NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro Announces Major New Private Sector Investment to Expand Shipbuilding at Philadelphia Navy Yard

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    July 03, 2025 – Philadelphia, PA

    ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro Announces Major New Private Sector Investment to Expand Shipbuilding at Philadelphia Navy Yard

    Governor Josh Shapiro will join Rhoads Industries to announce a major new private sector investment in the company’s manufacturing operations at the Philadelphia Navy Yard.

    Governor Shapiro and his Administration have secured $25.2 billion in private sector investments over the last two years, growing Pennsylvania’s economy and creating nearly 11,000 jobs across the Commonwealth.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Dan Rhoads, CEO, Rhoads Industries
    Joe Welsh, Director of Government Affairs, Rhoads Industries
    Boots Olson, Apprentice, Rhoads Industries

    WHEN:
    Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM

    The press conference will begin around 11:00 AM.
    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Fitzgerald Introduces Legislation Declaring U.S. Businesses Independent from EU Regulations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) introduced two pieces of legislation aimed at declaring U.S. companies independent from burdensome foreign regulations, particularly targeting the European Union’s (EU) Digital Markets Act (DMA) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).

    Protect U.S. Companies from Foreign Regulatory Taxation Act

    Congressman Scott Fitzgerald introduced the Protect U.S. Companies from Foreign Regulatory Taxation Act, a bill to shield American companies from having to comply with certain foreign digital market regulations, including the EU’s Digital Markets Act.

    “Foreign countries have tried to take advantage of U.S. businesses by implementing tariff-like regulations, such as the EU’s Digital Markets Act, to appropriate the U.S. tax base for their own benefit. This threatens American innovation, weakens the U.S economy, and harms consumers worldwide,” said Congressman Scott Fitzgerald. “Congress and the Trump Administration should resoundingly condemn these regulations and support U.S. companies against these discriminatory acts by the EU and other foreign countries who seek to replicate their model.”

    “Addressing the negative effects of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on small businesses has been a priority for the App Association,” said Morgan Reed, President of ACT | The App Association. “We are grateful for Chairman Fitzgerald and Congress’ willingness to take action and their support for the U.S. Trade Representative’s actions to address the anti-competitive DMA and any future digital regulations through ongoing trade negotiations. The DMA is hamstringing small tech companies in the U.S. and EU. In taking aim at big tech, it is causing untold collateral damage on App Association members and other small tech companies that rely on the global reach of curated online marketplaces.”

    Background: Under the Digital Markets Act, “gatekeeper” companies, as designated by the European Commission, must comply with certain requirements or face fines as high as 10% of global annual revenue, or 20% for repeat violations. According to the European Commission, the main objective of this regulation is to regulate the behavior of the so-called “Big Tech” firms within the European Market. But the DMA appears to unfairly target only American companies.

    The severe fines serve as a de facto tax on American companies, resulting in decreased innovation and fewer American jobs. According to one recent report, this tax could lead to a loss of $325 billion in R&D investments across the largest U.S. tech companies. In addition to the European Union, countries like South Korea, Brazil, Australia, and the United Kingdom have begun enacting proposals to regulate conduct by U.S. tech companies.

    Read the bill text here.

    Prevent Regulatory Overreach from Turning Essential Companies into Targets Act of 2025 (PROTECT USA Act of 2025)

    Congressman Scott Fitzgerald introduced the Prevent Regulatory Overreach from Turning Essential Companies into Targets Act of 2025 (PROTECT USA Act of 2025), legislation that would shield U.S. companies from the EU’s harmful extraterritorial regulations specifically by prohibiting certain U.S. companies from complying with the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive.

    “The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive is a direct threat to U.S. companies and their workers,” said Congressman Scott Fitzgerald. “These extraterritorial regulations burden American businesses with foreign mandates they didn’t vote for and can’t challenge. My bill protects U.S. companies from becoming collateral damage in the EU’s ESG agenda.”

    “The European Union is effectively trying to export its failed energy policies by imposing the CSDDD on American businesses, including oil and natural gas producers,” said API Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Amanda Eversole. “We thank Rep. Fitzgerald for introducing legislation to protect American interests from extra-territorial regulations that threaten U.S. competitiveness, hurt consumers and put American businesses at a disadvantage in the global market.”

    Background: In May 2024, the EU adopted CSDDD, which converts a range of international conventions into binding laws enforceable on American companies. This directive would capture a large number of U.S.-based companies, particularly those in “high-impact sectors”, including, but not limited to, textiles, agriculture, fuels, and chemicals. Companies operating within these industries would be subject to the rule if their EU revenues reach a threshold of €450 million among other factors.

    CSDDD not only requires disclosure but also mandates the identification, mitigation, and resolution of adverse environmental and social impacts as well as requires U.S. companies to implement “net zero” carbon emissions targets and a Paris-aligned climate transition plan. This places U.S. companies in a position where they must force their U.S.-based suppliers and customers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, irrespective of the economic consequences. In addition to imposing severe financial penalties for violations, the rule indirectly harms small and medium-sized businesses by requiring large companies to police their suppliers for compliance with ESG standards.

    Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

    Read the bill text here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs Five Bills into Law

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JULY 2, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed five pieces of legislation into law: Senate Bills (SB) 28 and 396, and House Bills (HB) 105, 169, and 974.

    “Today, we were proud to sign five bills that will benefit businesses and local governments across our state,” said Governor Kehoe. “Thank you to the men and women of the General Assembly for sending many pieces of quality legislation to my desk this session. We look forward to signing even more legislation that improves the lives of Missourians next week.”

    SB 28, sponsored by Senator Jason Bean and Representative Donnie Brown, modifies provisions relating to transportation.

    • Adds retired law enforcement and judicial members to the confidential motor vehicle and drivers licensing records statute.
    • Requires motor vehicle sales taxes to be paid before a temporary tag can be issued. This now includes transactions between individuals and through out-of-state dealers.
      • The effective date of this is delayed until the Missouri Department of Revenue’s (DOR) Motor Vehicle and Driver License System is completed.
    • Modifies specialty license plate provisions, including creating a new United States Space Force military specialty license plate.
    • Places vehicle, boat, and powersports dealers on a level playing field in regards to the fees they are required to remit to DOR.

    SB 396, sponsored by Senator Ben Brown and Representative Brad Banderman, authorizes the board of trustees of a consolidated public library district to change the dates of the fiscal year.

    • Allows the board of trustees of a consolidated library district to select a different fiscal year structure than the state fiscal year calendar.

    HB 105, sponsored Representative Jeff Vernetti and Senator Mike Bernskoetter, authorizes the conveyance of certain state property.

    • Outlines the deed property language for the conveyance of the Lee C. Fine Memorial Airport from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to the city of Osage Beach, giving Osage Beach more freedom and flexibility to make improvements without grant funding.
    • Conveys two tracts of land from the site of the former Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop A Headquarters located in Lee’s Summit. The land will be conveyed from the State of Missouri to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for the purpose of a new intersection, allowing the outer roads and city streets to be received by Lee’s Summit once the new bridge and intersection is completed.
    • Outlines the deed property language for conveying a tract of land in Webster County from the State of Missouri to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, allowing for improvements to increase road safety by reducing conflict points, decreasing congestion, and replacing aging infrastructure.

    HB 169, sponsored by Representative Donnie Brown and Senator Jason Bean, modifies provisions relating to cotton trailers.

    • Redefines “cotton trailers,” increasing the allowed maximum speed to 70 MPH from 40 MPH.
    • Updates specific hauling requirements for cotton trailers to align with modern technological advancements.

    HB 974, sponsored by Representative Jim Murphy and Senator Sandy Crawford, establishes provisions relating to insurance for certain uses of motor vehicles.

    • Implements the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) model language related to cyber security standards on insurance companies, aimed at protecting consumer data.
    • Implements the National Council of Insurance Legislators model language related to peer-to-peer driving rental services.

    For more information on the legislation and additional provisions signed into law, visit house.mo.gov and senate.mo.gov. Photos from the bill signing will be uploaded to Governor Kehoe’s Flickr page.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Urges Evers to Act Quickly to Align State Budget with Federal Healthcare Provisions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) sent a letter to Governor Tony Evers urging him to promptly sign the Wisconsin FY 2025-27 state budget into law. The state budget includes an increase to the state provider tax rate, which must be in effect prior to the signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.

    For nearly a decade, Wisconsin’s provider tax rate has not been updated from 1.7%. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will allow non-Medicaid expansion states, like Wisconsin, with provider tax rates of up to 6% to remain untouched. In order for Wisconsin to fully capitalize on the Medicaid benefits in the bill, it is imperative the governor sign the state budget into law as soon as possible.

    “I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025,” Rep. Van Orden stated in the letter.

    The congressman continued, “Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.”

    “I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.”

    To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.

     

    The Honorable Tony Evers

    Governor of Wisconsin

    115 East Capitol

    Madison, WI 53702

    July 2, 2025

    Dear Governor Evers,

    I wanted to send you a follow up note from our conversation yesterday.

    I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025.

    This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I implore you to put politics aside, and our neighbors first.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill will have a profoundly beneficial impact on Wisconsinites from all socioeconomic backgrounds by ensuring that Badger Care, in its current form and scope, remains solvent into the future and bolstering our rural healthcare systems.

    Wisconsin will immediately receive a $500,000,000 plus up for rural healthcare infrastructure, and an additional billion dollars annually for healthcare in our great state.

    Additionally, this bill protects SNAP for those most in need, prevents a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families, makes the Small Business Deduction permanent and increases it to 23%, and removes the Death Tax so our farmers can pass their land onto the next generation.

    Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.

    I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.

    Forward!

    All the best,

    Derrick Van Orden

    Member of Congress

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Urges Evers to Act Quickly to Align State Budget with Federal Healthcare Provisions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) sent a letter to Governor Tony Evers urging him to promptly sign the Wisconsin FY 2025-27 state budget into law. The state budget includes an increase to the state provider tax rate, which must be in effect prior to the signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.

    For nearly a decade, Wisconsin’s provider tax rate has not been updated from 1.7%. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will allow non-Medicaid expansion states, like Wisconsin, with provider tax rates of up to 6% to remain untouched. In order for Wisconsin to fully capitalize on the Medicaid benefits in the bill, it is imperative the governor sign the state budget into law as soon as possible.

    “I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025,” Rep. Van Orden stated in the letter.

    The congressman continued, “Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.”

    “I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.”

    To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.

     

    The Honorable Tony Evers

    Governor of Wisconsin

    115 East Capitol

    Madison, WI 53702

    July 2, 2025

    Dear Governor Evers,

    I wanted to send you a follow up note from our conversation yesterday.

    I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025.

    This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I implore you to put politics aside, and our neighbors first.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill will have a profoundly beneficial impact on Wisconsinites from all socioeconomic backgrounds by ensuring that Badger Care, in its current form and scope, remains solvent into the future and bolstering our rural healthcare systems.

    Wisconsin will immediately receive a $500,000,000 plus up for rural healthcare infrastructure, and an additional billion dollars annually for healthcare in our great state.

    Additionally, this bill protects SNAP for those most in need, prevents a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families, makes the Small Business Deduction permanent and increases it to 23%, and removes the Death Tax so our farmers can pass their land onto the next generation.

    Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.

    I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.

    Forward!

    All the best,

    Derrick Van Orden

    Member of Congress

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Urges Evers to Act Quickly to Align State Budget with Federal Healthcare Provisions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) sent a letter to Governor Tony Evers urging him to promptly sign the Wisconsin FY 2025-27 state budget into law. The state budget includes an increase to the state provider tax rate, which must be in effect prior to the signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.

    For nearly a decade, Wisconsin’s provider tax rate has not been updated from 1.7%. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will allow non-Medicaid expansion states, like Wisconsin, with provider tax rates of up to 6% to remain untouched. In order for Wisconsin to fully capitalize on the Medicaid benefits in the bill, it is imperative the governor sign the state budget into law as soon as possible.

    “I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025,” Rep. Van Orden stated in the letter.

    The congressman continued, “Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.”

    “I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.”

    To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.

     

    The Honorable Tony Evers

    Governor of Wisconsin

    115 East Capitol

    Madison, WI 53702

    July 2, 2025

    Dear Governor Evers,

    I wanted to send you a follow up note from our conversation yesterday.

    I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025.

    This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I implore you to put politics aside, and our neighbors first.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill will have a profoundly beneficial impact on Wisconsinites from all socioeconomic backgrounds by ensuring that Badger Care, in its current form and scope, remains solvent into the future and bolstering our rural healthcare systems.

    Wisconsin will immediately receive a $500,000,000 plus up for rural healthcare infrastructure, and an additional billion dollars annually for healthcare in our great state.

    Additionally, this bill protects SNAP for those most in need, prevents a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families, makes the Small Business Deduction permanent and increases it to 23%, and removes the Death Tax so our farmers can pass their land onto the next generation.

    Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.

    I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.

    Forward!

    All the best,

    Derrick Van Orden

    Member of Congress

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington state files amicus brief in support of legal challenge to unlawful termination of Job Corps

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown today filed an amicus brief with the attorneys general from 21 other states in support of a proposed class of plaintiffs challenging the unlawful termination of Job Corps, a national program that offers career training and housing to young Americans from low-income backgrounds. 

    Last week, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a preliminary injunction in favor of the plaintiffs challenging in National Job Corps Association et al. v. Department of Labor et al., noting in its opinion that the coalition of states led by Washington had opposed the termination of the program. Today’s filing urges the court, weighing a motion brought by enrollees in the program, to affirm that an injunction should remain in place.      

    Job Corps has nearly 100 residential campuses across the country, and the Trump Administration’s effort to illegally terminate the program threatens to leave thousands of vulnerable young Americans homeless. The brief explains that “in the sixty years since Congress created Job Corps, millions of young Americans from low-income backgrounds have been served by the program’s unique combination of education, training, housing, healthcare and community.” 

    Unlawful termination of the program would impact tens of thousands of young Americans who are currently enrolled and housed at campuses in all fifty states, including the Cascades Job Corps Center in Sedro-Woolley, Washington and the Tongue Point Job Corps Center in Astoria, Oregon. Thousands of these program participants were unhoused or in foster care when they enrolled and have no alternative housing if they lose their residence through the program.

    Today’s brief was filed in Cabrera et al. v. Department of Labor et al. in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, with Attorney General Brown and Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford leading a coalition including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin.

    Today’s amicus filing reaffirms that keeping an injunction in place is necessary to protect vulnerable state residents and promote state goals in education and workforce development. It further reinforces the point that the Trump administration cannot violate federal law and the Constitution by terminating congressionally mandated programs it opposes.

    A copy of the amicus brief is available here.

    -30-

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

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom honors fallen California Highway Patrol Officer Miguel Cano

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 2, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of California Highway Patrol Officer Miguel Cano:

    “Officer Miguel Cano dedicated his life to serving our communities, and his passing is a heartbreaking loss for the state and the California Highway Patrol. Jennifer and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy and we extend our sincere condolences to Officer Cano’s wife, parents, loved ones, and the men and women of the CHP. Though early in his public safety career, Officer Cano already embodied the best of the Golden State with his courage, commitment, and a deep sense of duty. The state will never forget his service.”

     On July 2, just before 12:30 a.m., at Bristol Parkway near Green Valley Circle in Culver City, Officer Cano was involved in an on-duty crash after suffering a suspected medical emergency.  The circumstances are still under investigation. He was immediately transported to the UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center, where, despite the lifesaving efforts of emergency personnel, Officer Cano was ultimately pronounced deceased.

    Officer Cano, 34, graduated from the CHP academy in November 2023 and proudly served the West Los Angeles community and the people of California for a year and a half.  

    His wife and parents survive him.

     In honor of Officer Cano, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff. This is the first line-of-duty loss for the CHP since 2020.  

    Recent news

    Jul 2, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom is more than doubling the state’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, and adding 16 new television projects that will generate $1.1 billion in new economic activity. BURBANK – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom joined labor…

    Jul 2, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — Republicans spent the last 6 months fearmongering that gasoline prices would “increase by 65 cents on July 1.” Did that happen?The answer: NoIn fact, in California, gasoline prices at the pump (on average) are cheaper than yesterday, cheaper than it…

    Jul 2, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is delivering on its promises – significant investments in public safety help ensure safety in communities statewide with lower crime rates in 2024. Sacramento, California – As the House of Representatives prepares to vote on…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Plains All American Pipeline and Plains GP Holdings Announce Quarterly Distributions and Timing of Second Quarter 2025 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (Nasdaq: PAA) and Plains GP Holdings (Nasdaq: PAGP) announced today their quarterly distributions with respect to the second quarter of 2025 and also announced timing of second quarter 2025 earnings.

    Second Quarter Distribution Declaration
    PAA and PAGP announced the following quarterly cash distributions, each of which will be payable on August 14, 2025 to holders of the respective securities at the close of business on July 31, 2025:

    • PAA Common Units – $0.38 per Common Unit ($1.52 per unit on an annualized basis), which is unchanged from the distribution paid in May 2025.
    • PAGP Class A Shares – $0.38 per Class A Share ($1.52 per Class A Share on an annualized basis), which is unchanged from the distribution paid in May 2025.
    • PAA Series A Preferred Units – $0.61524 per Series A Preferred Unit (approximately $2.46 per unit on an annualized basis).

    For its Series B Preferred Units, PAA announced a quarterly distribution of $22.23 per Series B Unit (based on the applicable quarterly floating rate), which will be payable on August 15, 2025 to holders of record at the close of business on August 1, 2025.

    Although equity holders should consult their own tax advisor regarding their particular circumstances, the PAGP cash distribution per Class A Share is expected to be a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of a Class A Shareholder’s tax basis in each PAGP Class A Share and a reduction in such tax basis. In addition, to the extent any cash distribution exceeds a Class A Shareholder’s tax basis, it should be taxable as a capital gain. Qualified Notices under Treasury Regulation Section 1.1446 with respect to the PAA Common Unit distribution and PAA Series B Preferred Unit distribution will be posted on the Plains website under “Investor Relations – Unit Information.”

    Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Timing
    PAA and PAGP also announced that they will release second quarter 2025 earnings before market open on Friday, August 8, 2025. Following the announcement, PAA and PAGP will host a conference call at 9:00 a.m. CT (10 a.m. ET) with analysts and investors to discuss earnings. The call will be webcast live on the internet and may be accessed through the “Investors Relations” section of the website at www.plains.com. An audio replay will be available on the website after the call.

    About Plains
    PAA is a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services for crude oil and natural gas liquids (NGL). PAA owns an extensive network of pipeline gathering and transportation systems, in addition to terminalling, storage, processing, fractionation and other infrastructure assets serving key producing basins, transportation corridors and major market hubs and export outlets in the United States and Canada. On average, PAA handles approximately eight million barrels per day of crude oil and NGL. 

    PAGP is a publicly traded entity that owns an indirect, non-economic controlling general partner interest in PAA and an indirect limited partner interest in PAA, one of the largest energy infrastructure and logistics companies in North America. 

    PAA and PAGP are headquartered in Houston, Texas. More information is available at www.plains.com.

    Investor Relations Contacts:
    Blake Fernandez
    Michael Gladstein
    PlainsIR@plains.com
    (866) 809-1291

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: 160th Anniversary of the United States Secret Service, 2025

    Source: US Whitehouse

    class=”has-text-align-center”>By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation authorizing the creation of the United States Secret Service, the very same day an assassin’s bullet tragically took his life.  Ironically, the agency he established likely could not have saved him.  Its original purpose was not protection, but preservation, tasked with ending the widespread counterfeiting that threatened to destabilize the post-Civil War economy.  Less than 3 months later, on July 5, 1865, the Secret Service officially began operations within the Department of the Treasury. 

    Over time, the agency’s mission began to expand.  Following the assassination attempt of William McKinley in 1901, the Congress entrusted the Secret Service with the solemn duty of protecting the President of the United States.  What began as an effort to defend America’s currency became a lasting commitment to defend its highest office.  Today, the Secret Service stands among the Nation’s most elite and storied law enforcement agencies, defined by honor, vigilance, and its enduring motto:  “Worthy of Trust and Confidence.”

    More than 8,000 men and women serve in the Secret Service, united by a mission that demands excellence, resilience, and steadfast loyalty.  They protect the President and Vice President, their families, former presidents, major presidential candidates, and visiting foreign dignitaries.  Their watch extends to the White House, the Vice President’s residence, National Special Security Events, and critical sites around the world.  Agents undergo intense and rigorous training to earn their post, ensuring that only the most disciplined and determined are entrusted with this sacred duty.  Even in moments of grave danger, these warriors stand firm, confronting threats with unshakable resolve, unmatched skill, and the quiet strength that defines the very best of American law enforcement.  

    The United States Secret Service has stood as an unflinching shield against violence and mayhem, answering the call whenever danger arises to protect our national leadership.  Agents have placed themselves in harm’s way to protect against the attempted assassinations of President-elect Franklin Roosevelt in 1933, President Harry Truman in 1950, President Gerald Ford in 1975, President Ronald Reagan in 1981, and two attempts against my own life in 2024.  In each of these moments, they acted with split-second courage and absolute devotion to duty.  I witnessed their bravery firsthand — calm under pressure, fearless in the face of danger, and wholly committed to the mission.  Behind these historical incidents stand countless additional threats, lives protected without fanfare, and sacrifices made without recognition.  To risk laying down one’s life for another is the most selfless act of patriotism and humanity, and I am forever indebted to the agents who risk everything to guard me from harm.

    As we commemorate the 160th anniversary of the United States Secret Service, our Nation proudly honors the heroism, discipline, and unwavering commitment of every agent who have placed their lives in the line of fire so that our Republic, our freedom, and our glorious constitutional order may endure.  Their bravery stands as a powerful testament to the spirit of America, undaunted in the face of danger and resolute in the defense of liberty.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 5, 2025, as the 160th Anniversary of the United States Secret Service.  I call upon all Americans to offer our unending gratitude and respect to the 8,000 employees of the United States Secret Service in more than 150 offices across the country and abroad that serve on the edge of danger to defend the safety and security of our communities and uphold the sovereignty and strength of our Republic.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: 160th Anniversary of the United States Secret Service, 2025

    Source: US Whitehouse

    class=”has-text-align-center”>By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation authorizing the creation of the United States Secret Service, the very same day an assassin’s bullet tragically took his life.  Ironically, the agency he established likely could not have saved him.  Its original purpose was not protection, but preservation, tasked with ending the widespread counterfeiting that threatened to destabilize the post-Civil War economy.  Less than 3 months later, on July 5, 1865, the Secret Service officially began operations within the Department of the Treasury. 

    Over time, the agency’s mission began to expand.  Following the assassination attempt of William McKinley in 1901, the Congress entrusted the Secret Service with the solemn duty of protecting the President of the United States.  What began as an effort to defend America’s currency became a lasting commitment to defend its highest office.  Today, the Secret Service stands among the Nation’s most elite and storied law enforcement agencies, defined by honor, vigilance, and its enduring motto:  “Worthy of Trust and Confidence.”

    More than 8,000 men and women serve in the Secret Service, united by a mission that demands excellence, resilience, and steadfast loyalty.  They protect the President and Vice President, their families, former presidents, major presidential candidates, and visiting foreign dignitaries.  Their watch extends to the White House, the Vice President’s residence, National Special Security Events, and critical sites around the world.  Agents undergo intense and rigorous training to earn their post, ensuring that only the most disciplined and determined are entrusted with this sacred duty.  Even in moments of grave danger, these warriors stand firm, confronting threats with unshakable resolve, unmatched skill, and the quiet strength that defines the very best of American law enforcement.  

    The United States Secret Service has stood as an unflinching shield against violence and mayhem, answering the call whenever danger arises to protect our national leadership.  Agents have placed themselves in harm’s way to protect against the attempted assassinations of President-elect Franklin Roosevelt in 1933, President Harry Truman in 1950, President Gerald Ford in 1975, President Ronald Reagan in 1981, and two attempts against my own life in 2024.  In each of these moments, they acted with split-second courage and absolute devotion to duty.  I witnessed their bravery firsthand — calm under pressure, fearless in the face of danger, and wholly committed to the mission.  Behind these historical incidents stand countless additional threats, lives protected without fanfare, and sacrifices made without recognition.  To risk laying down one’s life for another is the most selfless act of patriotism and humanity, and I am forever indebted to the agents who risk everything to guard me from harm.

    As we commemorate the 160th anniversary of the United States Secret Service, our Nation proudly honors the heroism, discipline, and unwavering commitment of every agent who have placed their lives in the line of fire so that our Republic, our freedom, and our glorious constitutional order may endure.  Their bravery stands as a powerful testament to the spirit of America, undaunted in the face of danger and resolute in the defense of liberty.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 5, 2025, as the 160th Anniversary of the United States Secret Service.  I call upon all Americans to offer our unending gratitude and respect to the 8,000 employees of the United States Secret Service in more than 150 offices across the country and abroad that serve on the edge of danger to defend the safety and security of our communities and uphold the sovereignty and strength of our Republic.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Summer 2025 Newsletter – In The Flow

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was on the scene in Western Maryland to collect water data during and after the flooding caused by several inches of rain. Quantifying floods is vital for planning infrastructure that can withstand such extremes in the future.

    As the flooding occurred, USGS crews traversed the area, collecting high flow measurements at over two dozen locations in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties. The job was challenging as certain roads were difficult or impossible to pass due to flooding.

    USGS crews also attempted to measure high flow at Georges Creek, which was at the epicenter of flooding in the town of Westernport, Maryland, and near the site of the school evacuation, but it was too dangerous. Our crew returned when it was safer to collect two streamflow measurements while flows were still elevated, and then later when flooding subsided, identified high-water marks to estimate the volume of water during the peak of the flood.

    Days later, evidence of the damage caused by the flood were visible throughout Westernport and across towns in the area, including at Georges Creek, where flooding caused the ground to collapse beneath an unused train line, leaving rails that were twisted mid-air and dangling for several dozen yards, yet somehow still connected on the other side.

    The USGS, EPA, along with federal, state, and local partners collect water samples at over a hundred locations across the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including the Choptank River as seen here.

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently published flow-normalized trends in loads of nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment for the Chesapeake Bay Watershed from water years 1985 through 2023. This monitoring-based information provides federal, state, and local managers with accurate and timely information about the health of streams and rivers entering the Bay.

    Understanding changes in the 64,000 square mile Chesapeake Bay watershed is critical to understanding the health of the Bay. States in the Bay watershed recognized this and in 2004 they formed the Non-Tidal Network (NTN), a collection of 123 monitoring stations that follow standard sampling protocols and analysis methods.

    Spanning six states from New York to Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia, the consistency of the NTN provides accurate information on conditions and changes in water quality.

    This is no small task and is only possible through teamwork from local, state, and federal partners who collect and analyze information from the 123 NTN stations. The total NTN dataset has over 51,000 samples — that’s about 3.5 samples collected every single day since 1985! The USGS plays a critical role in the NTN, providing information on how much water is flowing at the gages, collecting samples, and analyzing load and trend results.

    A map of the Chesapeake Bay watershed showing the distribution of Non-Tidal Network (NTN) stations as of 2023.

    But the data doesn’t collect itself. It takes dedicated people from federal, state, and local partner agencies, including the USGS, to sample all 123 stations routinely.

    On a chilly morning in early March 2024, Kelly McVicker and Shane Mizelle, two hydrologic technicians from the USGS, made their way out to the catwalk of the Conowingo Dam to collect water samples after a storm.

    Over the next hour, they repeatedly lowered a sampling bottle into the turbid, roaring waters some several dozen feet below, bringing it back up and transferring it to a larger container. They repeated this procedure at multiple points along the wide river to ensure that the sample would represent the conditions of the river at that particular point in time.

    Month after month, and sometimes more frequently as dictated by storms, technicians from the USGS and other agencies repeat this process across 123 stations. In each instance the technicians follow consistent sampling collection, storage and analysis to allow for comparison over the entire network.

    After the field, the samples are shipped to laboratories and analyzed, and laboratory staff run quality assurance tests.

    Next, the data are returned to the collecting agencies and reviewed by their staff. If the data are approved and nothing is out of line, they are submitted to the Chesapeake Environmental Data Repository where the data are reviewed before inclusion.

    Now, nutrient and sediment loads and trends can be calculated from the data.

    USGS scientists use a statistical method known as Weighted Regressions on Time, Discharge and Season (WRTDS) to compute the flow-normalized load of nutrients and sediment at each station for each year the data are available. A station can have a load computed after 5 years of data, and after 10 years, the scientists will run a trend analysis to determine if the load is increasing, decreasing, or has no discernable trend.

    The results computed at the 123 stations include trends in suspended sediment and total and dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus. Each year’s results are compared against the historic record to ensure a consistent dataset is used.

    Following the load and trend analyses, the data are published in a data release, updated on a website and the results are distributed to NTN partners and other Chesapeake Bay stakeholders.

    This tremendous effort would not be possible without the support of local and state governments and non-profits across the Chesapeake region.

    USGS installs three temporary groundwater stations to monitor drought conditions in Delaware

    Jacob Mavrogeorge builds a groundwater gage in Delaware.

    The U.S. Geological Survey installed groundwater stations in three locations across the state to monitor groundwater levels, doubling the number of active groundwater stations in Delaware operated by USGS from 3 to 6.

    Until June 2025, Delaware was in a state of drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, and these sites were selected with the help of the Delaware Geological Survey to track groundwater levels throughout the state.

    Monitoring at these sites will continue through at least September 30, 2025.

    Funding was provided through the USGS Next Generation Water Observing System program (NGWOS) in response to drought conditions that had persisted since last summer.

    View data from these sites, DE-Cb12-10, DE-Gb55-08, DE-Ng11-37.

    Additional Updates to our Water Monitoring Network

    This Winter and Spring we added the following sites to our monitoring network:

    • Piscataway Creek at Joint Base Andrews, MD (01653521): Gage height, specific conductance, temperature, and turbidity.
    • Piscataway Creek Tributary at Joint Base Andrews, MD (01653522): Gage height, specific conductance, temperature, and turbidity.

    We also added HIVIS cameras to the following sites:

    • Whitemarsh Run at White Marsh, MD (01585100) 
    • Mattawoman Creek Near Pomonkey, MD (01658000) 
    • Beaverdam Creek Near Cheverly, MD (01651730) 
    • Watts Branch at Washington, DC (01651800) 
    Reductions to Data Collection at a Handful of Monitoring Sites

    Given proposed budget cuts from a cooperating agency, we foresee the following reductions to data collection at a handful of sites beginning on October 1, 2025. If there are questions concerning these sites, please email gs-w-mdtws_information@usgs.gov.

    The following sites will be fully discontinued. Although historical data will remain accessible, no new data will be collected:

    • Rock Creek at Sherrill Drive, Washington, DC (01648000): Continuous discharge.
    • Luzon Branch above Rock Creek at Washington, DC (01648011): Continuous discharge and water temperature.
    • Anacostia River at Kenilworth at Washington, DC (01651760): Continuous discharge water temperature, specific conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.
    • Anacostia River near Buzzard Point at Washington, DC (01651827): Continuous discharge, water temperature, specific conductance, and turbidity.

    Watts Branch at Washington, DC (01651800) will lose its continuous discharge reporting, but all other continuous measurements will remain.

    Discrete metals and bacteria water-quality analyses (cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, mercury, E. coli bacteria) at the following sites will be discontinued; however other water-quality parameters (phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended sediment) will still be collected:

    • Rock Creek at Joyce Road, Washington, DC (01648010) 
    • Hickey Run at National Arboretum at Washington, DC (01651770)
    • Watts Branch at Washington, DC (01651800)

    Stay Up-To-Date On Our Latest Science

    These are the latest publications that our Center’s scientists contributed to:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Summer 2025 Newsletter – In The Flow

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) was on the scene in Western Maryland to collect water data during and after the flooding caused by several inches of rain. Quantifying floods is vital for planning infrastructure that can withstand such extremes in the future.

    As the flooding occurred, USGS crews traversed the area, collecting high flow measurements at over two dozen locations in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties. The job was challenging as certain roads were difficult or impossible to pass due to flooding.

    USGS crews also attempted to measure high flow at Georges Creek, which was at the epicenter of flooding in the town of Westernport, Maryland, and near the site of the school evacuation, but it was too dangerous. Our crew returned when it was safer to collect two streamflow measurements while flows were still elevated, and then later when flooding subsided, identified high-water marks to estimate the volume of water during the peak of the flood.

    Days later, evidence of the damage caused by the flood were visible throughout Westernport and across towns in the area, including at Georges Creek, where flooding caused the ground to collapse beneath an unused train line, leaving rails that were twisted mid-air and dangling for several dozen yards, yet somehow still connected on the other side.

    The USGS, EPA, along with federal, state, and local partners collect water samples at over a hundred locations across the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including the Choptank River as seen here.

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently published flow-normalized trends in loads of nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment for the Chesapeake Bay Watershed from water years 1985 through 2023. This monitoring-based information provides federal, state, and local managers with accurate and timely information about the health of streams and rivers entering the Bay.

    Understanding changes in the 64,000 square mile Chesapeake Bay watershed is critical to understanding the health of the Bay. States in the Bay watershed recognized this and in 2004 they formed the Non-Tidal Network (NTN), a collection of 123 monitoring stations that follow standard sampling protocols and analysis methods.

    Spanning six states from New York to Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia, the consistency of the NTN provides accurate information on conditions and changes in water quality.

    This is no small task and is only possible through teamwork from local, state, and federal partners who collect and analyze information from the 123 NTN stations. The total NTN dataset has over 51,000 samples — that’s about 3.5 samples collected every single day since 1985! The USGS plays a critical role in the NTN, providing information on how much water is flowing at the gages, collecting samples, and analyzing load and trend results.

    A map of the Chesapeake Bay watershed showing the distribution of Non-Tidal Network (NTN) stations as of 2023.

    But the data doesn’t collect itself. It takes dedicated people from federal, state, and local partner agencies, including the USGS, to sample all 123 stations routinely.

    On a chilly morning in early March 2024, Kelly McVicker and Shane Mizelle, two hydrologic technicians from the USGS, made their way out to the catwalk of the Conowingo Dam to collect water samples after a storm.

    Over the next hour, they repeatedly lowered a sampling bottle into the turbid, roaring waters some several dozen feet below, bringing it back up and transferring it to a larger container. They repeated this procedure at multiple points along the wide river to ensure that the sample would represent the conditions of the river at that particular point in time.

    Month after month, and sometimes more frequently as dictated by storms, technicians from the USGS and other agencies repeat this process across 123 stations. In each instance the technicians follow consistent sampling collection, storage and analysis to allow for comparison over the entire network.

    After the field, the samples are shipped to laboratories and analyzed, and laboratory staff run quality assurance tests.

    Next, the data are returned to the collecting agencies and reviewed by their staff. If the data are approved and nothing is out of line, they are submitted to the Chesapeake Environmental Data Repository where the data are reviewed before inclusion.

    Now, nutrient and sediment loads and trends can be calculated from the data.

    USGS scientists use a statistical method known as Weighted Regressions on Time, Discharge and Season (WRTDS) to compute the flow-normalized load of nutrients and sediment at each station for each year the data are available. A station can have a load computed after 5 years of data, and after 10 years, the scientists will run a trend analysis to determine if the load is increasing, decreasing, or has no discernable trend.

    The results computed at the 123 stations include trends in suspended sediment and total and dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus. Each year’s results are compared against the historic record to ensure a consistent dataset is used.

    Following the load and trend analyses, the data are published in a data release, updated on a website and the results are distributed to NTN partners and other Chesapeake Bay stakeholders.

    This tremendous effort would not be possible without the support of local and state governments and non-profits across the Chesapeake region.

    USGS installs three temporary groundwater stations to monitor drought conditions in Delaware

    Jacob Mavrogeorge builds a groundwater gage in Delaware.

    The U.S. Geological Survey installed groundwater stations in three locations across the state to monitor groundwater levels, doubling the number of active groundwater stations in Delaware operated by USGS from 3 to 6.

    Until June 2025, Delaware was in a state of drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, and these sites were selected with the help of the Delaware Geological Survey to track groundwater levels throughout the state.

    Monitoring at these sites will continue through at least September 30, 2025.

    Funding was provided through the USGS Next Generation Water Observing System program (NGWOS) in response to drought conditions that had persisted since last summer.

    View data from these sites, DE-Cb12-10, DE-Gb55-08, DE-Ng11-37.

    Additional Updates to our Water Monitoring Network

    This Winter and Spring we added the following sites to our monitoring network:

    • Piscataway Creek at Joint Base Andrews, MD (01653521): Gage height, specific conductance, temperature, and turbidity.
    • Piscataway Creek Tributary at Joint Base Andrews, MD (01653522): Gage height, specific conductance, temperature, and turbidity.

    We also added HIVIS cameras to the following sites:

    • Whitemarsh Run at White Marsh, MD (01585100) 
    • Mattawoman Creek Near Pomonkey, MD (01658000) 
    • Beaverdam Creek Near Cheverly, MD (01651730) 
    • Watts Branch at Washington, DC (01651800) 
    Reductions to Data Collection at a Handful of Monitoring Sites

    Given proposed budget cuts from a cooperating agency, we foresee the following reductions to data collection at a handful of sites beginning on October 1, 2025. If there are questions concerning these sites, please email gs-w-mdtws_information@usgs.gov.

    The following sites will be fully discontinued. Although historical data will remain accessible, no new data will be collected:

    • Rock Creek at Sherrill Drive, Washington, DC (01648000): Continuous discharge.
    • Luzon Branch above Rock Creek at Washington, DC (01648011): Continuous discharge and water temperature.
    • Anacostia River at Kenilworth at Washington, DC (01651760): Continuous discharge water temperature, specific conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.
    • Anacostia River near Buzzard Point at Washington, DC (01651827): Continuous discharge, water temperature, specific conductance, and turbidity.

    Watts Branch at Washington, DC (01651800) will lose its continuous discharge reporting, but all other continuous measurements will remain.

    Discrete metals and bacteria water-quality analyses (cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, mercury, E. coli bacteria) at the following sites will be discontinued; however other water-quality parameters (phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended sediment) will still be collected:

    • Rock Creek at Joyce Road, Washington, DC (01648010) 
    • Hickey Run at National Arboretum at Washington, DC (01651770)
    • Watts Branch at Washington, DC (01651800)

    Stay Up-To-Date On Our Latest Science

    These are the latest publications that our Center’s scientists contributed to:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $3.7 Million for Airport Upgrades Across Louisiana from His Infrastructure Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding Louisiana a total of $3,657,455.00 in funding from his Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act (IIJA) for critical airport improvements in Tallulah, Slidell, Lake Charles, Farmerville, Sulphur, and Jena.
    “Upgrading airport infrastructure improves safety, efficiency, and the experience for travelers,”said Dr. Cassidy. “These investments will help local airports grow, better serve their regions, and support economic development across Louisiana.”

    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $1,068,750.00
    Vicksburg Tallulah Regional Airport (Tallulah)
    This grant will provide federal funding to reconstruct culverts and a water lift station to improve drainage and stormwater management.

    $332,500.00
    City of Slidell
    This grant will provide federal funding to reseal 5,002 feet of Runway 18/36 pavement to extend its useful life.

    $1,300,000.00
    Airport Authority District No. 1 (Lake Charles)
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a terminal parking lot and reconstruct 2,600 feet of access roads serving the terminal and general aviation facilities.

    $300,000.00
    Union Parish Police Jury (Farmerville)
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct an 8,400 square foot sponsor-owned T-hangar complex to support airport self-sufficiency.

    $89,205.00
    Chennault International Airport Authority (Lake Charles)
    This grant will provide federal funding to design the rehabilitation of 1,425 feet of paved taxiways to maintain pavement integrity.

    $534,850.00
    West Calcasieu Airport Managing Board (Sulphur)
    This grant will provide federal funding to acquire and install a new automated weather observing system to provide accurate, site-specific weather information.

    $32,150.00
    LaSalle Economic Development District (Jena)
    This grant will provide federal funding to reconstruct the airport’s drainage system to correct failing infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brothers Sentenced for Violent Assault and Firearm Confrontation on Navajo Nation

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – Two brothers from Fruitland, New Mexico were sentenced for their roles in a violent assault and subsequent confrontation with law enforcement on the Navajo Nation.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court records, on March 23, 2024, Justin Tso, 38, and his brother Walliford Tso, 37, enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, went to the residence of John Doe, where Doe lived with his girlfriend and her son. As the brothers were departing the home, Justin took a machete without permission and walked away. John Doe armed himself with an axe and demanded the return of the machete. In response, Justin and Walliford charged at John Doe, leading to a violent altercation.

    The brothers pursued John Doe back into the residence, where they assaulted him in front of his family, punching him and throwing objects, including a tire rim, pipe, and large rock. John Doe was able to escape and call police. During the incident, the brothers caused significant property damage, including smashing car windows and damaging vehicles.

    Navajo Nation Police responded to the scene. During the attempt to apprehend the suspects, Walliford pointed a rifle at officers before surrendering. Walliford and Justin were both found to be intoxicated at the time of the incident.

    Walliford and Justin each pled guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and were sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: D. Trump announces trade deal with Vietnam

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    NEW YORK, July 2 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump announced on his social media platform Truth Social that he had just concluded a trade deal with Vietnam after talking with General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam.

    “This will be a great deal of cooperation between our two countries. The terms stipulate that Vietnam will pay the United States a customs duty of 20 percent on all goods shipped to our territory, without exception, and 40 percent on all transhipments,” the American leader wrote.

    As noted in the publication, in exchange, Vietnam will do something it has never done before, namely, provide the United States with full access to its market for trade.

    The country will “open its market to the United States,” meaning “we will be able to sell our products to Vietnam at zero tariff rates,” D. Trump said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee welcomes new Vietnam-US trade deal

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HANOI, July 2 (Xinhua) — General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam welcomed the new trade agreement between Vietnam and the United States during a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

    To Lam called on Washington to recognize Vietnam as a market economy as soon as possible and lift restrictions on the export of some high-tech goods.

    The two leaders also discussed the main directions for further strengthening the Vietnam-US comprehensive strategic partnership in the coming years and related measures. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rural Grocery Sustainability Grant Applications Open July 9

    Source: US State of North Dakota

     The North Dakota Department of Commerce today announced that applications for the Rural Grocery Store Sustainability Grant will open Wednesday, July 9, at 3 p.m. CDT. This competitive grant program is designed to enhance food access and support the long-term sustainability of grocery services and food co-ops in rural North Dakota communities.

    With funding of up to $150,000 available per applicant, the program seeks to strengthen local food systems, support economic resilience and foster collaborative community development efforts. A 20% non-state match is required and can include in-kind support.

    “This grant supports grocery stores, but it’s more including food security, local partnerships and investing in the sustainability of our rural communities,” said Commerce Community Services Director Maria Effertz.

    Eligible applicants include political subdivisions, tribal entities and regional councils serving communities with populations of 4,500 or fewer. Preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate regional cooperation and collaboration between food providers, schools, restaurants and other local entities.

    Projects must be completed within 18 months of award and funding will prioritize initiatives that demonstrate long-term sustainability through strong business plans and community impact.

    Key Dates:

    • Applications open: Wednesday, July 9, at 3 p.m. CDT
    • Application deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 5 p.m. CDT
    • Award notification: Wednesday, Sept. 17 

    Applications must be submitted through the online portal. For more details and to preview application questions, visit ndgov.link/rural-grocery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BigCommerce to Announce Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results on July 31, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BigCommerce Holdings, Inc. (“BigCommerce”) (Nasdaq: BIGC), an open SaaS, composable ecommerce platform for fast-growing and established B2C and B2B brands and retailers, today announced it will report its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, before market open on Thursday, July 31, 2025.

    The financial results and business highlights will be discussed on a conference call and webcast scheduled at 7:00 a.m. CT (8:00 a.m. ET) on Thursday, July 31, 2025. The conference call can be accessed by dialing (833) 634-1254 from the United States and Canada or (412) 317-6012 internationally and requesting to join the “BigCommerce conference call.” The live webcast of the conference call can be accessed from BigCommerce’s investor relations website at http://investors.bigcommerce.com.

    Following the completion of the call through 11:59 p.m. ET on Thursday, August 7, 2025, a telephone replay will be available by dialing (877) 344-7529 from the United States, (855) 669-9658 from Canada or (412) 317-0088 internationally with conference ID 7863771. A webcast replay will also be available at http://investors.bigcommerce.com for 12 months.

    About BigCommerce

    BigCommerce (Nasdaq: BIGC) is a leading open SaaS and composable ecommerce platform that empowers brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors of all sizes to build, innovate and grow their businesses online. BigCommerce provides its customers sophisticated professional-grade functionality, customization and performance with simplicity and ease-of-use. Tens of thousands of B2C and B2B companies across 150 countries and numerous industries rely on BigCommerce, including Coldwater Creek, Harvey Nichols, King Arthur Baking Co., MKM Building Supplies, United Aqua Group and Uplift Desk. For more information, please visit www.bigcommerce.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    BigCommerce® is a registered trademark of BigCommerce Pty. Ltd. Third-party trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Old National Bancorp Announces Schedule for Second-Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EVANSVILLE, Ind., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Old National Bancorp (“Old National”), the holding company of Old National Bank, today announced the following schedule for its second-quarter 2025 earnings release and conference call:

    Earnings Release: Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at approximately 7:00 A.M. ET
       
    Conference Call: Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. ET
       
    Dial-in Numbers:  U.S. (800) 715-9871; International: (646) 307-1963; Access code 9394540
       
    Webcast:  Via Old National’s Investor Relations website at oldnational.com
       
    Webcast Replay:  Available approximately one hour after completion of the call, until midnight ET on July 22, 2026, via Old National’s Investor Relations website at oldnational.com
       
    Telephone Replay: U.S. (800) 770-2030; International: (647) 362-9199; Access code 9394540. The replay will be available approximately one hour after completion of the call until midnight ET on August 5, 2025
       

    ABOUT OLD NATIONAL
    Old National Bancorp (NASDAQ: ONB) is the holding company of Old National Bank. As the fifth largest commercial bank headquartered in the Midwest, Old National proudly serves clients primarily in the Midwest and Southeast. With approximately $70 billion of assets and $37 billion of assets under management (including Bremer Financial Corporation on a pro forma basis as of March 31, 2025), Old National ranks among the top 25 banking companies headquartered in the United States. Tracing our roots to 1834, Old National focuses on building long-term, highly valued partnerships with clients while also strengthening and supporting the communities we serve. In addition to providing extensive services in consumer and commercial banking, Old National offers comprehensive wealth management and capital markets services. For more information and financial data, please visit Investor Relations at oldnational.com. In 2025, Points of Light named Old National one of “The Civic 50” — an honor reserved for the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States.

    Investor Relations:
    Lynell Durchholz
    (812) 464-1366
    lynell.durchholz@oldnational.com

    Media Relations:
    Rick Vach
    (904) 535-9489
    rick.vach@oldnational.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Arbor Realty SR, Inc. Prices Offering of $500 Million of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2030

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UNIONDALE, N.Y., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (“Arbor”) (NYSE: ABR) today announced that its subsidiary, Arbor Realty SR, Inc. (the “Issuer”), has priced an offering of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) in a private offering to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and outside the United States to non-United States persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes will be the senior, unsecured obligations of the Issuer and will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior, unsecured basis by Arbor. The offering is expected to close on July 9, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    The Issuer intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to refinance, redeem or otherwise repay Arbor’s remaining outstanding 7.50% Convertible Notes due 2025 and use any remaining proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

    J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering.

    The offer and sale of the Notes and the related guarantee have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws, and, unless so registered, the Notes and the related guarantee may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall it constitute an offer, or the solicitation of any sale, of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

    About Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.

    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ABR) is a nationwide real estate investment trust and direct lender, providing loan origination and servicing for multifamily, single-family rental (SFR) portfolios, and other diverse commercial real estate assets. Headquartered in New York, Arbor manages a multibillion-dollar servicing portfolio, specializing in government-sponsored enterprise products. Arbor is a leading Fannie Mae DUS® lender and Freddie Mac Optigo® Seller/Servicer, and an approved FHA Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) lender. Arbor’s product platform also includes bridge, CMBS, mezzanine and preferred equity loans. Rated by Standard and Poor’s and Fitch Ratings, Arbor is committed to building on its reputation for service, quality and customized solutions with an unparalleled dedication to providing our clients excellence over the entire life of a loan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Certain items in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Arbor and the Issuer can give no assurance that their expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Arbor’s and the Issuer’s expectations include, but are not limited to, changes in economic conditions generally, and the real estate markets specifically, continued ability to source new investments, changes in interest rates and/or credit spreads, and other risks detailed in Arbor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and its other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Arbor and the Issuer expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Arbor’s or the Issuer’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Contact:
    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    516-506-4200
    InvestorRelations@arbor.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Arbor Realty SR, Inc. Prices Offering of $500 Million of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2030

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UNIONDALE, N.Y., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (“Arbor”) (NYSE: ABR) today announced that its subsidiary, Arbor Realty SR, Inc. (the “Issuer”), has priced an offering of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) in a private offering to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and outside the United States to non-United States persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes will be the senior, unsecured obligations of the Issuer and will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior, unsecured basis by Arbor. The offering is expected to close on July 9, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    The Issuer intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to refinance, redeem or otherwise repay Arbor’s remaining outstanding 7.50% Convertible Notes due 2025 and use any remaining proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

    J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering.

    The offer and sale of the Notes and the related guarantee have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws, and, unless so registered, the Notes and the related guarantee may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall it constitute an offer, or the solicitation of any sale, of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

    About Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.

    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ABR) is a nationwide real estate investment trust and direct lender, providing loan origination and servicing for multifamily, single-family rental (SFR) portfolios, and other diverse commercial real estate assets. Headquartered in New York, Arbor manages a multibillion-dollar servicing portfolio, specializing in government-sponsored enterprise products. Arbor is a leading Fannie Mae DUS® lender and Freddie Mac Optigo® Seller/Servicer, and an approved FHA Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) lender. Arbor’s product platform also includes bridge, CMBS, mezzanine and preferred equity loans. Rated by Standard and Poor’s and Fitch Ratings, Arbor is committed to building on its reputation for service, quality and customized solutions with an unparalleled dedication to providing our clients excellence over the entire life of a loan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Certain items in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Arbor and the Issuer can give no assurance that their expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Arbor’s and the Issuer’s expectations include, but are not limited to, changes in economic conditions generally, and the real estate markets specifically, continued ability to source new investments, changes in interest rates and/or credit spreads, and other risks detailed in Arbor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and its other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Arbor and the Issuer expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Arbor’s or the Issuer’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Contact:
    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    516-506-4200
    InvestorRelations@arbor.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Arbor Realty SR, Inc. Prices Offering of $500 Million of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2030

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UNIONDALE, N.Y., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (“Arbor”) (NYSE: ABR) today announced that its subsidiary, Arbor Realty SR, Inc. (the “Issuer”), has priced an offering of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) in a private offering to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and outside the United States to non-United States persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes will be the senior, unsecured obligations of the Issuer and will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior, unsecured basis by Arbor. The offering is expected to close on July 9, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    The Issuer intends to use a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to refinance, redeem or otherwise repay Arbor’s remaining outstanding 7.50% Convertible Notes due 2025 and use any remaining proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

    J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering.

    The offer and sale of the Notes and the related guarantee have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws, and, unless so registered, the Notes and the related guarantee may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall it constitute an offer, or the solicitation of any sale, of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

    About Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.

    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ABR) is a nationwide real estate investment trust and direct lender, providing loan origination and servicing for multifamily, single-family rental (SFR) portfolios, and other diverse commercial real estate assets. Headquartered in New York, Arbor manages a multibillion-dollar servicing portfolio, specializing in government-sponsored enterprise products. Arbor is a leading Fannie Mae DUS® lender and Freddie Mac Optigo® Seller/Servicer, and an approved FHA Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) lender. Arbor’s product platform also includes bridge, CMBS, mezzanine and preferred equity loans. Rated by Standard and Poor’s and Fitch Ratings, Arbor is committed to building on its reputation for service, quality and customized solutions with an unparalleled dedication to providing our clients excellence over the entire life of a loan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Certain items in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Arbor and the Issuer can give no assurance that their expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Arbor’s and the Issuer’s expectations include, but are not limited to, changes in economic conditions generally, and the real estate markets specifically, continued ability to source new investments, changes in interest rates and/or credit spreads, and other risks detailed in Arbor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and its other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Arbor and the Issuer expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Arbor’s or the Issuer’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Contact:
    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    516-506-4200
    InvestorRelations@arbor.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Littoral Combat Ships – Surface Warfare Mission Package

    Source: United States Navy

    The Surface Warfare (SUW) Mission Package (MP) installed on the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) provides fleet protection from small boats and other asymmetrical threats. The SUW MP can also be used to provide operational security in interdiction missions against terrorist suspects and high seas pirates and can provide defense against shore attacks while operating in the littorals. These capabilities, when joined together, permit the ship’s crew and the fleet commander to operate with confidence and address threats to the fleet while operating in the littorals and in constrictive environments. The SUW MP augments the core LCS sensor and weapons capabilities with gun, missile and aviation systems, providing a layered defense capability for rapidly detecting, tracking and prosecuting small boat threats. Ultimately, this MP enhances the safety of the Sailors while permitting the mission commander to maintain operational flexibility.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Blasts Paramount’s $16 Million Settlement with Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Calls for full Commission vote on Paramount’s pending merger

    Washington (July 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after Paramount Global, the parent of CBS News, agreed to pay $16 million to settle a frivolous lawsuit brought by President Donald Trump. Paramount reportedly had pushed for the settlement to help facilitate approval of its merger with Skydance Media, which is currently being reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

    “Paramount’s decision to pay $16 million to settle Trump’s baseless lawsuit is a blow to journalistic independence. With the FCC currently reviewing Paramount’s merger with Skydance, this timing also raises serious questions about FCC independence and Paramount’s true reason for settling with Trump. The public deserves to have complete confidence that the FCC’s merger review is free from political interference. For that reason, the FCC must proceed with the utmost transparency, and Chairman Carr must hold a full Commission vote on the merger. I will be watching the Commission’s next steps very closely.”

    Senator Markey has aggressively pushed back on the Trump administration’s efforts to attack news organizations and intimidate the media. In May 2025, Senators Markey and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) wrote to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, urging the FCC to take a vote on the merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media. In March 2025, Senators Markey and Luján, along with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), introduced the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act, legislation that would prohibit the FCC from revoking broadcast licenses or taking action against broadcasters based on the viewpoints they broadcast. In February 2025, Senators Markey and Luján, along with Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.), wrote to Chairman Carr and then-Commissioner Nathan Simington regarding the FCC’s recent, politically motivated actions against broadcasters and public media.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito, Justice Applaud Appointment of Matt Harvey and Moore Capito as U.S. Attorneys for West Virginia by President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) released a statement following President Donald Trump’s nomination of Moore Capito as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia and Matt Harvey as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia:

    “As a respected attorney and former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates where he served as the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Moore Capito understands the issues that matter most to Appalachian communities—from combating the opioid epidemic to protecting our energy jobs and securing economic opportunity. His proven leadership and legal expertise make him the ideal candidate to uphold justice in the Southern District. As a dedicated prosecutor and leader in the Eastern Panhandle, Matt Harvey has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety. His experience and proven leadership in addressing violent crime, drug trafficking, and community security aligns precisely with the needs of the Northern District,” Senator Capito said.

    “I am thrilled and extremely proud that President Trump has chosen these two stellar candidates to be West Virginia’s next U.S. Attorneys. I look forward to supporting their confirmations quickly so they can get to work on behalf of West Virginia,” Senator Capito continued.

    “Moore Capito and Matt Harvey are rock solid picks by President Trump for U.S. Attorney in West Virginia. These guys are serious conservatives, have lengthy experience in the legal realm, and are qualified beyond belief – which is why I’m proud to have recommended them to the President for their respective positions. I extend my congratulations to both Moore and Matt, I wish them the best of luck in their roles, and know they will do great things while serving as U.S. Attorney because they are truly both sons of West Virginia,” Senator Justice said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, law enforcement partner investigation results in a significant prison sentence for a South Texas man convicted of kidnapping illegal aliens

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN ANTONIO — A La Pryor man was sentenced July 1 to 120 years in prison for one count of conspiracy to kidnap and two counts related to harboring illegal aliens causing serious bodily injury and placing the life of a person in jeopardy. He was sentenced to the maximum of 20 years on each of the harboring counts and was sentenced to 80 years on the kidnapping count, with the sentences to run consecutively. This investigation was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with assistance from the San Antonio Police Department.

    Joshua Lee Balderas, 33, was sentenced for to various counts related to human smuggling. He was arrested Oct. 28, 2022, and found guilty on all counts by a federal jury on Oct. 11, 2024.

    “This sentence, undoubtedly keeping Balderas confined for the remainder of his life, reflects the egregious nature of these human smuggling crimes,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas Justin R. Simmons. “It should send a clear message throughout the nation and across our borders that we take these prosecutions very seriously and will aggressively seek to deliver justice.”

    “The sentencing of this defendant to 120 years in prison marks a significant victory in our ongoing fight against human smuggling,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “This severe penalty reflects the gravity of the crimes committed and serves as a stern warning to those who exploit vulnerable individuals for profit. I commend the agents and our San Antonio Police Department partners for their hard work during this successful investigation.”

    According to court documents, in March 2022, Balderas and other conspirators transported and harbored a group of seven aliens, including one woman, who had recently crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. When the group was picked up by the smugglers, the woman was suffering from significant injuries to her feet and was severely dehydrated. Balderas transported the group from La Pryor to San Antonio, where the aliens were held captive in hotel rooms and ransomed to their families for thousands of dollars. One family member was forced to pay $7,000 for an alien’s release.

    Balderas and one of his co-conspirators, Kaylen Alexander Brondo, 26, of San Antonio, frequently brandished firearms in the hotel rooms to ensure compliance from the migrants and at trial, a victim testified that Balderas pointed a firearm directly at her to ensure her obedience during a ransom call.

    While the aliens were being held for ransom, Balderas sexually assaulted one of them while threatening her with a firearm.

    Brondo was arrested Oct. 24, 2022, and pleaded guilty on Sept. 30, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to kidnap. Brondo is scheduled for sentencing on Aug. 26. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery is presiding over the cases for both defendants.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Western District of Texas Amanda Brown and Adrian Rosales prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, law enforcement partner investigation results in a significant prison sentence for a South Texas man convicted of kidnapping illegal aliens

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN ANTONIO — A La Pryor man was sentenced July 1 to 120 years in prison for one count of conspiracy to kidnap and two counts related to harboring illegal aliens causing serious bodily injury and placing the life of a person in jeopardy. He was sentenced to the maximum of 20 years on each of the harboring counts and was sentenced to 80 years on the kidnapping count, with the sentences to run consecutively. This investigation was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with assistance from the San Antonio Police Department.

    Joshua Lee Balderas, 33, was sentenced for to various counts related to human smuggling. He was arrested Oct. 28, 2022, and found guilty on all counts by a federal jury on Oct. 11, 2024.

    “This sentence, undoubtedly keeping Balderas confined for the remainder of his life, reflects the egregious nature of these human smuggling crimes,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas Justin R. Simmons. “It should send a clear message throughout the nation and across our borders that we take these prosecutions very seriously and will aggressively seek to deliver justice.”

    “The sentencing of this defendant to 120 years in prison marks a significant victory in our ongoing fight against human smuggling,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “This severe penalty reflects the gravity of the crimes committed and serves as a stern warning to those who exploit vulnerable individuals for profit. I commend the agents and our San Antonio Police Department partners for their hard work during this successful investigation.”

    According to court documents, in March 2022, Balderas and other conspirators transported and harbored a group of seven aliens, including one woman, who had recently crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. When the group was picked up by the smugglers, the woman was suffering from significant injuries to her feet and was severely dehydrated. Balderas transported the group from La Pryor to San Antonio, where the aliens were held captive in hotel rooms and ransomed to their families for thousands of dollars. One family member was forced to pay $7,000 for an alien’s release.

    Balderas and one of his co-conspirators, Kaylen Alexander Brondo, 26, of San Antonio, frequently brandished firearms in the hotel rooms to ensure compliance from the migrants and at trial, a victim testified that Balderas pointed a firearm directly at her to ensure her obedience during a ransom call.

    While the aliens were being held for ransom, Balderas sexually assaulted one of them while threatening her with a firearm.

    Brondo was arrested Oct. 24, 2022, and pleaded guilty on Sept. 30, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to kidnap. Brondo is scheduled for sentencing on Aug. 26. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery is presiding over the cases for both defendants.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Western District of Texas Amanda Brown and Adrian Rosales prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrating Independence Day: a Message from IAM International President Brian Bryant

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Dear IAM Family,

    As we celebrate Independence Day and Canada Day, we recognize the powerful ideals that gave rise to our nations: liberty, equality, and the belief that ordinary people should have a voice in shaping their future.

    For us in the IAM Union, these values are more than national pride—they are the very heart of the labor movement. The freedom to organize a union, to stand together in solidarity, and to demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity on the job is a freedom worth celebrating—and protecting.

    Our ability to organize and collectively bargain has lifted generations of working families out of poverty and into the middle class. Every time a group of workers stands up and says, “We deserve better,” they are honoring the legacy of those who came before—and blazing a trail for those who will come after.

    These freedoms weren’t just given to us. They were fought for—by our brave men and women in uniform, and by union members who walked picket lines, who faced down powerful corporations, and who refused to back down in the face of injustice.

    As we celebrate, let’s recommit to the struggle. Because these rights must belong to everyone—no matter who you are, who you love, or where you come from. Solidarity is our strength, and together, we will continue building a fairer, freer world for all working people.

    Sincerely,

    Brian Bryant
    IAM Union International President

    The post Celebrating Independence Day: a Message from IAM International President Brian Bryant appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrating Independence Day: a Message from IAM International President Brian Bryant

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Dear IAM Family,

    As we celebrate Independence Day and Canada Day, we recognize the powerful ideals that gave rise to our nations: liberty, equality, and the belief that ordinary people should have a voice in shaping their future.

    For us in the IAM Union, these values are more than national pride—they are the very heart of the labor movement. The freedom to organize a union, to stand together in solidarity, and to demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity on the job is a freedom worth celebrating—and protecting.

    Our ability to organize and collectively bargain has lifted generations of working families out of poverty and into the middle class. Every time a group of workers stands up and says, “We deserve better,” they are honoring the legacy of those who came before—and blazing a trail for those who will come after.

    These freedoms weren’t just given to us. They were fought for—by our brave men and women in uniform, and by union members who walked picket lines, who faced down powerful corporations, and who refused to back down in the face of injustice.

    As we celebrate, let’s recommit to the struggle. Because these rights must belong to everyone—no matter who you are, who you love, or where you come from. Solidarity is our strength, and together, we will continue building a fairer, freer world for all working people.

    Sincerely,

    Brian Bryant
    IAM Union International President

    The post Celebrating Independence Day: a Message from IAM International President Brian Bryant appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –