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Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Announces Termination of 24 Projects, Generating Over $3 Billion in Taxpayer Savings

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today announced the termination of 24 awards issued by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) totaling over $3.7 billion in taxpayer-funded financial assistance. After a thorough and individualized financial review of each award, DOE found that these projects failed to advance the energy needs of the American people, were not economically viable and would not generate a positive return on investment of taxpayer dollars. 

    Of the 24 awards cancelled, nearly 70% (16 of the 24 projects) were signed between Election Day and January 20th. The projects primarily include funding for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) and decarbonization initiatives. By terminating these awards, DOE is generating an immediate $3.6 billion in savings for the American people.

    “While the previous administration failed to conduct a thorough financial review before signing away billions of taxpayer dollars, the Trump administration is doing our due diligence to ensure we are utilizing taxpayer dollars to strengthen our national security, bolster affordable, reliable energy sources and advance projects that generate the highest possible return on investment,” said Secretary Wright. “Today, we are acting in the best interest of the American people by cancelling these 24 awards.”

    Earlier this month, DOE issued a Secretarial Memorandum entitled, “Ensuring Responsibility for Financial Assistance,” which outlined DOE’s policy for evaluating financial assistance on a case-by-case basis to identity waste of taxpayer dollars, protect America’s national security and advance President Trump’s commitment to unleash affordable, reliable and secure energy for the American people. DOE utilized this review process to evaluate each of these 24 awards and determined that they did not meet the economic, national security or energy security standards necessary to sustain DOE’s investment.

    DOE’s Secretarial Policy on Ensuring Responsibility for Financial Assistance is available here.

                                                                                          ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FOLLOWING HIS PUSH, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES FAA APPROVES SUNY SCHENECTADY AVIATION SCHOOL FOR PRESTIGIOUS FEDERAL AIR TRAFFIC-COLLEGIATE TRAINING INITIATIVE

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Earlier This Spring, Schumer Called On FAA To Invest In Fed Training For SUNY Schenectady’s Program, Amid Nationwide Air Traffic Controller Shortage, To Support Aspiring Air Traffic Controllers And Keep Our Skies Safe
    Now SUNY Schenectady’s Top-Tier Aviation Science And Air Traffic Control Degree Program Will Join Very Few Others In Becoming Training Ground For Air Traffic Controllers
    Schumer: SUNY Schenectady Is Ready To Help Address Nation’s Air Traffic Controller Shortage
    After calling on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to include SUNY Schenectady’s Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program in its air traffic controller training program in April, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced the FAA has heeded his calls and approved the program for its FAA enhanced status.
    Schumer said this partnership will boost air traffic control education and expedited training pathways to support aspiring air traffic controllers in Upstate NY and make our skies safer, creating a pipeline of local students to enter this high-paying career and address the nationwide shortage. Under this new partnership, graduates of SUNY Schenectady can bypass training time at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma, provided they complete the college and FAA requirements, and be placed directly into FAA towers for expedited training. 
    “Prepare for takeoff to better address the air traffic controller shortage because the FAA just approved SUNY Schenectady to join their prestigious Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative. As airports continues to struggle with the national air traffic controller shortage, I pushed to have Schenectady join this competitive program because they have proven themselves to be a leader in aviation training uniquely capable of helping equip students with the skill they need to enter this career,” said Senator Schumer. “SUNY Schenectady’s air traffic controller training program is ready to create a local pipeline of students to enter this high-paying field tasked with protecting the safety of our skies. I’m thrilled the FAA heeded my calls and is helping the next generation of air traffic controllers reach new heights right here in the Capital Region. I commend SUNY Schenectady President Steady Moono and the school’s Aviation Program’s leadership for this new milestone and a continued high standard of training of our next generation of controllers.”
    SUNY Schenectady becomes the sixth college in the country to be included in the FAA’s Enhanced Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) Program, and the second in New York State in addition to the Vaughn College in Queens. Schumer pushed for this designation writing to the FAA saying that SUNY Schenectady was uniquely qualified for this prestigious training program to help address the nation’s air traffic controller shortage.
    “We’re grateful to Senator Schumer for his steadfast support of SUNY Schenectady and his efforts to address the national shortage of air traffic controllers,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “The FAA’s designation highlights the strength of our Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control program, which equips students with hands-on, career-ready training. With the College’s new Enhanced status, students will have even more pathways to success—including the opportunity for direct placement into an air traffic control facility – and will help keep our skies safer across the country.”
    Air traffic controllers across the country have been warning about low staffing levels for years amid an increasing number of aviation incidents, including a month of delays and cancellations at Newark Liberty International Airport earlier this spring due to staffing shortages and outages. As of September 2023, according to CNN, only about 70% of FAA staffing targets were filled by fully certified controllers, with some major airports at less than 60%. Schumer said boosting SUNY Schenectady’s Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program will help support aspiring air traffic controllers and keep our skies safe, and expedite the hiring of controllers through this unique pathway.
    SUNY Schenectady runs a successful curriculum for its Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program to train air traffic controllers, including a state-of-the-art simulator that only exists in one other place, and hosted the FAA for a site visit earlier this month. The program, which is run at the Schenectady County airport and SUNY Schenectady’s main campus, recently completed a new Center for Aviation Sciences building and is a leader in aviation safety education. SUNY Schenectady has worked with the FAA for over a year to be admitted into the Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative Program, which provides training at eligible colleges to deliver new air traffic controllers to the workforce faster and address the national shortages.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 350

    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.
    SEL0

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 350
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    455 PM EDT Fri May 30 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    District Of Columbia
    Delaware
    Central and Eastern Maryland
    Central and Southern New Jersey
    Southeast Pennsylvania
    Northern and Eastern Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Friday afternoon from 455 PM until Midnight EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered thunderstorms are forecast to continue to
    develop late this afternoon and continue through the evening as
    storms progress from west to east across the Watch. A few
    supercells are forecast with an attendant risk for a couple of
    tornadoes, damaging gusts, and isolated large hail. Additional
    thunderstorm bands may also pose a risk for damaging gusts before
    all of this activity moves east of the coast.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 90 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles east of South Hill VA to 30
    miles northwest of Philadelphia PA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and 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.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 347…WW 348…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 400. Mean
    storm motion vector 23025.

    …Smith

    SEL0

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 350
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    455 PM EDT Fri May 30 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    District Of Columbia
    Delaware
    Central and Eastern Maryland
    Central and Southern New Jersey
    Southeast Pennsylvania
    Northern and Eastern Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Friday afternoon from 455 PM until Midnight EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered thunderstorms are forecast to continue to
    develop late this afternoon and continue through the evening as
    storms progress from west to east across the Watch. A few
    supercells are forecast with an attendant risk for a couple of
    tornadoes, damaging gusts, and isolated large hail. Additional
    thunderstorm bands may also pose a risk for damaging gusts before
    all of this activity moves east of the coast.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 90 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles east of South Hill VA to 30
    miles northwest of Philadelphia PA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and 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.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 347…WW 348…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 400. Mean
    storm motion vector 23025.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW0
    WW 350 TORNADO DC DE MD NJ PA VA CW 302055Z – 310400Z
    AXIS..90 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    50E AVC/SOUTH HILL VA/ – 30NW PHL/PHILADELPHIA PA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 80NM E/W /47WSW ORF – 25S ETX/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 400. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23025.

    LAT…LON 36687876 40157736 40157394 36687551

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU0.

    Watch 350 Status Report Messages:

    STATUS REPORT #3 ON WW 350

    VALID 302340Z – 310040Z

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES RIGHT OF A LINE FROM 5 SSW AVC TO
    20 SW RIC TO 35 NNW RIC TO 40 SW DCA TO 20 SSE MRB.

    FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SEE MESOSCALE DISCUSSION 1051

    ..WENDT..05/30/25

    ATTN…WFO…LWX…PHI…AKQ…CTP…

    &&

    STATUS REPORT FOR WT 350

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

    DEC001-003-005-310040-

    DE
    . DELAWARE COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    KENT NEW CASTLE SUSSEX
    $$

    DCC001-310040-

    DC
    . DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
    $$

    MDC003-005-009-011-013-015-017-019-021-025-027-029-031-033-035-
    037-039-041-043-045-047-510-310040-

    MD
    . MARYLAND COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ANNE ARUNDEL BALTIMORE CALVERT
    CAROLINE CARROLL CECIL
    CHARLES DORCHESTER FREDERICK
    HARFORD HOWARD KENT
    MONTGOMERY PRINCE GEORGES QUEEN ANNE’S
    ST. MARYS SOMERSET TALBOT
    WASHINGTON WICOMICO WORCESTER

    MARYLAND INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    BALTIMORE CITY
    $$

    NJC001-005-007-009-011-015-021-025-029-033-310040-

    NJ
    . NEW JERSEY COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ATLANTIC BURLINGTON CAMDEN
    CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND GLOUCESTER
    MERCER MONMOUTH OCEAN
    SALEM
    $$

    PAC001-017-029-045-071-091-101-133-310040-

    PA
    . PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ADAMS BUCKS CHESTER
    DELAWARE LANCASTER MONTGOMERY
    PHILADELPHIA YORK
    $$

    VAC001-013-025-033-036-041-053-057-059-073-081-085-087-093-095-
    097-099-101-103-107-115-119-127-131-133-149-153-159-175-179-181-
    183-193-199-510-550-570-595-600-610-620-630-650-670-683-685-700-
    710-730-735-740-760-800-810-830-310040-

    VA
    . VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ACCOMACK ARLINGTON BRUNSWICK
    CAROLINE CHARLES CITY CHESTERFIELD
    DINWIDDIE ESSEX FAIRFAX
    GLOUCESTER GREENSVILLE HANOVER
    HENRICO ISLE OF WIGHT JAMES CITY
    KING AND QUEEN KING GEORGE KING WILLIAM
    LANCASTER LOUDOUN MATHEWS
    MIDDLESEX NEW KENT NORTHAMPTON
    NORTHUMBERLAND PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE WILLIAM
    RICHMOND SOUTHAMPTON STAFFORD
    SURRY SUSSEX WESTMORELAND
    YORK

    VIRGINIA INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    ALEXANDRIA CHESAPEAKE COLONIAL HEIGHTS
    EMPORIA FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH
    FRANKLIN FREDERICKSBURG HAMPTON
    HOPEWELL MANASSAS MANASSAS PARK
    NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK PETERSBURG
    POQUOSON PORTSMOUTH RICHMOND
    SUFFOLK VIRGINIA BEACH WILLIAMSBURG
    $$

    ANZ430-431-450-451-452-453-454-455-530-531-532-533-534-535-536-
    537-538-539-540-541-542-543-630-631-632-634-635-636-637-638-650-
    652-654-656-310040-

    CW

    . ADJACENT COASTAL WATERS INCLUDED ARE

    DELAWARE BAY WATERS NORTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE

    DELAWARE BAY WATERS SOUTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE

    COASTAL WATERS FROM SANDY HOOK TO MANASQUAN INLET NJ OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM MANASQUAN INLET TO LITTLE EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM LITTLE EGG INLET TO GREAT EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM GREAT EGG INLET TO CAPE MAY NJ OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE MAY NJ TO CAPE HENLOPEN DE OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE HENLOPEN TO FENWICK ISLAND DE OUT 20 NM

    CHESAPEAKE BAY NORTH OF POOLES ISLAND MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM POOLES ISLAND TO SANDY POINT MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SANDY POINT TO NORTH BEACH MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NORTH BEACH TO DRUM POINT MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM DRUM POINT MD TO SMITH POINT VA

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM KEY BRIDGE TO INDIAN HEAD MD

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM INDIAN HEAD TO COBB ISLAND MD

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM COBB ISLAND MD TO SMITH POINT VA

    PATAPSCO RIVER INCLUDING BALTIMORE HARBOR

    CHESTER RIVER TO QUEENSTOWN MD

    EASTERN BAY

    CHOPTANK RIVER TO CAMBRIDGE MD AND THE LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER

    PATUXENT RIVER TO BROOMES ISLAND MD

    TANGIER SOUND AND THE INLAND WATERS SURROUNDING BLOODSWORTH
    ISLAND

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SMITH POINT TO WINDMILL POINT VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM WINDMILL POINT TO NEW POINT COMFORT VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NEW POINT COMFORT TO LITTLE CREEK VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM LITTLE CREEK VA TO CAPE HENRY VA INCLUDING
    THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL

    RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER FROM URBANNA TO WINDMILL POINT

    YORK RIVER

    JAMES RIVER FROM JAMESTOWN TO THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE

    JAMES RIVER FROM JAMES RIVER BRIDGE TO HAMPTON ROADS
    BRIDGE-TUNNEL

    COASTAL WATERS FROM FENWICK ISLAND DE TO CHINCOTEAGUE VA OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CHINCOTEAGUE TO PARRAMORE ISLAND VA OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM PARRAMORE ISLAND TO CAPE CHARLES LIGHT VA OUT
    20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE CHARLES LIGHT TO VIRGINIA-NORTH CAROLINA
    BORDER OUT TO 20 NM

    $$
    THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
    REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
    INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
    CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
    $$

    STATUS REPORT #2 ON WW 350

    VALID 302255Z – 302340Z

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES RIGHT OF A LINE FROM 30 ENE DAN
    TO 35 N AVC TO 30 ESE CHO TO 25 NNE CHO.

    FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SEE MESOSCALE DISCUSSION 1049

    ..WENDT..05/30/25

    ATTN…WFO…LWX…PHI…AKQ…CTP…

    &&

    STATUS REPORT FOR WT 350

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

    DEC001-003-005-302340-

    DE
    . DELAWARE COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    KENT NEW CASTLE SUSSEX
    $$

    DCC001-302340-

    DC
    . DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
    $$

    MDC003-005-009-011-013-015-017-019-021-025-027-029-031-033-035-
    037-039-041-043-045-047-510-302340-

    MD
    . MARYLAND COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ANNE ARUNDEL BALTIMORE CALVERT
    CAROLINE CARROLL CECIL
    CHARLES DORCHESTER FREDERICK
    HARFORD HOWARD KENT
    MONTGOMERY PRINCE GEORGES QUEEN ANNE’S
    ST. MARYS SOMERSET TALBOT
    WASHINGTON WICOMICO WORCESTER

    MARYLAND INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    BALTIMORE CITY
    $$

    NJC001-005-007-009-011-015-021-025-029-033-302340-

    NJ
    . NEW JERSEY COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ATLANTIC BURLINGTON CAMDEN
    CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND GLOUCESTER
    MERCER MONMOUTH OCEAN
    SALEM
    $$

    PAC001-017-029-045-071-091-101-133-302340-

    PA
    . PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ADAMS BUCKS CHESTER
    DELAWARE LANCASTER MONTGOMERY
    PHILADELPHIA YORK
    $$

    VAC001-013-025-033-036-041-047-053-057-059-061-073-075-081-085-
    087-093-095-097-099-101-103-107-109-115-117-119-127-131-133-135-
    137-145-149-153-159-175-177-179-181-183-193-199-510-550-570-595-
    600-610-620-630-650-670-683-685-700-710-730-735-740-760-800-810-
    830-302340-

    VA
    . VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ACCOMACK ARLINGTON BRUNSWICK
    CAROLINE CHARLES CITY CHESTERFIELD
    CULPEPER DINWIDDIE ESSEX
    FAIRFAX FAUQUIER GLOUCESTER
    GOOCHLAND GREENSVILLE HANOVER
    HENRICO ISLE OF WIGHT JAMES CITY
    KING AND QUEEN KING GEORGE KING WILLIAM
    LANCASTER LOUDOUN LOUISA
    MATHEWS MECKLENBURG MIDDLESEX
    NEW KENT NORTHAMPTON NORTHUMBERLAND
    NOTTOWAY ORANGE POWHATAN
    PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE WILLIAM RICHMOND
    SOUTHAMPTON SPOTSYLVANIA STAFFORD
    SURRY SUSSEX WESTMORELAND
    YORK

    VIRGINIA INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    ALEXANDRIA CHESAPEAKE COLONIAL HEIGHTS
    EMPORIA FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH
    FRANKLIN FREDERICKSBURG HAMPTON
    HOPEWELL MANASSAS MANASSAS PARK
    NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK PETERSBURG
    POQUOSON PORTSMOUTH RICHMOND
    SUFFOLK VIRGINIA BEACH WILLIAMSBURG
    $$

    ANZ430-431-450-451-452-453-454-455-530-531-532-533-534-535-536-
    537-538-539-540-541-542-543-630-631-632-634-635-636-637-638-650-
    652-654-656-302340-

    CW

    . ADJACENT COASTAL WATERS INCLUDED ARE

    DELAWARE BAY WATERS NORTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE

    DELAWARE BAY WATERS SOUTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE

    COASTAL WATERS FROM SANDY HOOK TO MANASQUAN INLET NJ OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM MANASQUAN INLET TO LITTLE EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM LITTLE EGG INLET TO GREAT EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM GREAT EGG INLET TO CAPE MAY NJ OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE MAY NJ TO CAPE HENLOPEN DE OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE HENLOPEN TO FENWICK ISLAND DE OUT 20 NM

    CHESAPEAKE BAY NORTH OF POOLES ISLAND MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM POOLES ISLAND TO SANDY POINT MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SANDY POINT TO NORTH BEACH MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NORTH BEACH TO DRUM POINT MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM DRUM POINT MD TO SMITH POINT VA

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM KEY BRIDGE TO INDIAN HEAD MD

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM INDIAN HEAD TO COBB ISLAND MD

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM COBB ISLAND MD TO SMITH POINT VA

    PATAPSCO RIVER INCLUDING BALTIMORE HARBOR

    CHESTER RIVER TO QUEENSTOWN MD

    EASTERN BAY

    CHOPTANK RIVER TO CAMBRIDGE MD AND THE LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER

    PATUXENT RIVER TO BROOMES ISLAND MD

    TANGIER SOUND AND THE INLAND WATERS SURROUNDING BLOODSWORTH
    ISLAND

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SMITH POINT TO WINDMILL POINT VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM WINDMILL POINT TO NEW POINT COMFORT VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NEW POINT COMFORT TO LITTLE CREEK VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM LITTLE CREEK VA TO CAPE HENRY VA INCLUDING
    THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL

    RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER FROM URBANNA TO WINDMILL POINT

    YORK RIVER

    JAMES RIVER FROM JAMESTOWN TO THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE

    JAMES RIVER FROM JAMES RIVER BRIDGE TO HAMPTON ROADS
    BRIDGE-TUNNEL

    COASTAL WATERS FROM FENWICK ISLAND DE TO CHINCOTEAGUE VA OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CHINCOTEAGUE TO PARRAMORE ISLAND VA OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM PARRAMORE ISLAND TO CAPE CHARLES LIGHT VA OUT
    20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE CHARLES LIGHT TO VIRGINIA-NORTH CAROLINA
    BORDER OUT TO 20 NM

    $$
    THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
    REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
    INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
    CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
    $$

    STATUS REPORT #1 ON WW 350

    VALID 302140Z – 302240Z

    THE SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES ACROSS THE ENTIRE WATCH AREA.

    ..WENDT..05/30/25

    ATTN…WFO…LWX…PHI…AKQ…CTP…

    &&

    STATUS REPORT FOR WT 350

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

    DEC001-003-005-302240-

    DE
    . DELAWARE COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    KENT NEW CASTLE SUSSEX
    $$

    DCC001-302240-

    DC
    . DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
    $$

    MDC003-005-009-011-013-015-017-019-021-025-027-029-031-033-035-
    037-039-041-043-045-047-510-302240-

    MD
    . MARYLAND COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ANNE ARUNDEL BALTIMORE CALVERT
    CAROLINE CARROLL CECIL
    CHARLES DORCHESTER FREDERICK
    HARFORD HOWARD KENT
    MONTGOMERY PRINCE GEORGES QUEEN ANNE’S
    ST. MARYS SOMERSET TALBOT
    WASHINGTON WICOMICO WORCESTER

    MARYLAND INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    BALTIMORE CITY
    $$

    NJC001-005-007-009-011-015-021-025-029-033-302240-

    NJ
    . NEW JERSEY COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ATLANTIC BURLINGTON CAMDEN
    CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND GLOUCESTER
    MERCER MONMOUTH OCEAN
    SALEM
    $$

    PAC001-017-029-045-071-091-101-133-302240-

    PA
    . PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ADAMS BUCKS CHESTER
    DELAWARE LANCASTER MONTGOMERY
    PHILADELPHIA YORK
    $$

    VAC001-007-013-025-033-036-041-047-049-053-057-059-061-065-073-
    075-081-085-087-093-095-097-099-101-103-107-109-111-115-117-119-
    127-131-133-135-137-145-147-149-153-159-175-177-179-181-183-193-
    199-510-550-570-595-600-610-620-630-650-670-683-685-700-710-730-
    735-740-760-800-810-830-302240-

    VA
    . VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ACCOMACK AMELIA ARLINGTON
    BRUNSWICK CAROLINE CHARLES CITY
    CHESTERFIELD CULPEPER CUMBERLAND
    DINWIDDIE ESSEX FAIRFAX
    FAUQUIER FLUVANNA GLOUCESTER
    GOOCHLAND GREENSVILLE HANOVER
    HENRICO ISLE OF WIGHT JAMES CITY
    KING AND QUEEN KING GEORGE KING WILLIAM
    LANCASTER LOUDOUN LOUISA
    LUNENBURG MATHEWS MECKLENBURG
    MIDDLESEX NEW KENT NORTHAMPTON
    NORTHUMBERLAND NOTTOWAY ORANGE
    POWHATAN PRINCE EDWARD PRINCE GEORGE
    PRINCE WILLIAM RICHMOND SOUTHAMPTON
    SPOTSYLVANIA STAFFORD SURRY
    SUSSEX WESTMORELAND YORK

    VIRGINIA INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    ALEXANDRIA CHESAPEAKE COLONIAL HEIGHTS
    EMPORIA FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH
    FRANKLIN FREDERICKSBURG HAMPTON
    HOPEWELL MANASSAS MANASSAS PARK
    NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK PETERSBURG
    POQUOSON PORTSMOUTH RICHMOND
    SUFFOLK VIRGINIA BEACH WILLIAMSBURG
    $$

    ANZ430-431-450-451-452-453-454-455-530-531-532-533-534-535-536-
    537-538-539-540-541-542-543-630-631-632-634-635-636-637-638-650-
    652-654-656-302240-

    CW

    . ADJACENT COASTAL WATERS INCLUDED ARE

    DELAWARE BAY WATERS NORTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE

    DELAWARE BAY WATERS SOUTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE

    COASTAL WATERS FROM SANDY HOOK TO MANASQUAN INLET NJ OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM MANASQUAN INLET TO LITTLE EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM LITTLE EGG INLET TO GREAT EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM GREAT EGG INLET TO CAPE MAY NJ OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE MAY NJ TO CAPE HENLOPEN DE OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE HENLOPEN TO FENWICK ISLAND DE OUT 20 NM

    CHESAPEAKE BAY NORTH OF POOLES ISLAND MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM POOLES ISLAND TO SANDY POINT MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SANDY POINT TO NORTH BEACH MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NORTH BEACH TO DRUM POINT MD

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM DRUM POINT MD TO SMITH POINT VA

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM KEY BRIDGE TO INDIAN HEAD MD

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM INDIAN HEAD TO COBB ISLAND MD

    TIDAL POTOMAC FROM COBB ISLAND MD TO SMITH POINT VA

    PATAPSCO RIVER INCLUDING BALTIMORE HARBOR

    CHESTER RIVER TO QUEENSTOWN MD

    EASTERN BAY

    CHOPTANK RIVER TO CAMBRIDGE MD AND THE LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER

    PATUXENT RIVER TO BROOMES ISLAND MD

    TANGIER SOUND AND THE INLAND WATERS SURROUNDING BLOODSWORTH
    ISLAND

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SMITH POINT TO WINDMILL POINT VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM WINDMILL POINT TO NEW POINT COMFORT VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NEW POINT COMFORT TO LITTLE CREEK VA

    CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM LITTLE CREEK VA TO CAPE HENRY VA INCLUDING
    THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL

    RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER FROM URBANNA TO WINDMILL POINT

    YORK RIVER

    JAMES RIVER FROM JAMESTOWN TO THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE

    JAMES RIVER FROM JAMES RIVER BRIDGE TO HAMPTON ROADS
    BRIDGE-TUNNEL

    COASTAL WATERS FROM FENWICK ISLAND DE TO CHINCOTEAGUE VA OUT 20
    NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CHINCOTEAGUE TO PARRAMORE ISLAND VA OUT 20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM PARRAMORE ISLAND TO CAPE CHARLES LIGHT VA OUT
    20 NM

    COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE CHARLES LIGHT TO VIRGINIA-NORTH CAROLINA
    BORDER OUT TO 20 NM

    $$
    THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
    REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
    INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
    CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
    $$

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    Mod (60%)

    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: Governor Polis Signs Bills In Grand Junction and Western Slope to Support Outdoor Recreation and Protect the Great Outdoors

    Source: US State of Colorado

    GRAND JUNCTION – Today, Governor Polis signed bills in Grand Junction to support outdoor recreation and protect the great outdoors that Colorado is known for. Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-174 – Sunset Outfitters & Guides, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson and Representatives Meghan Lukens and Matt Soper and the bipartisan HB25-1215 – Redistribution of Lottery Fund, sponsored by Representatives Rick Taggart and Junie Joseph and Senators Jeff Bridges and Barbara Kirkmeyer to support local outdoor recreation businesses and workers, and increase opportunities for every Coloradan to experience the outdoors. 

    “Protecting and enjoying Colorado’s great outdoors is an important part of who we are. These new laws will protect our outdoors, support our outdoor recreation businesses and economy, and expand opportunity to ensure all Coloradans for generations can enjoy our state’s world-class great outdoors,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the bipartisan HB25-1021 – Tax Incentives for Employee-Owned Businesses, sponsored by Reps William Lindstedt and Rick Taggart and Senators Jeff Bridges and Mark Baisley. 

    “Employee-owned businesses provide good-paying jobs and support our strong economy. Ownership opportunities for employees are good for businesses and employees, driving growth, creating opportunity, and strengthening recruitment and retention. I am proud of our work to help businesses embrace the benefits of employee ownership,” said Governor Polis. 

    At Grand Junction Community Hospital, Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-071 – Prohibit Restrictions on 340B Drugs, sponsored by Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Janice Rich and Reps Matthew Martinez and Rick Taggart. 

    “We are focused on saving people money on health care, and costly prescription drugs can force Coloradans to decide between paying for prescriptions over food, housing, and other necessities. I am proud to sign a major new law to expand drug discounts and enable hospital providers to expand access to affordable care, including by lowering prescription medication costs. I continue to call on the federal government to grant Colorado’s waiver to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada,” said Governor Polis. 

    This afternoon, Governor Polis visited Glenwood Springs to sign the bipartisan SB25-272 – Regional Transportation Authority Sales and Use Tax Exemption, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Marc Catlin and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Meg Froelich. 

    “Building more housing near transit and expanding transit options is important for our goals to reduce pollution and make our high quality of life more affordable and liveable. This bill will help local governments and regional and local transit agencies build more workforce housing and provide more transportation options that save Coloradans time and money in all four corners of the state,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis then traveled to Colorado Mountain College to sign the bipartisan HB25-1186 – Work-Based Learning Experiences in Higher Education, sponsored by Representatives Matthew Martinez and Meghan Lukens, and Senators Janice Rich and Dafna Michaelson Jenet. 

    “Expanding opportunities for work-based learning for all students, whether they’re in K-12 or higher education, is important for our workforce, economy, and each student’s future. This bill will expand access to work-based learning in the classroom and in the workforce, helping students gain the skills to get good-paying jobs,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the following bipartisan bills into law: 

    • HB25-1080 – Wireless Telephone Infrastructure Deployment Incentives, sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens and Matt Soper, and Senator Nick Hinrichsen
    • HB25-1006 – School District Solar Garden Lease Term, sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens and Anthony Hartsook and Senators Jeff Bridges and Chris Kolker
    • HB25-1153 – Statewide Government Language Access Assessment, sponsored by Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Junie Joseph and Senator Iman Jodeh 

    The Governor signed the following bills administratively: 

    • SB25-144 – Change Paid Family Medical Leave Insurance Program, sponsored by Senators Winter and Bridges, and Representatives Willford and Zokaie.
      • “This new law will lower the payroll tax rate and provide a stable, workable pathway for setting premiums and safeguarding the solvency of this fund going forward. It will also provide support to families with children in the NICU, ensuring parents and loved ones can take the time away from work needed to be with their families,” said Governor Polis. Read the Governor’s signing statement.
    • HB25-1094 – Pharmacy Benefit Manager Practices, sponsored by Representatives Brown and Johnson, and Senators Pelton and Roberts. Read the Governor’s signing statement.
    • HB25-1259 – In Vitro Fertilization Protection & Gamete Donation Requirements, sponsored by Representatives Froelich and Brown, and Senators Cutter and Daugherty
    • HB25-1285 – Veterinary Workforce Requirements, sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Johnson, and Senators Kipp and Pelton
    • HB25-1301 – Authorizing Voice Court Reporter to Give Oath, sponsored by Representatives Carter and Espenoza, and Senators Roberts and Gonzales
    • HB25-1304 – Extension of Restitution Deadlines, sponsored by Representatives Froelich and Soper, and Senators Snyder and Bright
    • HB25-1318 – Species Conservation Trust Fund Projects, sponsored by Representatives McCormick and Soper, and Senators Roberts and Catlin
    • HB25-1326 – Updating Safety Net Provider Terminology, sponsored by Representatives Espenoza and Bradley, and Senator Ball
    • SB25-158 – State Agency Procurement & Disposal Certain Items, sponsored by Senators Sullivan and Gonzales, and Representatives Froelich and Brown
    • SB25-278 – Epinephrine Administration in Schools, sponsored by Senator Mullica, and Representatives Stewart and Bradley
    • SB25-285 – Updating Food Establishment Inspection Fees, sponsored by Senator Roberts, and Representatives Lukens and Soper
    • SB25-292 – Workforce Capacity Center, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Bridges, and Representatives Sirota and Taggart
    • SB25-308 – Medicaid Services Related to Federal Authorizations, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Taggart and Sirota
    • SB25-309 – Authorize Legislative Fellows, sponsored by Senator Simpson, and Representatives Brown and Bradfield
    • SB25-298 – Remove Term Homosexuality from Criminal Code, sponsored by Senators Daugherty and Lundeen, and Representatives Lindsay and Lukens
    • SB25-312 – American Rescue Plan Act Funds, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Sirota
    • SB25-313 – Proposition 123 Revenue Uses, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Bridges, and Representatives Bird and Sirota 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 5.30.25

    Source: US State of California Governor

    May 30, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Connie Nakano, of Elk Grove, has been appointed Assistant Director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives and Equity at the Department of Aging. Nakano has been Assistant Director of Communications at the Department of Aging since 2021. She was Assistant Deputy of Communications at the California Transportation Commission from 2020 to 2021. Nakano was a Public Information Officer at the California Department of Rehabilitation from 2017 to 2020. She was a Senior Marketing Specialist at the California Earthquake Authority from 2009 to 2017. Nakano was a National Interactive Account Manager at the Sacramento Bee from 2008 to 2009. She was an Advertising Account Manager at KMAX TV from 2004 to 2007. Nakano was an Advertising Account Manager at Valley Yellow Pages from 2002 to 2004. She was a Sales and Marketing Coordinator at KQCA 58 from 2000 to 2002. Nakano earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $161,064. Nakano is a Democrat.

    Patrick Schoch, of Byron, has been appointed to the 23rd District Agricultural Association Contra Costa County Fair Board. Schoch has been a Deputy Sheriff at the San Francisco Sheriff Office since 1998.  He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1994 to 2001 and in the United States Coast Guard from 2002 to 2024. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Schoch is a Republican.
     
    Jonathon Porter, of Tulare, has been appointed to the 24th District Agricultural Association Tulare County Fair Board. Porter has been a Risk Management Consultant at Nationwide since 2022 and the Administrator of Machado Dairy & Farming Company Inc. since 2014. He held multiple positions for the County of Tulare from 2020 to 2022, including Agricultural and Standards Inspector at the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office and Administrative Assistant. Porter is a member of the Cabrillo Civics Club of California. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree in Agricultural Business from Quantic School of Business and Technology and a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Science from California State University, Fresno. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Porter is registered without party preference. 

    Press releases

    Recent news

    May 30, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025, as “Foster Care Month.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONDuring Foster Care Month, we reaffirm to the more than 35,000 foster…

    May 30, 2025

    News What you need to know: The state recently welcomed 339 graduates from CAL FIRE, CDCR, and CHP to California’s already robust contingent of public safety officers. Sacramento, California – Strengthening the dedicated groups that protect the safety of Californians,…

    May 30, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — In a callous moment during a townhall this morning, Republican U.S. Senator Joni Ernst shrugged off the devastating human toll of President Donald Trump’s proposed plan to fund tax breaks for the rich by gutting Medicaid and food assistance — saying,…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former CEO Of Silver State Health Services And Real Estate Investor Indicted For Embezzling Over $2 Million Dollars In Federal Grant Money

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – The former Chief Executive Officer of Silver State Health Services, LLC, a not-for-profit federally qualified health center, made his court appearance today for allegedly embezzling over $2 million of federal grant money intended for the health care center to provide health care items, benefits, and services to indigent persons in Las Vegas.

    According to allegations contained in the superseding indictment, from June 2019 and continuing through April 2022, David Ryan Linden, 36, who served as the Chief Executive Officer of Silver State Health Services (SSHS), and Rich Kiran Saga, 53, a real estate investor who affiliated himself with SSHS, conspired to engage in a scheme to steal money belonging to SSHS, including federal grant money earmarked for employee salaries, by funneling grant money belonging to SSHS into bank accounts controlled by the defendants. They then used the stolen grant money to purchase commercial real estate properties.

    SSHS was a Nevada corporation operating as a Federally Qualified Community Health Center; and SSHS received federal grant money from the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

    A federal grand jury returned the 13-count superseding indictment on May 13, 2025, charging Linden and Saga each with one count of conspiracy to commit offense against the United States; six counts of federal program theft; one count of conspiracy to violate Sections 1956 and 1957; two counts of money laundering; two counts of money transactions in criminally derived property; and one count of false document.

    Saga was arrested on May 14, 2025, and arraigned on the charges on May 15, 2025.

    A jury trial is set to begin on December 2, 2025, before United States District Judge Jennifer Dorsey.

    If convicted, Linden and Saga each face the maximum statutory penalty of 121 months in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.

    This case was a joint investigation by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Myhre and Justin Washburne are prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Collins Man Charged with Bank Robbery

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Isaac Meraz, age 21, of Fort Collins, has been charged with one count of bank robbery with forced accompaniment.  

    According to the criminal complaint, at approximately 2:00 p.m. on May 27, 2025, Meraz entered the Ent Credit Union on Drake Road in Fort Collins and robbed the credit union.  Wearing a full rubber mask with attached fake hair, Meraz approached several employees and told them he was there to “audit” the bank.  Meraz then used what appeared to be a handgun to force three employees to accompany him to the bank’s vault.  Meraz pointed the apparent handgun at a one of the employees and, out of fear and intimidation, that employee provided Meraz with money out of the vault.  As he fled the credit union, Meraz dropped a portion of the money and the apparent firearm used in the commission of the robbery.  The firearm was later determined to be a realistic-looking BB gun.  Meraz was arrested shortly after the robbery outside of the credit union.

    On May 30, 2025, Meraz made his initial appearance in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Cyrus Y. Chung. 

    The charges in the complaint are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations Denver Field Office and Fort Collins Police Services.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn.

    Case Number:  25-mj-00105-CYC

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: DOGE is WINNING! Thank you, Elon! 🇺🇸

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

    The Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E.) is VICTORIOUS in slashing waste, fraud, and abuse!

    Thank you, Elon Musk.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2euvlvwswE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hammond Woman Sentenced to Two Years for Cares Act Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that TRACIE L. MIXON (“MIXON”), age 43, of Hammond, LA, was sentenced on May 27, 2025 to two (2) years in prison by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, after previously pleading guilty to making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). 

    On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic.  Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments.  The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.

    According to court documents, MIXON made false statements on an SBA form to an approved lender on or about February 23, 2021, to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan. MIXON affirmed that she had not been previously convicted of federal program financial assistance fraud when, in truth, she pled guilty, in the Eastern District of Virginia, to conspiracy to commit federal student loan fraud and mail fraud in a scheme that involved stolen identities.

    Additionally, MIXON was ordered to pay $31,000 in restitution to the lending institution and the SBA and faces three (3) years of supervised release and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.  Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: District Man Sentenced to 16 Years for Deadly Drive-by Shooting in Southeast Washington

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Martinez Raynor, 25, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 16 years in prison today for his part in a 2018 drive-by shooting of a man in front of a convenience store in Southeast Washington D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Raynor pleaded guilty to second degree murder while armed on October 4, 2024, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Today, the Honorable Maribeth Raffinan sentenced the defendant to 16 years in prison.

                According to court documents, on October 20, 2018, Raynor and two other men drove into the parking lot of Holiday Market and Liquor Store located at 3509 Wheeler Road SE at 1:56 p.m. Once there, they opened fire on a group of men standing in front of the store. In the hail of gunfire, the victim, Malik McCloud, was struck in the back by a bullet, and he fell to the ground paralyzed.  The defendant then fled on foot while the other two shooters drove off. Shortly after the initial shooting, the shooters returned to the area and opened fire on the group of men again, this time fatally striking Mr. McCloud in the chest as he laid helplessly on the ground.

                In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the work of those who provided valuable assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office including, Paralegal Specialists LaShone Samuels and Lisa Speight, and Victim Assistant Jennifer Allen. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zach Horton and Joshua Hall, who prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Holds Trump Accountable for Unlawfully Dismantling Minority Business Development Agency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined her colleagues in demanding the Trump Administration detail its compliance with a May 13 federal court injunction that ordered it to stop the illegal dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and restore the agency’s personnel and grantmaking capacities. The lawsuit that resulted in the injunction was brought by twenty-one states, including Wisconsin.
    Despite the clear authority of Congress to establish and appropriate funding for the MBDA, President Trump issued an Executive Order in March effectively eliminating the agency. The Department of Commerce then fired virtually the entire workforce and cancelled the MBDA’s grant programs.
    “Twenty-one states sued the Administration, seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent the Administration from carrying out the Executive Order,” wrote Baldwin and the Senators in a letter to Keith Sonderling, Acting Under Secretary for MBDA. “The states argued that implementation of the Executive Order violates the Administrative Procedure Act, the Constitution’s Take Care Clause, and separation of powers principles under the Constitution.”
    Baldwin and the Senators underscored that in granting the injunction, the Court said President Trump’s Executive Order usurped Congress’s “power of the purse, by disregarding congressional appropriations” and its “vested authority to create and abolish federal agencies.”
    “The Court’s order detailing how the Trump Administration must comply with the injunction makes it clear that the MBDA’s personnel and grantmaking capabilities must be restored,” Baldwin and the Senators continued, and asked the Under Secretary to provide “a complete description of all actions taken by the Department or MBDA ‘to reverse any policies, memoranda, directions, or actions issued before’ the Injunction, intended to implement the Executive Order.”
    Earlier this month Senator Baldwin demanded answers from Sonderling regarding the dismantling of the MBDA. Baldwin also pressed Secretary Lutnick on March 25 and April 17, about the gutting of MBDA, despite his testimony before the Commerce Committee stating he would not support doing so.
    Senator Baldwin worked with Republicans to include the Minority Business Development Act of 2021 as an amendment to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), making the MBDA permanent and increasing its funding authorization and reach. Baldwin then worked to bring a new Minority Business Development Center to Wisconsin, along with a $1.61 million grant to support its work assisting small businesses.
    The full letter is available here and below.
    Acting Under Secretary Sonderling:
    On May 13, 2025, the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued a preliminary injunction in State of Rhode Island, et al. v. Donald J. Trump, et al. ordering the Department of Commerce (Department) to halt its unlawful dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) pursuant to President Trump’s Executive Order 14238, “Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy” (Executive Order). We write to ensure that the Department is complying with its obligations under the preliminary injunction.
    In 2021, Congress permanently authorized the MBDA in bipartisan legislation, the Minority Business Development Act of 2021 (MBDA Act), which was enacted as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Last year, Congress funded the MBDA pursuant to the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, which appropriated $68.25 million for the “necessary expenses of the Minority Business Development Agency in fostering, promoting, and developing minority business enterprises, as authorized by law.” That same level of funding has been appropriated through the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 (P.L. 119-4) 
    Despite the clear directive and appropriations by Congress, President Trump’s Executive Order, issued on March 14, 2025, called for effectively eliminating the MBDA, among other agencies. Following the issuance of the Executive Order, the Trump Administration unilaterally dismantled the MBDA—terminating virtually all its staff, canceling its grant programs, and removing its signage from the Department.
    Twenty-one states sued the Trump Administration, seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent the Administration from carrying out the Executive Order. The states argued that implementation of the Executive Order violates the Administrative Procedure Act, the Constitution’s Take Care Clause, and separation of powers principles under the Constitution. The Court found that the state plaintiffs are likely to succeed on all of their claims and granted the injunction, halting implementation of the Executive Order. In its analysis of the states’ Constitutional claims, the Court said the following:
    By issuing the [Executive Order]—which effectively directs withholding the funds that Congress recently statutorily appropriated to [MBDA], resulting in the cessation of several of their programs, see supra—the Executive is usurping Congress’s: (1) power of the purse, by disregarding congressional appropriations; and (2) vested legislative authority to create and abolish federal agencies.
    The Court’s order detailing how the Trump Administration must comply with the preliminary injunction makes it clear that the MBDA’s personnel and grantmaking capabilities must be restored. This is good news for the American public. In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, the MBDA helped the country’s more than 12 million minority businesses access over $1.5 billion in capital and create or retain approximately 23,000 jobs.
    Given the important mission of the MBDA, it is essential that Congress and the public understand how the Trump Administration is complying with the preliminary injunction. Therefore, we are requesting you to report on the following by June 9, 2025:
    A complete description of all actions taken by the Department or MBDA to enjoin the implementation of Section 2 of the Executive Order. 
    A complete description of all actions taken by the Department or MBDA “to reverse any policies, memoranda, directions, or actions issued before” the injunction, intended to implement the Executive Order.
    Confirmation that the Department or MBDA has “not take[n] any further actions to eliminate [the MBDA] pursuant to” the Executive Order.
    A complete description of all actions taken by the Department or MBDA to take “all necessary steps to restore all [MBDA] employees and personal service contractors, who were involuntarily placed on leave or involuntarily terminated due to the implementation of” the Executive Order “to their status before March 14, 2025.”
    Confirmation that the Department or MBDA “shall not further pause, cancel, or otherwise terminate [MBDA] grants or contracts or fail to disburse funds to recipients in plaintiff States according to such grants or contracts for reasons other than the grantees or contractors’ non compliances with applicable grant or contract terms.”
    A complete description of all actions taken by the Department or MBDA to “take immediate steps to resume the processing, disbursement, and payment of already-awarded funding, and to release awarded funds previously withheld or rendered inaccessible due to or in reliance on Section 2 of the” Executive Order.
    In addition, in the event that any MBDA employees or personal service contractors are unable to resume their roles lost due to their involuntary terminations and leave under the Executive Order, please provide a complete description of all actions taken to address any gaps in staffing at the MBDA following implementation of the preliminary injunction.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Standing Tall Together

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    —————
    @marines assigned to @i_marine_expeditionary_force and the Philippine Marine Corps participate in the annual exercise KAMANDAG aimed at defense and humanitarian capabilities by providing training in combined operations for the advancement of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaG4ub1nAJ4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT: President Trump Doubles Steel Tariffs to 50% to Protect American Industry

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

    “We are going to be imposing a 25% increase. We’re going to bring it from 25% to 50%—the tariffs on steel into the United States of America—which will even further secure the steel industry in the United States.” –President Donald J. Trump

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1d7LOR4x5c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: FLOTUS: National Foster Care Month 2025

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

    In honor of National Foster Care Month, the White House welcomed foster and adoptive families for tours and a viewing of the President’s Marine One departure on the South Lawn. #BeBest #FosteringTheFuture

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stolen Identity, Bank Fraud, and Armed Drug Distribution Net Defendant 60 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Deangelo Lorenzo Lewis, 28, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 60 months in prison after being found guilty of defrauding banks by doctoring and depositing stolen checks, distributing marijuana, and illegally possessing a firearm. 

               At the time of his arrest, Lewis was using a stolen identity to rent an apartment in the Kalorama neighborhood, paying for it with funds from a stolen checking account, and using the apartment to distribute marijuana and operate his fraud scheme, all while armed with a semi-automatic assault pistol modeled after an AK47.

               The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office, and Acting U.S. Marshal Ron Carter of the District Court for the District of Columbia.

               Lewis was found guilty by a federal jury on Feb. 28, 2025, of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. In addition to the prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Loren L. AliKhan ordered Lewis to serve three years of supervised release.

               According to court documents, on October 3, 2023, Deputy United States Marshals and FBI agents executed an arrest warrant for Lewis at an apartment building on the 2400 block of 17th Street NW. Law enforcement breached the front door of the apartment with a battering ram and took Lewis into custody. During a security sweep the officers observed evidence of fraud in plain view. 

               The Marshals obtained a search warrant and recovered a Maryland driver’s license, three Visa debit cards, and numerous bank checks issued to persons other than Lewis. They also recovered stolen U.S. Postal Service uniforms in Lewis’ bedroom.                                    In addition, the Marshals recovered two laptop computers, three different types of printers, check paper, check writing software, 24 ounces of marijuana, small mylar bags, a digital scale, two loaded 9mm handgun magazines, and a Century Arms Micro Draco 7.62 x 39mm semi-automatic assault pistol loaded 25 rounds of ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, Lewis is prohibited from possessing firearms.

               The Marshals also obtained a search warrant for Lewis’ electronic devices and Instagram account. The United States’ trial evidence included photos and videos of Lewis holding firearms, including a Micro Draco assault pistol, pictures of stolen checks, pictures of marijuana advertised for sale, and numerous conversations related to marijuana distribution and bank fraud. According to the court documents, more than 10 individuals were victims of Lewis’s stolen check scheme, which involved the theft of checks worth more than $275,000. 

               Lewis has trials pending in D.C. Superior Court, the District Court for Prince George’s County, Maryland, and the United States District Court for the District of Maryland for similar conduct.

               This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service Task Force, the FBI Washington Field Office, and Arlington County Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James B. Nelson.

    24cr144    

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Blanchard Man Sentenced to Serve More Than Three Years in Federal Prison for Bank Fraud after Diverting Company Loan Proceeds to Pay for Construction of Personal Home

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – JERRY WAYNE NOLES, 61, of Blanchard, Oklahoma, has been sentenced to serve 40 months in federal prison for conspiring to commit bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    On September 9, 2024, Noles was charged by Amended Information with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. According to public record, in January 2015, Noles was the managing partner of Coil Chem LLC, a chemical manufacturing company based in Washington, Oklahoma. The Amended Information alleged that on January 27, 2015, Noles opened a $690,000 revolving line of credit through First National Bank (FNB) for the bank-authorized purpose of funding Coil Chem’s operating expenses. Noles later caused the advance of $250,000 from the company’s credit line into another account under Noles’ control, then directed a coconspirator to immediately withdraw and deposit the funds into the account of a local home builder to help pay for the construction of a new home for Noles. The Amended Information further alleged that Noles then sought and obtained a $1,200,000 home construction loan from FNB, despite the fact he had already paid a portion of the home’s construction costs with the money fraudulently obtained from Coil Chem’s credit line.  

    On September 10, 2024, Noles pleaded guilty to the Amended Information, and admitted he conspired to divert $250,000 from Coil Chem’s revolving line of credit to fund construction of his personal home in Blanchard, Oklahoma.

    At the sentencing hearing on May 28, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Noles to serve 40 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered Noles to pay $50,498.62 in restitution. In announcing her sentence, Judge Dishman noted the need to prevent others from committing similar crimes. Judge Dishman also noted the nature, circumstances, and seriousness of the offense, including that Noles was motivated by greed and deception and personally benefitted from the fraud.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia E. Barry prosecuted the case. 

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Fort Belvoir soldier pleads guilty to assaulting and permanently injuring a newborn child, sexually abusing an adult

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former U.S. Army private pled guilty today to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and one count of sexual abuse.

    According to court documents, from October 2010 to September 2013, Austin Blair Johnson, while he was an active duty soldier, resided on Fort Belvoir. On June 25, 2012, Johnson was watching an infant, identified as Minor Victim 1 (MV1), who was born prematurely only 16 days earlier. MV1 was crying, so Johnson picked her up and carried her, but she continued to cry. While holding MV1 in front of him with one hand under each of her arms, Johnson rapidly and forcefully shook MV1 multiple times before letting go of her, causing her to flip and land on her head.

    Johnson then picked up MV1 and ran with her upstairs to a bedroom where he woke MV1’s mother, identified as Adult Victim 1 (AV1). Johnson falsely told AV1 that he had accidentally dropped MV1 and that he had successfully broken her fall with his foot. AV1 and Johnson took MV1 to the Fort Belvoir Community Hospital emergency room where she presented with a fever, bruising on her head and shoulder, and blood coming out of her mouth. A CT scan conducted there revealed that MV1’s skull had been fractured. MV1 was transferred later to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Walter Reed Medical Center. MV1 was diagnosed with extensive injuries and remained hospitalized at Walter Reed for the next 10 days.

    The day she was discharged, MV1 was left in Johnson’s care while AV1 was out. Johnson again rapidly and forcefully shook MV1 and dropped her. MV1 was 26 days old. The following morning, AV1 took MV1 to a previously scheduled follow-up appointment with a pediatrician at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. At the appointment, MV1 began having seizures and was sent directly to the emergency room. MV1 was transferred later to the PICU at Children’s National Medical Center, where doctors discovered myriad injuries, including a second skull fracture, and identified extensive brain damage.

    When she was finally discharged on July 20, 2012, MV1 was placed in the custody of Child Protective Services, where she remained for approximately 14 months until she was returned to the custody of Johnson and AV1. On June 22, 2015, MV1 was forced to undergo a hemispherectomy during which the entire left hemisphere of her brain was removed in an effort to control her irrepressible seizures.

    MV1 is now legally blind, non-verbal, and the entire right side of her body is paralyzed. Cognitively, MV1 functions at the level of a mature infant.

    In addition to his assaults on MV1, in 2013, at their residence on Fort Belvoir, after AV1 had rebuffed Johnson’s requests to be intimate with her, Johnson proceeded without her consent. AV1 protested and tried to hit Johnson to get him to stop, which he did.

    Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 22, 2025. He faces up to life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Emily Odom, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Claude M. Hilton accepted the plea.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander E. Blanchard is prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-151.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder in Broad Daylight Outside a Northeast Gas Station Leads to Guilty Plea

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Damon McQuarters, 45, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty today to a charge of second-degree murder for the 2024 shooting murder of Michael Simpson, on the sidewalk in front of the Citgo gas station at 3820 Minnesota Ave. NE, Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). 

               The defendant pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder in Superior Court. The Honorable Danya Dayson scheduled sentencing on August 22, 2025. At sentencing, he faces between 21 and 25 years of incarceration, followed by five years of supervised release. 

               According to a proffer of facts submitted at the plea hearing, at approximately 5:35 p.m., on August 24, 2024, McQuarters approached Mr. Simpson, who was sitting in a tree box in front of the Citgo gas station socializing with friends. McQuarters retrieved a handgun from his pocket and shot Mr. Simpson a single time in the head. The defendant placed the handgun back into his pocket and walked away.  Mr. Simpson was transported from the scene of the shooting to an area hospital where he died the following day.

    McQuarters has been in custody since his arrest on September 26, 2024.

               This case was investigated by Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Coronado.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexico City-Based Attorney Pleads Guilty in $52 Million Dollar Sinaloa Cartel Money Laundering Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Hector Alejandro Paez Garcia, a Mexico City-based attorney, has pleaded guilty in federal court, admitting that he and others conspired to transport, transmit, and transfer tens of millions of dollars in drug trafficking proceeds from the United States to Mexico.

    Paez’s plea is part of a long-term FBI investigation targeting a Mexico-based money laundering organization (MLO) that is believed to have laundered at least $52.7 million for the Sinaloa Cartel before the organization’s leaders were arrested.

    According to court documents, the MLO utilized a network of shell companies in San Diego to launder tens of millions of dollars in bulk cash from across the country generated through the Sinaloa Cartel’s drug importation and distribution operations. MLO employees travelled to dozens of U.S. cities to pick up this bulk cash in amounts up to $200,000. The money was then funneled through the San Diego-based shell companies and delivered to money laundering accounts in Mexico controlled by Paez, who in his plea agreement admitted serving a managerial role in the MLO’s operations.

    During the investigation, FBI agents seized 66 money laundering bank accounts throughout the United States. As the FBI began to target and seize the MLO’s assets, Paez turned to the use of cryptocurrency in an attempt to shield those assets from law enforcement. But the FBI was able to infiltrate and take down the MLO’s cryptocurrency laundering network.

    To date, the investigation has resulted in the arrests of 11 people on money laundering charges and the seizure of more than $3.1 million in illicit assets. A related DEA investigation led to 24 additional arrests and asset seizures totaling $450,000.

    In March 2025, six individuals and seven entities, including several of Paez’s co-conspirators, were the target of sanctions imposed by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Treasury Sanctions Criminal Operators and Money Launderers for the Notorious Sinaloa Cartel | U.S. Department of the Treasury.

    Paez is scheduled to be sentenced on August 15, 2025.

    To date, in addition to Paez, additional participants in the scheme have been charged, including the following:

    • Miguel Angel Encinas Gomez of Mexicali, México, leader of a Mexicali-based cell of MLO. Encinas pleaded guilty to laundering $35 million in bulk cash narcotics proceeds in July 2023.
    • Hugo Andres Velasquez Pantza, a Colombian national who allegedly assisted the MLO in the implementation of cryptocurrency into their operations. Velasquez was subsequently targeted in an undercover FBI operation and arrested in Rome, Italy in January 2025. Velasquez was extradited to the United States in April 2025 and awaits trial.
    • James Harmon Yarbrough of Apopka, Florida, who worked in partnership with Cevallos to receive $326,000 in illicit proceeds in a scheme to converting the funds to cryptocurrency. Yarbrough pleaded guilty in July 2023.
    • Victoria Johanna Lopez, Jose Jesus Lopez, Jose Mayorga Martinez, and Gerardo Vasquez Jr. who allegedly worked as bulk cash couriers who handled and deposited bulk cash for the MLO. Victoria Lopez, Jose Lopez, Mayorga have pleaded guilty. Vazquez’s case is set for trial in September 2024.
    • Jhonatan Suarez Florez of Auburndale, Florida, who used accounts associated with his Florida-based construction and door manufacturing businesses to receive and transmit funds belonging to the criminal organization. Suarez Florez pleaded guilty in December 2024.
    • Alberto David Benguait Jimenez, an alleged leader of the MLO, remains a fugitive at this time. If anyone has information related to this individual, please contact the FBI at 858-320-1800.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Benjamin and Robert Miller. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Owen Roth contributed significantly to the case. The FBI worked in close partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Imperial County District Office, as well as Panamanian authorities, to seize the MLO’s assets and arrest multiple participants in the scheme.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Italy to secure the arrest and extradition of Velasquez Pantza.

    DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 23cr0446                                               

    Hector Alejandro Paez Garcia                        Age: 43                                   Mexico City, Mexico

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    International Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h), and 1956(a)(2)(B)(i)

    Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $500,000 fine

    INVESTIGATING AGENCY

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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

    This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced to 5 Years of Probation for Cares Act Fraud, Money Laundering and False Tax Filing

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CLIFTON C. JAMES (“JAMES”), age 50, of New Orleans, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo to 5 years of probation for making false statements, theft of government funds, and money laundering related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), as well as making a false tax filing with the Internal Revenue Service.

    On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  The two primary sources of funding for small businesses were the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program.

    According to the charging documents, or about April 30, 2020, JAMES, on behalf of a business that he owned, made false statements to an approved lender to obtain a $86,800 PPP loan.  On or about July 13, 2020, JAMES stole $149,900 from the SBA by using a false application in the name of Crescent City Tax Services, LLC.  JAMES then committed money laundering by using these ill-gotten funds to buy an automobile from a dealership in California.  Lastly, JAMES  filed a false document with the Internal Revenue Service wherein he claimed to have earned $1.00 in a 2019 tax return.

    In addition to probation, JAMES was ordered to perform 50 hours of community service and to pay restitution in the amount of $551,973.00 to the SBA along with restitution to the IRS in the total amount of $233,645.65.  There is also a mandatory $400 special assessment fee.

    For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.  Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force.  The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response.  The PRAC’s 21 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.  The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program.  Task force agents who are detailed to the PRAC receive expanded authority to investigate pandemic fraud as well as tools and training to support their investigations.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General (a member of the PRAC) and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: District of Arizona Charges 257 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from May 24, 2025, through May 30, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 257 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 125 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 124 aliens for illegally entering the United States.  In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 7 cases against 8 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    Recent matters of interest include:

    United States v. Hugo Antonio Martinez-Lopez: On May 24, 2025, an Integrated Fixed Tower operator observed an individual come out of the brush and enter a truck, driven by Hugo Antonio Martinez-Lopez, on Federal Route 19 near mile marker 1 in Newfield, Arizona, on the Tohono O’odham Nation. BPAs located the truck and attempted a stop, but Martinez-Lopez failed to yield. While BPAs were pursuing the truck, Martinez-Lopez abruptly stopped on the right shoulder of the road and an individual exited the passenger’s side of the vehicle and ran into the brush. Martinez-Lopez then fled at a high rate of speed. After a foot chase, BPAs apprehended the individual who had run into the bush and determined that they were a citizen of Mexico, illegally present in the United States. Other BPAs continued to pursue Martinez-Lopez and successfully deployed a vehicle immobilization device (VID), which punctured one of the truck’s tires. The truck then came to a stop and Martinez-Lopez fled from the vehicle. BPAs also apprehended Martinez-Lopez after a short foot pursuit. Martinez-Lopez was charged by complaint with Transportation of an Illegal Alien. [Case Number: MJ-25-2029]

    United States v. Jesus Fernando Jimenez Rodriguez: On May 28, 2025, Mesa Police Department executed a search warrant on a residence in Mesa, Arizona. Jesus Fernando Jimenez Rodriguez, a citizen of Mexico, was one of the occupants of the residence. Inside the residence, readily visible in the living room and stacked against the wall, law enforcement found 10,000 rounds of PMC 5.56 ammunition and 25,000 rounds of Wolf .223 ammunition. Jimenez Rodriguez was charged by complaint with one count of Alien in Possession of Ammunition and Illegal Re-entry. [Case Number: MJ-25-9221]

    United States v. Nicholas Anthony Lawrence: On May 28, 2025, Nicholas Anthony Lawrence, a citizen of Jamaica and illegal alien, was charged by indictment with Aggravated Identity Theft, Fraud and Misuse of Visas, Permits, and Other Documents, Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, and Reentry of Removed Alien. Lawrence was previously convicted on or about December 4, 2017, of Attempt to Commit Molestation of Child, and Attempt to Commit Sexual Conduct with Minor, both felony offenses, in the Superior Court of Arizona, County of Maricopa. Lawrence was sentenced to seven years in prison, and lifetime probation, respectively. Lawrence was previously removed from the United States in November 2022. [Case Number: CR-25-00817-PHX-GMS]

    Criminal complaints and indictments are methods by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raise no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    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).                                                                                               

    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-087_May 30 Immigration Enforcement

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Major drug redistributor for ring connected to Aryan prison gang sentenced to 10+ years in prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bought and sold multiple pound quantities of methamphetamine and tens of thousands of fentanyl pills

    Tacoma – A major redistributor for a South Sound-based drug trafficking ring that was connected to Aryan prison gangs was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 126 months in prison, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. 46-year-old Joseph Hempel, of Burien, Washington, was a high-volume drug redistributor for Jesse James Bailey, the leader of one of three branches the drug distribution organization. On March 29, 2024, Hempel pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and being a felon in possession of a firearm. At sentencing, Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo said, “The quantities you were involved in distributing were unimaginable…. It’s pretty amazing the amount of drugs we’re talking about.”

    “At various times on the wiretap law enforcement heard Mr. Hempel order as much as 25 pounds of methamphetamine and 20,000 fentanyl pills,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Miller. “Distributing such large loads of narcotics meant that both the reach and the damage from Mr. Hempel’s drug activity was widespread in our community.”

    The three interconnected drug trafficking rings in this case were identified over an 18-month wiretap investigation. The three distribution cells were working together as the Aryan Family/Omerta Drug Trafficking Organization, one of which was led by Hempel’s co-defendant Jesse Bailey. Bailey has pleaded guilty and is scheduled for sentencing on June 13.

    On March 22, 2023, Law enforcement made two dozen arrests on federal charges. The coordinated takedown involved ten swat teams and more than 350 law enforcement officers. On that day, law enforcement seized 177 firearms, more than ten kilos of methamphetamine, 11 kilos of fentanyl pills and more than a kilo of fentanyl powder, three kilos of heroin, and over $330,000 in cash from eighteen locations in Washington and Arizona. Earlier in the investigation, law enforcement seized 830,000 fentanyl pills, 5.5 pounds of fentanyl powder, 223 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.5 pounds of heroin, 5 pounds of cocaine, $388,000 in cash, and 48 firearms.

    At the time of the takedown, Hempel’s residence contained 1,003 fentanyl pills 1.6 kilograms of heroin, three kilograms of marijuana, 11 drug scales, a drug ledger, and $14,799 of drug proceeds. Near the drugs, law enforcement found body armor, ammunition, and the following firearms: a 12-gauge Iver Johnson shotgun with an obliterated serial number, a Harrington Richardson Model 088 Rifle, a Halsan Escort Shotgun, and a Marlin Firearms Glenfield 60 Rifle. Hempel has prior convictions for car theft and possession of stolen property that make him ineligible to possess firearms.

    In asking the court for the 126-month prison term prosecutors noted the impact such drug trafficking has on the community and community safety. “Hempel ordered and distributed large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin, for the purpose of redistributing it throughout the community. These drugs have a devastating impact. Users of these drugs frequently resort to stealing—from family members, friends, and complete strangers—to feed their addictions. No doubt, drug users are responsible for a large percentage of these crimes, as well as the violent crimes, in our communities,” prosecutors wrote to the court.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This investigation was led by the FBI with critical investigative teamwork from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Washington State Department of Corrections and significant local assistance from the Tacoma Police Department, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, and the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force, led by the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office. Throughout this investigation the following agencies assisted the primary investigators: Washington State Patrol, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police Department, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Zach Dillon, Max Shiner, and Jehiel Baer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: West Virginia among top states for FAFSA completion – West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    As the Class of 2025 prepares for graduation, West Virginia is earning national praise from the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) for its commitment to increasing college access and affordability through coordinated, cross-sector partnerships. The state now ranks 15th in the nation for FAFSA completion — up from 19th last year and reaching as high as 10th during the current cycle — thanks to innovative, student-focused efforts led by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission in partnership with schools across the state.

    Unlike many top-performing states, West Virginia has achieved this success without a statewide FAFSA mandate. Instead, the state has built a culture of completion through strategic outreach, data-driven coordination, and intentional community engagement. The Commission’s model demonstrates that measurable gains are possible when higher education leaders, schools, and communities work together to meet students where they are.

    “This achievement reflects an unwavering commitment to students and an intentional culture shift toward making college more accessible,” said Brian Weingart, Senior Director of Financial Aid at the Commission. “Our team has worked side-by-side with schools, counselors, and communities to make sure every student — regardless of background — has a clear path to financial aid. Whether it’s through hands-on FAFSA events, real-time data tools, or text message nudges, we’re meeting students where they are and helping them take that critical next step toward college. Behind every completed FAFSA is a student who’s one step closer to their future.” 

    The Commission’s approach includes:

    • WV FAFSA Day, a statewide event in February that brought together more than 50 high schools and colleges to set FAFSA as a milestone and increase public visibility.
    • The CFWV Champions of College Access and Success Challenge, which rewards schools for reaching FAFSA completion benchmarks or improving year-over-year.
    • TXT 4 Success, a text message program that provides personalized guidance and nudges to help students stay on track with financial aid deadlines.
    • Special tools and resources for counselors, including a FAFSA completion portal and regular updates to help school staff support students more effectively.

    “West Virginia’s success is the result of a powerful, coordinated effort,” said Dr. Sarah Armstrong Tucker, West Virginia’s Chancellor of Higher Education. “We built momentum through strong partnerships with our schools and counselors, innovative tools, and a shared commitment to our students’ futures. I am deeply proud of our team and the many school counselors, educators, and families who have rallied around this cause. Together, we’re showing what’s possible when we put students first.”

    The impact is measurable. According to data tracked by NCAN, the state’s FAFSA completion rate stands at 49.8% for the Class of 2025, with significant improvement over last year and an upward national trajectory not seen since before the pandemic. And perhaps most significantly, these gains come from intentional coordination — making West Virginia’s model especially relevant to peer states looking for replicable solutions.

    “West Virginia’s success, and approach, offer a lot for other communities and states to learn from,” said Bill DeBaun, Senior Director at the National College Attainment Network in Washington. “Thoughtful, coordinated efforts like these that support practitioners in districts and schools make a big difference. West Virginia is expanding students’ opportunities to access the financial aid that makes education after high school a more affordable possibility.”

    As graduation approaches, the Commission remains focused on further strengthening its outreach, closing remaining gaps, and ensuring every West Virginia student has the support they need to access higher education.

    To learn more about FAFSA completion resources and West Virginia’s college access initiatives, visit CFWV.com.

    The full article What’s Behind West Virginia’s FAFSA Completion Surge is available at NCAN.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Admit to Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization

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

    MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people have admitted to working in a large-scale drug operation in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.  

    Juan Carlos Suarez-Lugo, age 55, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Alexis Alvarado, age 38, of Ranson, West Virginia, each pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Mauricio Antonio Alvarado-Flores, age 38, a citizen of El Salvador, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and illegal reentry.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Suarez-Lugo, Alvarado, and Alvarado-Flores were working together and with others to sell drugs for the drug trafficking organization.

    Suarez-Lugo, Alvarado, and Alvarado-Flores each face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison for the drug charge. Alvarado-Flores faces up to two years in prison for the illegal reentry charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.

    The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff’s Office; Grant County Sheriff’s Office; Hampshire County Sheriff’s Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California. 

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Leading Congressional Delegation to Canada, Shaheen Highlights Harms of Trump’s Tariffs on Local Businesses and Summer Tourism

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Moultonborough, NH) – After leading a bipartisan Congressional delegation (CODEL) to Canada last week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) highlighted the local impacts of President Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Granite State businesses at Colby Footwear in Rochester and discussed the negative effects on the summer tourism season with the Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce in North Conway. Photos from today’s events can be found here. 
    “In New Hampshire, we should be preparing to welcome Canadian visitors for the summer tourism season – but instead, local businesses and retail sectors across the state are worrying about how travel cancellations and higher costs resulting from the President’s reckless tariffs on Canada will impact their bottom line and ability to operate,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’ll continue listening to the challenges that Granite Staters are facing so I can ensure their voices are heard in Washington.” 
    Last week, Shaheen led U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Peter Welch (D-VT) on a bipartisan delegation visit to Ottawa, Canada where they met with Prime Minister Mark Carney and members of his cabinet, the Business Council of Canada and other leading Canadian companies and business groups. The delegation reaffirmed the strong U.S.-Canada partnership and support for our bilateral relationship among Congress and the American people.   
    Senator Shaheen is helping lead efforts in Congress to mitigate the harmful impacts of President Trump’s tariffs. In January, Shaheen introduced the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act which would limit the president’s ability to leverage sweeping tariffs that increase costs for American consumers and families. Her effort to pass this bill by unanimous consent was blocked by Senate Republicans. In recent months, Shaheen has traveled across the Granite State to visit businesses including Chatila’s Bakery, C&J, DCI Furniture, Mount Cabot Maple, American Calan Inc. and NH Ball Bearings to hear directly from Granite Staters impacted by the administration’s tariffs.  
    Later in the day, Shaheen toured Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough to discuss the upcoming summer tourism season and celebrate the site’s recent designation as a National Historic Landmark. In September of 2024, Shaheen sent a letter to National Park Service Director Charles Sams supporting the designation. 
    “Castle in the Clouds is a Granite State icon that does important work to help preserve New Hampshire’s stunning outdoor spaces and history,” said Shaheen. “I was glad to visit the beautiful landmark today to discuss the upcoming summer tourism season and the work we need to do to ensure Castle in the Clouds can thrive for future generations of Granite Staters to enjoy.” 
    Senator Shaheen has long drawn attention to the integral role Castle in the Clouds plays in fueling New Hampshire’s tourism economy. The 5,500-acre estate sees over 50,000 visitors annually. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Discusses Local Effects of Proposed Medicaid and Affordable Care Act Cuts with Health Care Leaders, Marks Introduction of Legislation to Protect Connecticut River Watershed at Kilham Bear Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Lyme, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) hosted a roundtable in Lebanon to discuss the local impacts of Congressional Republicans’ bill to make unprecedented cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Shaheen also visited the Kilham Bear Center in Lyme to mark the recent introduction of her Connecticut River Watershed Partnership Act (CRWPA) to restore and protect the Watershed. Photos from both of today’s events can be found here.
    At West Central Behavioral Health in Lebanon, Shaheen hosted a roundtable with local health care leaders to highlight the impacts Congressional Republicans’ bill will have on patients and providers in the Upper Valley region. The bill adds unnecessary red tape and guts funding for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
    “Republican-led cuts to Medicaid and the ACA will have real costs for Granite Staters, and that’s why I’m continuing to speak with health care leaders, caregivers and patients across New Hampshire,” said Senator Shaheen. “What I heard from folks at West Central Behavioral Health cements what we already know to be true: If the Republican tax bill is signed into law, the impact will be felt in every corner of our state through higher costs and less accessibility for the health care Granite Staters need.”
    The roundtable was the latest stop on Shaheen’s “Medicaid Impact Tour”—a series of discussions across the Granite State to underscore the harm cuts to Medicaid and the ACA would have on New Hampshire, including by raising the cost of health care and leaving tens of thousands uninsured. 
    Later in Lyme, Shaheen toured the Kilham Bear Center and hosted a roundtable discussion to highlight how her Connecticut River Watershed Partnership Act would promote conservation, restoration, education and recreation efforts along the Watershed by formalizing collaboration among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, states, local communities and nonprofit partners.
    “It was great to visit the Kilham Bear Center in Lyme to see their work to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned and injured black bear cubs,” said Senator Shaheen. “New Hampshire’s wildlife and treasured outdoor spaces would benefit from the formal collaboration that my legislation would create to protect and restore the Connecticut River Watershed.”
    Shaheen has led efforts to safeguard our natural environment and invest in climate resiliency while boosting New Hampshire’s recreation economy, including by securing full funding and permanent authorization for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which has helped protect more than 2.5 million acres of land and supported tens of thousands of state and local outdoor recreation projects throughout the nation. In 2022, Shaheen helped to secure $3.7 million in Congressionally Directed Spending from the LWCF for a large conservation easement for Bear Hill. In 2020, Shaheen helped lead the Great American Outdoors Act into law to permanently fund the LWCF and provide mandatory funding for deferred maintenance on public lands. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Big, Beautiful Bill Comes to the Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: What is the Big, Beautiful Bill Act?
    A: The House of Representatives passed a 1,000-plus page bill in May that includes key measures to enact President Trump’s domestic policy agenda, including a once-in-a-generation opportunity to cut government bloat and prevent the biggest tax hike in American history.  The package also boosts resources for the military, beefs up border security and unleashes American energy to help fuel economic growth. Now, the sausage-making gets underway in the U.S. Senate. Unlike in the House of Representatives, deliberations in the Senate must abide by specific rules that apply to a reconciliation package. Those parameters include a fast-track process that requires only 51 Senate votes instead of 60; and the bill also must directly impact federal spending or taxes. I’ll be giving a thorough scrubbing to the legislation, including its impact on the farm safety net and food stamp (SNAP) program and efforts to root out waste, fraud and abuse in health care.
    Q: What is the Byrd rule?
    A: The Byrd rule is named after former Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia, who was long recognized as the “conscience of the Senate” for his deep-seated commitment to parliamentary procedures to protect the institutional role of the Senate in our system of checks and balances. The Byrd rule sets restrictions on reconciliation legislation considered in the Senate and was included unanimously in a federal budget law adopted 40 years ago and made permanent in 1990.
    Reconciliation legislation is used to change revenue and mandatory spending levels within budget resolution policies using an expedited timeline. Unlike the House of Representatives, debate in the Senate is limited to 20 hours and amendments must be germane. The Byrd rule was adopted to preserve the deliberative nature of the Senate and protect the integrity of the reconciliation process. It prevents abusive efforts to circumvent the process with non-budgetary policy matters that ought to be considered under regular order. For example, the Senate Democrat Majority tried to use the reconciliation process to ram through mass amnesty for illegal immigrants. This massive policy proposal failed to pass the Byrd rule.
    The Byrd rule allows any senator to raise a point of order against non-budgetary matters in a reconciliation bill. If a point of order is sustained, the provision is removed from the underlying legislation. An effort to waive the Byrd rule requires approval from three-fifths of the Senate. Over the years, the Byrd rule has created friction between the House and Senate. Don’t forget, the founders intentionally created a bicameral legislature to guarantee the rights of the minority party. The rules of the Senate are built around consensus, as opposed to the House of Representatives where the majority party dominates. As the story goes, George Washington told Thomas Jefferson that “we pour legislation into the senatorial saucer to cool it.” Keeping intact the institutional role of the Senate is an important check in our separation of powers. The Byrd rule is one of those pillars that prevents unrelated legislative agendas from evading Senate deliberation. Whereas the House had a tough row to hoe to pass the reconciliation package, the Senate has an even narrower row to cultivate to get to the finish line.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Lawler Concludes Bipartisan Middle East CODEL on Enhancing Regional Partnerships

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 5/30/25… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, concluded a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Jordan, where he and fellow House Foreign Affairs Committee members engaged with regional leaders to advance shared interests, address ongoing challenges, and reinforce America’s commitment to peace in the Middle East.

    With Iran continuing to actively fund terror proxies and pursue a nuclear weapons program, the delegation placed a strong emphasis on deepening security coordination with key U.S. allies. In particular, the group explored emerging diplomatic opportunities in Syria and Lebanon, two countries where Iran’s malign influence has waned and where strategic engagement could help foster long-term stability.

    Conversations also centered on defeating Hamas, securing the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches Palestinian civilians directly, without interference from Hamas. The CODEL built on the momentum of President Trump’s recent visit to the region and explored new opportunities for economic cooperation and investment, especially in AI and emerging technologies across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states.

    Joining Congressman Lawler on the delegation were Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Ranking Member of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, and Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. 

    In Saudi Arabia, the delegation held high-level meetings with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Adel Al-Jubeir, and engaged with leading U.S. defense and technology companies. They also met with Diriyah Gate Development Authority CEO Gerard “Jerry” J. Inzerillo and toured the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif District in Diriyah, the historic capital of the first Saudi dynasty (1744-1818). 

    In Israel, the delegation met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, received briefings on U.S.-Israel missile defense coordination, and visited key religious and cultural sites, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the City of David.

    “Prime Minister Netanyahu’s determined leadership during this time of war has fundamentally shifted the security landscape of the Middle East and made it a safer place,” said Congressman Lawler. “The U.S.-Israel alliance remains ironclad as we pursue diplomatic solutions for lasting peace in the region.”

    In Jordan, the delegation met with His Majesty King Abdullah II and senior cabinet officials to reinforce the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Jordan. Congressman Lawler also led a discussion with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, as well as Jordan’s ministers of Economic Affairs, Investment, and Planning and International Cooperation. 

    The delegation also met with the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority to explore avenues for expansion in tourism, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.

    “This CODEL served as a vital opportunity to strengthen our alliances, confront shared threats, and demonstrate bipartisan American leadership in support of our partners,” said Congressman Lawler. “As Chairman of the MENA Subcommittee, I remain committed to deepening U.S. engagement in the region and working with our partners to build a more secure, prosperous, and stable Middle East.”

    “Amidst President Trump’s efforts to end the war in Gaza & secure normalization agreements, I was honored to visit several of our allies and partners in the Middle East. These nations will play pivotal roles in shaping the future of the region — a future defined by peace and prosperity. I am grateful to our friends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the Kingdom of Jordan for welcoming us, and I look forward to our continued partnership with these regional leaders as we work toward greater peace and stability across the Middle East,” said Congressman McCaul.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Official Photos from the congressional delegation can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: MADE IN THE USA: President Trump’s Vision is Revitalizing American Industry

    Source: US Whitehouse

    President Donald J. Trump heads to Pennsylvania today, where he’ll champion the partnership he brokered between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel — a $14 billion investment that will create at least 70,000 jobs and ensure steel is made in America for decades to come.

    AMERICAN JOBS, AMERICAN STEEL.

    The landmark agreement comes alongside a host of companies from across industries that are onshoring their production and investing in American manufacturing as President Trump relentlessly pursues his America First trade policies.

    Look no further than the automotive industry:

    • Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing network, including re-opening its Belvidere, Illinois, plant and a $388 “megahub” in Detroit, Michigan.
    • General Motors announced an $888 million investment at its propulsion plant in Tonawanda, New York.
    • Volkswagen is planning to make a “massive” investment in its U.S. production.
    • Toyota announced it will boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia plant.
    • Mercedes-Benz announced it will add a new vehicle to its Tuscaloosa, Alabama, manufacturing plant.
    • Honda plans to shift production of the Civic from Japan to the U.S.
    • Hyundai announced a $20 billion investment to support its U.S. vehicle production.
    • Kia plans to produce hybrid vehicles at its affiliate Hyundai’s Georgia factory.

    It’s not just the auto industry; scores of others are lining up to invest in America:

    • Project Stargate, led by Japan-based Softbank and U.S.-based OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion private investment in U.S.-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.
    • Apple announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and training.
    • NVIDIA, a global chipmaking giant, announced it will invest $500 billion in U.S.-based AI infrastructure over the next four years amid its pledge to manufacture AI supercomputers entirely in the U.S. for the first time.
    • IBM announced a $150 billion investment over the next five years in its U.S.-based growth and manufacturing operations.
    • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced a $100 billion investment in U.S.-based chips manufacturing.
    • Johnson & Johnson announced a $55 billion investment over the next four years in manufacturing, research and development, and technology.
    • Roche, a Swiss drug and diagnostics company, announced a $50 billion investment in U.S.-based manufacturing and research and development, which is expected to create more than 12,000 jobs.
    • Bristol Myers Squibb announced a $40 billion investment over the next five years in its research, development, technology, and U.S.-based manufacturing operations.
    • Eli Lilly and Company announced a $27 billion investment to more than double its domestic manufacturing capacity.
    • United Arab Emirates-based ADQ and U.S.-based Energy Capital Partners announced a $25 billion investment in U.S. data centers and energy infrastructure.
    • Novartis, a Swiss drugmaker, announced a $23 billion investment to build or expand ten manufacturing facilities across the U.S., which will create 4,000 new jobs.
    • John Deere announced plans to invest $20 billion over the next decade in American expansion, production, and manufacturing.
    • United Arab Emirates-based DAMAC Properties announced a $20 billion investment in new U.S.-based data centers.
    • France-based CMA CGM, a global shipping giant, announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. shipping and logistics, creating 10,000 new jobs.
    • Sanofi announced it will invest at least $20 billion over the next five years in manufacturing and research and development.
    • Venture Global LNG announced an $18 billion investment at its liquefied natural gas facility in Louisiana.
    • Gilead Sciences announced an $11 billion boost to its planned U.S.-based manufacturing investment.
    • AbbVie announced a $10 billion investment over the next ten years to support volume growth and add four new manufacturing plants to its network.
    • Pratt Industries announced a $5 billion investment to create 5,000 new manufacturing jobs in Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Arizona.
    • GlobalWafers, a Taiwanese silicon wafer manufacturer, announced a $4 billion investment in its U.S.-based production.
    • Thermo Fisher Scientific announced it will invest an additional $2 billion over the next four years to enhance and expand its U.S. manufacturing operations and strengthen its innovation efforts.
    • Merck & Co. announced it will invest a total of $9 billion in the U.S. over the next several years after opening a new $1 billion North Carolina manufacturing facility — including in a new state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing plant in Delaware, which will create at least 500 new jobs.
    • Clarios announced a $6 billion plan to expand its domestic manufacturing operations.
    • In addition to its overall investments, Amazon announced it is investing $4 billion in small towns across America, creating more than 100,000 new jobs and driving opportunities across the country.
    • Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, a leader in biotechnology, announced a $3 billion agreement with Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies to produce drugs at its North Carolina manufacturing facility.
    • Kraft Heinz announced a $3 billion investment to upgrade its U.S. factories — its largest investment in its plants in decades.
    • NorthMark Strategies, a multi-strategy investment firm, announced a $2.8 billion investment to build a supercomputing facility in South Carolina.
    • Kimberly-Clark announced a $2 billion investment to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations, including a new advanced manufacturing facility in Warren, Ohio, an expansion of its Beech Island, South Carolina, facility, and other upgrades to its supply chain network.
    • Chobani, a Greek yogurt giant, announced $1.7 billion to expand its U.S. operations.
      • $1.2 billion to build its third U.S. dairy processing plant in New York, which is expected to create more than 1,000 new full-time jobs.
    • Corning announced it is expanding its Michigan manufacturing facility investment to $1.5 billion, adding 400 new high-paying advanced manufacturing jobs for a total of 1,500 new jobs.
    • Carrier announced an additional $1 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing, innovation, and workforce expansion, which is expected to create 4,000 new jobs.
    • GE Aerospace announced a $1 billion investment in manufacturing across 16 states — creating 5,000 new jobs.
    • Anduril Industries announced a $1 billion investment for a new autonomous weapon system facility in Ohio.
    • Williams International announced a $1 billion investment for a new high-volume aviation gas turbine engine manufacturing facility in Okaloosa County, Florida.
    • Amgen announced a $900 million investment in its Ohio-based manufacturing operation.
    • Merck Animal Health announced an $895 million investment to expand their manufacturing operations in Kansas.
    • Schneider Electric announced it will invest $700 million over the next four years in U.S. energy infrastructure.
    • GE Vernova announced it will invest nearly $600 million in U.S. manufacturing over the next two years, which will create more than 1,500 new jobs.
    • Abbott Laboratories announced a $500 million investment in its Illinois and Texas facilities.
    • AIP Management, a European infrastructure investor, announced a $500 million investment to solar developer Silicon Ranch.
    • London-based Diageo announced a $415 million investment in a new Alabama manufacturing facility.
    • Lego announced a $366 million investment to build a new distribution center in Prince George County, Virginia.
    • The Bel Group announced a $350 million investment to expand its U.S.-based production, including at its South Dakota, Idaho and Wisconsin facilities — which will create 250 new jobs.
    • Dublin-based Eaton Corporation announced a $340 million investment in a new South Carolina-based manufacturing facility for its three-phase transformers.
    • Anheuser-Busch announced a $300 million investment in its manufacturing facilities across the country.
    • Germany-based Siemens announced a $285 million investment in U.S. manufacturing and AI data centers, which will create more than 900 new skilled manufacturing jobs.
    • Clasen Quality Chocolate announced a $230 million investment to build a new production facility in Virginia, which will create 250 new jobs.
    • Fiserv, Inc., a financial technology provider, announced a $175 million investment to open a new strategic fintech hub in Kansas, which is expected to create 2,000 new high-paying jobs.
    • Paris Baguette announced a $160 million investment to construct a manufacturing plant in Texas.
    • Siemens Healthineers announced a $150 million investment to expand production, including relocating manufacturing operations for its Varian company from Mexico to California. 
    • JBS USA announced a $135 million investment for a new sausage production facility in Perry, Iowa.
    • TS Conductor announced a $134 million investment to build an advanced conductor manufacturing facility in South Carolina, which will create nearly 500 new jobs.
    • Switzerland-based ABB announced a $120 million investment to expand production of its low-voltage electrification products in Tennessee and Mississippi.
    • Saica Group, a Spain-based corrugated packaging maker, announced plans to build a $110 million new manufacturing facility in Anderson, Indiana.
    • Hotpack, a Dubai-based maker of food packaging materials and related products, announced a $100 million investment to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Edison, New Jersey.
    • Charms, LLC, a subsidiary of candymaker Tootsie Roll Industries, announced a $97.7 million investment to expand its production plant and distribution center in Tennessee.
    • Toyota Motor Corporation announced an $88 million investment to boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia factory, securing employment for the 2,000 workers at the factory.
    • AeroVironment, a defense contractor, announced a $42.3 million investment to build a new manufacturing facility in Utah.
    • Paris-based Saint-Gobain announced a new $40 million NorPro manufacturing facility in Wheatfield, New York.
    • India-based Sygene International announced a $36.5 million acquisition of a Baltimore biologics manufacturing facility.
    • Asahi Group Holdings, one of the largest Japanese beverage makers, announced a $35 million investment to boost production at its Wisconsin plant.
    • Valbruna Slater Stainless announced a $28 million investment in its stainless steel and nickel alloys bars manufacturing plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
    • Cyclic Materials, a Canadian advanced recycling company for rare earth elements, announced a $20 million investment in its first U.S.-based commercial facility, located in Mesa, Arizona.
    • Guardian Bikes announced a $19 million investment to build the first U.S.-based large-scale bicycle frame manufacturing operation in Indiana.
    • Amsterdam-based AMG Critical Minerals announced a $15 million investment to build a chrome manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania.
    • NOVONIX Limited, an Australia-based battery technology company, announced a $4.6 million investment to build a synthetic graphite manufacturing facility in Tennessee.
    • LGM Pharma announced a $6 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Rosenberg, Texas.
    • ViDARR, a defense optical equipment manufacturer, announced a $2.69 million investment to open a new facility in Virginia.

    That doesn’t even include the U.S. investments planned by foreign countries:

    • United Arab Emirates committed to investing $1.4 trillion in the U.S. over the next decade.
    • Qatar committed to generating $1.2 trillion in an economic exchange between the two countries.
    • Japan announced a $1 trillion investment in the U.S.
    • Saudi Arabia committed investing $600 billion in the U.S. over the next four years.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Loudermilk Requests Additional C-130Js in FY26 Defense Appropriations Bill – U.S. Representative Barry Loudermilk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)

    Washington, D.C. (May 30, 2025) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement following his bipartisan request to Subcommittee on Defense Chairman Rep. Calvert and Ranking Member Rep. McCollum for funding of C-130J procurement as part of FY2026 defense appropriations.

    “America’s national security depends on the capability and lethality of our Armed Forces. Ensuring that our brave men and women in uniform have the tools they need to protect our interests at home and abroad is critical, and I am committed to making sure our military is equipped to face the challenges of both the present and the future.

    “Older, 30+ year old variants of the C-130J platform lack sufficient missile warning systems, leaving them vulnerable to the anti-air capabilities of adversarial nations — further highlighting the need for renewed production. Continued procurement of the C-130J aircraft is essential to ensure the timely transport of both personnel and equipment, as current inventories continue to age. A significant drop in production over the next three years could severely undermine our national security — and that of our allies — at a dangerous time in world affairs.”

    IAM Union International President, Brian Bryant said in support: “The C-130J is the only U.S.-made airlift currently in production, and a stable and efficient production line is vital in supporting current and future Department of Defense and allied nation airlift requirements,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The C-130J production line provides for thousands of high-skilled IAM Union jobs and supports more than 27,000 jobs across its nationwide supply chain.”

    Click here to read the full letter

    MIL OSI USA News –