NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI: XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust Declares its Monthly Common Shares Distribution of $0.070 per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust (the “Trust”) has declared its regular monthly distribution of $0.070 per share on the Trust’s common shares (NYSE: XFLT), payable on July 1, 2025, to common shareholders of record as of June 16, 2025, as noted below. The amount of the distribution represents a 9.09% decrease from the previous month’s distribution amount of $0.077 per share.

    The Trust’s investment objective is to seek attractive total return with an emphasis on income generation across multiple stages of the credit cycle. Due to recent market volatility, the loan and CLO asset classes have experienced drastic interest rate spread compression, which has negatively impacted asset class yields. In the most recent quarter, market conditions were marked by heightened volatility stemming from tariff developments and ongoing trade tensions. With the new distribution amount of $0.070 per share, the Trust’s annualized distribution rate on market price was 14.51% and the annualized distribution rate on NAV is 13.86% as of market close on May 30, 2025.

    The following dates apply to the declaration:

         
    Ex-Dividend Date   June 16, 2025
       
    Record Date   June 16, 2025
       
    Payable Date   July 1, 2025
       
    Amount   $0.070 per common share
       
    Change from Previous Month   9.09% decrease
         

    Common share distributions may be paid from net investment income (regular interest and dividends), capital gains and/or a return of capital. The specific tax characteristics of the distributions will be reported to the Trust’s common shareholders on Form 1099 after the end of the 2025 calendar year. Shareholders should not assume that the source of a distribution from the Trust is net income or profit. For further information regarding the Trust’s distributions, please visit www.xainvestments.com.

    XFLT Q1 Webinar

    The Trust plans to host its Quarterly Webinar on June 4, 2025, at 12:00 pm (Eastern Time). Kevin Davis, Managing Director at XA Investments will moderate the Q&A style webinar with Kimberly Flynn, President at XA Investments, and Lauren Law, Senior Portfolio Manager at Octagon Credit Investors.

    TO JOIN VIA WEB: Please go to the Knowledge Bank section of xainvestments.com or click here to find the online registration link.

    TO USE YOUR TELEPHONE: After joining via web, if you prefer to use your phone for audio, you must select that option and call in using a number below, based on your current location.

    Dial: (312) 626-6799 or (646) 558-8656 or (267) 831-0333 or (213) 338-8477 or (720) 928-9299

    Webinar ID: 817 1030 7383

    REPLAY: A replay of the webinar will be available in the Knowledge Bank section of xainvestments.com.

    The Trust’s net investment income and capital gain can vary significantly over time; however, the Trust seeks to maintain more stable common share monthly distributions over time. The Trust’s investments in CLOs are subject to complex tax rules and the calculation of taxable income attributed to an investment in CLO subordinated notes can be dramatically different from the calculation of income for financial reporting purposes under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), and, as a result, there may be significant differences between the Trust’s GAAP income and its taxable income. The Trust’s final taxable income for the current fiscal year will not be known until the Trust’s tax returns are filed.

    As a registered investment company, the Trust is subject to a 4% excise tax that is imposed if the Trust does not distribute to common shareholders by the end of any calendar year at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gain or loss) for the calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain in excess of its capital loss (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year period generally ending on October 31 of the calendar year (unless an election is made to use the Trust’s fiscal year). In certain circumstances, the Trust may elect to retain income or capital gain to the extent that the Board of Trustees, in consultation with Trust management, determines it to be in the interest of shareholders to do so.

    The common share distributions paid by the Trust for any particular period may be more than the amount of net investment income from that period. As a result, all or a portion of a distribution may be a return of capital, which is in effect a partial return of the amount a common shareholder invested in the Trust, up to the amount of the common shareholder’s tax basis in their common shares, which would reduce such tax basis. Although a return of capital may not be taxable, it will generally increase the common shareholder’s potential gain, or reduce the common shareholder’s potential loss, on any subsequent sale or other disposition of common shares.

    The distribution shall be paid on the Payment Date unless the payment of such distribution is deferred by the Board of Trustees upon a determination that such deferral is required in order to comply with applicable law to ensure that the Trust remains solvent and able to pay its debts as they become due and continue as a going concern, or to comply with the applicable terms or financial covenants of the Trust’s senior securities.

    Future common share distributions will be made if and when declared by the Trust’s Board of Trustees, based on a consideration of a number of factors, including the Trust’s continued compliance with terms and financial covenants of its senior securities, the Trust’s net investment income, financial performance and available cash. There can be no assurance that the amount or timing of common share distributions in the future will be equal or similar to that described herein or that the Board of Trustees will not decide to suspend or discontinue the payment of common share distributions in the future.

    The investment objective of the Trust is to seek attractive total return with an emphasis on income generation across multiple stages of the credit cycle. The Trust seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a dynamically managed portfolio of opportunities primarily within the private credit markets. Under normal market conditions, the Trust will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets in floating rate credit instruments and other structured credit investments. There can be no assurance that the Trust will achieve its investment objective.

    The Trust’s common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “XFLT,” and the Trust’s 6.50% Series 2026 Term Preferred Shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “XFLTPRA”.

    About XA Investments

    XA Investments LLC (“XAI”) serves as the Trust’s investment adviser. XAI is a Chicago-based firm founded by XMS Capital Partners in 2016. XAI serves as the investment adviser for two listed closed-end funds and an interval closed-end fund. The listed closed-end funds, the XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust and XAI Madison Equity Premium Income Fund both trade on the New York Stock Exchange and the interval fund, Octagon XAI CLO Income Fund is available via direct subscription and through select broker/dealers and wealth management platforms.

    In addition to investment advisory services, the firm also provides investment fund structuring and consulting services focused on registered closed-end funds to meet institutional client needs. XAI offers custom product build and consulting services, including development and market research, sales, marketing, fund management.

    XAI believes that the investing public can benefit from new vehicles to access a broad range of alternative investment strategies and managers. XAI provides individual investors with access to institutional-caliber alternative managers. For more information, please visit www.xainvestments.com.

    About XMS Capital Partners
    XMS Capital Partners, LLC, established in 2006, is a global, independent, financial services firm providing M&A, corporate advisory and asset management services to clients. It has offices in Chicago, Boston and London. For more information, please visit www.xmscapital.com.

    About Octagon Credit Investors
    Octagon Credit Investors, LLC (“Octagon”) serves as the Trust’s investment sub-adviser. Octagon is a 25+ year old, $32.1B below-investment grade corporate credit investment adviser focused on leveraged loan, high yield bond and structured credit (CLO debt and equity) investments. Through fundamental credit analysis and active portfolio management, Octagon’s investment team identifies attractive relative value opportunities across below-investment grade asset classes, sectors and issuers. Octagon’s investment philosophy and methodology encourage and rely upon dynamic internal communication to manage portfolio risk. Over its history, the firm has applied a disciplined, repeatable and scalable approach in its effort to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for its investors. For more information, please visit www.octagoncredit.com.

    XAI does not provide tax advice; please consult a professional tax advisor regarding your specific tax situation. Income may be subject to state and local taxes, as well as the federal alternative minimum tax.

    Investors should consider the investment objectives and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of the Trust carefully before investing. For more information on the Trust, please visit the Trust’s webpage at www.xainvestments.com.

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

    NOT FDIC INSURED        NO BANK GUARANTEE    MAY LOSE VALUE
             

    Paralel Distributors, LLC – Distributor

    Media Contact:

    Kimberly Flynn, President
    XA Investments LLC
    Phone: 888-903-3358
    Email: KFlynn@XAInvestments.com
    www.xainvestments.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Internet-enabled orgasms: How teledildonics are changing the way we have sex

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Madison E. Williams, PhD Student, Experimental Psychology, University of New Brunswick

    Sex toys are no longer limited to the analogue dildos and masturbators of the past. Today, they have become increasingly sophisticated.
     (Shutterstock)

    Sex toys are fairly common in people’s sex lives, and broadly accessible both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. In the United States, more than 40 per cent of heterosexual women and men have incorporated vibrators into the bedroom.

    More than three-quarters of Canadians have used a sex toy with a partner at least once, including vibrators, anal toys and penile masturbators. Reported rates also vary widely across western countries — for instance, 16 per cent of Australians say they’ve used sex toys while up to 52 per cent of people in Germany say they have.

    However, sex toys are no longer limited to the analogue dildos and masturbators of the past. Today, they have become increasingly sophisticated.

    Internet-connected toys, known as teledildonics, are novel devices designed to enhance sexual experiences by mimicking elements of real human intimacy — such as genital touch, body warmth, synchronized movements or orgasmic sensations — without a partner being physically present.

    They can be synced with online pornography, integrated with virtual reality or even controlled remotely by a partner, allowing for intimacy at a distance.

    One question remains as this burgeoning technology becomes integrated in individuals’ lives: Can teledildonics promote sexual well-being?

    Why people use sex toys

    Research reveals that using sex toys, whether on their own or with a partner, is linked with greater sexual satisfaction. One study also found that using a vaginal vibrator helped women experience stronger arousal, better lubrication and reach orgasm more easily.

    People use sex toys for all sorts of reasons. In one Canadian study, the most popular reason people used sex toys was to spice up their sex life with a sexual partner.

    Other commonly reported motivations included wanting to boost sexual arousal during masturbation and partnered sex, and to reach orgasm more easily. For a smaller proportion, sex toys also served to help them relax or release tension.

    What about teledildonics?

    In one survey, nine per cent of U.S. adults reported they’ve used teledildonics, with more men (15 per cent) reporting usage than women (five per cent) and gender-diverse individuals (13 per cent).

    Although more and more people are turning to teledildonic devices, we still know relatively little about why they use them or how they relate to well-being — especially compared to the growing body of research on traditional, non-connected sex toys.

    Our research team at the Université du Québec à Montréal surveyed 617 men between the ages of 19 and 75 years old. They were customers of the teledildonics company, Kiiroo, which specializes in interactive, app-connected sex toys, particularly for men, such as masturbatory sleeves and strokers. Kiiroo’s marketing team helped recruit participants for the survey.

    This industry collaboration allowed us to explore, for the first time, who uses these devices, why they use them, and how certain usage patterns like using it alone or with a partner may support greater sexual well-being.

    More than three-quarters of Canadians have used a sex toy with a partner at least once, including vibrators, anal toys and penile masturbators.
    (Interactive Life Forms/Wikimedia), CC BY-SA

    Most of our participants resided in North America (74 per cent) and Europe (22 per cent), while a minority were in Australia, Asia and Central America (three per cent combined). They primarily identified as white (75 per cent), Asian (17 per cent), Latin American (10 per cent) and Black (four per cent).

    In our study, nearly all the men used their teledildonic devices alone, but 21 per cent of them also reported incorporating them into partnered sex.

    We found that people who use teledildonics with a partner tend to own a greater number of these devices compared to those who use them solely for solo play.

    Partnered use was also associated with a higher number of previous sexual partners, which may suggest that greater sexual experience increases one’s comfort in sharing sex toy use with a partner.

    Finally, partnered use was associated with greater sexual well-being in men. Those who used their toys with a partner reported having greater sexual desire, more ease in reaching orgasm with a partner and increased confidence as a sexual partner.

    In other words, men who use their teledildonics with a partner may experience greater sexual well-being than men who only use their devices alone.

    Research reveals that using sex toys, whether on their own or with a partner, is linked with greater sexual satisfaction.
    (Shutterstock)

    Why do men use teledildonics?

    Our study was the first to uncover the motivations behind men’s teledildonic sex toy use.

    For 57 per cent of the men in our study, teledildonics were used primarily to relax or relieve tension. Just over half also reported using teledildonics to fantasize about sexual activities that are not possible in real life and to increase sexual arousal during masturbation.

    More than one third of participants (38 per cent) shared that their teledildonics usage was specifically motivated by the ability to connect their toys with other technologies (like virtual reality headsets or online pornography).

    Other motivations for using teledildonics appear to mirror many of those that drive traditional sex toy use, notably relaxation and tension relief and to increase arousal.

    What’s next for teledildonics?

    Taken together, these findings offer promising evidence that using teledildonics, particularly with a partner, can have sexual benefits. They also invite us to reflect on how such technologies could improve the sex lives of people facing challenges such as sexual dysfunction, physical disabilities or a lack of access to sexual partners — although further research is needed to understand how teledildonics can meet their specific needs.

    In addition, this growing industry raises important questions around data security, ethics and digital consent, including how to address concerns about the devices being hacked or remotely controlled without permission.

    Ensuring that these technologies are developed with privacy and safety in mind is essential to maximizing their impact as tools that support sexual well-being in a rapidly changing sexual landscape.

    As teledildonics and other sex technologies become more sophisticated, they will continue to transform the future of sex, intimacy and well-being.

    Madison E. Williams consults for Kiiroo.

    David Lafortune received funding from Kiiroo to conduct this study.

    Éliane Dussault consults for Kiiroo.

    – ref. Internet-enabled orgasms: How teledildonics are changing the way we have sex – https://theconversation.com/internet-enabled-orgasms-how-teledildonics-are-changing-the-way-we-have-sex-252856

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Eos Energy Enterprises Announces Participation in Upcoming Investor Event

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EDISON, N.J., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eos Energy Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: EOSE) (“Eos” or the “Company”), America’s leading innovator in designing, manufacturing, and providing zinc-based long duration energy storage systems sourced and manufactured in the United States, today announced its participation in an upcoming investor event.

    Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference

    Chief Executive Officer Joe Mastrangelo will attend the Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The event will include 1×1 investor meetings.

    Investors seeking to meet with management should reach out directly to their representatives at Stifel.

    About Eos

    Eos Energy Enterprises, Inc. is accelerating the shift to American energy independence with positively ingenious solutions that transform how the world stores power. Our breakthrough Znyth™ aqueous zinc battery was designed to overcome the limitations of conventional lithium-ion technology. It is safe, scalable, efficient, sustainable, manufactured in the U.S., and the core of our innovative systems that today provides utility, industrial, and commercial customers with a proven, reliable energy storage alternative for 3 to 12-hour applications. Eos was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Edison, New Jersey. For more information about Eos (NASDAQ: EOSE), visit eose.com.

           
                
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ILUS Provides Update on Shareholder Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ilustrato Pictures International Inc. (OTC: ILUS) (“ILUS” or the “Company”), a mergers and acquisitions company focused on acquiring and scaling businesses in the public safety and industrial sectors, is pleased to provide shareholders with further details regarding its previously announced Annual Shareholder Meeting scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2025.

    The meeting will include updates from ILUS leadership on key business developments, strategic plans, and progress on current initiatives. Shareholders will have the opportunity to engage directly with the Company during a dedicated Q&A session.

    Meeting Details
    Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
    Time: 9:30 AM EDT
    Location: Trump International Beach Resort,18001 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160, United States

    To participate in the meeting, shareholders are required to register in advance using ILUS’ official event portal:
    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ilus-shareholder-meeting-tickets-1353057223579

    Shareholders of record will be eligible to attend. Upon registration, participants will receive further instructions and access credentials for the event. Shareholders may also submit questions in advance through the portal.

    Additional meeting materials, including the formal notice and agenda, will be distributed in line with Regulation requirements and made available at https://ilus-group.com.

    For further information on ILUS, please see its communication channels:
    Website: https://ilus-group.com
    X: @ILUS_INTL
    Email: IR@Ilus-Group.com
    Source: ILUS

    Forward-Looking Statement

    Certain information set forth in this press release contains “forward-looking information”, including “future-oriented financial information” and “financial outlook”, under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, the information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements and includes, but is not limited to, the (i) projected financial performance of the Company; (ii) completion of, and the use of proceeds from, the sale of the shares being offered hereunder; (iii) the expected development of the Company’s business, projects, and joint ventures; (iv) execution of the Company’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to future M&A activity and global growth; (v) sources and availability of third-party financing for the Company’s projects; (vi) completion of the Company’s projects that are currently underway, in development or otherwise under consideration; (vii) renewal of the Company’s current customer, supplier and other material agreements; and (viii) future liquidity, working capital, and capital requirements. Forward-looking statements are provided to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand management’s beliefs and opinions in respect of the future so that they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor in evaluating an investment. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has provided guidance to issuers regarding the use of social media to disclose material nonpublic information. In this regard, investors and others should note that we announce material financial information via official Press Releases, in addition to SEC filings, press releases, Questions & Answers sessions, public conference calls, and webcasts also may take time from time to time. We use these channels as well as social media to communicate with the public about our company, our services, and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media could be deemed to be material information. Therefore, considering the SEC’s guidance, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in our company to review the information we post on the following social & media channels: Website: https://ilus-group.com X: @ILUS_INTL

    Contact:
    IR@Ilus-group.com
    (917) 522-3202

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxbridge / SurancePlus to Attend Money20/20 Europe in Amsterdam

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: OXBR) (“Oxbridge Re”), together with its subsidiary SurancePlus, is engaged in the tokenization of Real-World Assets (“RWAs”), initially with tokenized reinsurance securities and in providing reinsurance solutions to property and casualty insurers in the Gulf Coast region of the United States. The company today announced its participation in Money20/20 Europe 2025, taking place June 3–5, 2025, in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

    Money20/20 Europe 2025

    Recognized as one of the world’s most important gatherings in blockchain, digital assets, and Web3 innovation, Money20/20 Europe brings together leading builders, capital allocators, protocol teams, tokenization platforms, and infrastructure providers to define the future of decentralized finance.

