NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New Mexico Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Severe Storm and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New Mexico of the Aug. 1, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the severe storm and flooding occurring Oct. 19-20, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the New Mexico counties of Chaves, De Baca, Eddy, Lea, Lincoln, Otero and Roosevelt.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Aug. 1.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New Mexico Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Severe Storm and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New Mexico of the Aug. 1, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the severe storm and flooding occurring Oct. 19-20, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the New Mexico counties of Chaves, De Baca, Eddy, Lea, Lincoln, Otero and Roosevelt.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Aug. 1.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by July Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe of the Aug. 1, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the severe storm, straight-line winds and flooding occurring July 13-14, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe as well as the South Dakota counties of Corson, Dewey, Haakon, Meade, Pennington, Perkins, Potter, Stanley, Sully, Walworth and Ziebach.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Aug. 1.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján: Republican Bill Betrays New Mexico Families by Taking an Axe to Health Care, Nutrition Programs, and Rural Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    WATCH: Luján Holds Senate Floor During Midnight Session 

    WATCH: Luján Introduces Amendment to Save SNAP 

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to pass their partisan budget reconciliation bill: 

    “Senate Republicans just pushed through a budget bill that hurts New Mexican families. In their rush to meet President Trump’s demands, they voted blindly, with no regard for the harm this bill will inflict on all of our constituents.

    “This Republican bill guts health care for children and families, strips food assistance from our neighbors, and puts rural hospitals and grocery stores on the brink of closure – all to hand out massive tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy and big corporations. It also adds more than $3 trillion to the national debt – driving up interest rates across the board, making car loans and mortgages more expensive for families, and raising borrowing costs for small businesses and farmers.

    “This bill is not just bad policy – it’s a failure of leadership and a betrayal of New Mexico families, rural communities, and American values.”

    Senator Luján backed a series of amendments and motions to the Republican reconciliation bill aimed at protecting access to health care and nutrition programs and lowering costs for New Mexicans. Senate Republicans blocked these common-sense proposals from Senator Luján and Senate Democrats. Among those measures:

    Keeping Food on the Table for New Mexicans: 

    Millions of families rely on nutrition assistance programs. Senator Luján led a motion to protect funding for SNAP that ensures New Mexico families and children have access to nutritious food. These programs also support New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers, and local communities that rely on these dollars to keep food on shelves and economies strong. 

    Defending Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act:

    Republicans are trying to pay for tax breaks for the wealthy and big corporations by ripping away Medicaid coverage from millions of Americans. New Mexico has the highest per-capita Medicaid enrollment in the country, and children, pregnant women, and working families depend on it. Senator Luján supported a motion to strengthen Medicaid and protect health care for New Mexicans.

    Keeping New Mexico Communities Safe:

    Amid a nationwide shortage of police officers, Senator Luján proposed a motion to provide increased resources for local law enforcement by funding the COPS Hiring Program. Senator Luján previously led dozens of his colleagues in calling for additional funding for public safety.

    Protecting New Mexicans from Wildfires:

    As wildfires continue to devastate New Mexico and the West, Senator Luján supported a motion to invest in wildfire prevention and protect our communities from future disasters.

    Protecting Clean Energy Investments:

    As the climate crisis grows more urgent – and Republicans push to gut clean energy programs – Senator Luján supported amendments to safeguard investments in our energy future and reduce costs.

    Lowering Taxes for Small Businesses and the Middle Class: 

    To bring down costs for New Mexico families and small businesses, Senator Luján supported amendments that would provide tax relief to the middle class and small businesses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wayne County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Crime

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

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Randy Price, 52, of Wayne, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 16, 2019, a law enforcement officer conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Price in Charleston. Price attempted to flee on foot but was captured. Law enforcement seized a Raven Arms MP-25 .25-caliber pistol from the vehicle.

    Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Price knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for involuntary manslaughter and aggravated robbery in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas on June 28, 2002.

    Price is scheduled to be sentenced on October 2, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department.

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys JC MacCallum and Negar M. Kordestani have prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-97.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wayne County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Crime

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

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Randy Price, 52, of Wayne, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 16, 2019, a law enforcement officer conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Price in Charleston. Price attempted to flee on foot but was captured. Law enforcement seized a Raven Arms MP-25 .25-caliber pistol from the vehicle.

    Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Price knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for involuntary manslaughter and aggravated robbery in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas on June 28, 2002.

    Price is scheduled to be sentenced on October 2, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department.

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys JC MacCallum and Negar M. Kordestani have prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-97.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pair Admit Attempted Armed Kidnapping and Robbery of Apartment Property Manager

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

    ST. LOUIS – Two people have admitted to attempting to kidnap and rob a St. Louis apartment property manager at gunpoint in 2024, as well as other gun crimes.

    Emma M. Cunningham, 32, pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court to attempted kidnapping, transfer of a firearm to a convicted felon and making a false statement in connection with the purchase of a firearm.

    Jervonz L. Williams, 49, pleaded guilty on June 23 to attempted kidnapping, robbery and possession of a firearm by a felon.

    Both admitted that on Feb. 20, 2024, Cunningham bought a handgun for Williams, her boyfriend and a convicted felon who is thus barred from possessing firearms. Cunningham lied on Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Form 4473 when she claimed she was buying the gun for herself and when she denied being an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

    Williams admitted using the gun to threaten others, including one of Cunningham’s neighbors. He also admitted using it to rob a drug dealer of $17, a gun and cocaine base in late June of 2024. Williams struck the dealer on the head with the revolver multiple times during the robbery.

    Williams and Cunningham used that gun again on Aug. 5, 2024, in a failed bid to kidnap an apartment property manager in St. Louis. The property manager was meeting Cunningham, her tenant, for a final walkthrough. When the victim entered the apartment, Cunningham locked the door and Williams threatened to kill her when she tried to call 911. Williams then demanded cash and the password to her phone so that they could access her financial accounts. They secured her to a chair with duct tape, but she broke free and was able to escape, even though Cunningham and Williams ripped off her shirt and tore out clumps of her hair trying to prevent her from leaving. Two days later, police arrested the couple. Williams had the .38-caliber revolver Cunningham purchased and she had a box of ammunition.

    Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on September 24 and Cunningham on September 30. The kidnapping and robbery charges each carry a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison. The felon in possession and transfer of a firearm charge each carry a penalty of up to 15 years. The false statement charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pair Admit Attempted Armed Kidnapping and Robbery of Apartment Property Manager

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

    ST. LOUIS – Two people have admitted to attempting to kidnap and rob a St. Louis apartment property manager at gunpoint in 2024, as well as other gun crimes.

    Emma M. Cunningham, 32, pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court to attempted kidnapping, transfer of a firearm to a convicted felon and making a false statement in connection with the purchase of a firearm.

    Jervonz L. Williams, 49, pleaded guilty on June 23 to attempted kidnapping, robbery and possession of a firearm by a felon.

    Both admitted that on Feb. 20, 2024, Cunningham bought a handgun for Williams, her boyfriend and a convicted felon who is thus barred from possessing firearms. Cunningham lied on Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Form 4473 when she claimed she was buying the gun for herself and when she denied being an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

    Williams admitted using the gun to threaten others, including one of Cunningham’s neighbors. He also admitted using it to rob a drug dealer of $17, a gun and cocaine base in late June of 2024. Williams struck the dealer on the head with the revolver multiple times during the robbery.

    Williams and Cunningham used that gun again on Aug. 5, 2024, in a failed bid to kidnap an apartment property manager in St. Louis. The property manager was meeting Cunningham, her tenant, for a final walkthrough. When the victim entered the apartment, Cunningham locked the door and Williams threatened to kill her when she tried to call 911. Williams then demanded cash and the password to her phone so that they could access her financial accounts. They secured her to a chair with duct tape, but she broke free and was able to escape, even though Cunningham and Williams ripped off her shirt and tore out clumps of her hair trying to prevent her from leaving. Two days later, police arrested the couple. Williams had the .38-caliber revolver Cunningham purchased and she had a box of ammunition.

    Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on September 24 and Cunningham on September 30. The kidnapping and robbery charges each carry a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison. The felon in possession and transfer of a firearm charge each carry a penalty of up to 15 years. The false statement charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Iran Egypt Foreign Ministers hold telephone conversation


    Download logo

    Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Badr Abdelatty, the Foreign Minister of Egypt, held a telephone conversation on Monday, to discuss the latest regional developments following the cessation of the Zionist regime’s military aggression against Iran.

    In the conversation, Araghchi pointed to the widespread condemnation of the Zionist regime’s aggression against Iran by the international community—especially Islamic countries and key regional organizations.

    He criticized the failure of two responsible international bodies, namely the UN Security Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency, to condemn the attacks, and emphasized the Islamic Republic of Iran’s firm pursuit of identifying the aggressor and obtaining reparations.

    The Egyptian Foreign Minister welcomed the end of the Zionist regime’s aggression and stressed his country’s continued efforts to help de-escalate tensions in the region, including efforts to establish a ceasefire in Gaza.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Islamic Republic of Iran.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Baltimore investigation leads to decade-long prison sentence for Prince George’s County man convicted of drug conspiracy

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — An investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement led to the sentencing of Amos Oluremi Nureni, 43, to 10 years in prison followed by four years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    “This sentence sends a clear message: Those who traffic fentanyl, a deadly drug fueling our nation’s overdose crisis, will be held accountable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Baltimore acting Special Agent in Charge Evan Campanella. “In Maryland, we are seeing the devastating impact of fentanyl on our communities every day. Through our strong partnerships with the DEA and the U.S. attorney’s office, HSI will continue to pursue and dismantle the criminal networks responsible for pushing this poison into our neighborhoods. The sentencing of Amos Oluremi Nureni is a direct result of that commitment.”

    In September 2023, HSI and the DEA began investigating Nureni in connection with suspected fentanyl trafficking. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted two controlled purchases in which Nureni sold an undercover officer approximately 400 to 500 pills.

    The pills were blue in color and imprinted with “M30” — mimicking the markings on legitimate pills from a manufacturer containing oxycodone hydrochloride. As confirmed by laboratory analysis, the blue “M30” pills contained fentanyl. In total, Nureni sold approximately 866 fentanyl pills — or nearly 100 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl — to the undercover officer.

    Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Nureni’s Laurel residence March 27, 2024. During the search, law enforcement found a bag containing approximately 10.48 grams (98 pills) of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and a silver Taurus pistol with an obliterated number in Nureni’s safe. The pistol was loaded with a 9mm round of ammunition in the chamber and a magazine containing six rounds of 9mm ammunition.

    Additionally, law enforcement found a large silver and red hydraulic press; a small silver hydraulic press; a digital scale with white powder residue; and several bags containing approximately 6.44 grams (61 pills) of fentanyl, approximately 6.25 grams of cocaine base, approximately 0.859 grams of cocaine, approximately 3.04 grams of cocaine, approximately 3.02 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 1.478 grams of dipentylone in Nureni’s residence.

    Campanella, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Kelly O. Hayes and DEA Washington Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian announced the sentence.

    Members of the public with information about criminal activity should contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423).

    Learn more about HSI Baltimore’s mission to increase public safety in our Maryland communities on X at @HSIBaltimore.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five ways to avoid illness like the Lionesses

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Samantha Abbott, Doctoral Researcher, Department of Sport Science, Nottingham Trent University

    England’s Beth Mead cheering on podium after win v Germany in the Women European Championship Final 2022 photographyjp/Shutterstock

    Think back to the last time you had a cold or the flu. Now imagine stepping onto the pitch for a European Cup final, while battling through those symptoms. For elite athletes, illness can strike at the worst possible time – and it could hit women harder.

    Research suggests that female athletes are more susceptible to cold and flu-like illnesses than their male counterparts. For England women’s national football team, the Lionesses, this risk only increases before a major tournament like the Euros.

    Close contact, shared kit, disrupted sleep and travel all add up to a perfect storm for infection. But targeted nutritional strategies, alongside good sleep and hand hygiene, can offer a crucial line of defence.

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

    1. Fuel first: energy matters for immunity

    Before anything else, players need to eat enough. Energy supports both performance and immune function. In fact, female athletes who didn’t meet their energy needs in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics were four times more likely to report cold or flu symptoms.

    This is especially relevant in women’s football, where low energy and carbohydrate intake has been documented among professional players and recreational players too. Regular meals and snacks that include carbohydrate-rich foods like oats, bread and pasta, especially around training, are essential to meet energy demands and support immune health.

    2. Eat the rainbow

    Athletes are often encouraged to go beyond the public’s five-a-day fruit and veg target, aiming instead for eight to ten portions daily. Why? Because colourful plant foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds: all vital for immunity.



    Read more:
    We’re told to ‘eat a rainbow’ of fruit and vegetables. Here’s what each colour does in our body

    Each colour offers unique benefits. For instance, red fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Orange produce like carrots get their colour from beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A – a key vitamin for immune health.

    Eating a rainbow of colours means getting a wide range of nutrients.

    3. Vitamin C: powerful but timing matters

    Vitamin C has long been linked with reducing the risk and severity of cold and flu symptoms. One Cochrane review found that regular vitamin C intake halved the risk of illness in physically active people.

    However, more isn’t always better. Long-term use of high-dose vitamin C supplements could blunt training adaptations – the structural and functional changes the body undergoes in response to repeated exercise – because of its anti-inflammatory effects. That’s why vitamin C is most effective when used strategically, such as during high-risk periods like travel or intense competition. Good food sources include oranges, kiwis, blackcurrants, red and yellow peppers, broccoli and even potatoes.

    4. Gut health supports immune health

    Around 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, making gut health a key player in illness prevention. This is where probiotics (live bacteria) and prebiotics (which feed those bacteria) come in.

    Probiotics, found in fermented foods like kefir and kimchi or in supplement form, have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory illnesses in athletes. Prebiotics have similarly shown promise. In one study, a 24-week prebiotic intervention in elite rugby players reduced the duration of cold and flu symptoms by over two days.



    Read more:
    Gut microbiome: meet Lactobacillus acidophilus – the gut health superhero

    In the build-up to the Euros, including probiotic-rich foods in their diet or taking a daily prebiotic and probiotic supplement may help players stay healthy and return to training faster if they do get ill.

    5. Zinc lozenges: first aid for a sore throat

    If cold-like symptoms do appear, zinc lozenges can offer fast-acting relief. Zinc has antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When zinc is delivered as a lozenge, it acts directly in the throat, where many infections begin. Taken within 24 hours of symptoms starting, zinc lozenges could shorten illness duration by a third.

    But caution is key. Long-term use of high-dose zinc supplements can actually suppress immune function. Zinc lozenges should only be used short-term at symptom onset, not as a daily supplement.

    Staying match-ready during major tournaments means more than just tactical drills and fitness. Nutrition is a powerful ally in illness prevention, especially for women’s teams like the Lionesses. From fuelling adequately to supporting gut health and knowing when to supplement, these nutritional strategies can make the difference between sitting on the bench and bringing a trophy home.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Five ways to avoid illness like the Lionesses – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-to-avoid-illness-like-the-lionesses-259302

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Budd Votes for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act ToDeliver Historic Tax Cuts for North Carolina Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after voting in support of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, historic legislation that lowers taxes for families, makes America safer and more secure, and unleashes economic growth for the future:
    “I voted in favor of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act because the people of North Carolina deserve more of their hard-earned wages, a more secure border, a reinvigorated military, responsible spending reforms for government programs, and a thriving economy. My colleagues and I fought successfully to protect North Carolina’s tobacco growers to help them stay competitive with China. I am also grateful that this bill included my PELL Act, which will help Americans earn in-demand credentials for rewarding careers. I hope my colleagues in the House quickly get this bill on President Trump’s desk because Americans cannot afford the largest tax increase in our nation’s history,” said Sen. Budd. 
    Here’s How the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Directly Benefits North Carolina:
    Provides Unprecedented Tax Relief for Families
    This legislation helps Americans keep more money in their pockets by extending key provisions of President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Preventing the largest tax increase in American history will save the average North Carolinian $2,474 in 2026.
    Working families will receive significant savings with the increase and permanence of the child tax credit, expanded tax credits for paid leave, enhanced 529 savings accounts, and additional childcare access.
    This legislation lowers taxes for seniors relying on Social Security.
    Gives Workers the Tools They Need to Advance Their Careers
    Sen. Budd fought to have his PELL Act included in this legislation, a provision that expands Pell Grant eligibility for high-quality, short-term workforce programs. This would benefit individuals seeking to advance their careers without long-term debt while also providing American businesses with a broader, better-prepared talent pool ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
    Protects North Carolina Agriculture
    Sen. Budd successfully defended tobacco’s eligibility to receive the “duty drawback,” allowing tobacco manufacturers to receive reimbursement for the tariffs they pay on materials used to produce tobacco products that they ship to international markets. This will protect North Carolina growers and prevent the tobacco market from being flooded with cheaper, lower-quality products from China and Brazil.
    This legislation provides serious tax relief for North Carolina farmers by raising the death tax exemption, ensuring family farms can be passed down to future generations, rather than being broken up and sold.
    Unlocks Economic Growth & American Manufacturing
    This legislation will create a renaissance in American manufacturing by delivering full expensing for companies that build new factories and invest in equipment and machinery. This will help create new, good-paying jobs.
    By enhancing the small business deduction and making it permanent, small businesses will be able to hire more workers.
    Increasing deductions for small businesses’ equipment and property will quickly help businesses grow.
    Reduces Government Spending to Preserve & Protect Government Programs
    This legislation contains the first structural reforms to address waste, fraud, and abuse in key government programs like SNAP and Medicaid in over three decades. Slowing the rate of exponential cost increases will result in significant deficit savings and will preserve and protect these programs for future generations.
    Invests in America’s National Defense
    Sen. Budd helped secure funding to boost manufacturing capacity for the next generation of the F-15, the F-15EX, which will sustain the training mission at Seymour Johnson far into the future. 
    This legislation also includes significant funding to enhance America’s air superiority by preventing the retirement of the F-15E aircraft flying out of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. 
    America’s troops deserve a pay raise. This legislation increases pay and allowances while making improvements to housing, healthcare, childcare, and education.
    This legislation makes generational investments in our military readiness that will protect the American homeland and deter our adversaries by boosting America’s missile defense by building the “Golden Dome.”
    Sen. Budd worked to secure investments to improve housing at Fort Bragg and Seymour Johnson and funds for restoration and modernization at Camp Lejeune.
    This legislation creates new production lines to scale innovative, cost-effective munitions, so we are no longer shooting $4M missiles at $50,000 drones.
    This legislation makes the largest ever investment in the Coast Guard’s history, which will purchase more than 40 new helicopters and six new C-130J aircraft, which will be serviced at the Aviation Technical Training Center in Elizabeth City. The legislation also funds 17 new icebreakers to protect American interests and 21 new cutters to combat drug runners and human traffickers.
    Keeps America’s Border Secure
    While President Trump’s policies have resulted in a dramatic drop-off of illegal immigration, this legislation also boosts America’s border security by surging funding for 3,000 new Border Patrol agents and 10,000 new ICE agents. The One Big Beautiful Bill also increases funding to finish President Trump’s border wall.
    Ushers in Next-Generation Technologies
    This legislation includes funding for the transformational air traffic control modernization project underway at the FAA. This will quickly update aging and failing technologies to keep Americans safe in the sky.
    This legislation makes a historic amount of spectrum available for commercial use, which will create new jobs and unleash the next generation of wireless technology. This will ensure America remains the premier destination for innovation and help unleash a new area of advanced manufacturing. This will also make the internet faster & more dependable across the country through commercial success stories like 5G, 6G, wi-fi, and private networks using CBRS.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ten Members and Associates of Violent Car-Theft Ring Indicted on Racketeering, Carjacking, Robbery, and Firearm Charges

    Source: US State of California

    A superseding indictment was unsealed today charging Montez Moore, 20, Duane Benson, 20, Aniya Sheperd, 20, Brandon Irons, 19, Allen Brown, 23, Markaveon Jackson, 19, Raynell Moore, 22, Lavatrice McCully-Collins, 24, Peontay Roddy, 21, and Noah Hornburg, 23 — all of St. Louis, Missouri — with crimes including racketeering conspiracy, carjacking, robbery, and firearm charges related to their participation in “the Strikers,” a violent, interstate stolen car ring.

    According to court documents, between September 2023 and March 2024, the Strikers engaged in car dealership burglaries, illegal interstate vehicle sales and thefts, shootings, carjacking, robbery, and other criminal acts throughout Missouri and Illinois.

    “As alleged, the Strikers enterprise stole approximately 50 vehicles and inflicted nearly $3 million in losses while carrying out a violent crime spree across Missouri and Illinois,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their reckless actions endangered communities and dealt a serious blow to local businesses. This kind of brazen, lawless conduct will not be tolerated, and the Justice Department is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to protect the public and hold those responsible fully accountable.”

    “Thanks to the Justice Department’s Violent Crime Initiative, we were able to expand an existing indictment to hold more members of the Strikers responsible for a litany of violent crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Drake for the Eastern District of Missouri. “As we said when we announced St. Louis’ inclusion in the VCI last year, we are targeting and dismantling the criminal organizations that are disproportionately driving violent crime in St. Louis.”

    “This was a violent, organized crime operation that spanned across state lines, left a trail of stolen vehicles and cost millions of dollars in losses,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case demonstrates the power of the RICO statute to dismantle interstate criminal enterprises and reflects the FBI’s unwavering commitment to pursuing those who use violence and intimidation to profit from crime.”

    In a single burglary, defendants and others burglarized a dealership in Cape Girardeau, Missouri and stole seven high-end vehicles worth approximately $855,000.

    To hide their identities during the burglaries, the defendants would wear gloves, dark clothing, and masks. In one incident, defendants Hornburg, Moore, and Irons led police on a high-speed chase, driving on a public street reaching speeds over 110 mph. In another incident, after police seized one of the stolen cars, defendants Shepard, Benson, and others broke into the police impound lot and stole the car back.     

    After stealing the vehicles, the defendants allegedly concealed their stolen nature or location by attaching stolen out-of-state dealer plates and covering or removing vehicle identification numbers. The stolen vehicles would then be used in other crimes or sold through social media advertising. The Strikers would often advertise a sales price at such a discount that prospective buyers should have suspected the vehicles were stolen. In one Instagram posting, defendants offered for sale a 2019 Infiniti q70 for $3000, a 2016 Mercedes Benz GLE 400 for $1500, and a 2014 BMW 528i for $2500.

    In one alleged carjacking and robbery, defendants Benson and Moore pulled up to a BP gas station in a stolen blue 2017 BMW 330i that had been taken from a dealership in Springfield, Illinois. They briefly waited for a lottery machine technician to walk out of the store and as captured on store surveillance, ambushed him at gunpoint, robbed him, and highjacked his white Silverado pickup.

    A screenshot showing a January 2024 robbery and carjacking in Cool Valley, Missouri

    If convicted, each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison for the racketeering conspiracy. Defendants Moore and Benson face up to an additional 30 years in prison if convicted of carjacking, robbery and use of a firearm in connection thereof. Defendant Aniya Shephard faces up to an additional 10 years in prison if convicted of possessing a machinegun.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Louis County Police Department are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Jared A. Hernandez of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nino Przulj for the Eastern District of Missouri are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative in St. Louis conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Missouri and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and their associates in St. Louis.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Possession of Firearm and Violating Conditions of Supervised Release

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 65 months of prison on his conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm and violating the conditions of his supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Raymond Young, 23, on June 27, 2025.

    According to information presented to the Court, on August 7, 2024, Glassport patrol officers stopped Young in a vehicle he was driving without a license. In preparation for towing Young’s vehicle, officers observed a firearm in the vehicle and attempted to remove Young, who then shifted the vehicle into gear and sped off, running over one officer’s feet and nearly striking another officer. Young’s vehicle came to a stop after hitting a parked vehicle. Young exited the vehicle and attempted to flee the scene on foot, but was apprehended by police.

    In the defendant’s flight path, the officers recovered a Glock pistol with an extended magazine loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition and one round in the chamber. The firearm had been reported as stolen. Young is precluded under federal law from possessing a firearm because he was previously convicted of a felony for possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Young was still on federal supervised release for that offense when he was arrested by the Glassport Police on August 7, 2024.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Glassport Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Young.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PENSACOLA MAN INCARCERATED FOR NARCOTICS TRAFFICKING & FIREARM POSSESSION

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

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Marcus Devon Rayford, 42, of Pensacola, Florida was sentenced to 60 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and cocaine, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the substantial efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate, arrest, and help bring this drug trafficker to justice. These offenses are not victimless crimes; the victims are the members of our community who experience the addiction and violence that too often follows from drug traffickers flooding our streets with this poison. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi promised to Take Back America with the aggressive pursuit of drug traffickers victimizing our communities, and that is exactly what my office will continue to do.”

    In January 2024, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives initiated a criminal investigation into an armed drug trafficking organization in Pensacola, Florida. The investigation revealed that Marcus Rayford was a key member within the organization with law enforcement observing him distributing firearms and narcotics on numerous occasions.  In December 2024, state and federal law enforcement executed a search warrant at Marcus Rayford’s residence and located five firearms, cocaine base, cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, and heroin. 

    These sentences were the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Escambia County Sherriff’s Office, Pensacola Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) 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).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ten Members and Associates of Violent Car-Theft Ring Indicted on Racketeering, Carjacking, Robbery, and Firearm Charges

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A superseding indictment was unsealed today charging Montez Moore, 20, Duane Benson, 20, Aniya Sheperd, 20, Brandon Irons, 19, Allen Brown, 23, Markaveon Jackson, 19, Raynell Moore, 22, Lavatrice McCully-Collins, 24, Peontay Roddy, 21, and Noah Hornburg, 23 — all of St. Louis, Missouri — with crimes including racketeering conspiracy, carjacking, robbery, and firearm charges related to their participation in “the Strikers,” a violent, interstate stolen car ring.

    According to court documents, between September 2023 and March 2024, the Strikers engaged in car dealership burglaries, illegal interstate vehicle sales and thefts, shootings, carjacking, robbery, and other criminal acts throughout Missouri and Illinois.

    “As alleged, the Strikers enterprise stole approximately 50 vehicles and inflicted nearly $3 million in losses while carrying out a violent crime spree across Missouri and Illinois,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their reckless actions endangered communities and dealt a serious blow to local businesses. This kind of brazen, lawless conduct will not be tolerated, and the Justice Department is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to protect the public and hold those responsible fully accountable.”

    “Thanks to the Justice Department’s Violent Crime Initiative, we were able to expand an existing indictment to hold more members of the Strikers responsible for a litany of violent crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Drake for the Eastern District of Missouri. “As we said when we announced St. Louis’ inclusion in the VCI last year, we are targeting and dismantling the criminal organizations that are disproportionately driving violent crime in St. Louis.”

    “This was a violent, organized crime operation that spanned across state lines, left a trail of stolen vehicles and cost millions of dollars in losses,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case demonstrates the power of the RICO statute to dismantle interstate criminal enterprises and reflects the FBI’s unwavering commitment to pursuing those who use violence and intimidation to profit from crime.”

    In a single burglary, defendants and others burglarized a dealership in Cape Girardeau, Missouri and stole seven high-end vehicles worth approximately $855,000.

    To hide their identities during the burglaries, the defendants would wear gloves, dark clothing, and masks. In one incident, defendants Hornburg, Moore, and Irons led police on a high-speed chase, driving on a public street reaching speeds over 110 mph. In another incident, after police seized one of the stolen cars, defendants Shepard, Benson, and others broke into the police impound lot and stole the car back.     

    After stealing the vehicles, the defendants allegedly concealed their stolen nature or location by attaching stolen out-of-state dealer plates and covering or removing vehicle identification numbers. The stolen vehicles would then be used in other crimes or sold through social media advertising. The Strikers would often advertise a sales price at such a discount that prospective buyers should have suspected the vehicles were stolen. In one Instagram posting, defendants offered for sale a 2019 Infiniti q70 for $3000, a 2016 Mercedes Benz GLE 400 for $1500, and a 2014 BMW 528i for $2500.

    In one alleged carjacking and robbery, defendants Benson and Moore pulled up to a BP gas station in a stolen blue 2017 BMW 330i that had been taken from a dealership in Springfield, Illinois. They briefly waited for a lottery machine technician to walk out of the store and as captured on store surveillance, ambushed him at gunpoint, robbed him, and highjacked his white Silverado pickup.

    A screenshot showing a January 2024 robbery and carjacking in Cool Valley, Missouri

    If convicted, each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison for the racketeering conspiracy. Defendants Moore and Benson face up to an additional 30 years in prison if convicted of carjacking, robbery and use of a firearm in connection thereof. Defendant Aniya Shephard faces up to an additional 10 years in prison if convicted of possessing a machinegun.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Louis County Police Department are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Jared A. Hernandez of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nino Przulj for the Eastern District of Missouri are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative in St. Louis conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Missouri and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and their associates in St. Louis.

    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 USA: USGS Coastal Storm Monitoring Data Inform Department of Defense Infrastructure Risk Assessments

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS) makes detailed predictions of storm-induced coastal flooding, erosion, and cliff failures over large geographic scales. CoSMoS was developed for hindcast studies, operational applications and future climate scenarios to provide emergency responders and coastal planners with critical storm-hazards information that can be used to increase public safety…

    Learn More

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Georgia Men Plead Guilty to Federal Drug Crimes

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

    HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Today, Reginald Bernard Daniely Jr., also known as “Yo,” 34, and Jacquis Christopher Moody, also known as “Jo,” 30, both of Macon, Georgia, each pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and cocaine base, also known as “crack.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 20, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a Huntington apartment where Daniely and Moody had been staying. Officers seized approximately 13.814 grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, approximately 38.827 grams of crack, and two firearms during the search. As part of their guilty pleas, Daniely and Moody each admitted to possessing the seized controlled substances. Daniely and Moody each further admitted to possessing the two seized firearms.

    Daniely and Moody are scheduled to be sentenced on October 14, 2025, and each faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department.

    United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-17.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colorado Man Conspiring to Distribute Meth and Fentanyl in Iowa Pleads Guilty in Federal Court

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

    A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty June 27, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Ryan Miller, 40, originally from Colorado, but most recently residing in Pilot Mound, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.  Miller was previously convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in 2017, this conviction prohibits him from possessing a firearm. 

    At the plea hearing, Miller admitted that from January 2024 through April 27, 2024, he and others conspired to distribute at least a half pound of methamphetamine and more than 1700 pills of fentanyl.  On April 21, 2024, Miller, along with two others were headed to Colorado to pick up more methamphetamine and to sell fentanyl pills.  They attempted to elude law enforcement in a high-speed vehicle chase during which Miller threw two pop cans containing fentanyl pills from the vehicle.  Miller’s two co-defendants made “false” 911 calls to law enforcement in an attempt to distract law enforcement and avoid capture.  Later the same date, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Miller’s residence and seized a small amount of methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms, marijuana, and a loaded .22 caliber Beretta handgun.

    Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Miller remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Miller faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $8,250,000 fine, and at least eight years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Ida and Sac County Sheriff’s Offices, the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Iowa DCI Laboratory  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-4042.  Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Hosts Roundtable With Young New Yorkers Impacted by Gun Violence

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Firearms are Leading Cause of Death for America’s Youth 

     

    More Than 17,000 Children and Teenagers Shot Each Year, 4,000 Will Die 

     

    Pictures and Video Available Here 

    NEW YORK, N.Y. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today hosted a roundtable with seven young people whose lives and communities have been impacted by gun violence and who have become passionate advocates for change. The participants shared their experiences with gun violence in New York City and discussed the policies they hope to see championed in the fight to end gun violence.  

    “The gun violence epidemic is uniquely American and entirely preventable with commonsense gun regulations and resourced community-based prevention and intervention organizations,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “The brave young people who shared their stories with me today can help us tackle the root causes of this epidemic. While Trump and the GOP continue to roll back gun safety regulations and grants, we must aggressively push to invest in the grassroots efforts already making a difference on the ground.” 

    Roundtable participants joined Congressman Goldman to discuss the toll of gun violence in New York City, sharing both their own personal experiences as well as those of their communities. The conversation also highlighted how young advocates want their elected officials to take stronger action– by investing in community resources and enacting commonsense gun safety legislation. 

    Gun violence is the leading cause of death for American youth. More than 17,000 children are shot each year, with over 4,000 young Americans dying tragic and preventable deaths.  Communities of color are particularly impacted by gun violence. Black children and teens are 20 times more likely to die in a gun-related homicide than their white peers.  

    Young people exposed to gun violence often suffer long-lasting physical, psychological, and emotional trauma. These experiences increase the risk of substance abuse, mental health disorders, and even the perpetuation of violent behavior, creating a tragic cycle of violence that affects future generations. The economic toll of these cycles is staggering, with youth violence costing an estimated $122 billion each year in medical expenses, lost employment opportunities, and diminished quality of life due to injury. 

    Evidence-based, community-driven programs have had great success in curbing violence at the local level. For example, Chicago’s Youth Violence Prevention Center reduced local homicides by 17% in one year, even as the city’s overall homicide rate increased. 

    As a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, Congressman Goldman has been a leading advocate in the fight against gun violence.  

    This month, Congressman Goldman jointly introduced the ‘Firearm Destruction Licensure Act’ alongside Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA). This legislation would close a gun loophole that is allowing firearms designated for destruction to be sold back into American communities and potentially into the hands of bad actors. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wasserman Schultz on Trump’s Tour of DeSantis Everglades Internment Camp

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    DeSantis’ internment camp puts decades of massive restoration and billions of dollars in Everglades investments at risk. It desecrates the tribal lands it sits upon and wastes hundreds of millions of state funding at a grossly inflated cost.

    Washington DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) released the following statement on President Trump’s planned tour of the costly Gov. DeSantis Everglades prison camp for immigrants:

    “DeSantis’ internment camp puts decades of massive restoration and billions of dollars in Everglades investments at risk. It desecrates the tribal lands it sits upon and wastes hundreds of millions of state funding at a grossly inflated cost. When hurricanes bear down on these flimsy structures at a sacred, environmentally sensitive location, it will either produce costly evacuation boondoggles, or grisly mass casualties. With two million Floridians about to lose health care, Trump and Republicans badly need this wasteful, dangerous, mass misery distraction.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Perry Homes I in Buffalo Welcomes First Residents

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that Phase I of Perry Homes in Buffalo’s First Ward has welcomed its first residents. When complete, Phase I will consist of 405 affordable apartments in 27 newly constructed buildings, replacing the dilapidated Commodore Perry Homes public housing development and transforming it into quality, modern, all-electric affordable homes for families. In the past five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has created or preserved more than 12,000 affordable homes in Erie County. Perry Homes continues this effort and is part of Governor Hochul’s five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan, which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.

    “It is an honor to welcome the first residents of the new Perry Homes to a place where they can live comfortably and affordably with access to all of the things that make Buffalo and this First Ward neighborhood so special,” Governor Hochul said. “This is a huge milestone as this development begins to take shape and open its doors. This long-anticipated development that replaces an unfortunate symbol of decline is now a symbol of pride and will not only increase the supply of quality housing in Buffalo, but provide countless opportunities for families, businesses, and the entire city to grow and thrive.”

    Perry Homes I is the first phase of a multi-phase transformation plan and involves the redevelopment of an 18-acre portion of the existing public housing development site. Once complete, the new Perry Homes will include 405 high-quality apartments, all of which will be affordable to households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the Area Median Income. Of the total units, 284 will be covered under a Section 8 Project-Based Housing Assistance Payment contract administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Multifamily Housing.

    The redevelopment will also feature comprehensive on-site amenities, including a centrally-located property management office, maintenance suite, mail and package rooms, two community rooms with a kitchenette, three fitness centers, shared laundry on each floor, and bicycle storage.

    Residents will be provided free broadband Internet service and Wi-Fi, and they will also enjoy access to green space and outdoor amenities, such as four playgrounds, each designed to maximize play for children ages 2-12; multiple tree groves; rain gardens to support stormwater management practices; and two outdoor plazas with picnic tables, card tables, benches, and room for gathering and programming.

    On-site surface parking, including 30 electric vehicle charging stations, will be accessible across the site for residential tenant use, commercial visitors, and management staff.

    Perry Homes I is designed to be a highly efficient, all-electric project meeting Enterprise Green Communities 2020 Plus certification requirements and the U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home Version 1 program. As part of New York State’s Homes and Community Renewal Clean Energy Initiative, the new buildings will have high performance windows, enhanced insulation, a combination of high efficiency building mounted LED lighting to promote safety, and solar panels on each of the three mid-rise buildings. Every apartment will be equipped with inverter-driven air source heat pumps for air conditioning and heating and electric hot water heaters, ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers, refrigerators, washers and dryers, and low-flow plumbing fixtures.

    Residents will have easy access to the New York Thruway via I-190 at Louisiana Street and Perry Street. Bus access, which is available along South Park Avenue and Perry Street, provides quick access to downtown and places of employment. There are numerous shopping destinations and healthcare facilities nearby, as well as adult and childcare, a public library, and a community center.

    The development team is Pennrose and Bridges Development, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation affiliate of the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority. The Perry Homes redevelopment will use the Federal Housing and Urban Development RAD program to convert the vacant public housing units to Project-Based Rental Assistance.

    Financing for the $254 million development includes $21.9 million in tax-exempt bonds, $115.7 million in State and Federal Low Income Tax Credits, and $81 million in subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). Empire State Development provided $5 million in Restore New York funding. Additional funds include: $6 million in BMHA Capital Fund Program; $1.1 million in Buffalo Community Development Block Grants; $5 million in RAD Rehab Assistance Payments; and $1.6 million in Federal 45L tax credits. The all-electric development received $1.4 million through HCR’s Clean Energy Initiative program, created in partnership with NYSERDA.

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda

    Governor Hochul is dedicated to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives, capital funding, and new protections for renters and homeowners. Building on this commitment, the FY26 Enacted Budget includes more than $1.5 billion in new State funding for housing, a Housing Access Voucher pilot program, and new policies to improve affordability for tenants and homebuyers. These measures complement the Governor’s five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan, included in the FY23 Enacted Budget, to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 60,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.

    The FY25 and FY26 Enacted Budgets also strengthened the Governor’s Pro-Housing Community Program — which allows certified localities exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding. Currently, more than 300 communities have received Pro Housing certification, including the city of Buffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New river legacy project connecting York with water, nature and climate resilience

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 1 July 2025

    Ousewem has launched a new flagship initiative in York, designed to reconnect residents with their rivers and neighbourhoods, whilst inspiring action on flood resilience and climate change.

    Building on the success of natural flood management (NFM) projects across the Swale, Ure, Nidd and Upper Ouse catchments, this new riverside route will tell the story of how communities, landscapes and local leadership are coming together to shape a more climate-resilient future.

    The project, will be co-designed with residents, schools and stakeholders, is being delivered in partnership with Innovate Educate -a creative consultancy known for embedding research, participation and place-based learning into every stage of their work.

    Councillor Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency at City of York Council, added:

    “This project shows our commitment to working with York communities in visible and lasting ways.

    “By telling the story of our rivers and the actions being taken to reduce flooding, we are helping people understand the value of nature-based solutions – not just in the countryside but here in the heart of the city.”

    Karen Merrifield, Director of Innovate Educate, said:

    “We believe creativity is a core part of climate resilience -not an afterthought.

    “This project is about more than signage or information, it is about co-creating something that belongs to York’s communities. From schoolchildren to heritage professionals, everyone has a part to play in imagining a future shaped by care, connection and the river itself.”

    The route will feature creative elements and educational resources, helping residents and visitors of all ages explore how nature-based solutions, land use and local action are shaping a safer, greener future for York. It will also act as a platform for partnerships that connect climate resilience with the region’s rich cultural assets – from libraries and archives to heritage schools and local artists.

    Opportunities for sponsorship may also be explored, supporting further investment in climate resilience and nature recovery across York and North Yorkshire. Just as rivers connect places upstream and downstream, this project links people across the catchment – from rural landowners to city residents – in a shared effort to live better with water.

    Early engagement will begin this summer, with schools, community groups and partners invited to shape how the story of York’s rivers is shared.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham Steps Up for ASB Awareness Week to Support Victims and Safer Communities

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Birmingham City Council is backing the UK-wide campaign for Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Awareness Week 2025, taking place from 30 June to 6 July.

    The campaign aims to raise awareness of the impact of ASB, support victims, and promote stronger, safer neighbourhoods for all.

    The week, led by community safety organisation Resolve, is supported by the UK Government, Local Government Association, police and fire services, housing providers, and community partners across the country.

    As part of the city’s contribution to this year’s campaign, Birmingham City Council is launching a series of actions under the theme #MakingCommunitiesSafer, with a strong focus on:

    • Ensuring guaranteed support for victims of ASB
    • Campaigning to reduce delays in the justice system
    • Supporting a national Information Sharing Agreement so services can act more quickly
    • Improving access to reporting tools so residents can raise concerns with ease.

    Councillor Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Community Safety at Birmingham City Council, said:

    “Anti-social behaviour damages lives. It creates fear, drives people from their homes, and weakens the very fabric of our communities.

    “This week is a vital opportunity to shine a light on the challenges we face and the progress we’re making. In Birmingham, we are committed to ensuring every victim gets the support they need, that services are better connected, and that everyone has a voice in making their neighbourhood safer.”

    The Council is working closely with West Midlands Police, housing partners, youth services, and local communities to tackle ASB through prevention, early intervention, and enforcement where needed. Some of these include, hosting local drop-in events with neighbourhood officers, delivering awareness sessions in schools and youth hubs, sharing how to report ASB, and highlighting community champions and resident-led solutions.

    For more information about ASB Awareness Week – visit the Birmingham Community Safety Partnership website.

    To report anti-social behaviour, click here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Trump to discuss Gaza, Iran with Netanyahu at Monday meeting

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he will discuss the situations in Gaza and Iran when he meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House next week, adding that he hopes to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza soon.

    Trump plans to meet Netanyahu on Monday. A senior Israeli official, Ron Dermer, has been in Washington this week holding talks ahead of the meeting.

    Trump and Netanyahu worked together on a military operation against Iran’s nuclear sites in June that culminated with American B-2 bombing raids. Trump said the strikes “obliterated” Tehran’s nuclear capability, although there remains a debate about the degree of damage done to the Iranian nuclear program.

    Trump said he is hopeful that a ceasefire-for-hostages agreement can be achieved next week between Israel and Iran-backed Hamas militants in Gaza.

    “We hope it’s going to happen. And we’re looking forward to it happening sometime next week,” he told reporters as he departed the White House for a day trip to Florida. “We want to get the hostages out.”

    Hamas has said it is willing to free remaining hostages in Gaza under any deal to end the war, while Israel says it can only end if Hamas is disarmed and dismantled. Hamas refuses to lay down its arms.

    The war in Gaza was triggered when Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

    Gaza’s health ministry says Israel’s post-Oct. 7 military assault has killed over 56,000 Palestinians. The assault has also caused a hunger crisis, internally displaced Gaza’s entire population and prompted accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court. Israel denies the accusations.

    A White House official, asked about Dermer’s scheduled meetings and agenda, said: “Ron Dermer visits the White House regularly.”

    “This will continue as President Trump pursues a path to peace for Israel and Gaza,” the official added. The official did not immediately identify the Trump aides Dermer would see during his visit.

    -REUTERS

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Canada Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement celebrating Canada Day:

    “Today, millions of people across our vast, beautiful land – from Bonavista to Vancouver Island, from the Arctic Circle to the Great Lakes waters – are celebrating Canada Day.

    “People will gather to enjoy food and fireworks, as well as parties and parades. This is a wonderful time for communities to gather and celebrate our peaceful and democratic country.

    “This Canada Day is unlike any other in recent memory, as we face unprecedented economic and political threats. Those dangers have sharpened our appreciation for what we have accomplished in building the Canada we love, including such monumental achievements as a public health-care system. To be Canadian is to be proud of the way we take care of each other.

    “The challenges we face in improving our country are many. We do so confident that we will find solutions by working together. Even as we debate our differences with vigour, we keep in mind far more unites us than divides us.

    “The Canada of today is the result of a long history of compromise and negotiation, reflecting the Canadian values of fairness, generosity and humility. We should be proud of the role Canada has played in the world. We have answered the call to combat tyranny, and have also been ardent peacekeepers in troubled lands. We have welcomed waves of newcomers throughout our history, and we are proud today to be able to offer sanctuary to people from war-torn countries who seek peace and security.

    “The pride we feel for our country does not mean we ignore our own troubled and complicated history. Canada Day offers an opportunity for reflection on the impact of colonialism on generations of Indigenous Peoples. Our government is dedicated to addressing these matters in a spirit of reconciliation in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

    “The work of building a better Canada is never done, as nation building is an assignment without end. We will always seek to make a country that in every way is more peaceful, more prosperous and more democratic for ourselves, our families, our neighbours, our communities and for all who call this land home. An important part of that is our desire in British Columbia to build an economy that works for everyone.

    “Let’s take the opportunity this Canada Day to remind ourselves of what we have accomplished together. Happy Canada Day!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS Coastal Storm Monitoring Data Informs Department of Defense Infrastructure Risk Assessments

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS) makes detailed predictions of storm-induced coastal flooding, erosion, and cliff failures over large geographic scales. CoSMoS was developed for hindcast studies, operational applications and future climate scenarios to provide emergency responders and coastal planners with critical storm-hazards information that can be used to increase public safety…

    Learn More

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fortinet Recognized as the Overall Leader for the Third Time in a Row in the Westlands Advisory IT/OT Network Protection Platform Navigator 2025™ Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    News Summary

    Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, today announced that Westlands Advisory, a leading OT security industry analysis and strategy firm, has once again named Fortinet as the Overall Leader in the IT/OT Network Protection Platform Navigator 2025 report, earning the top ranking in both strategic direction and capability for IT/OT.

    Since its inception and for the third time in a row, the latest report from Westlands Advisory highlights Fortinet’s extensive OT network security experience, noting that “OT cybersecurity has been a key strategic pillar” for Fortinet, “resulting in significant innovation, product expansion, growing alliances, and increasing market share.”

    “For more than 20 years, organizations have trusted Fortinet to protect operational technology environments and ensure compliance with the evolving needs of OT infrastructures. Fortinet uniquely delivers a comprehensive OT security platform, built from the ground up with the industry’s most advanced threat detection and protection capabilities to enable converged IT/OT infrastructure,” said Nirav Shah, Senior Vice President, Products and Solutions at Fortinet. “Our latest recognition from Westlands Advisory reflects the deep and growing trust our customers, partners, and the broader OT security community place in Fortinet.”

    Delivering Secure IT/OT Network Convergence

    The Fortinet OT Security Platform is unique in its ability to provide end-to-end network segmentation, OT asset and network visibility, network segmentation and microsegmentation, and advanced threat protection in a unified platform that is centrally managed and automated. With deep integration into the Fortinet Security Fabric, the OT Security Platform improves cyber resiliency and production reliability, lowers time to deployment, and simplifies operations to further support the protection of critical infrastructure and OT infrastructure from evolving cyberthreats.

    The Westlands Advisory report addresses several key benefits of the Fortinet OT Security Platform for customers, including:

    • Broad, integrated, high-performance security solutions and services across IT and OT infrastructures: Westlands Advisory highlights Fortinet’s delivery of a single platform across IT and OT to help reduce cyber risks across the entire organization. The OT Security Platform, an extension of the Fortinet Security Fabric, uniquely provides the widest and deepest breadth of networking and cybersecurity solutions in the market. These solutions provide near-real-time protection through the company’s AI-driven OT Security Service, powered by FortiGuard Labs, that enables OT-specific application- and protocol-based security, as well as virtual patching capabilities to shield unpatched OT assets from exploitation. As Westlands Advisory notes, the Fortinet OT Security Platform consists of over 20 products across three solution pillars: Secure Networking, Unified SASE, and Security Operations. The report goes on to say: “In addition, the technology integration offered through the OT Security Platform extends beyond Fortinet solutions to third-party technologies, delivering a comprehensive and centralized OT service.”
    • Cutting-edge innovation to solve urgent OT security use cases: The Fortinet OT Security Platform is also recognized by Westlands Advisory for its cutting-edge advancements and innovations that help customers solve many urgent and real OT use cases, such as asset discovery and management; network protection and segmentation; endpoint protection; secure remote access; and more. According to Westlands Advisory, “Fortinet offers the broadest range of industrial-grade security hardware solutions, including FortiGate Rugged firewalls and FortiSwitch industrial switches… Fortinet’s product roadmap is highly responsive to customer requirements and industry standards and has resulted in a number of industry awards, including the 2024 Red Dot Product Design Award [FortiGate Rugged 70G with Dual 5G Modems].” Additional recognitions include the Control Engineering 2024 Silver Product of the Year Award for FortiGate Rugged 70F, and the 2025 Gold Product of the Year Award for FortiGate Rugged 70G-5G-DUAL. The Westlands report also notes that the company’s OT security innovation extends to AI and ML, “where the focus has been on detections, understanding risk, and improving security operations.”
    • High-performance, energy-efficient, cost-effective solutions compared to other OT security solutions: Fortinet’s custom-built ASIC technology, embedded in FortiGate appliances, offers unmatched network security performance and reliability, which is critical in OT environments that run 24×7 or cannot suffer downtime. These custom ASICs, which include a networking processor and security processor, are integrated with the FortiOS operating system, allowing Fortinet to provide a comprehensive, high-performance networking and security solution that addresses the demands of modern network environments.

    With the recognition of the Fortinet OT Security Platform, the Westlands report underscores the importance of IT/OT convergence and reaffirms that organizations don’t have to choose between performance and protection.

    Additional Resources

    About Fortinet
    Fortinet (Nasdaq: FTNT) is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere our customers need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinet’s solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. Collaboration with esteemed organizations from both the public and private sectors, including Computer Emergency Response Teams (“CERTS”), government entities, and academia, is a fundamental aspect of Fortinet’s commitment to enhance cyber resilience globally. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinet’s elite threat intelligence and research organization, develops and utilizes leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs.

    Copyright © 2025 Fortinet, Inc. All rights reserved. The symbols ® and ™ denote respectively federally registered trademarks and common law trademarks of Fortinet, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. Fortinet’s trademarks include, but are not limited to, the following: Fortinet, the Fortinet logo, FortiGate, FortiOS, FortiGuard, FortiCare, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, FortiASIC, FortiClient, FortiCloud, FortiMail, FortiSandbox, FortiADC, FortiAI, FortiAIOps, FortiAgent, FortiAntenna, FortiAP, FortiAPCam, FortiAuthenticator, FortiCache, FortiCall, FortiCam, FortiCamera, FortiCarrier, FortiCASB, FortiCentral, FortiCNP, FortiConnect, FortiController, FortiConverter, FortiCSPM, FortiCWP, FortiDAST, FortiDB, FortiDDoS, FortiDeceptor, FortiDeploy, FortiDevSec, FortiDLP, FortiEdge, FortiEDR, FortiExplorer, FortiExtender, FortiFirewall, FortiFlex FortiFone, FortiGSLB, FortiGuest, FortiHypervisor, FortiInsight, FortiIsolator, FortiLAN, FortiLink, FortiMonitor, FortiNAC, FortiNDR, FortiPAM, FortiPenTest, FortiPhish, FortiPoint, FortiPolicy, FortiPortal, FortiPresence, FortiProxy, FortiRecon, FortiRecorder, FortiSASE, FortiScanner, FortiSDNConnector, FortiSIEM, FortiSMS, FortiSOAR, FortiSRA, FortiStack, FortiSwitch, FortiTester, FortiToken, FortiTrust, FortiVoice, FortiWAN, FortiWeb, FortiWiFi, FortiWLC, FortiWLM, FortiXDR and Lacework FortiCNAPP. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Fortinet has not independently verified statements or certifications herein attributed to third parties and Fortinet does not independently endorse such statements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, nothing herein constitutes a warranty, guarantee, contract, binding specification or other binding commitment by Fortinet or any indication of intent related to a binding commitment, and performance and other specification information herein may be unique to certain environments.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cold snap sweeps across Western and Northern Cape

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that a series of cold fronts are expected to affect the Western Cape and Northern Cape from late Thursday into Sunday.

    The weather conditions will lead to very cold, windy, and wet conditions, with daytime temperatures plunging to 10°C and below, and windy at 30 km/h in places over the western and central interior of the Western Cape and the southern parts of the Namakwa District IN Northern Cape.

     “These conditions are likely to spread to the western escarpment of the Namawka as well as to the eastern interior of the Western Cape over the weekend. In addition, light snowfalls are possible over the mountain peaks of the Western Cape and southern parts of Namakwa.

    “The public and small stock farmers are advised to take the necessary precaution to ensure the safety and health of their animals during very cold, wet and windy days,” SAWS said on Tuesday.

    In addition, the western parts of the Western Cape will be hit by a series of cold fronts that will bring scattered to widespread showers and rain, from late Wednesday night into Sunday. 

    “The most significant cold front will reach the south-western Cape by Friday afternoon, when quick and heavy downpours are possible. 24-hour rainfall accumulations of 20-35 mm are likely over the south-western parts, reaching 50 mm over the mountainous region. 

    “Even though only 5-10 mm are possible on Saturday, another cold front making landfall early Sunday will mostly likely bring 10-20 mm over the south-western Cape. Therefore, rain-on-rain together with saturated soils will lead to minor impacts with a low likelihood of significant impacts to occur,” the weather service said.

    The weather service warned that the expected weather conditions will lead to flooding of roads, formal and informal settlements, which may lead to damage to property/infrastructure and danger to life due to fast flowing streams over low-lying bridges.

    Major disruption of traffic flow due to major roads being flooded and damaged could lead to increased travel time. Mudslides and rockfalls are also possible.

    Essential services such as water and electricity may also be affected. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing issues rainstorm alert

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

    The Beijing Meteorological Service issued a rainstorm alert at 4 p.m. Tuesday, warning of heavy rainfall across the city from Wednesday afternoon to Thursday morning.

    Torrential rain is expected in some areas, with isolated locations experiencing hourly precipitation exceeding 30 mm, the service said, adding that thunderstorms may accompany the rainfall.

    The capital has seen frequent downpours this week, with meteorologists predicting rain will remain a persistent feature over the coming days. Despite stable temperatures, high humidity levels will sustain noticeably sultry weather.

    Authorities urged the public to stay updated on forecasts, carry rain gear, and avoid sheltering near high-rise buildings or billboards. Drivers were advised to exercise caution on slippery roads and steer clear of flooded sections.

    MIL OSI China News –