 %     0.59 %     0.57 %
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans held for investment   1.45 %     1.40 %     1.42 %     1.41 %     1.40 %
    Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding (annualized)   0.06 %     0.07 %     0.11 %     0.11 %     0.10 %
      As of and for the quarter ended
      June 30
    2025
      March 31,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
    Capital Ratios:                            
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets   10.41 %     10.07 %     10.37 %     10.22 %     9.90 %
    Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)   9.98 %     9.64 %     9.92 %     9.77 %     9.44 %
    Common equity tier 1 to risk-weighted assets   13.86 %     13.59 %     13.53 %     13.25 %     12.61 %
    Tier 1 capital to average assets   12.12 %     12.04 %     12.04 %     11.76 %     11.81 %
    Total capital to risk-weighted assets   18.17 %     17.93 %     17.86 %     17.61 %     16.86 %
     
    (1)  Net interest margin is calculated as the annual net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, divided by average interest-earning assets.
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Average Balances and Yields – (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      For the Three Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
           
      Average
    Balance
      Interest   Yield/Rate   Average
    Balance
      Interest   Yield/Rate
    Assets                                  
    Loans $ 3,094,558   $ 53,894     6.99 %   $ 3,082,601   $ 50,579     6.60 %
    Debt securities – taxable   508,508     4,700     3.71 %     533,553     5,285     3.98 %
    Debt securities – nontaxable   152,202     1,015     2.67 %     155,408     1,022     2.64 %
    Other interest-bearing assets   456,818     4,747     4.17 %     225,720     2,545     4.53 %
                                       
    Total interest-earning assets   4,212,086     64,356     6.13 %     3,997,282     59,431     5.98 %
    Noninterest-earning assets   166,763                 171,472            
                                       
    Total assets $ 4,378,849               $ 4,168,754            
                                       
    Liabilities & stockholders’ equity                                  
    NOW, Savings, MMDA’s $ 2,326,779     15,890     2.74 %   $ 2,221,427     17,652     3.20 %
    Time deposits   438,697     4,172     3.81 %     392,778     3,977     4.07 %
    Short-term borrowings   18         0.00 %     3         0.00 %
    Notes payable & other long-term borrowings           0.00 %             0.00 %
    Subordinated debt   64,031     835     5.23 %     63,845     835     5.26 %
    Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures   46,393     735     6.35 %     46,393     856     7.42 %
                                       
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   2,875,918     21,632     3.02 %     2,724,446     23,320     3.44 %
    Demand deposits   990,343                 960,106            
    Other liabilities   63,679                 70,854            
    Stockholders’ equity   448,909                 413,348            
                                       
    Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity $ 4,378,849               $ 4,168,754            
                                       
    Net interest income       $ 42,724               $ 36,111      
    Net interest margin (2)               4.07 %                 3.63 %
     
    (1)  Average loan balances include nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale.
    (2)  Net interest margin is calculated as the annualized net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, divided by average interest-earning assets.
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Average Balances and Yields – (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      For the Six Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
                           
      Average
    Balance
      Interest   Yield/Rate   Average
    Balance
      Interest   Yield/Rate
    Assets                                  
    Loans $ 3,084,563   $ 104,471     6.83 %   $ 3,048,569   $ 99,519     6.56 %
    Debt securities – taxable   509,431     9,392     3.72 %     543,817     10,796     3.99 %
    Debt securities – nontaxable   152,716     2,029     2.68 %     155,831     2,046     2.64 %
    Other interest-bearing assets   421,899     8,606     4.11 %     262,345     6,020     4.61 %
                                       
    Total interest-earning assets   4,168,609     124,498     6.02 %     4,010,562     118,381     5.94 %
    Noninterest-earning assets   169,222                 177,882            
                                       
    Total assets $ 4,337,831               $ 4,188,444            
                                       
    Liabilities & stockholders’ equity                                  
    NOW, Savings, MMDA’s $ 2,314,562     31,401     2.74 %   $ 2,253,704     35,649     3.18 %
    Time deposits   440,297     8,488     3.89 %     383,816     7,643     4.00 %
    Short-term borrowings   11         0.00 %     3         0.00 %
    Notes payable & other long-term borrowings           0.00 %             0.00 %
    Subordinated debt   64,008     1,670     5.26 %     63,822     1,670     5.26 %
    Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures   46,393     1,468     6.38 %     46,393     1,717     7.44 %
                                       
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   2,865,271     43,027     3.03 %     2,747,738     46,679     3.42 %
    Demand deposits   962,557                 959,219            
    Other liabilities   64,875                 70,856            
    Stockholders’ equity   445,128                 410,631            
                                       
    Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity $ 4,337,831               $ 4,188,444            
                                       
    Net interest income       $ 81,471               $ 71,702      
    Net interest margin (2)               3.94 %                 3.60 %
     
    (1)  Average loan balances include nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale.
    (2)  Net interest margin is calculated as the annualized net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, divided by average interest-earning assets.
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      As of
      June 30,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
               
    Assets          
    Cash and due from banks $ 60,400     $ 54,114  
    Interest-bearing deposits in banks   410,096       304,968  
    Securities available for sale   570,000       577,240  
    Loans held for sale   17,182       20,542  
    Loans held for investment   3,098,978       3,055,054  
    Less:  Allowance for credit losses   (45,010 )     (43,237 )
    Net loans held for investment   3,053,968       3,011,817  
    Premises and equipment, net   51,329       52,951  
    Goodwill   19,315       19,315  
    Intangible assets   1,417       1,720  
    Mortgage servicing rights   25,134       26,292  
    Other assets   154,833       163,280  
    Total assets $ 4,363,674     $ 4,232,239  
               
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 998,759     $ 935,510  
    Interest-bearing deposits   2,740,179       2,685,366  
    Total deposits   3,738,938       3,620,876  
    Short-term borrowings   1,352        
    Subordinated debt   64,054       63,961  
    Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures   46,393       46,393  
    Other liabilities   58,863       62,060  
    Total liabilities   3,909,600       3,793,290  
    Stockholders’ Equity          
    Common stock   16,230       16,456  
    Additional paid-in capital   90,268       97,287  
    Retained earnings   407,822       385,827  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   (60,246 )     (60,621 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   454,074       438,949  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,363,674     $ 4,232,239  
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Income
    (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,
    2025
      June 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2025
      June 30,
    2024
                           
    Interest income:                      
    Loans, including fees $ 53,886   $ 50,571   $ 104,456   $ 99,503
    Other   10,249     8,637     19,601     18,432
    Total interest income   64,135     59,208     124,057     117,935
    Interest expense:                      
    Deposits   20,062     21,629     39,889     43,292
    Subordinated debt   835     835     1,670     1,670
    Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures   735     856     1,468     1,717
    Other              
    Total interest expense   21,632     23,320     43,027     46,679
    Net interest income   42,503     35,888     81,030     71,256
    Provision for credit losses   2,500     1,775     2,920     2,605
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   40,003     34,113     78,110     68,651
    Noninterest income:                      
    Service charges on deposits   2,098     1,949     4,239     3,762
    Mortgage banking activities   3,606     3,397     5,719     7,342
    Bank card services and interchange fees   3,771     4,052     7,150     7,113
    Other   2,690     3,311     5,682     5,901
    Total noninterest income   12,165     12,709     22,790     24,118
    Noninterest expense:                      
    Salaries and employee benefits   19,708     19,199     39,149     38,187
    Net occupancy expense   3,972     4,029     7,999     7,949
    Professional services   1,874     1,738     3,604     3,221
    Marketing and development   919     860     1,824     1,614
    Other   7,070     6,746     13,997     13,531
    Total noninterest expense   33,543     32,572     66,573     64,502
    Income before income taxes   18,625     14,250     34,327     28,267
    Income tax expense   4,020     3,116     7,428     6,259
    Net income $ 14,605   $ 11,134   $ 26,899   $ 22,008
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Loan Composition
    (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      As of
      June 30,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
               
    Loans:          
    Commercial Real Estate $ 1,085,309   $ 1,119,063
    Commercial – Specialized   379,068     388,955
    Commercial – General   620,934     557,371
    Consumer:          
    1-4 Family Residential   589,935     566,400
    Auto Loans   258,193     254,474
    Other Consumer   63,589     64,936
    Construction   101,950     103,855
    Total loans held for investment $ 3,098,978   $ 3,055,054
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Deposit Composition
    (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      As of
      June 30,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
               
    Deposits:          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 998,759   $ 935,510
    NOW & other transaction accounts   1,244,023     498,718
    MMDA & other savings   1,072,010     1,741,988
    Time deposits   424,146     444,660
    Total deposits $ 3,738,938   $ 3,620,876
     
    South Plains Financial, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in thousands)
     
      For the quarter ended
      June 30,
    2025
      March 31,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
    Pre-tax, pre-provision income                                      
    Net income $ 14,605     $ 12,294     $ 16,497     $ 11,212     $ 11,134  
    Income tax expense   4,020       3,408       4,222       3,094       3,116  
    Provision for credit losses   2,500       420       1,200       495       1,775  
    Pre-tax, pre-provision income $ 21,125     $ 16,122     $ 21,919     $ 14,801     $ 16,025  
      As of
      June 30,
    2025
      March 31,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
    Tangible common equity                            
    Total common stockholders’ equity $ 454,074     $ 443,743     $ 438,949     $ 443,122     $ 417,985  
    Less:  goodwill and other intangibles   (20,732 )     (20,884 )     (21,035 )     (21,197 )     (21,379 )
                                 
    Tangible common equity $ 433,342     $ 422,859     $ 417,914     $ 421,925     $ 396,606  
                                 
    Tangible assets                            
    Total assets $ 4,363,674     $ 4,405,209     $ 4,232,239     $ 4,337,659     $ 4,220,936  
    Less:  goodwill and other intangibles   (20,732 )     (20,884 )     (21,035 )     (21,197 )     (21,379 )
                                 
    Tangible assets $ 4,342,942     $ 4,384,325     $ 4,211,204     $ 4,316,462     $ 4,199,557  
                                 
    Shares outstanding   16,230,475       16,235,647       16,455,826       16,386,627       16,424,021  
                                 
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets   10.41 %     10.07 %     10.37 %     10.22 %     9.90 %
    Tangible common equity to tangible assets   9.98 %     9.64 %     9.92 %     9.77 %     9.44 %
    Book value per share $ 27.98     $ 27.33     $ 26.67     $ 27.04     $ 25.45  
    Tangible book value per share $ 26.70     $ 26.05     $ 25.40     $ 25.75     $ 24.15  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Royalty Pharma to Announce Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results on August 6, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Royalty Pharma plc (Nasdaq: RPRX) today announced that it will report its second quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 before the U.S. financial markets open. The company will host a conference call and simultaneous webcast at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time that day.

    Conference Call Information

    Please visit the “Investors” page of the company’s website at https://www.royaltypharma.com/investors/events/ to obtain conference call information and to view the live webcast. A replay of the conference call and webcast will be archived on the company’s website for at least 30 days.

    About Royalty Pharma

    Founded in 1996, Royalty Pharma is the largest buyer of biopharmaceutical royalties and a leading funder of innovation across the biopharmaceutical industry, collaborating with innovators from academic institutions, research hospitals and non-profits through small and mid-cap biotechnology companies to leading global pharmaceutical companies. Royalty Pharma has assembled a portfolio of royalties which entitles it to payments based directly on the top-line sales of many of the industry’s leading therapies. Royalty Pharma funds innovation in the biopharmaceutical industry both directly and indirectly – directly when it partners with companies to co-fund late-stage clinical trials and new product launches in exchange for future royalties, and indirectly when it acquires existing royalties from the original innovators. Royalty Pharma’s current portfolio includes royalties on more than 35 commercial products, including Vertex’s Trikafta, GSK’s Trelegy, Roche’s Evrysdi, Johnson & Johnson’s Tremfya, Biogen’s Tysabri and Spinraza, AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson’s Imbruvica, Astellas and Pfizer’s Xtandi, Novartis’ Promacta, Pfizer’s Nurtec ODT and Gilead’s Trodelvy, and 16 development-stage product candidates. For more information, visit www.royaltypharma.com.

    Royalty Pharma Investor Relations and Communications

    +1 (212) 883-6637
    ir@royaltypharma.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: ESCO Technologies Announces Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    St. Louis, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESCO Technologies Inc. (NYSE:ESE) will report its third quarter financial results after the market close on Thursday, August 7, 2025, followed by a conference call where the financial results and related commentary will be discussed.  

    Event:      Third Quarter 2025 Conference Call
    Date:        Thursday, August 7
    Time:        4:00 p.m. Central Time

    The conference call webcast and an accompanying slide presentation will be available in the Investor Center of ESCO’s website. The slide presentation will be utilized during the call and will be posted on the website prior to the call. Participants may also access the webcast using this registration link.

    For those unable to participate, a webcast replay will be available after the call in the Investor Center of ESCO’s website.

    ESCO Technologies is a global provider of highly engineered products and solutions serving diverse end-markets. It manufactures filtration and fluid control products, advanced composites, as well as signature and power management solutions for aviation, Navy, space, and industrial customers. ESCO is an industry leader in designing and manufacturing RF test and measurement products and systems; and provides diagnostic instruments, software and services to industrial power users and the electric utility and renewable energy industries. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, ESCO and its subsidiaries have offices and manufacturing facilities worldwide. For more information on ESCO and its subsidiaries, visit ESCO’s website at www.escotechnologies.com

    SOURCE ESCO Technologies Inc.
    Kate Lowrey, Vice President of Investor Relations, (314) 213-7277

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Rosen, Hyde-Smith, Kelly and Reps. Houlahan, Baird Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Support Workers Entering or Returning to STEM Careers

    US Senate News:

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

    Legislation Would Help Businesses Bring On Mid-Career Workers Seeking To Return To Or Transition Into STEM Jobs
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the STEM Restoring Employment Skills through Targeted Assistance, Re-entry, and Training (RESTART) Act. This bipartisan legislation would provide funding to support mid-career internships, known as “returnships,” for workers seeking to return to or transition into the STEM workforce. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Jim Baird (R-IN) have also introduced identical bipartisan legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “When we invest in STEM education and workforce development, we can open the door to successful careers in some of the most in-demand industries,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m glad to introduce this bipartisan bill to help give workers the training and tools they need to enter new STEM careers. I’ll keep working across party lines to make sure all Nevadans have the skills needed to fill good-paying jobs.” 
    “Many skilled professionals step away from the workforce, but face significant barriers when trying to return, especially in technical fields where innovation moves fast,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Our legislation equips small and mid-sized businesses with the tools to tap into this valuable talent pool.  This will help hardworking Americans reconnect with meaningful careers while growing the STEM workforce in states like Mississippi and beyond.”
    “Arizona’s 21st century economy depends on a strong STEM workforce, and that means making sure talented workers who’ve taken time away or are looking to transition into STEM fields have a real pathway back in,” said Senator Kelly. “This effort will help small businesses tap into an underutilized talent pool while giving Arizonans the support they need to reenter the workforce and succeed in high-paying careers.”
    “As a former Air Force engineer and chemistry teacher, I know that building a strong STEM workforce is essential not only for creating good-paying jobs, but also for safeguarding our national security,” said Representative Houlahan. “Whether it’s biotechnology, quantum computing, or clean energy, the global race for innovation is accelerating, and we can’t afford to leave talent on the sidelines. The bipartisan STEM RESTART Act will help mid-career professionals and those returning to the workforce enter high-demand STEM fields so we can strengthen our economy, compete globally, and protect America’s leadership in emerging technologies. I’m proud to reintroduce this commonsense legislation, which is a win for both businesses and workers across our Commonwealth and country.”
    “If we want to maintain our global competitive edge and continue to lead the world in innovation, we must ensure we have a well-equipped STEM workforce now and empower future generations in STEM fields,” said Congressman Baird. “A robust STEM workforce is also vital to our economic prosperity and national security, especially when up against the threat of Communist China. I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for their work on this bipartisan legislation to equip Hoosiers who want to return to the STEM workforce with the tools they need to fill job openings and build the greatest economy in history.”
    “The STEM RESTART Act is a forward-thinking investment in our nation’s workforce,” said Chris Heavey, Interim President of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “By supporting mid-career professionals reentering the STEM fields, this bill strengthens innovation, expands opportunity, and ensures that talent and experience are not left behind.”
    “The Society of Women Engineers is thrilled to see the STEM RESTART Act reintroduced in 2025. As the nation continues to rebuild a strong and inclusive STEM workforce, this legislation is more critical than ever. Hundreds of thousands of STEM professionals have stepped away from technical careers in recent years, and research shows most want to return—but face steep barriers. Grants for structured ‘returnships’ give mid-career professionals real, paid pathways back into meaningful STEM roles,” said Karen Horting, Executive Director & CEO of the Society of Women Engineers. “SWE and our 50,000 plus members fully support this bipartisan, bicameral effort to bridge talent gaps, bolster small and midsize businesses, and drive innovation. We urge lawmakers to pass the STEM RESTART Act as soon as possible and reaffirm our collective commitment to supporting women and others who pause their careers, as well as the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.”
    The STEM RESTART Act has been endorsed by the Society of Women Engineers, STEM Education Coalition, AnitaB.org, Nevada System of Higher Education, College of Southern Nevada, Vegas Chamber, Henderson Chamber of Commerce, Nevada State University, and University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
    Senator Rosen has been a leader in advocating for tech innovation and improving access to STEM careers. She helped pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which invests $52 billion in domestic computer chip manufacturing to help address the current shortage. Additionally, Rosen helped write the broadband section of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is delivering $65 billion to make high-speed internet more available and affordable to Americans. In 2020, Senator Rosen’s bipartisan Building Blocks of STEM Act, which breaks down barriers to allow more young girls to study computer science, was signed into law.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Demand Trump Administration Release Nearly $7 Billion for K-12 Education

    US Senate News:

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

    Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) joined Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) in a letter to the U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon demanding answers over the Trump administration’s decision to withhold nearly $7 billion in federal funding for K-12 public schools, including more than $60 million for schools in Nevada. The Senators urged the Department to restore the funding and provide clarity for schools and educators. On July 1, schools across the country reported they were unable to access their federal funding after the Department of Education abruptly froze nearly $7 billion in grants, even though the funds were appropriated by Congress and already factored into school budgets. In Nevada, affected programs include after-school programs, English-learner services, professional development, and migrant education. At least fourteen percent of Nevada students are English-Language Learners.
    “These funds, which represent longstanding investments in K–12 education, support a wide range of priorities such as teacher recruitment, after-school programs, English learner instruction, school-based mental health services, and academic enrichment,” the Senators wrote. “Withholding funds for these important programs will disrupt essential services and undermine the support structures that students, families, and educators rely on every day.”
    Read the full letter HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been forcefully pushing back on Donald Trump’s attempt to dismantle public education. She spoke out against President Trump’s plan to dismantle the Department of Education, calling it “an illegal, irresponsible attack on students and families.” She also recently joined an amicus brief against the unconstitutional dismantling of the Department, warning of its harmful impact on Nevada schools. In April, Senator Rosen condemned the Trump Administration’s proposal to eliminate Head Start funding, calling the cuts “outrageous and cruel” and pledging to defend early childhood education programs that help Nevada families thrive.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Helps Introduce Bill Requiring ICE, Immigration Enforcement Agents to Clearly Identify Themselves

    US Senate News:

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

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce legislation that would prohibit ICE officers and other federal immigration agents from concealing their identity during routine immigration enforcement operations. The VISIBLE Act requires these officers to clearly identify themselves with their names, badge number, or agency name, except in covert operations. This is a direct response to the Trump Administration’s widespread use of masked, plainclothes agents in immigration raids — often without badges or agency markings — who are targeting law-abiding people without accountability.
    “The Trump Administration is using immigration officers wearing masks to target law-abiding immigrants, Green Card holders, and even American citizens,” said Senator Rosen. “As with any other law enforcement official, ICE officers have a responsibility to the public to act with transparency and accountability. I’m helping introduce this commonsense bill to ensure immigration officers properly identify themselves.”
    Senator Rosen has consistently opposed the Trump Administration’s aggressive and unlawful mass deportation enforcement tactics while championing transparency and fairness in the immigration system. Earlier this year, she helped introduce legislation to protect sensitive locations—such as schools, hospitals, churches, and courthouses—from immigration raids, ensuring families can access essential services without fear. She also urged Senate leadership to pursue real, bipartisan immigration reform that balances strong border security with protections for Dreamers and immigrant families. Additionally, Senator Rosen has called on the Trump Administration to guarantee legal representation for unaccompanied children in immigration custody, defending the basic rights of the most vulnerable.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Demands Answers on Emil Bove’s Involvement in DOJ Withholding the Epstein Files

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a letter to Emil Bove requesting information relating to his involvement in the Department of Justice’s review of and decision making relating to public disclosures of the Epstein Files. Emil Bove is currently a nominee for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

    “You have held a key decision-making role at DOJ since the beginning of this Administration, first as Acting Deputy Attorney General through March 2025 and then in your current position as Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General, serving as a close adviser to Attorney General Pam Bondi. In light of the significant public interest in the Epstein files and the Trump DOJ and FBI’s shifting positions on transparency and public disclosure, records and information relating to your participation in this matter are relevant to the Senate Judiciary Committee’s ongoing review of your nomination to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit,” wrote Senator Booker.

    “Your involvement in the DOJ’s review of the Epstein files is a matter of significant public importance given the contradictory statements by Attorney General Bondi concerning the existence of an Epstein client list and DOJ’s stated commitment to transparency. Furthermore, it warrants scrutiny whether the DOJ intentionally withheld evidence related to the trafficking and sexual abuse of minors to protect certain individuals,” Senator Booker continued.

    “As Acting Deputy Attorney General, you “advise[d] and assist[ed] the Attorney General in formulating and implementing Departmental policies and programs and [provided] overall supervision and direction to all organizational units of the Department” and were “authorized to exercise all the power and authority of the Attorney General.” By all accounts, you have continued to fulfill many of these responsibilities as Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General, closely advising Attorney General Pam Bondi,” Senator Booker wrote.

    “It is imperative that the Senate Judiciary Committee ascertain the scope and extent of your involvement in the handling of the Epstein files before voting on your nomination,” Senator Booker concluded.

    Senator Booker demanded answers to the following questions no later than 9:00 AM on July 17, 2025:

    1. Did you ever advise AG Bondi regarding the Epstein files?
    2. Did you participate in the review of any documents, video, or other evidence contained in the Epstein files?
    3. Did you participate in drafting or reviewing the letter Pam Bondi sent to Kash Patel on February 27, 2025 directing the FBI to produce “all records, documents, audio and video recordings, and materials related to Jeffrey Epstein and his clients”?
    4. Did you ever participate in discussions about what evidence from the Epstein files the DOJ should release?
    5. Did you participate in any discussions about whether to release video evidence from the Epstein files involving child sexual abuse material (CSAM)?
    6. Did you ever discuss the release of any evidence from the Epstein files with Pam Bondi?
    7. Did you ever discuss the release of any evidence from the Epstein files with Kash Patel?
    8. Did you ever discuss the release of any evidence from the Epstein files with Dan Bongino?
    9. Did you participate in a discussion about the release of any evidence from the Epstein files with Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and Dan Bongino?
    10. Did you ever participate in a discussion in which Dan Bongino suggested releasing all the evidence in the Epstein files, including video, prior to July 7, 2025?
    11. Did you ever express concerns to Kash Patel or Dan Bongino about releasing video evidence from the Epstein files because it could include CSAM prior to July 7, 2025?
    12. Did you participate in any discussion in which Attorney General Bondi expressed concerns to Kash Patel or Dan Bongino about releasing video evidence from the Epstein files due to the presence of CSAM prior to July 7, 2025?
    13. Did you participate in drafting or reviewing the undated and unsigned DOJ and FBI memo issued on July 7, 2025?

    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Murray Reintroduce Access to Birth Control Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Patty Murray (D-WA) led the reintroduction of the Access to Birth Control Act. The legislation would guarantee patients’ timely access to birth control at pharmacies nationwide—including by addressing pharmacies’ refusals of contraception that prevent patients from obtaining their preferred form of birth control medication. U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL-02) introduced companion legislation in the House. 

    Contraception is an essential part of reproductive health care, and protecting access to contraception at the pharmacy is more important than ever given the relentless attacks on reproductive health care currently ongoing throughout the country. In addition to ensuring that patients have access to contraception at the pharmacy without delay, the bill would also ensure that pharmacies do not operate an environment where patients are intimidated, threatened, or harassed when seeking access to contraception or medication related to contraception. In the event that a pharmacy violates one of these requirements, the bill establishes liability for civil penalties for the pharmacy and a private cause of action for patients to seek relief. 

    “Three years ago, the Supreme Court unjustly overturned Roe v. Wade, and opened the door to attacks on contraception,” said Senator Booker. “Since then, Republicans have used every tool they can to undercut access to reproductive health care, and Congress must act to ensure everyone has the freedom to make their own decisions about contraception without fear of intimidation or threats. The Access to Birth Control Act will remove barriers to accessing birth control, and ensure Americans have full autonomy over their bodies and reproductive choices.”

    “Birth control is essential health care—there is no reason it shouldn’t be available to every woman, without exception,” said Senator Murray. “As contraception comes under attack by Republican anti-abortion extremists, it is more important than ever that women can access birth control, free from fear and intimidation. Our bill ensures no one seeking birth control experiences harassment, denials, or delays from providers. I will never stop fighting to defend reproductive health care and make it more accessible and affordable for women everywhere.” 

    “Birth control is safe, effective, and essential for healthcare,” said Representative Kelly. “No pharmacy employee or politician should weigh into such a private decision as to if or when to start a family. My bill removes barriers that obstruct a patient’s right to birth control so everyone can access birth control without intimidation, harassment, or discrimination.”

    Although Supreme Court precedent recognizes a protected right to contraception, conservatives on the Court have ignored precedent to undermine reproductive rights. In the radical Dobbs decision, the Court reversed the nearly 50-year precedent of Roe v. Wade that guaranteed a right to access abortion care. Access to contraception in the United States should not hinge on the Supreme Court’s ideological balance or the willingness of individual pharmacists to fill prescriptions. Providers, including pharmacists, play a key role in providing contraceptive services and important information about prescription and over-the-counter birth control options to people across the country.  

    According to the National Women’s Law Center, pharmacists have refused to fill prescriptions for birth control or provide emergency contraception over the counter to patients in 24 states and the District of Columbia. These refusals are based on personal beliefs and can negatively impact a patient’s health. Additionally, these refusals disproportionately affect people of color, low-income people, LGBTQ+ people, and those who live in rural and other underserved areas.   

    The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The Access to Birth Control Act is endorsed by more than 20 organizations, listed here.

    To read the full text of the bill, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia to work on construction of auto approaches to borders with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China and DPRK — Russian President V. Putin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 16 /Xinhua/ — Russia will work on the construction of motor vehicle approaches to the state border with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. This was announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday.

    “We intend to continue actively developing the Vostok highway – it is to be extended to Tyumen and connected to the updated backbone road network of Siberia and the Far East. This is what I meant at the very beginning when I said that the launch of this section is not everything,” V. Putin said during the opening ceremony of the M-12 highway section via videoconference.

    “Of course, issues of building motor transport approaches to the state border with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea will be worked out. This will significantly increase our transit capabilities,” the head of state said.

    According to him, the route will be integrated into the international transport architecture and “will become an important, competitive logistics artery.” –0–

    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 Russia: Syria’s interim government has announced a new ceasefire agreement with the Druze community in As-Suwayda province.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    DAMASCUS, July 16 (Xinhua) — A new ceasefire agreement was reached between Syria’s interim government and the Druze community in the southern province of As-Suwayda on Wednesday, aiming to end days of deadly clashes and return the province to full government control, Syrian authorities said.

    According to a statement by the Syrian government published by the state news agency SANA, the agreement envisages a complete ceasefire and the deployment of internal checkpoints throughout the city of As-Suwayda. The province of the same name, which has seen intense fighting since July 13, will be fully reintegrated into the Syrian state.

    The spiritual leader of Syria’s Druze community, Sheikh Youssef Jarbu, confirmed the agreement in a statement, outlining its key terms. These include an immediate halt to all military operations, the withdrawal of army units to barracks, and the establishment of a joint monitoring committee of government officials and Druze clerics to oversee the ceasefire.

    The truce followed four days of violent clashes that left at least 248 people dead, including civilians, soldiers and Bedouin tribal fighters, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. –0–

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian President V. Putin gave the go-ahead for traffic on a new section of the M-12 highway

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 16 /Xinhua/ — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday took part via videoconference in the opening ceremony of the Dyurtyuli-Achit section of the M-12 Vostok highway.

    “Today we are opening a new section of the Dyurtyuli-Achit road, more than 275 km long. It will become an important part of the M-12 “Vostok” highway. With its commissioning, modern highways will connect St. Petersburg and Moscow with Yekaterinburg, the capital of the Urals, the leading scientific, industrial and cultural center of Russia,” the Russian leader noted.

    According to V. Putin, high-speed, seamless traffic without a single traffic light has been organized along the entire length of the highway, thanks to which travel time from Yekaterinburg to Moscow will be reduced by almost half.

    “As a result, travel by car will become more comfortable and safe, the number of passengers and cargo carried will increase. The development of domestic tourism will receive a good incentive. Natural and cultural attractions of our country will become more accessible to citizens,” the Russian president added. –0–

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Review: BRICS officials expect media and think tank collaboration to boost Global South’s profile and power

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    RIO DE JANEIRO, July 15 (Xinhua) — Xinhua News Agency Director General Fu Hua met with media representatives and think tanks from Russia, Vietnam and Cuba in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Tuesday.

    The parties discussed in depth issues such as deepening cooperation between the media and think tanks of the Global South and strengthening the authority and power of the Global South, reaching a consensus on advancing cooperation within the “greater BRICS” and the development of the Global South.

    Fu Hua invited representatives from various countries to participate in the BRICS Media and Think Tank Forum, noting that China has a long tradition of friendship and a positive basis for cooperation with countries such as Russia, Vietnam and Cuba.

    According to Fu Hua, in the future, Xinhua is ready to work with partners from different countries to expand areas of cooperation, update cooperation models, and establish close coordination and interaction within the framework of multilateral mechanisms.

    Xinhua will join forces with its partners to better tell the development stories of different countries and highlight examples of successful cooperation so as to make greater contributions to strengthening the international voice of the Global South and promoting a more equitable and diverse world order in the field of communications, Fu Hua added.

    First Deputy Director General of the Russian news agency TASS Mikhail Gusman said that TASS is ready to strengthen cooperation with Xinhua within the framework of multilateral mechanisms, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Media and Think Tanks Summit and the BRICS Media and Think Tanks Forum, in order to jointly build a system of narratives from the position of the Global South, increasing representation and strengthening the voice of developing countries in international affairs.

    Alexey Nikolov, Director General of the Russian television channel Russia Today (RT), noted that RT values its friendly relations with Xinhua and expects to implement the consensus reached by the heads of the two states at the peak of strategic cooperation.

    According to him, RT intends to deepen exchanges and expand cooperation with Xinhua, as well as make a positive contribution to promoting the sustainable development of multilateral media mechanisms and strengthening international influence.

    Vice President of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences Ta Minh Tuan said he is very pleased to establish contacts with Xinhua and is willing to use the forum to institutionalize cooperation between the two sides and make it regular, make the collective voice of the Global South louder in the international arena, and give lasting impetus to the sustainable and long-term development of cooperation within the framework of the “greater BRICS”.

    Maridée Fernández López, deputy head of the Ideological Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, along with the heads of several Cuban media outlets, expressed gratitude to Xinhua for its commitment to objective and fair news reporting and for its indelible contribution to spreading the true voice of Latin America.

    Cuban officials expressed their willingness to learn from Xinhua’s experience in using new technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data.

    They agreed that the extension and renewal of the news exchange and cooperation agreements between the two countries will make new contributions to promoting exchanges between Latin American and Chinese media and deepening mutual understanding between the peoples. –0–

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Probationary license issued to child-care program

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News