    With over 2,000 participating companies, 370+ sponsors, and 340+ expert speakers, the event offers a high-density environment for strategic meetings, deal-making, and ecosystem advancement.

    While at Money20/20 Europe, Oxbridge and SurancePlus will be advancing conversations with both long-standing partners and new ecosystem players – supporting our long-term vision of democratizing access to high-yield institutional-grade reinsurance investment opportunities.

    Oxbridge / SurancePlus 2025 Offering:

    Learn more at SurancePlus.com/invest

    Jay Madhu, CEO of Oxbridge, commented, “Money20/20 Europe brings together many of the leaders shaping the future of digital finance. The conference offers an ideal setting to advance conversations with partners and ecosystem players as we pursue our mission to democratize access to high-yield, institutional-grade reinsurance investments.”

    Meet Oxbridge / SurancePlus at Money20/20 Europe – Amsterdam

    Investors and potential partners interested in Oxbridge and SurancePlus’ tokenized reinsurance offerings are encouraged to connect with the team during the event. Contact details are provided below.

    Disclaimer: This press release does not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy the EtaCat Re or ZetaCat Re tokenized reinsurance securities (the “Securities”). The Securities are not required to be, and have not been, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, in reliance on the exemptions provided by Regulation S and SEC Rule 506(c) thereunder. Offers and sales of the Securities are made only by, and pursuant to, the terms set forth in the Confidential Private Placement Memorandum relating to the Securities. The offering of the Securities is not being made to persons in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky, or other laws of such jurisdiction.

    About Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited 

    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: OXBR, OXBRW) (“Oxbridge”) is headquartered in the Cayman Islands. The company offers tokenized Real-World Assets (“RWAs”) as tokenized reinsurance securities and reinsurance business solutions to property and casualty insurers, through its wholly owned subsidiaries SurancePlus Inc., Oxbridge Re NS, and Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited.

    Insurance businesses in the Gulf Coast region of the United States purchase property and casualty reinsurance through our licensed reinsurers Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited and Oxbridge Re NS.

    Our Web3-focused subsidiary, SurancePlus Inc. (“SurancePlus”), has developed the first “on-chain” reinsurance RWA of its kind to be sponsored by a subsidiary of a publicly traded company. By digitizing interests in reinsurance contracts as on-chain RWAs, SurancePlus has democratized the availability of reinsurance as an alternative investment to both U.S. and non-U.S. investors. 

    Company Contact:
    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited
    Jay Madhu, CEO
    +1 345-749-7570
    jmadhu@oxbridgere.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but rather are subject to various risks and uncertainties. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in the section entitled “Risk Factors” contained in our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on 26th March 2024. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Any forward-looking statements made in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained in this press release, even if the Company’s expectations or any related events, conditions or circumstances change.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Arbor Realty Trust Closes Landmark $802 Million Collateralized Loan Obligation Securitization

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UNIONDALE, N.Y., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ABR) today announced the closing of a unique build-to-rent loan securitization totaling approximately $802 million (the “Securitization”) on May 30, 2025. An aggregate of approximately $683 million of investment grade-rated notes were issued (the “Notes”) and Arbor retained subordinate interests in the issuing vehicle of approximately $119 million and approximately $41 million of the investment grade Notes. The funding structure includes approximately $50 million of capacity to acquire additional loans for a period of up to 180 days from the closing date of the Securitization.

    The Securitization is unique in including loans secured by build-to-rent properties in various stages of horizontal and vertical construction. Construction loan advances will be funded, in part, by the issuing entity and, in part, by an Arbor affiliated holder of participation interests in the mortgage loans. The Securitization includes a $200 million senior revolving note, proceeds of which will be used by the issuer to fund construction and other loan advances, to acquire collateral interests on the closing date or to acquire replacement collateral assets during the replenishment period. Approximately $50 million was drawn on the revolving note at closing.

    The investment grade Notes placed with investors have an initial weighted average spread of 2.48% over Term SOFR, excluding fees and transaction costs. The facility has a two year replenishment period that allows principal proceeds from repayments of the portfolio assets and the revolving note fundings to be reinvested in qualifying replacement assets, subject to certain conditions.

    The offering of the investment grade-rated Notes was made pursuant to a private placement. The investment grade-rated Notes were issued under an indenture and secured initially by a portfolio of real estate related assets and cash with a face value of $652 million, with such real estate related assets consisting primarily of first mortgage construction and bridge loans.

    Arbor intends to own the portfolio of real estate related assets through the vehicle until its maturity and expects to account for the Securitization on its balance sheet as a financing. Arbor will use the proceeds of this Securitization to repay borrowings under its current credit facilities, pay transaction expenses and fund future loans and investments.

    Certain of the Notes were rated by Fitch Ratings, Inc. and all of the Notes were rated by DBRS, Inc.

    The Notes are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent an applicable exemption from registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction.

    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 can give no assurance that its expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Arbor’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 SEC. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Arbor expressly disclaims 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 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 USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 354

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 354
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    230 PM CDT Mon Jun 2 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Central and North-Central Minnesota

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 230 PM until
    700 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A cluster of strong to severe thunderstorms associated
    with a mid-level disturbance will likely continue east-northeastward
    across the Watch area this afternoon. The stronger thunderstorm
    cores and outflow will be potentially capable of severe gusts and
    wind damage.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 55
    statute miles north and south of a line from 15 miles south
    southwest of Alexandria MN to 50 miles east southeast of Brainerd
    MN. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 353…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    25035.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 354 SEVERE TSTM MN 021930Z – 030000Z
    AXIS..55 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    15SSW AXN/ALEXANDRIA MN/ – 50ESE BRD/BRAINERD MN/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /74NNW RWF – 38ESE BRD/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25035.

    LAT…LON 46479552 46929317 45329317 44879552

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

    Watch 354 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor launches opinion letter program across five agencies to expand compliance assistance

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the launch of its opinion letter program. This expands the department’s longstanding commitment to providing meaningful compliance assistance that helps workers, employers and other stakeholders understand how federal labor laws apply in specific workplace situations. 

    The program spans five key enforcement agencies within the department: 

    • The Wage and Hour Division will issue opinion letters.
    • The Occupational Safety and Health Administration will provide letters of interpretation.
    • The Employee Benefits Security Administration will release advisory opinions and information letters.
    • The Veterans’ Employment and Training Service will issue opinion letters.
    • The Mine Safety and Health Administration will provide compliance assistance resources through its new MSHA Information Hub, a centralized platform offering guidance, regulatory updates, training materials and technical support. 

    “Opinion letters are an important tool in ensuring workers and businesses alike have access to clear, practical guidance,” said Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling. “Launching this program is part of our broader effort to empower the public with the information they need to understand and comply with the laws the department enforces.” 

    Opinion letters provide official written interpretations from the department’s enforcement agencies, explaining how laws apply to specific factual circumstances presented by individuals or organizations. By addressing real-world questions, they promote clarity, consistency, and transparency in the application of federal labor standards. 

    To support this effort, the department has launched a landing page at dol.gov/opinion-letters. The new site allows users to explore past guidance and provides an easy way to submit new requests to the appropriate agency. 

    For general questions about federal labor laws, individuals can visit dol.gov or call the department’s toll-free helpline at 1-866-4-USA-DOL (1-866-487-2365).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Free camping, day-use parking & activities to celebrate State Parks Day June 7

    Source: US State of Oregon

    ALEM, Oregon—Every year Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to its visitors — free camping and day-use parking on State Parks Day.

    State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to thank Oregonians for their long-standing support of the state park system. It falls on the first Saturday of June, which is June 7 this year.

    “We are honored to steward and share these places with Oregonians and all our visitors. We appreciate their commitment to preserving and maintaining Oregon’s special places. We would not have the park system that we have today without their support,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.

    Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that charge them and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites on June 7. State Parks Day also includes free events at many state parks.

    Park staff have worked hard over the last few months getting parks ready for the busier season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage, with as many as 180 downed trees near Nehalem, to moving mountains of muck or sand to re-open camp loops. Now parks are ready to welcome visitors for State Parks Day and the busier season.

    State Parks Day Events

    • The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
    • L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI’s website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
    • Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
    • Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.
    • Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
    • Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
    • Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon’s ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
    • Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
    • Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
    • Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

    For a list of Oregon State Parks events, visit the event calendar at stateparks.oregon.gov/

    For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

    About State Parks Day

    State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. It’s one of three days a year that Oregon State Parks waives the day-use parking fees. Other days include Green Friday the day after Thanksgiving and First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day.

    About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

    The mission of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Action Taken on Legislation by Governor Phil Scott – June 2, 2025

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott announced action on the following bills, passed by the General Assembly.

    On June 2, Governor Scott signed bills of the following titles:

    • H.44, An act relating to miscellaneous amendments to the laws governing impaired driving
    • H.401, An act relating to exemptions for food manufacturing establishments
    • H.488, An act relating to the fiscal year 2026 Transportation Program and miscellaneous changes to laws related to transportation
    • H.505, An act relating to approval of amendments to the charter of the Town of Barre

    When signing H.488, Governor Scott issued the following statement:

    “This year’s transportation bill supports the maintenance and repair of our road and bridge infrastructure, makes important traffic and safety improvements, and continues to invest in programs and projects that reduce the transportation sector’s impact on our environment. I want to thank the House and Senate Transportation Committees, as well as my team at the Agency of Transportation, for their work on H.488”

    To view a complete list of action on bills passed during the 2025 legislative session, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Romanian Citizen Pleads Guilty to ‘Swatting’ Numerous Members of Congress, Churches, and Former U.S. President

    Source: US State of California

    Leader of Online Swatting Ring Admits to Targeting over 75 Public Officials, Four Religious Institutions, and Multiple Journalists in Nationwide Bomb Threat Spree

    Thomasz Szabo, also known as Plank, Jonah, and Cypher, 26, of Romania, pleaded guilty today to being the leader of a years-long conspiracy that targeted victims across the United States with “swatting” and bomb threats. Szabo and his co-conspirators falsely reported ongoing violent emergencies at government buildings, houses of worship, and private residences, including the homes of senior government officials.

    “This defendant led a dangerous swatting criminal conspiracy, deliberately threatening dozens of government officials with violent hoaxes and targeting our nation’s security infrastructure from behind a screen overseas,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This case reflects our continued focus on protecting the American people and working with international partners to stop these threats at their source.”

    “Today, Szabo pleaded guilty to a years-long conspiracy that targeted victims with swatting and bomb threats, including to government buildings, houses of worship and homes of government officials,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Swatting endangers lives and will not be tolerated by the FBI. We are fully committed to working with our partners to bring to justice those criminals hiding behind keyboards and threatening violence.”

    “This defendant’s targeted and ruthless behavior put countless people in danger, including law enforcement, public officials, and ordinary citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Swatting attacks, that is, falsely reporting an ongoing threat of violence at a victims’ home address for the purpose of provoking a police response there, drain precious resources and can result in major injury or even death. Anyone who hijacks police resources for senseless crimes like these will have to answer for their actions.”  

    According to court documents, Szabo was the founder and leader of an online community that, starting in late 2020, engaged in a pattern of bomb threats and “swatting” — that is, falsely reporting an ongoing threat of violence at a victims’ home address for the purpose of provoking a police response there.

    As leader of the group, Szabo made false reports to U.S. law enforcement including a threat in December 2020 to commit a mass-shooting at New York City synagogues, and a threat in January 2021 to detonate explosives at the U.S. Capitol and kill the President-elect. Szabo publicized his “swatting” activity to his followers and encouraged them to engage in similar behavior.

    Beginning on Dec. 24, 2023, and continuing through early January 2024, subordinate members of Szabo’s group perpetrated a spree of swatting and bomb threats that included, as its victims, at least 25 Members of Congress or family members of Members of Congress; at least six then-current or former senior U.S. Executive Branch officials, including multiple cabinet-level officials; at least 13 then-current or former senior federal law enforcement officials, including the heads of multiple federal law enforcement agencies; multiple members of the federal judiciary; at least 27 then-current or former state government officials or family members of such officials; at least four religious institutions; and multiple members of the media.

    During that time period, one of those subordinates bragged to Szabo: “I did 25+ swattings today,” and “creating massive havoc in [A]merica. $500,000+ in taxpayers wasted in just two days.”

    Szabo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, and one count of threats involving explosives, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Szabo was extradited from Romania in November 2024.

    The U.S. Secret Service Washington Field Office and Criminal Investigative Division, the FBI’s Washington and Minneapolis Field Offices, and the U.S. Capitol Police are investigating the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance in securing Szabo’s arrest and extradition and assisted with securing evidence from abroad, including through mutual legal assistance requests. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Secret Service’s Bucharest Resident Office, Miami Field Office, Syracuse Resident Office, Springfield Resident Office; the FBI’s Legat Office in Bucharest; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Washington, the District of South Dakota, the Middle District of Florida, the Southern District of Florida, the Southern District of Illinois, and the Northern District of New York. The Romanian authorities’ assistance was critical to the successful investigation of the case and extradition of Szabo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Conor Mulroe for the District of Columbia is prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Citizen Who Trained and Fought for ISIS Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant engaged in at least one battle with U.S.-led coalition forces.

              WASHINGTON — Lirim Sylejmani, 49, a Kosovo-born naturalized U.S. citizen, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 10 years in prison in connection with undergoing military training with the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) and then engaging in at least one battle with U.S.-led coalition forces.

              The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Head of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division Sue Bai, and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Courtland Rae of the Washington Field Office’s Counterterrorism Division.

              Sylejmani, aka Abu Sulayman al-Kosovi, pleaded guilty on December 12, 2024, to receiving military-type training from a designated foreign terrorist organization. In addition to the prison term, Judge Rudolph Contreras ordered Sylejmani to serve a lifetime of supervised release.

              “This defendant will spend a decade in prison thinking about the betrayal to this country,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Anyone thinking that ISIS is the answer to their questions, best think again. We will go to any lengths to root out subversive individuals who want to overthrow the government and harm its citizens.”

              According to court documents, from November 2015 through February 2019, Sylejmani received military training from ISIS in Syria. Sylejmani was captured by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in 2019 and spoke to a number of media outlets about his time with ISIS.

              In November 2015, Sylejmani, a naturalized U.S. citizen living in Kosovo, traveled to Syria with his family to join ISIS. After entering Syria, Sylejmani completed his ISIS intake process. He adopted the name Abu Sulayman al-Kosovi and trained to be a soldier with other ISIS recruits.  Sylejmani’ s military training included instruction on how to assemble and fire an AK-47 rifle, as well as how to use a PK Machine gun, M-16 rifle and grenades.

              Upon completion of the 21-day military training, ISIS assigned Sylejmani to a battalion in Mosul, Iraq, and issued him an AK-47, four AK-47 magazines, a belt to hold the magazines and two grenades. Sylejmani pledged “bayat” (allegiance) to Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, the leader of ISIS, and to the ISIS organization, in front of an Iraqi ISIS member. In May 2016, the defendant reported for ribat (guard) duty on the front line of the Manbij offensive. The defendant brought his gun belt, AK-47 and magazines to his ribat assignment. During a battle with Coalition Forces he was hit with shrapnel in his legs. After receiving these injuries, he eventually was reassigned to a new battalion in the fall of 2017. Sylejmani also received payments from ISIS for his services. Between November 2017 and February 2019, Sylejmani moved his family southeast to Baghouz, Syria, as the territorial Caliphate of ISIS collapsed.

              On February 27, 2019, Sylejmani and his family were captured by Coalition Forces. Sylejmani was jailed by the SDF in Syria at the Dashisha prison. He was transferred to United States law enforcement personnel on September 15, 2020, to face criminal charges in the District of Columbia.

              This case was investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.

              This case was prosecuted by former Assistant U.S Attorney Brenda J. Johnson, Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Wasserman and Kimberly Paschall of the National Security Section, and Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    20cr106

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Realtor admits to $770,000 real estate fraud scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 44-year-old Mission resident has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Mario Alberto Rodriguez admitted he participated in a scheme that used false warranty deeds to mislead lenders and real estate clients.

    Rodriguez would defraud homebuyers and short-term lenders by selling a lot with proposed townhome construction without filing the warranty deed. This left no record of the sale and allowed him to sell the same property multiple times. Rodriguez would then instruct co-conspirators to take out new loans on the previously sold properties in order to use the cash for other purposes.

    Rodriguez defrauded victims out of more than $770,000 as a result of the scheme. Construction was never completed and victims were unable to take possession of the properties.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane will impose sentencing Aug. 12. At that time, Rodriguez faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.

    FBI, Texas Department of Insurance, McAllen Police Department, and the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two men were sentenced in federal court for transporting 8 kilograms of methamphetamine from Dallas, Tx., to the Joplin, Mo., area.

    Juan Alvarado-Alvarado, 45, a Mexican national, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 192 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Alvarado-Alvarado pleaded guilty on Sept. 23, 2024. Alvarado-Alvarado has two prior felony convictions for illegal reentry into the United States after removal.

    Jesus Sanchez, 34, Joplin, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 132 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Sanchez pleaded guilty on Nov. 21, 2024.

    Alvarado-Alvarado and Sanchez were charged in an indictment returned on June 6, 2022, for possessing, with intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

    On May 25, 2022, during a traffic stop, deputies with the Newton County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office seized approximately 8 kilograms of methamphetamine from Alvarado-Alvarado and Sanchez. Later that day, during a post-Miranda interview, Sanchez admitted that he and Alvarado-Alvarado had traveled to Dallas, Tx., to purchase the methamphetamine.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine I. Schlegl. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Ozark Drug Enforcement Team, and the Newton County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office.

    Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Raleigh County Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Relief Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BECKLEY, W.Va. – Ross Jay Bailey, 50, of Cool Ridge, pleaded guilty today to theft of government money. Bailey obtained a $2 million loan through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act for his business and instead converted at least $1.4 million of the proceeds for his personal enrichment.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about June 30, 2020, Bailey obtained an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) of $150,000 on behalf of his business, R&R Delivery Service Inc. The CARES Act authorized the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide EIDL program loans of up to $2 million to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Bailey successfully applied to increase the loan amount in August 2021 to $500,000 and in February 2022 to the $2 million maximum. Bailey certified that he would use all loans proceeds solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury caused by the pandemic.

    As part of his guilty plea, Bailey admitted that he transferred at least $1.4 million of the EIDL proceeds from his business’s bank account to his personal bank account from on or about March 1, 2022, through on or about May 31, 2022. Bailey further admitted that he converted these funds into purchases of stock and cryptocurrency for his personal enrichment.

    Bailey is scheduled to be sentenced on October 10, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Bailey also owes at least $1,518,013.58 in restitution, with a final amount to be determined by the Court.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Office of Inspector General (NASA OIG), the United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police-Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI) and the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office (WVSAO) Public Integrity and Fraud Unit (PIFU).

    NASA OIG is an active member of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.

    United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is prosecuting the case.

    Bailey’s brother, Ryan Keith Bailey, 47, of Beaver, pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025 to theft of government money. Ryan Keith Bailey obtained $2,166,517.40 in loans through the CARES Act for his business and instead converted nearly all of the proceeds for his personal use. Ryan Keith Bailey is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12, 2025.

    Mark William Bailey, 52, of Beckley and a cousin of Ross Jay Bailey and Ryan Keith Bailey, pleaded guilty on September 8, 2023, to theft of government monies, admitting he stole approximately $451,237.51 in SBA loans he obtained through the CARES Act. On October 25, 2024, Mark William Bailey was sentenced to five years of federal probation, including one year on home detention, and paid $451,237.51 in restitution and an additional $451,237.98 as a civil penalty to settle False Claims Act allegations.

    Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:24-cr-105.

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grand Jury Returns Indictments for Illegal Re-Entry Via Texas National Defense Area, 138 New NDA Violators Arrested in the Western District, Convictions for the Month Exceed 340

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EL PASO, Texas – A federal grand jury in El Paso returned indictments last week for defendants alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States through the Texas National Defense Area (NDA). The NDA was established April 30, 2025, along the U.S.-Mexico border from area bordering New Mexico, through El Paso County, to an area near Fort Hancock.

    Among those indicted is Mexican national Leonel Sotelo-Santillan, who was arrested after allegedly entering the NDA illegally on May 2. Sotelo-Santillan was first charged in a criminal complaint on May 8. He is a convicted felon with two 2015 convictions for domestic abuse battery and theft in Louisiana, as well as a felony conviction in June 2024 for illegal re-entry. He has two prior removals, the last one being Dec. 28, 2024.

    Another Mexican felon, Rafael Cabrera-Barron, is a thrice-deported felon and was convicted in 2007 for sexual assault of a child in Weld County, Colorado. His most recent removal from the U.S. to Mexico was April 25 through El Paso.

    Ramon Benigno Mancinas-Rodriguez, also a Mexican national, has been removed from the U.S. eight times—the last one being Nov. 5, 2024—and has been granted three voluntary returns. His criminal history includes three illegal entry misdemeanors, a conviction for assault on a federal officer, and one illegal re-entry felony conviction in November 2023.

    Some of the indicted defendants, like Cuban national Aldanay Caridad Carricarte-Grillo, Guatemalan national Carlos Tomas-Cristostimo, and Salvadoran national Juan Carlos Lopz-Uriasan, have one prior removal in their immigration history.

    The 16 defendants are each indicted for one Title 8 United States Code (USC) 1326 felony charge and one 50 USC 797 misdemeanor charge. If convicted, these individuals can face terms of imprisonment for up to 20 years if previously convicted of an aggravated felony, up to ten years if previously convicted of a felony and otherwise and up to two years in federal prison.

    Additionally, 138 new NDA-related immigration cases were added to the federal district’s docket and over 220 defendants pleaded guilty throughout the week, raising May’s total of NDA-related convictions in the Western District of Texas to more than 340.

    Title 50 USC 797 is among the federal statutes that establish criminal penalties for unlawful intrusions into areas designated as National Defense Areas. It refers to the willful violation of defense property security regulation, which, pursuant to lawful authority, was approved by the Secretary of Defense—or a military commander designated by the Secretary of Defense—for the protection or security of Department of Defense property.

    U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

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

    Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard terminates 10 vessel voyages, including 8 illegal passenger-for-hire operations in Fajardo, Puerto Rico

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    06/02/2025 03:35 PM EDT

    Coast Guard Sector San Juan, Customs and Border Protection and Puerto Rico Police units and personnel terminated the voyage of 10 vessels with marine safety deficiencies, eight of which were conducting illegal passenger-for-hire operations, Saturday and Sunday, in Fajardo. “Over the past year, Coast Guard enforcement efforts resulted in voyage terminations for 30 illegal passenger-for-hire operations,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We value the joint collaboration between Coast Guard Station San Juan, Sector San Juan Marine Investigators, Coast Guard Miami Marine Investigators, Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and Puerto Rico Police Joint Forces of Rapid Action in this effort to ensure vessels are operating legally in a commercial capacity and in compliance with federal marine safety regulations.” Vessels El Lindo, Hibiki, The Ivy, Mama Juana, Ohana 2, Master Blaster, Avante and Serenity were found conducting illegal passenger-for-hire operations, two of which were found operating in violation of previous federal Captain of the Port (COTP) Orders. Vessels Tobias and Four Points were only cited for their respective marine safety deficiencies. 

    For more breaking news follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Romanian Citizen Pleads Guilty to ‘Swatting’ Numerous Members of Congress, Churches, and Former U.S. President

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Leader of Online Swatting Ring Admits to Targeting over 75 Public Officials, Four Religious Institutions, and Multiple Journalists in Nationwide Bomb Threat Spree

    Thomasz Szabo, also known as Plank, Jonah, and Cypher, 26, of Romania, pleaded guilty today to being the leader of a years-long conspiracy that targeted victims across the United States with “swatting” and bomb threats. Szabo and his co-conspirators falsely reported ongoing violent emergencies at government buildings, houses of worship, and private residences, including the homes of senior government officials.

    “This defendant led a dangerous swatting criminal conspiracy, deliberately threatening dozens of government officials with violent hoaxes and targeting our nation’s security infrastructure from behind a screen overseas,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This case reflects our continued focus on protecting the American people and working with international partners to stop these threats at their source.”

    “Today, Szabo pleaded guilty to a years-long conspiracy that targeted victims with swatting and bomb threats, including to government buildings, houses of worship and homes of government officials,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Swatting endangers lives and will not be tolerated by the FBI. We are fully committed to working with our partners to bring to justice those criminals hiding behind keyboards and threatening violence.”

    “This defendant’s targeted and ruthless behavior put countless people in danger, including law enforcement, public officials, and ordinary citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Swatting attacks, that is, falsely reporting an ongoing threat of violence at a victims’ home address for the purpose of provoking a police response there, drain precious resources and can result in major injury or even death. Anyone who hijacks police resources for senseless crimes like these will have to answer for their actions.”  

    According to court documents, Szabo was the founder and leader of an online community that, starting in late 2020, engaged in a pattern of bomb threats and “swatting” — that is, falsely reporting an ongoing threat of violence at a victims’ home address for the purpose of provoking a police response there.

    As leader of the group, Szabo made false reports to U.S. law enforcement including a threat in December 2020 to commit a mass-shooting at New York City synagogues, and a threat in January 2021 to detonate explosives at the U.S. Capitol and kill the President-elect. Szabo publicized his “swatting” activity to his followers and encouraged them to engage in similar behavior.

    Beginning on Dec. 24, 2023, and continuing through early January 2024, subordinate members of Szabo’s group perpetrated a spree of swatting and bomb threats that included, as its victims, at least 25 Members of Congress or family members of Members of Congress; at least six then-current or former senior U.S. Executive Branch officials, including multiple cabinet-level officials; at least 13 then-current or former senior federal law enforcement officials, including the heads of multiple federal law enforcement agencies; multiple members of the federal judiciary; at least 27 then-current or former state government officials or family members of such officials; at least four religious institutions; and multiple members of the media.

    During that time period, one of those subordinates bragged to Szabo: “I did 25+ swattings today,” and “creating massive havoc in [A]merica. $500,000+ in taxpayers wasted in just two days.”

    Szabo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, and one count of threats involving explosives, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Szabo was extradited from Romania in November 2024.

    The U.S. Secret Service Washington Field Office and Criminal Investigative Division, the FBI’s Washington and Minneapolis Field Offices, and the U.S. Capitol Police are investigating the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance in securing Szabo’s arrest and extradition and assisted with securing evidence from abroad, including through mutual legal assistance requests. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Secret Service’s Bucharest Resident Office, Miami Field Office, Syracuse Resident Office, Springfield Resident Office; the FBI’s Legat Office in Bucharest; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Washington, the District of South Dakota, the Middle District of Florida, the Southern District of Florida, the Southern District of Illinois, and the Northern District of New York. The Romanian authorities’ assistance was critical to the successful investigation of the case and extradition of Szabo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Conor Mulroe for the District of Columbia is prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Star Like No Other

    Source: NASA

    An unusual star (circled in white at right) behaving like no other seen before and its surroundings are featured in this composite image released on May 28, 2025. A team of astronomers combined data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Square Kilometer Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) radio telescope on Wajarri Country in Australia to study the discovered object, known as ASKAP J1832−0911 (ASKAP J1832 for short).
    ASKAP J1832 belongs to a class of objects called “long period radio transients” discovered in 2022 that vary in radio wave intensity in a regular way over tens of minutes. This is thousands of times longer than the length of the repeated variations seen in pulsars, which are rapidly spinning neutron stars that have repeated variations multiple times a second. ASKAP J1832 cycles in radio wave intensity every 44 minutes, placing it into this category of long period radio transients. Using Chandra, the team discovered that ASKAP J1832 is also regularly varying in X-rays every 44 minutes. This is the first time that such an X-ray signal has been found in a long period radio transient.
    Image credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/ICRAR, Curtin Univ./Z. Wang et al.; Infrared: NASA/JPL/CalTech/IPAC; Radio: SARAO/MeerKAT; Image processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/N. Wolk

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In the Wake of Colorado Terrorist Attack Allegedly Committed by Illegal Alien, DHS Announces Revamping of ICE Tip Line

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: In the Wake of Colorado Terrorist Attack Allegedly Committed by Illegal Alien, DHS Announces Revamping of ICE Tip Line

    lass=”text-align-center”>Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, DHS is revamping resources and personnel to get terrorists, gang members, sex offenders, and violent criminal illegal aliens out of the country
    WASHINGTON – In the wake of the most recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado—allegedly committed by illegal alien Mohamed Soliman—the Department of Homeland Security is revamping its Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tip line

      
    The 24-hour tip line gives Americans the ability to report suspicious criminal activity by illegal aliens including terrorist activity, gang related crimes, and suspected sex trafficking

    The tip line is manned by highly trained specialists who take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on the more than 400 laws enforced by ICE

    Secretary Noem will be providing more resources and personnel to this tip line to ensure DHS is able to quickly identify, locate, and arrest these criminal illegal aliens

     
    “For four years, the Biden Administration allowed millions of unvetted illegal aliens—including terrorists, gang members, and other violent criminals—to pour into our country

    Yesterday’s terrorist attack by a suspect illegally in our country, underscores the importance of getting these illegal aliens out of our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin

    “Secretary Noem is revamping ICE’s illegal alien tip line to devote more resources and personnel to help remove these criminal illegal aliens from our country

    To report suspicious criminal activity, call 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423)— help President Trump, Secretary Noem and our brave law enforcement remove these public safety threats from our communities and to make America safe again

    ”  
    To report suspicious criminal activity, call 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423)

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What’s Up: June 2025 Skywatching Tips from NASA

    Source: NASA

    [embedded content]

    Venus and Saturn separate, while Mars hangs out in the evening. Plus the June solstice, and dark skies reveal our home galaxy in all of its glory.

    All Month – Planet Visibility:

    Venus: Rises about 2 hours before the Sun in June, and shines very brightly, low in the eastern sky, in the morning all month.
    Mars: Visible in the west for a couple of hours after sunset all month. Drops lower in the sky as June continues, and passes very close to Regulus in the constellation Leo on June 16 and 17. (They will be about half a degree apart, or the width of the full moon.) 
    Jupiter: Visible quite low in the west after sunset for the first week of June, then lost in the Sun’s glare after. Will re-appear in July in the morning sky.
    Mercury: Becomes visible low in the west about 30 to 45 minutes after sunset in the last week and a half of June.
    Saturn: Rises around 3 a.m. in early June, and around 1 a.m. by the end of the month. Begins the month near Venus in the dawn sky, but rapidly pulls away, rising higher as June goes on.

    Daily Highlights:
    June 19 – Moon & Saturn – The third-quarter moon appears right next Saturn this morning in the hours before dawn. The pair rise in the east together around 1:30 a.m.
    June 22 – Moon & Venus – Venus rises this morning next to a slender and elegant crescent moon. Look for them in the east between about 3 a.m. and sunrise.
    June 20 – June Solstice – The June solstice is on June 20 for U.S. time zones (June 21 UTC). The Northern Hemisphere’s tilt toward the Sun is greatest on this day. This means the Sun travels its longest, highest arc across the sky all year for those north of the equator.
    June 16 & 17 – Mars & Regulus – Mars passes quite close to the bright bluish-white star Regulus, known as the “heart” of the lion constellation, Leo. They will appear about as far apart as the width of the full moon, and should be an excellent sight in binoculars or a small telescope.
    June 21-30 – Mercury becomes visible – For those with a clear view to the western horizon, Mercury becomes visible for a brief period each evening at the end of June. Look for it quite low in the sky starting 30 to 45 minutes after the Sun sets.
    All month – Mars: The Red Planet can be observed for a couple of hours after dark all month. It is noticeably dimmer than it appeared in early May, as Earth speeds away in its orbit, putting greater distance between the two worlds.
    All month – Milky Way core: The bright central bulge of our home galaxy, the Milky Way, is visible all night in June, continuing through August. It is best observed from dark sky locations far from bright city lights, and appears as a faint, cloud-like band arching across the sky toward the south.

    What’s Up for June? Mars grazes the lion’s heart, a connection to ancient times, and the galaxy in all its glory.
    June Planet Observing
    Starting with planet observing for this month, find Saturn and Venus in the eastern sky during the couple of hours before dawn each morning throughout the month. Saturn rapidly climbs higher in the sky each day as the month goes on. You’ll find the third quarter moon next to Saturn on the 19th, and a crescent moon next to Venus on the 22nd. 

    Mercury pops up toward the end of the month. Look for it quite low in the west, just as the glow of sunset is fading. It’s highest and most visible on the 27th.
    Mars is still visible in the couple of hours after sunset toward the west, though it’s noticeably fainter than it was in early May. Over several days in mid-June, Mars passes quite close to Regulus, the bright star at the heart of the constellation Leo, the lion. Have a peek on the 16th and 17th with binoculars or a small telescope to see them as close as the width of the full moon.

    Milky Way Core Season
    June means that Milky Way “Core Season” is here. This is the time of year when the Milky Way is visible as a faint band of hazy light arching across the sky all night. You just need to be under dark skies away from bright city lights to see it. What you’re looking at is the bright central core of our home galaxy, seen edge-on, from our position within the galaxy’s disk. 
    Long-exposure photos make the Milky Way’s bright stars and dark dust clouds even clearer. And while our eyes see it in visible light, NASA telescopes observe the galaxy across the spectrum — peering through dust to help us better understand our origins.
    However you observe it, getting out under the Milky Way in June is a truly remarkable way to connect with the cosmos.
    June Solstice
    June brings the summer solstice for those north of the equator, which is the winter solstice for those south of the equator. In the Northern Hemisphere, this is when the Sun is above the horizon longer than any other day, making it the longest day of the year. The situation is reversed for the Southern Hemisphere, where it’s the shortest day of the year. 

    Earth’s tilted rotation is the culprit. The tilt is always in the same direction, with the North Pole always pointing toward Polaris, the North Star. And since that tilt stays the same, year round, when we’re on one side of the Sun in winter, the north part of the planet is tilted away from the Sun. But six months later, the planet moves halfway around its annual path, carrying us to the opposite side of Earth’s orbit, and the northern part of the planet now finds itself tilted toward the Sun. The June solstice is when this tilt is at its maximum. This is summertime for the north, bringing long days, lots more sunlight, and warmer temperatures.
    The June solstice marks a precise moment in Earth’s orbit – a consistent astronomical signpost that humans have observed for millennia. Ancient structures from Stonehenge to Chichén Itzá were built, in part, to align with the solstices, demonstrating how important these celestial events were to many cultures. 
    So whether you’re experiencing long summer days in the northern hemisphere or the brief daylight hours of winter in the south, find a quiet spot to watch the sunset on this special day and you’ll be participating in one of humanity’s oldest astronomical traditions, connecting you to observers across thousands of years of human history.
    Here are the phases of the Moon for June.

    You can stay up to date on all of NASA’s missions exploring the solar system and beyond at NASA Science. I’m Preston Dyches from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and that’s What’s Up for this month.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Apocalypse When? Hubble Casts Doubt on Certainty of Galactic Collision

    Source: NASA

    As far back as 1912, astronomers realized that the Andromeda galaxy — then thought to be only a nebula — was headed our way. A century later, astronomers using NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope were able to measure the sideways motion of Andromeda and found it was so negligible that an eventual head-on collision with the Milky Way seemed almost certain.
    A smashup between our own galaxy and Andromeda would trigger a firestorm of star birth, supernovae, and maybe toss our Sun into a different orbit. Simulations had suggested it was as inevitable as, in the words of Benjamin Franklin, “death and taxes.”
    But now a new study using data from Hubble and the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Gaia space telescope says “not so fast.” Researchers combining observations from the two space observatories re-examined the long-held prediction of a Milky Way – Andromeda collision, and found it is far less inevitable than astronomers had previously suspected. 
    “We have the most comprehensive study of this problem today that actually folds in all the observational uncertainties,” said Till Sawala, astronomer at the University of Helsinki in Finland and lead author of the study, which appears today in the journal Nature Astronomy.
    His team includes researchers at Durham University, United Kingdom; the University of Toulouse, France; and the University of Western Australia. They found that there is approximately a 50-50 chance of the two galaxies colliding within the next 10 billion years. They based this conclusion on computer simulations using the latest observational data.

    These galaxy images illustrate three possible encounter scenarios between our Milky Way and the neighboring Andromeda galaxy. Top left: Galaxies M81 and M82. Top right: NGC 6786, a pair of interacting galaxies. Bottom: NGC 520, two merging galaxies.
    Science: NASA, ESA, STScI, DSS, Till Sawala (University of Helsinki); Image Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI)

    Sawala emphasized that predicting the long-term future of galaxy interactions is highly uncertain, but the new findings challenge the previous consensus and suggest the fate of the Milky Way remains an open question.
    “Even using the latest and most precise observational data available, the future of the Local Group of several dozen galaxies is uncertain. Intriguingly, we find an almost equal probability for the widely publicized merger scenario, or, conversely, an alternative one where the Milky Way and Andromeda survive unscathed,” said Sawala.
    The collision of the two galaxies had seemed much more likely in 2012, when astronomers Roeland van der Marel and Tony Sohn of the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, Maryland published a detailed analysis of Hubble observations over a five-to-seven-year period, indicating a direct impact in no more than 5 billion years. 
    “It’s somewhat ironic that, despite the addition of more precise Hubble data taken in recent years, we are now less certain about the outcome of a potential collision. That’s because of the more complex analysis and because we consider a more complete system. But the only way to get to a new prediction about the eventual fate of the Milky Way will be with even better data,” said Sawala.
    100,000 Crash-Dummy Simulations
    Astronomers considered 22 different variables that could affect the potential collision between our galaxy and our neighbor, and ran 100,000 simulations called Monte Carlo simulations stretching to 10 billion years into the future. 
    “Because there are so many variables that each have their errors, that accumulates to rather large uncertainty about the outcome, leading to the conclusion that the chance of a direct collision is only 50% within the next 10 billion years,” said Sawala.
    “The Milky Way and Andromeda alone would remain in the same plane as they orbit each other, but this doesn’t mean they need to crash. They could still go past each other,” said Sawala. 
    Researchers also considered the effects of the orbits of Andromeda’s large satellite galaxy, M33, and a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way called the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC).  
    “The extra mass of Andromeda’s satellite galaxy M33 pulls the Milky Way a little bit more towards it. However, we also show that the LMC pulls the Milky Way off the orbital plane and away from Andromeda. It doesn’t mean that the LMC will save us from that merger, but it makes it a bit less likely,” said Sawala. 

    [embedded content]

    In about half of the simulations, the two main galaxies fly past each other separated by around half a million light-years or less (five times the Milky Way’s diameter). They move outward but then come back and eventually merge in the far future. The gradual decay of the orbit is caused by a process called dynamical friction between the vast dark-matter halos that surround each galaxy at the beginning.
    In most of the other cases, the galaxies don’t even come close enough for dynamical friction to work effectively. In this case, the two galaxies can continue their orbital waltz for a very long time.
    The new result also still leaves a small chance of around 2% for a head-on collision between the galaxies in only 4 to 5 billion years. Considering that the warming Sun makes Earth uninhabitable in roughly 1 billion years, and the Sun itself will likely burn out in 5 billion years, a collision with Andromeda is the least of our cosmic worries. 
    The Hubble Space Telescope has been operating for over three decades and continues to make ground-breaking discoveries that shape our fundamental understanding of the universe. Hubble is a project of international cooperation between NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope and mission operations. Lockheed Martin Space, based in Denver, also supports mission operations at Goddard. The Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, conducts Hubble science operations for NASA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union International President Brian Bryant Applauds Congressional Support of F-35 and F135 Engine Programs

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, June 2, 2025 – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) issued the following statement applauding the bipartisan support of 125 members of Congress who signed a letter to House appropriators strongly backing continued funding for the F-35 Lightning II and the F135 engine programs in the Fiscal Year 2026 defense budget:

    “The IAM deeply thanks the 125 members of Congress who have stepped up to show their strong, united support for the F-35 and F135 engine programs,” said IAM International President Bryant. “This is more than a commitment to national security—it’s a resounding endorsement of the American worker and the strength of U.S. manufacturing.”

    Read the complete letter here. 

    “The F-35 program is not only essential for maintaining our military’s edge over global threats, but it also supports over 225,000 good-paying jobs at more than 1,800 suppliers across the nation,” continued Bryant. “These skilled workers are the backbone of America’s defense industrial base.

    “These jobs are critical to thousands of IAM Union families who depend on this program, impacting major hubs like F-35 production in Fort Worth, engine manufacturing in Connecticut, and countless supplier communities from Florida to California.

    “The continued investment in the F135 Engine Core Upgrade is especially critical. Modernizing this engine ensures that our warfighters are equipped with the safest, most advanced technology while reducing long-term costs and sustaining critical jobs in communities across the country.

    “We are proud to stand with the members of Congress who recognize that national defense and American jobs go hand-in-hand. The IAM will continue to advocate for robust funding for programs that protect our country and support our members.”

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

    The post IAM Union International President Brian Bryant Applauds Congressional Support of F-35 and F135 Engine Programs appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Williams Introduces Bill to Unlock Investment Research for Main Street Businesses

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), alongside Rep. Cleo Fields, introduced the Securities Research Modernization Act to amend the Securities Act of 1933. This legislation ensures businesses have better visibility, draw more investor interest, and have a greater chance of a successful public offering. 

    “Access to capital remains a top issue for small businesses across America,” said Congressman Williams. “Research reports are critical tools that help companies attract investors and improve transparency in the market, but many small and mid-sized businesses are excluded from research coverage during the public offering process. We must level the playing field to ensure all businesses can compete. My bill ensures investors have access to independent analysis, making the market more transparent, efficient, and prosperous for Main Street.” 

    “This bill is about giving hardworking Americans a fair shot at making smart investments. By allowing research on all companies planning to go public—not just the big ones—we’re putting more information in the hands of everyday folks. Louisianans shouldn’t need special connections to Wall Street to build wealth for their families. This legislation helps our small businesses get noticed when they’re ready to grow and creates more opportunities in communities that have been overlooked. When hardworking Americans have better information, they can make better choices for their financial future.” – Rep. Cleo Fields (LA-06)

    Read the bill text here.

    Background:

    • Under current law, many small and mid-sized businesses—especially those not qualifying as EGCs—are excluded from research coverage during the IPO process.
    • Expanding this exemption would support more companies, empower retail investors, and strengthen capital formation in communities across the country.

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    Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REP LIEU STATEMENT ON BOULDER ATTACK

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement after a Jewish group was attacked in Boulder, Colorado.

    “What happened in Boulder this weekend was a disgusting act of violent antisemitism. Just weeks after two Israeli diplomats were killed leaving a Jewish museum in D.C., we see another horrific politically motivated attack, this time targeting a Jewish group peacefully advocating for the hostages held in Gaza. This kind of violence is deeply disturbing and wholly inexcusable. My thoughts are with the victims and the broader Boulder community reeling from this terrible event. My heart goes out to every Jewish person who feels less safe in our country. The scourge of antisemitism must be extinguished and we must always advocate for a peaceful, safe country for everyone.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Harder Announces $3 Million in Disaster Relief for Valley Cherry Farmers and Processors, Calls on USDA to Expedite Federal Disaster Declaration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    Follows last week’s state-level disaster declaration over poor cherry harvest

    Federal declaration would unlock new federal aid for Valley farmers

    STOCKTON – Today, following last week’s disaster declaration over poor Valley cherry harvests, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced a purchase of up to $3 million of dried sweet cherries to assist cherry farmers during this challenging harvest year. The funding, made available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Section 32 authority, will help stabilize the market and create alternative outlets for the current crop and ensure family cherry farms and processors stay afloat.

    Poor cherry harvests hit the Valley hard:

    “The Valley is the fruit and nut basket of the world, and in our community, 1 in 3 jobs depends on agriculture,” said Rep. Harder. “When crops fail, it’s not just a bad season—it’s an existential threat to local families and our entire economy. This $3 million in emergency support will help our cherry farmers and processors weather the storm. But it’s just the first step. I’m calling on USDA Secretary Rollins to immediately expedite a federal disaster declaration so we can unlock the full range of resources our growers need not just to survive this season, but to come back stronger.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Harder Condemns House Passage of Devastating Medicaid Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    Cuts health care for 42,000 residents, lays off 3,000 health care workers in San Joaquin County

    Finances trillions in tax cuts for billionaires like Elon Musk

    WASHINGTON – Today, following the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the federal budget reconciliation bill, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) released the following statement condemning the devastating health care cuts:

    “Today, politicians voted to strip health care from 14 million people to fund tax breaks for billionaires like Elon Musk. This isn’t an exaggeration. Right here in San Joaquin County, 42,000 people are set to lose their health coverage. That means tens of thousands of families won’t be able to take their kids to the doctor, fill a prescription, or access emergency care. Because of this bill, medical centers will shut down, ER wait times will spike, and thousands of health care workers will lose their jobs. 

    “At a time when families are already stretched thin, this bill puts billionaire tax cuts ahead of working people’s lives. It’s shameful, it’s dangerous, and I’m enraged. I voted no on this cruel bill, and I’ll do everything in my power to stop this nightmare from becoming reality.”

    San Joaquin County impacts by the numbers:

    • Cuts health care for 42,000 residents.
    • Lays off 3,000 health care workers.
    • Raises premiums for thousands of Medicaid and Affordable Care Act enrollees.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Wright and Secretary Burgum Join Fox News from Alaska – June 2, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JALJkNbkGzI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Gaggles with Press at Joint Base Andrews, May 30, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    Joint Base Andrews, Maryland

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CtrV0gPpB8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Congress Comes Back into Session, Rep. Craig Continues Leading Charge to Protect SNAP, Urges Senate to Reject Cuts to Food Assistance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as Congress comes back into session following a week-long district work period, U.S. Representative Angie Craig is continuing to lead the charge to protect the Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and ensure Minnesota’s kids, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities can put food on the table. 

    Last month, House Republicans passed a partisan budget bill that cut nearly $290 billion from SNAP – a program that is under the jurisdiction of the House Committee on Agriculture.

    As the top Democrat on the Committee, Rep. Craig has been sounding the alarm about potential cuts to SNAP for months, consistently speaking out about the impacts they will have on working families across Minnesota – like her own family, who relied on food assistance at various points during her childhood. Last month, Rep. Craig led a two-day markup during which she and her Democratic colleagues offered amendments to the budget bill, while Republicans were largely absent or silent. She also testified against the bill’s SNAP cuts before the House Committee on Rules during an overnight hearing that lasted more than 21 hours. 

    “The Republicans’ budget will make America hungrier, poorer and sicker. Parents struggling to afford groceries for their families and seniors living on fixed incomes will have their food taken away if this bill becomes law,” Rep. Craig said in response to House Republicans’ passage of their partisan budget bill. “At a time when grocery prices are going up and retirement accounts are going down, we must protect the basic needs programs that help people afford food and health care.”

    “As a mother and someone who needed food assistance at periods in my own childhood, I condemn this attempt to snatch food off our children’s plates to fund tax breaks for large corporations,” Rep. Craig continued. “I call on my Senate colleagues to stop this attack on working Americans that takes food away from families and threatens a full, five-year bipartisan farm bill.”

    Below is a timeline of Rep. Craig’s efforts to combat House Republicans’ reckless cuts to SNAP. 

    House Republicans’ budget bill shifts up to 25% of SNAP’s cost share from the federal government to individual states. In Minnesota, the state government would have to fill a $220 million gap in order to ensure that the more than 440,000 Minnesotans who receive food assistance through SNAP are able to stay on the program. 

    SNAP also helps support Minnesota’s economy. According to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families $1.2 billion in SNAP benefits have been spent at Minnesota grocery stores, farmers markets and food retailers – generating up to $1.50 in economic activity for every dollar spent. 

    According to data from the National Grocers Association, SNAP supports 4,099 jobs, $206 million in wages, $18 million in state taxes and had a $616.7 million economic impact on retailers, grocers and supplier industries in the state. According to an analysis by the Center for American Progress, 88 retailers in Minnesota are in danger of closing due to these cuts. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –