NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI USA: Burn Ban Set to Expire Tonight, No Additional Order to Be Issued by Gov. Pillen

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen

    LINCOLN, NE – A burn ban from Governor Jim Pillen will be allowed to expire at midnight, as scheduled. The order was issued on May 9 and largely covers the central and western parts of the state. During that time, permits were allowed for irrigation districts to burn off vegetation in ditches.

    The state has been dealing with dry, and at times, windy conditions since last month. A wildfire in Plum Creek burned for about a week, killing 45 head of cattle and destroying a cabin. The fire, which resulted when a prescribed burn got out of control, consumed more than 7,000 acres. At one point, state resources were brought in to assist local crews, at a cost of $600,000 to aid.  

    “Nebraska has received the benefit of significant rain in the past few weeks, especially in areas where it has been needed most,” said Gov. Pillen. “In consultation with the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, I’m comfortable letting the ban lapse at this time.”

    Once the order expires tonight, there will be no active burn bans across the state. Still, Gov. Pillen urged Nebraskans to use caution with any open fires and observe all recommended guidance for managing controlled burns going forward.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 30 Transformational Projects Announced in the Capital Region

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 30 transformational projects for the Capital Region as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Thirteen projects were announced for Lake George, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; 11 projects were announced for Hoosick Falls, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and six projects were announced for Schuylerville, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, we are empowering local leaders, driving smart growth, and creating vibrant, resilient downtowns where people want to live, work, and visit. This is how we build a stronger New York — one community at a time,” Governor Hochul said. “These 30 transformative projects are a testament to our commitment to strengthening communities across the Capitol Region.”

    Town/Village of Lake George

    The Town and Village of Lake George’s vision focuses on improving the quality of life and sense of place for the Canada Street corridor and adjacent waterfront. The DRI projects will create a more vibrant and prosperous downtown, assist a growing population and enhance the “visitor experience.”

    The 13 Lake George DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Construct the Shepard Park Amphitheater ($1,500,000): Redesign and reconstruct the Shepard’s Park bandstand and amphitheater, restoring its status as a regional music and events destination. The scope includes necessary site-works, landscape accessibility improvements and facility upgrades such as performance space build-out, AV/lighting equipment and a designated basement storage space.
    • Winterize & Enhance The Lagoon and The Village Mall ($1,252,000): Upgrade, modernize and winterize the Village Mall including the Lagoon restaurant, by enclosing both ends and conducting extensive interior and facade renovation works. This would allow for year-round operation of 16 retail/commercial spaces.
    • Develop the Shepard’s Park Lakewalk & Build an Accessible Observation Deck ($2,300,000): Enhance an underutilized portion of the public Shepard’s Park beach through urban and landscape design enhancements, improved stormwater management practices and accessibility improvements. Create an accessible observation atop the public bathroom.
    • Re-inter Historic Remains at the LG Battlefield Park ($519,000): Implement the commemorative project at the Lake George Battlefield State Park, which features columbaria, educational signage, plaza space and memorials related to the over 40 remains discovered on Courtland Street in 2019.
    • Improve Accessibility at Caldwell Library ($433,000): Construct a 350 sq. ft. rear addition to the Caldwell Library, aimed at improving accessibility through the installation of a lift and reconfiguring the interior layout to enhance circulation. Includes ADA-compliant bathroom renovations and the reorganization of spaces to facilitate better navigation.
    • Enhance Music/Entertainment Productions in the DRI Area ($600,000): Acquire specialized music, audio-visual and lighting equipment to enhance year-round entertainment, product capacity and programming within the DRI Area.
    • Accessibility, Efficiency and Aesthetic Upgrades at the Old County Courthouse ($450,000): Rehabilitate the Old County Courthouse through a series of interventions, including: building an accessible ramp near the main entrance, replacing and/or rehabilitating windows and lighting, interior museum casework upgrades and a sculptural bateaux addition on the front lawn.
    • Create a Lake George Art & Canoe Trail ($375,000): Design, siting and installation of 18 uniquely painted canoes and paddles, as well as three murals throughout the DRI area, showcasing and cultivating regional talent while beautifying the area.
    • Renovate & Expand 267 Canada into a Mixed-Use Building for Students & Hospitality Workers ($266,000): Revitalize a deteriorating property into a mixed-use building with an upgraded restaurant and ADA accessible patio space on the ground floor, five fully furnished student or workforce housing units on the 2nd floor and parking lot improvements.
    • Create a Downtown Heritage Wayfinding Project ($350,000): Install dual-sided wayfinding signs throughout the downtown to aid navigation, highlight local points of interest and promote Lake George’s history. The project also includes the design and installation of two new Gateway signs for the Town and Village.
    • Enhance South Canada’s Streetscape through Pedestrian Oriented Design ($780,000): Enhance South Canada’s streetscape by improving pedestrian amenities and increasing safety features, while connecting to the Town Gateway. Upgrades include expanding accessible sidewalks, new benches, intersection improvements, stormwater management and new LED streetlights.
    • Expand the DT Circulator Trolley & Enhance Bus Stops ($275,000): Install up to six new bus shelters with bike racks and reconfigure the downtown Lake George Circulator Trolley to improve service and connectivity for residents, tourists and the workforce.
    • Establish a Small Projects Fund for Winterization & Building Improvements ($600,000): Establish a locally managed matching small project fund to undertake a range of smaller downtown projects such as facade enhancements, building renovation improvements to commercial or mixed-use spaces and winterization efforts.

    Village of Hoosick Falls

    The Village of Hoosick Falls’ vision focuses on creating safe, walkable and accessible corridors that will serve as transformative connectors among past and future public, private and non-profit projects. Connecting these projects will transform Hoosick Falls into a cohesive economic generator to grow the job and population base locally, with positive ripple effects for the Capital Region’s vision and strategies.

    The 11 Hoosick Falls NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Unlock the Full Potential of the HoosArt Center by Making the Wood Block Fully Accessibility ($850,000): Restore the Wood Block Building into a mixed-use building with commercial tenants on the first floor and a community center for creativity on the upper floors ideal for performing arts, public event space, poetry readings and workshops.
    • Revitalize the Commercial and Residential Spaces in the Saluzzo Building ($558,000): Revitalize the mixed-use building on Classic Street, renovating and upgrading the existing eight apartments and three commercial spaces while adding four additional apartments. A commercial kitchen will also be installed as an amenity to the commercial spaces.
    • Upgrade the Town Skating Rink to Expand Recreational Opportunities ($1,000,000): Upgrade the cooling systems and enclose the existing structure of the Town of Hoosick Skating Rink to expand recreation, generate revenue and accommodate regional hockey teams.
    • Develop the STAY ApARTments at 9-15 John Street ($470,000): Redevelop the top floor of the historic building on John Street into four residential units and improve the overall building’s energy efficiency, which already contains a pizza shop, art gallery and four popular short-term rentals.
    • Redevelop the Former Firehouse into a Restaurant ($209,000): Redevelop the old firehouse and adjacent vacant lot into a functional and inviting restaurant space with outdoor patio seating. The second floor will be transformed into an event space accommodating 80-120 people.
    • Rehabilitate 114 Church Street to Return Vacant Residential Units into Service ($300,000): Renovate the building at 114 Church Street to provide seven new apartment units for the Village. This process will include new roofing, framing and full apartment rehabilitation.
    • Enhance the Sand Bar Through Expanded Outdoor Dining and Volleyball Court Facilities ($112,000): Add a third outdoor volleyball court to the Sand Bar, as well as expand outdoor dining for the restaurant by constructing two new decks and replacing some fences and sidewalks.
    • Transform the Abandoned Warehouse at 1 Center Street into a Mixed-Used Building ($438,000): Rehabilitate and transform an abandoned warehouse at 1 Center Street into a mixed-use building with two (out of an eventual 18) residential rental units and three commercial spaces, including a fitness facility, brewery and woodworking shop.
    • Improve and Expand Pedestrian Infrastructure Downtown ($301,000): Improve pedestrian infrastructure in the Village by replacing sidewalks and curb ramps, adding lighting and new signage and partially reconfiguring lower Classic Street with a wider sidewalk and improved stormwater management.
    • Improve the Hoosic River Greenway Trail Connections ($190,000): Improve the Hoosic River Greenway Trail by unifying the disjointed parts, connecting it with other recreational assets, beautifying the area around it and marketing it to attract visitors.
    • Create a Game Store and Community Space at 72 Main Street ($72,000): Renovate the commercial space at 72 Main Street to create a game store and community-gathering space for all ages that can hold various events in collaboration with the senior center, school and youth center.

    Village of Schuylerville

    The Village of Schuylerville’s vision focuses on building upon previous investments and partnerships to increase housing opportunities that will attract more residents; offer new public park and event amenities; create more commercial tourist attractions and overnight lodging; and improve historic signage and wayfinding.

    The 6 Schuylerville NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Build a New Village Community Center ($2,248,000): Build a new community center to house the Schuylerville Youth Program and Olde Saratoga Seniors group, as well as serve as an event space for public and private events. The community center will include public restrooms, office space and a kitchen. The Canal Mosaic Landmark will also be installed in the exterior public space.
    • Reconnect the Old Champlain Canal under Ferry Street ($1,050,000): Build a clear span bridge (or large box culvert) with two lanes of traffic and a pedestrian and bike path over the Champlain Canal on Route 29, allowing water and small watercrafts to travel between the Old Champlain Canal and Turning Basin.
    • Construct a New Mixed-Use Building at the Hotel Schuyler Site ($750,000): Develop a new, three-story, mixed-use building that will provide space for up to three businesses and between 8 and 14 rental housing units. The building would be constructed on a vacant lot along Broad Street, contributing to the commercial corridor’s streetscape.
    • Renovate the Canal Square Building ($179,000): Renovate the existing building to expand commercial capacity, improve the exterior façade and pave the parking lot. Additional work will be done to reduce the impact of flooding.
    • Expand Kickstart Café ($187,000): Expand the interior of Kickstart Café to incorporate additional cooperative use garage space. These additions will require new foundation, exterior walls, relocation of the kitchen and bar area and an outdoor deck area for seating.
    • Enhance Signage and Wayfinding around the Village ($86,000): Improve signage and wayfinding within the Village, specifically for visitors, pedestrians, bicyclists and users of the Empire State Trail. The signage will also present historical information in Fort Hardy Park and promote various businesses within the main business district.

    In the FY2025 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for cities, towns and villages to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward. To date, more than 300 municipalities across the State have become certified. To further support localities that are doing their part to address the housing crisis, Governor Hochul secured $100 million in the FY2026 Enacted Budget to create a Pro-Housing Supply fund to assist certified Pro-Housing Communities with critical infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing, such as sewer and water infrastructure upgrades.

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.” 

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

    CREDC Co-Chairs Ruth Mahoney and Dr. Havidán Rodríguez said, “The 30 regionally informed and strategic DRI and NY Forward projects will make Lake George, Hoosick Falls and Schuylerville even more vibrant for residents and visitors alike. Whether it’s adding housing, increasing recreational opportunities, or creating spaces for more businesses to grow and thrive, the entire Capital Region will benefit from the vision these initiatives are supporting and making a reality, both now and for a sustainable future.”

    Assemblymember Scott Bendett said, “The allocation of $4.5 million for development, and redevelopment in the Village of Hoosick Falls is welcome news for residents who have gone through so much in recent years. This year already brought the good news of a new water supply to the village, and with 11 new, state-funded projects on the horizon, there is even more to look forward to. I appreciate the state taking notice of opportunities in our smaller municipalities, and taking action to see them through.”

    Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, “The Village of Schuylerville is on the rise! I applaud the vision of the Schuylerville Village Mayor and Trustees, and the community members who contributed to this plan to move the Village forward. With thanks to Governor Hochul for her leadership in supporting the re-investment in historic downtowns across the state.”

    Village of Lake George Mayor Ray Perry said, “We at the Village of Lake George and the entire Lake George community are ecstatic to see these projects move forward! We are extremely thankful to the Governor and her team to be able to improve upon the Lake George experience for our residents as well as our visitors! I’m happy to say that there are great things to come!”

    Town of Lake George Supervisor Vincent Crocitto said, “We would like to thank the state for believing in Lake George. This initiative represents a shared vision of revitalization that honors the unique character of Lake George while embracing innovation and economic opportunity, with the support of our town, village, county, local business partners and leadership from the state, we’re ready to make meaningful progress for our community.”

    Village of Hoosick Falls Mayor Dan Schuttig said, “The New York Forward program will provide an incredible, transformative opportunity for the Village of Hoosick Falls. I would like to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for leading the effort to revitalize upstate communities. I would also like to thank the local committee for their hard work putting together such incredible projects that will forever improve the lives of Village residents. This is the first step of many towards the revitalization of our beautiful village here on the Hoosic River!!”

    Village of Schuylerville Mayor Dan Carpenter said, “We are incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to the economic revitalization of small upstate communities like ours. This $4.5 million investment through the NY Forward program will allow Schuylerville to build on our historic charm and community spirit by creating new housing opportunities, enhancing our parks and public spaces, and expanding our commercial and cultural attractions. From the long-awaited Village Community Center to the reconnection of the Old Champlain Canal, these transformative projects will benefit residents and visitors alike. We are excited to get to work and bring these visions to life.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs Executive Order 25-24 Allowing Missourians Affected by Tornadoes and Severe Storms to Continue Receiving Prescribed Medications

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MAY 20, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-24 to further assist affected individuals whose prescriptions were lost or destroyed, whose records are not available, or whose original prescribing physician is unavailable, to be able to continue to receive prescribed medications.

    “To ensure the health and safety of those impacted by these recent devastating storms, we must ensure that Missourians are able to continue receiving prescribed medications in a timely manner,” Governor Kehoe said. “This executive order grants the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the State Board of Pharmacy discretionary authority to temporarily waive or suspend rules and regulations which will allow medical professionals to better assist those affected by storms. We thank the medical professionals across our state who are playing a critical role in helping Missouri communities recover.”

    Governor Kehoe first declared a State of Emergency on March 14, 2025, through Executive Order 25-19 in preparation for severe weather. The State of Emergency declaration in Executive Order 25-19 was subsequently extended by Executive Order 25-22 and Executive Order 25-23.

    Executive Order 25-24 will expire on June 30, 2025, unless otherwise terminated or extended. To view the Order, please click here.

    Additional May 16 Severe Storm Response Updates:

    Yesterday, Governor Mike Kehoe also requested President Trump issue a federal Emergency Declaration to expedite FEMA assistance and requested that FEMA participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessmentsfor City of St. Louis, St. Louis County, and 6 Southeast Missouri Counties.

    A federal Emergency Declaration provides federal resources to support state response operations to protect lives, safeguard public health and provide for public safety. It does not delay or affect the process of pursuing a federal Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide Individual Assistance to help homeowners and renters, and Public Assistance, which would reimburse local governments for emergency response costs, debris removal, and repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. Individual Assistance and Public Assistance require joint preliminary damage assessments by teams made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local emergency management officials, extensive documentation, and a federal review process that can take weeks to complete.

    Beginning Wednesday, May 21, six teams will survey and verify documented damage in Cape Girardeau, Iron, New Madrid, St. Louis, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne counties and the City of St. Louis to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. Initial damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, potentially resulting in a request for PDAs for Public Assistance in the future.

    Yesterday, Governor Kehoe also directed the Missouri National Guard provide a Liaison Officer (LNO) to assist the City of St. Louis with evaluating and advising local officials on potential appropriate missions for the Guard. This LNO reported to the St. Louis Emergency Operations Center this morning.

    The State of Missouri will continue to provide resources and personnel to St. Louis based on resource requests from the city and identified missions to meet the city’s needs. The Missouri National Guard maintains coordination with the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to respond if critical capability gaps occur in the local agencies’ response efforts.

    State assistance so far has included the Missouri State Highway Patrol assisting with law enforcement, search and rescue efforts and traffic control; an 84-person Type 1 Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team from Missouri Task Force 1 assisting with highly technical search and rescue efforts; SEMA sending regional coordinators and specialized personnel to assist with mass care, feeding and housing, donations management, and volunteer management. SEMA has also sent tarps and other supplies to assist with immediate needs.

    SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or www.211helps.org or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

    For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indian National Pleads Guilty to Visa Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant staged armed robberies so that “victims” could apply for immigration benefits in exchange for thousands of dollars

    BOSTON – An Indian national, residing in New York, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to staging armed robberies in furtherance of a visa fraud conspiracy.  

    Rambhai Patel, 37, pleaded guilty to on one count of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2025. In December 2023, Patel was charged along with a co-conspirator.

    Beginning in March 2023, Patel and his alleged co-conspirator set up and carried out staged armed robberies of at least nine convenience/liquor stores and fast-food restaurants across the United States – including at least five in Massachusetts. The purpose of the staged robberies was to allow the store clerks to claim that they were victims of a violent crime on an application for U nonimmigrant status (U Visa). A U Visa is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and who have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.  

    During the staged robberies, the “robber” would threaten store clerks and/or owners with an apparent firearm before taking cash from the register and fleeing, while the interaction was captured on store surveillance video. The clerks and/or owners would then wait five or more minutes until the “robber” had escaped before calling police to report the “crime.” The “victims” paid Patel to participate in the scheme. One purported victim paid $20,000 to participate as a victim in one of the staged armed robberies. In turn, Patel paid the store owners for the use of their stores for the staged robbery.

    At least two purported victim co-conspirators submitted U Visa applications based on being victims of the staged armed robberies.

    Singh is scheduled to plead guilty on May 22, 2025.

    The charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of New York and the Western District of Washington; FBI’s New York and Seattle Field Offices; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; Massachusetts State Police; Worcester County District Attorney’s Office; and the Hingham, Marshfield, Randolph, Weymouth, Worcester, Upper Darby, (Pa.), West Pittston (Pa.), Louisville, (Ky.) and Bean Station (Tenn.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elianna J. Nuzum and Jessica L. Soto of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Montgomery County Felon Sentenced to 135 Months in Prison for Gun and Drug Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Joseph Mitchell, age 38, of Nelliston, New York, was sentenced today to 135 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm as a previously convicted felon.  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Field Division, made the announcement.

    United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Montgomery County will be safer with this defendant off the streets. We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute drug dealers and felons who possess firearms.”

    DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “As we often see, drugs and weapons go hand in hand. Today’s sentencing is a reminder that justice will be delivered to those who push illicit narcotics into our communities. The DEA remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners in protecting our communities and enhancing public safety.”

    Mitchell admitted to working with another person to distribute more than 350 grams of methamphetamine throughout August 2024.  A search warrant executed at Mitchell’s home on September 5, 2024, led to the recovery of two rifles and one shotgun.  As a result of his prior felony convictions for attempted robbery and narcotics possession, Mitchell could not lawfully possess firearms. 

    United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also ordered Mitchell to serve 5 years of supervised release and to forfeit the seized firearms.

    The DEA investigated the case with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Troy Man Arraigned on Gun and Drug Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Zyjee Lind, a/k/a “Fredo,” age 30, of Troy, New York, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with possession of firearms as a previously convicted felon, possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes.  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    If convicted on all charges, Lind would face at least 5 years and up to life in prison, and a term of supervised release of at least 3 years and up to life.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The FBI is investigating the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner is prosecuting.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: KC Man Sentenced to 30 years for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin and for possession of firearms in furtherance of that conspiracy.

    Codi J. Monteer, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge D. Greg Kays to 30 years in federal prison without parole.

    On Oct. 8, 2024, Monteer pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and marijuana; one count of maintaining a drug involved premises; one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug conspiracy; and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms.

    Monteer’s participation in the drug trafficking conspiracy lasted approximately one year and he was responsible for conspiring with others to distribute at least 124 kilograms of methamphetamine; 700 grams of fentanyl (powder and pills); and 1.58 kilograms of heroin.  He was also in possession of several firearms used in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

    On one occasion, in March 2021, Monteer led members of the Kansas Highway Patrol on a high-speed pursuit that reached speeds of approximately 145 miles per hour.  The pursuit did not conclude until two of the tires came off Monteer’s vehicle.  During the pursuit, drugs were thrown from the vehicle.     

    Monteer was an associate of Autumn Dicks, Ian Hazel, They Kelley, Marc Downs, and Jamison Hopson-Stephens.  Those individuals have already been sentenced for their roles within the conspiracy.  Monteer was also an associate of Davion Williams, Curtis Lewis, Daniel Anderson, and Aaron Dorsey in this conspiracy.  Those individuals have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh A. Ragner.  It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, FBI, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Kansas State Highway Patrol.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three White Supremacists Sentenced to Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy; Two to Serve Life In Prison for Murder

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    WASHINGTON — On May 19, a federal judge sentenced three members of the Aryan Brotherhood prison gang who were convicted at trial of a racketeering (RICO) conspiracy that included multiple murders, drug trafficking, fraud, and robbery.

    Francis Clement, 58, was found guilty by a jury in February of RICO conspiracy and five separate counts of murder in aid of racketeering. Each of these murders was committed while Clement was in state prison. Clement was sentenced to life in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.

    The jury also found Kenneth Johnson, 63, guilty of RICO conspiracy and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering. Johnson was also sentenced to life in prison.

    A third defendant, John Stinson, 70, was found guilty of one count of RICO conspiracy. Stinson, who was already serving a lengthy prison sentence in the California state prison system, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between 2016 and 2023, Aryan Brotherhood members and associates engaged in racketeering activity, including murder, conspiracy to murder, fraud, robbery, and drug trafficking crimes. Johnson and Clement, who both held leadership roles in the gang, directed crimes committed by Aryan Brotherhood members both inside and outside of prison using cellphones that had been smuggled into prison. Because of his rank in the gang, Clement received a cut from the illegal drug sales and fraud schemes the Aryan Brotherhood committed. According to trial testimony, the Aryan Brotherhood regularly smuggled drugs, including methamphetamine, into prisons throughout the California prison system, which defendants and other gang members then sold to inmates.

    In October 2020, Johnson and Clement together ordered one murder during the execution of which another individual was also killed. Johnson and Clement also ordered another murder of an individual who was subsequently killed. It was further proven at trial that in February 2022, Clement ordered the murder of an individual and the following month, in March 2022, Clement ordered the murder of two more individuals. For each murder, the killings were ordered because defendants believed the victims either violated gang rules or owed the gang money.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Stinson was a high-ranking leader of the Aryan Brotherhood and had substantial authority over the enterprise, including sponsoring multiple individuals for membership, resolving disputes among members, and approving the murder of current and former members. During the investigation, Stinson used a contraband cellphone within his prison cell to conduct business on behalf of the Aryan Brotherhood. The jury heard some of these communications from Stinson through court-authorized wiretapped conversations. Evidence was presented that Stinson also engaged in drug trafficking, and that, given his position within the gang, he received a cut of illegal drug sales that took place in prison and out on the street.

    “The convicted defendants led a notorious prison gang that committed ruthless murders, widespread methamphetamine trafficking, and perpetuated a culture of mayhem, fear, and disorder within the prison system that bled into the outside world,” said Matthew Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Organized crime within the prison system, enabled by the use of contraband cellphones, endangers American neighborhoods by flooding streets with dangerous drugs. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue crime syndicates, like the Aryan Brotherhood and their facilitators, to ensure they go to prison and the harm they inflict on society ends once incarcerated.”

    “Today’s sentences are yet another blow to the leadership of a violent criminal enterprise run from inside California prisons and spanning multiple counties and states,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California. “The Aryan Brotherhood has maintained its deadly influence over members, associates and others both inside and outside prison. We are committed to doing everything we can to stop these violent inmates from orchestrating their criminal activities from inside prison walls.”

    “These sentences send a clear message: the walls of a prison do not shield violent gang leaders from justice,” said Acting Director Daniel Driscoll of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “The Aryan Brotherhood’s leadership operated a brutal criminal enterprise from behind bars — ordering murders, trafficking drugs, and fueling violence in our communities. ATF remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent gangs wherever they operate and hold their leaders accountable, no matter where they try to hide.”

    The indictment in this case charged 11 defendants with RICO conspiracy and other crimes. There are five defendants awaiting trial and the three defendants have pleaded guilty.

    This case was the product of an extensive investigation by the ATF, with assistance from the Office of Correctional Safety (CDCR), U.S. Marshals Service, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Pomona Police Department, Torrance Police Department, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, and Kern County District Attorney’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Stokman and James Conolly for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Starvation of Gaza – a distressing continuation of a decades-old plan

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Jeremy Rose

    Reading an NBC News report a couple of days ago about a Trump administration plan to relocate 1 million Gazans to Libya reminded me of a conversation between the legendary Warsaw Ghetto leader Marek Edelman and fellow fighter and survivor Simcha Rotem that took place more than quarter of a century ago.

    In the conversation, first reported in Haaretz in 2023, Rotem said the Jews who walked into the gas chambers without a fight did so only because they were hungry.

    Edelman disagreed, but Rotem insisted. “Listen, man. Marek, I’m surprised by your attitude. They only went because they were hungry. Even if they’d known what awaited them they would have walked into the gas chambers. You and I would have done the same.”

    Edelman cut him off. “You would never have gone” [to the gas chamber.] Rotem replied, “I’m not so sure. I was never that hungry.”

    Edelman agreed, saying: “I also wasn’t that hungry,” to which Rotem said, “That’s why you didn’t go.”

    The NBC report claims that Israeli officials are aware of the plan and talks have been held with the Libyan leadership about taking in 1 million ethnically cleansed Palestinians.. The carrot being offered is the unfreezing of billions of dollars of Libya’s own money seized by the US more than a decade ago.

    The Arabic word Sumud — or steadfastness — is synonymous with the Palestinian people. The idea that 1 million Gazans would agree to walk off the 1.4 percent of historic Palestine that is Gaza is inconceivable.

    Equally incomprehensible
    But then the idea that my great grandmother and other relatives walked into the gas chambers is equally incomprehensible. But we’ve never been that hungry.

    The people of Gaza are. No food has entered Gaza for 76 days. Half a million Gazans are facing starvation and the rest of the population (more than 1.5 million people) are suffering from high levels of acute food insecurity, according to the UN.

    Last year, Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich was widely condemned when he suggested starving Gaza might be “justified and moral”.

    The lack of outrage and urgency being expressed by world leaders — particularly Western leaders — after nearly 11 weeks of Israel actually starving the inhabitants of what retired IDF general Giora Eiland has called a giant concentration camp — is an outrage.

    As far as I’m aware there’s been no talk of cutting off diplomatic relations, trade embargos or even cultural boycotts.

    Israel — which last time I looked wasn’t in Europe — just placed second in Eurovision. “I’m happy,” an Israeli friend messaged me, “that my old genocidal homeland (Austria) won and not my current genocidal nation.”

    A third generation Israeli, she’s one of a tiny minority protesting the war crimes being committed less than 100km from her apartment.

    Honourable exceptions
    Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Irish President Michael Higgins are honourable exceptions to the muted criticism being expressed by Western leaders, although this criticism has finally been stepped up with the threatened “concrete actions” by the UK, France and Canada, and the condemnation of Israel by 22 other countries — including New Zealand.

    Sanchez had declared Israel a genocidal state and said Spain won’t do business with such a nation.

    And peaking at a national famine commemoration held over the weekend Higgens said the UN Security Council had failed again and again by not dealing with famines and the current “forced starvation of the people of Gaza”.

    He cited UN Secretary-General António Guterres saying “as aid dries up, the floodgates of horror have re-opened. Gaza is a killing field — and civilians are in an endless death loop.”

    Nobel Prize winning economist Amartya Sen argued in his 1981 book Poverty and Famines that famines are man-made and not natural disasters.

    Unlike Gaza, the famines he wrote about were caused by either callous disregard by the ruling elites for the populations left to starve or the disastrous results of following the whims of an all-powerful leader like Chairman Mao.

    He argued that a famine had never occurred in a functioning democracy.

    A horrifying fact
    It’s a horrifying fact that a self-described democracy, funded and abetted by the world’s most powerful democracy, has been allowed by the international community to starve two million people with no let-up in its bombing of barely functioning hospitals and killing of more than 2000 Gazans since the ban on food entering the strip was put in place. (Many more will have died due to a lack of medicine, food, and access to clean water.)

    After more than two months of denying any food or medicine to enter Gaza Israel is now saying it will allow limited amounts of food in to avoid a full-scale famine.

    “Due to the need to expand the fighting, we will introduce a basic amount of food to the residents of Gaza to ensure no famine occurs,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu explained.

    “A famine might jeopardise the continuation of Operation Gideon’s Chariots aimed at eliminating Hamas.”

    If 19-months of indiscriminate bombardment, the razing to the ground of whole cities, the displacement of virtually the entire population, and more than 50,000 recorded deaths (the Lancet estimated the true figure is likely to be four times that) hasn’t destroyed Hamas to Israel’s satisfaction it’s hard to conceive of what will.

    But accepting that that is the real aim of the ongoing genocide would be naïve.

    Shamefully indifferent Western world
    In the first cabinet meeting following the Six Day War, long before Hamas came into existence, ridding Gaza of its Palestinian inhabitants was top of the agenda.

    “If we can evict 300,000 refugees from Gaza to other places . . .  we can annex Gaza without a problem,” Defence Minister Moshe Dayan said.

    The population of Gaza was 400,000 at the time.

    “We should take them to the East Bank [Jordan] by the scruff of their necks and throw them there,” Minister Yosef Sapir said.

    Fifty-eight years later the possible destinations may have changed but the aim remains the same. And a shamefully indifferent Western world combined with a malnourished and desperate population may be paving the way to a mass expulsion.

    If the US, Europe and their allies demanded that Israel stop, the killing would end tomorrow.

    Jeremy Rose is a Wellington-based journalist and his Towards Democracy blog is at Substack.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Investments L.P. Announces Q1 2025 Interim Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Investments L.P. (the “Partnership”, TSX: PVF.UN TSX:PVF.PR.U) announced today its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. All amounts are stated in U.S. dollars.

    The Partnership recorded net income of $24.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to net income of $26.3 million in the prior year quarter. Net income was in line with the prior year quarter as higher investment income and valuation gains were offset by the absence of foreign currency gains and tax recoveries recognized in the prior year quarter. Income of $22.2 million was attributable to the Equity Limited Partners ($0.32 per Equity LP unit) and income of $2.4 million was attributable to Preferred Limited Partners.

    As at March 31, 2025, the market prices of a Brookfield Corporation (“BN”, NYSE/TSX: BN) and Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (“BAM”, NYSE/TSX: BAM) share were $52.41 and $48.45, respectively. As at May 20, 2025, the market prices of a BN and BAM share were $58.98 and $58.82, respectively.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations

    (Unaudited)
    For the three months ended March 31
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		      
          2025       2024  
    Investment income              
    Dividends     $ 26,559     $ 24,027  
    Other investment income       7,179       4,035  
            33,738       28,062  
    Expenses              
    Operating expenses       (1,352 )     (2,437 )
    Financing costs       (2,417 )     (2,481 )
    Retractable preferred share dividends       (10,041 )     (9,736 )
            (13,810 )     (14,654 )
                   
    Other items              
    Investment valuation gains       7,212       924  
    Amortization of deferred financing costs       (912 )     (884 )
    Foreign currency (losses) gains       (124 )     8,899  
    Current taxes (expense) recovery       (361 )     8,069  
    Deferred taxes expense       (1,102 )     (4,158 )
    Net income     $ 24,641     $ 26,258  

    The information in the following table shows the changes in net book value:

    (Unaudited)
    For the three months ended March 31
    (Thousands, except per unit amounts)    		 2025   2024
      Total        Per Unit      Total       Per Unit
    Net book value, beginning of period1 $ 8,375,682     $ 102.80   $ 5,783,620     $ 70.74
    Net income2   22,220             24,714        
    Other comprehensive (loss) income2   (828,447 )           290,050        
    Adjustment for impact of warrants1   (173 )           (6,120 )      
    Equity LP repurchases   (2,438 )           (3,617 )      
    Net book value, end of period3 $ 7,566,844     $ 96.32   $ 6,088,647     $ 74.52
    1. Calculated on a fully diluted basis. Net book value is a non‐IFRS measure used by management to measure the value of an Equity LP unit on a fully diluted basis. It is equal to total equity less General Partner equity, Preferred Limited Partners’ equity, non-controlling interests’ equity plus the value of consideration to be received on exercising of warrants, which as at March 31, 2025, was $114 million (December 31, 2024 – $114 million).
    2. Attributable to Equity Limited Partners.
    3. At the end of the period, the diluted Equity LP units outstanding were 78,560,143 (December 31, 2024 – 81,474,610); this includes 2,702,321
      (December 31, 2024 – 5,640,600) Equity LP units exchangeable on a one-for-one basis with shares of a non-wholly owned subsidiary, and units issued through the exercise of all outstanding warrants; including 585,938 (December 31, 2024 – 585,938) warrants held by partially-owned subsidiaries of the Partnership.

    Financial Profile

    The Partnership’s principal investments are its interest in approximately 121 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of BN and approximately 31 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of BAM. This represents approximately an 8% interest in BN and a 2% interest in BAM as at March 31, 2025. In addition, the Partnership owns a diversified investment portfolio of marketable securities and private fund interests.

    The information in the following table has been extracted from the Partnership’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position:

    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

    (Unaudited)
    As at
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		     March 31,
    2025    		       December 31,
    2024
    Assets              
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 308,077     $ 156,977
    Accounts receivable and other assets     54,375       48,924
    Investment in Brookfield Corporation1     6,339,885       6,949,656
    Investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd.2     1,492,635       1,669,488
    Investment in Brookfield Wealth Solutions Ltd.3     428,584       471,787
    Other investments carried at fair value     346,818       343,090
        $ 8,970,374     $ 9,639,922
    Liabilities and equity              
    Accounts payable and other liabilities   $ 44,194     $ 42,055
    Corporate borrowings     208,094       208,168
    Preferred shares4     1,074,573       939,057
    Deferred tax liability     9,469       7,933
          1,336,330       1,197,213
    Equity              
    Equity Limited Partners     7,452,974       8,261,639
    Preferred Limited Partners     152,040       152,040
    Non-controlling interests     29,030       29,030
          7,634,044       8,442,709
        $ 8,970,374     $ 9,639,922
    1. The investment in Brookfield Corporation (“BN”) consists of 121 million BN shares with a quoted market value of $52.41 per share as at March 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 – $57.45).
    2. The investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (“BAM”) consists of 31 million BAM shares with a quoted market value of $48.45 per share as at March 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 – $54.19).
    3. Brookfield Wealth Solutions Ltd. (“BWS”) Class A shares are exchangeable into BN Class A shares on a one-for-one basis.
    4. Represents $851 million of retractable preferred shares less $12 million of unamortized issue costs as at March 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 – $712 million less $9 million) and $236 million of three series of preferred shares (December 31, 2024 – $236 million).

    For further information, contact Investor Relations at ir@pvii.ca or 416-643-7621.

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. The words “potential” and “estimated” and other expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking information.

    Although the Partnership believes that its anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond its control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Partnership to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward‐looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the financial performance of Brookfield Corporation, the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; limitations on the liquidity of our investments; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws; risks associated with the use of financial leverage; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Partnership’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    The Partnership cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Partnership’s forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the Partnership undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Investments Inc. Announces Q1 2025 Interim Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Investments Inc. (the “Company”, TSX: PVF.WT, PVF.PR.V, PVF.A) announced today its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. All amounts are stated in U.S. dollars.

    The Company recorded net income of $972 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to a net loss of $175 million in the prior year quarter. The increase in income was primarily due to current period remeasurement gains of $953 million associated with the retractable common shares compared to remeasurement losses of $214 million in the prior year quarter. The Company’s retractable common shares are classified as liabilities due to their cash retraction feature. The remeasurement gains or losses in a given period are driven by the respective depreciation or appreciation of the Partnership unit price as the retractable shares are recognized at fair value based on the quoted price of the Partnership’s Equity LP units. During the quarter, the Partnership unit price decreased by $13.71 compared to an increase of $3.11 in the prior year quarter.

    Excluding retractable share and warrant liability remeasurement gains and losses, and dividends paid on retractable shares, Adjusted Earnings for the Company was $30 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to Adjusted Earnings of $34 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Earnings were lower in the current quarter as higher investment income and valuations gains were more than offset by the absence of foreign currency gains and tax recoveries recognized in the prior year quarter.

    As at March 31, 2025, the market prices of a Brookfield Corporation (“BN”, NYSE/TSX: BN) and Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (“BAM”, NYSE/TSX: BAM) share were $52.41 and $48.45, respectively. As at May 20, 2025, the market prices of a BN and BAM share were $58.98 and $58.82, respectively.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations

    (Unaudited)
    For the three months ended March 31
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		      
                2025       2024    
    Investment income                      
    Dividends           $ 30,125     $ 26,685    
    Other investment income             7,177       4,035    
                  37,302       30,720    
    Expenses                      
    Operating expenses             (1,131 )     (2,150 )  
    Financing costs             (10,062 )     (8,179 )  
    Retractable preferred share dividends             (8,380 )     (8,240 )  
                  (19,573 )     (18,569 )  
    Other items                      
    Investment valuation gains             7,212       924    
    Retractable share remeasurement gains (losses)             952,569       (213,630 )  
    Warrant liability remeasurement (losses) gains             (3,267 )     9,926    
    Amortization of deferred financing costs             (912 )     (884 )  
    Foreign currency gain             115       12,453    
    Current tax (expense) recovery             (361 )     8,069    
    Deferred tax expense             (1,102 )     (4,158 )  
    Net income (loss)           $ 971,983     $ (175,149 )  
                               

    Financial Profile

    The Company’s principal investments are its interest in 121 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of BN and approximately 31 million Class A Limited Voting Shares of BAM. This represents approximately an 8% interest in BN and a 2% interest in BAM as at March 31, 2025. In addition, the Company owns a diversified investment portfolio of marketable securities and private fund interests.

    The information in the following table has been extracted from the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position:

    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

    (Unaudited)
    As at
    (Thousands, US dollars)    		       March 31,
    2025    		       December 31,
    2024    		  
    Assets              
    Cash and cash equivalents     $ 308,044     $ 156,952  
    Accounts receivable and other assets       77,882       69,776  
    Investment in Brookfield Corporation 1       6,339,885       6,949,656  
    Investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd.2       1,492,635       1,669,488  
    Investment in Brookfield Wealth Solutions Ltd.3       428,460       471,651  
    Other investments carried at fair value       655,069       669,397  
          $ 9,301,975     $ 9,986,920  
    Liabilities and Equity              
    Accounts payable and other liabilities     $ 44,964     $ 42,824  
    Corporate borrowings       208,094       208,168  
    Preferred shares4       838,560       703,044  
    Retractable common shares       6,360,356       7,312,467  
    Exchangeable shares       282,186       —  
    Warrant liability       497,252       494,710  
    Deferred tax liability       9,469       7,933  
            8,240,881       8,769,146  
    Equity              
    Accumulated deficit       (6,130,077 )     (6,821,786 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income       7,181,112       8,027,580  
    Non-controlling interests       10,059       11,980  
          $ 9,301,975     $ 9,986,920  
                       
    1. The investment in Brookfield Corporation (“BN”) consists of 121 million BN shares with a quoted market value of $52.41 per share as at March 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 – $57.45).
    2. The investment in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (“BAM”) consists of 31 million BAM shares with a quoted market value of $48.45 per share as at March 31, 2025 (December 31, 2024 – $54.19).
    3. Brookfield Wealth Solutions Ltd. (“BWS”) Class A shares are exchangeable into BN Class A shares on a one-for-one basis.
    4. Represents $851 million of retractable preferred shares less $12 million of unamortized issue costs as at March 31, 2025
      (December 31, 2024 – $712 million less $9 million).

    For further information, contact Investor Relations at ir@pvii.ca.

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. The words “potential” and “estimated” and other expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking information.

    Although the Company believes that its anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond its control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward‐looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the financial performance of Brookfield Corporation, the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; limitations on the liquidity of our investments; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws; risks associated with the use of financial leverage; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    The Company cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company’s forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Secures Pledge from Noem to Expedite Relief for Missourians After Devastating Storms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Tuesday, May 20, 2025

    Less than 24 hours after visiting St. Louis to survey the devastating storm damage from Friday’s tornadoes, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) secured a pledge from Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem – who oversees the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – to expedite relief for Missouri storm victims. The exchange comes after Missouri was rocked by tornadoes this spring and lost many lives in a span of two months.

    Good news for Missourians who need help after Friday’s terrible storms:
    DHS Secretary Noem just pledged to expedite our state’s disaster request & the FEMA emergency response in St. Louis pic.twitter.com/tlwL6jlRhz
    — Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) May 20, 2025

    In the hearing, Senator Hawley detailed the debilitating storms that took the lives of 7 Missourians on Friday and left behind more than $1.6 billion in property damage. He also noted that this is not the only lethal storm to hit the state in recent weeks.
    “The state has pending three requests for major disaster relief declarations from earlier storms. Counting the people we lost on Friday, we’ve lost almost twenty people now in major storms in the last two months in Missouri. It’s been a terrible spring for us,” said Senator Hawley. “For those three disaster declaration requests that are still pending, will you help with those and get those approved? We are desperate for the assistance in Missouri.”
    “Yes, absolutely,” promised Secretary Noem. 
    Secretary Noem pledged that she would expedite individual assistance for affected Missourians and review of the state’s requested disaster declarations. She also promised she would work with Senator Hawley, who chairs the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Disaster Management, to ensure FEMA provides Missourians with the necessary assistance in the aftermath of the storms.
    “Can you commit to, as we deal with this disaster in St. Louis and others around the state, that under your leadership, FEMA is going to act with expedition, they are going to be clear in the communications, and they are going to follow up and give Missourians the awards they need if they qualify for it?” asked Senator Hawley.  
    “Yes, that has been the biggest challenge of FEMA in the past – the delayed response. People are counting on the assistance and it never comes through, and the paperwork is too complicated for an individual many times to complete on their own – they need help and assistance. That is part of the reforms that the FEMA Review Board will be undertaking,” Secretary Noem answered.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Mullin Introduces Black Vulture Relief Act to Protect the Livelihoods of Farmers and Ranchers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)

    RELEASE: Mullin Introduces Black Vulture Relief Act to Protect the Livelihoods of Farmers and Ranchers

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), along with SenatorsTommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO), introduced the Black Vulture Relief Act of 2025 which would allow farmers and ranchers the ability to protect their livestock when threatened by predatory animals without big government interference.

    The Black Vultures Relief Act of 2025 removes the requirement for a depredation permit, allowing farmers and ranchers to take black vultures anytime the birds threaten their livestock. This bill also preserves the requirement for annual take reporting to the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), allowing FWS to continue monitoring black vulture population numbers, in addition to prohibiting the use of poison as a method of take.

    Senators Cotton (R-AR), Wicker (R-MS), Britt (R-AL), Scott (R-FL), Lummis (R-WY), Hagerty (R-TN), Budd (R-NC), Barrasso (R-WY), Ricketts (R-NE), Cruz (R-TX), Lankford (R-OK), Hyde-Smith (MS), and Graham (SC) joined Mullin, Tuberville, and Schmitt in cosponsoring this legislation.

    “Oklahoma ranchers deserve the right to protect their livestock from threatening predators,” said Senator Mullin. “Attacks from black vultures are all too common and our ranchers are suffering the consequences. As a rancher myself, I know firsthand the implications of the rapidly growing black vulture population and the negative effect this has on livestock production. Removing the requirement for a depredation permit will allow Oklahomans the ability to do what is necessary to protect their livestock and reduce economic hardship. It’s vital to the livelihood of ranchers across the country that we get this fixed.”

    “America’s cattlemen work hard to feed our communities and shouldn’t have to jump through a bunch of hoops just to protect their herds,” said Senator Tuberville. “Adjusting these sub-permit requirements that are based on outdated data is just one more commonsense way we can support our cattlemen and help them keep more of their hard-earned dollars. I’ll continue using the feedback from Alabama’s agriculture community to guide my work here in D.C.”

    “Black vultures are a deadly species that have caused hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage to ranchers and producers across Missouri. These birds are native to Missouri and have seen their population grow by more than 450 percent since 1990. We must keep this dangerous bird population under control and allow ranchers and producers across our great state the ability to do what they do best—provide the best beef and ag products in the world,” said Senator Eric Schmitt.

    Full text of the Black Vulture Relief Act of 2025 can be found here.

    The Black Vulture Relief Act is endorsed by the following stakeholders: National Supporting Groups: National Cattleman’s Beef Association (NCBA), American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), US Cattlemen’s Association (USCA), Oklahoma Department of Wildlife & Conservation, Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association (TSGRA), Wyoming Stock Growers (WSG), 14 Cattlemen’s Associations (AL, CO, IA, IN, KS, MN, MS, ND, OH, OK, OR, MO, TN, VA) and 7 State Farm Bureau Federations (FL, MS, OK, PA, TN, TX, WY)

    “The challenges faced by America’s farmers and ranchers are numerous, from unstable commodity prices to drought and unpredictable weather. The safety threat to livestock posed by predatory birds like black vultures is yet another risk our members face, day in and day out, and we’re appreciative of Senator Mullin’s leadership to help our members mitigate that risk”, said Sam Kieffer, American Farm Bureau Federation VP of Public Policy. “Protecting their livestock is of the utmost importance to farmers and ranchers, and this legislation will better equip them to do just that.”

    “Currently, black vulture populations in the south and Midwest are skyrocketing and it is a success story of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Now is the time to recognize that success and allow cattle producers to effectively manage this abundant predator species through commonsense measures like the Black Vulture Relief Act. Family cattle operations are facing financial strain from the abundance of black vultures on their operations and the propensity of these predators to target newborn calves that cannot defend themselves,” said National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Executive Director of Natural Resources and PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “NCBA and PLC thank Senator Mullin for taking action to fix this problem and providing producers the management tools they need to protect their livelihoods.”

    “ASI encourages support for this legislation as vultures are a growing predator of lambs in America, and farmers and ranchers have few options today to address these losses. Predator losses of sheep and the associated management costs are the second-largest expense of many sheep operations in America,” said Steve Clements, American Sheep Industry Association Board Member and South Dakota sheep producer.

    “The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association is extremely grateful to Senator Mullin for introducing this bill to help cattle raisers protect their cattle. Black Vultures are a predator to cattle, especially new mother cows and their baby calves,” said Michael Kelsey, Executive Vice President of Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association. “Senator Mullin, being a cattle raiser, knows the challenges that high populations of black vultures have presented to cattle raisers. This is great common-sense legislation that works well in ranch country.”

    “We appreciate Senator Mullin’s efforts to help cattle producers more effectively protect their herds and, ultimately, their livelihoods,” said Tennessee Farm Bureau President, Eric Mayberry. “This legislation takes a crucial step in alleviating the burden farmers face with growing black vulture populations and depredation of livestock across Tennessee.”

    “Black vultures are predators and pose a tremendous threat to cattle producers. Their attacks, often killing calves and vulnerable animals, cause financial devastation for family farms,” said Elizabeth Harsh, Executive Director of the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association. “The current system prevents producers from effectively protecting their cattle herd, at the same time as the black vulture population explodes and does not warrant continued federal protection. OCA appreciates Senator Mullin for his common-sense approach with this very important legislation.”

    Background:

    • Over the past several decades, black vultures’ expanding population has led to an additional burdensome and costly strain on livestock producers due to increased livestock depredation by these birds. 
    • Black vultures, often in flocks of 20+, brutally attack and eat newborn calves, lambs, goat kids, and piglets for an average of 3.5 gruesome hours while they are most vulnerable.   
    • In 2015, vultures were the third leading cause of calf deaths due to predators, only behind coyotes and unknown predators, causing 24,600 or 10% of all calf deaths due to predators. 
    • According to the US Geological Survey’s Breeding Bird Survey, the black vulture population has increased by approximately 468% to more than 190 million birds since 1990. 
    • Despite the bird’s robust population, the black vulture is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA) making it illegal, with an up to $15,000 fine, to take one without obtaining a depredation permit.
    • For black vultures, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) issues master permits to states who then issue sub-permits, limited to 3-10 depending on the state, to ranchers. 
    • Current state participants are OK, MD, PA, VA, KY, TN, AR, MS, MO, OH, IN, IL, TX, and AL.
    • From 2015-2019, requests to FWS for depredation permits for take of black vultures increased by 26%.
    • From 2020-2025, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services, black vulture attacks on cattle increased by almost 25%.
    • In January 2025, the America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act was signed into law that included a provision Senator Mullin secured codifying the original Black Vulture Relief pilot program. 
    • House Companion: H.R. 2426 introduced by Reps. John Rose (R-TN) and Darren Soto (D-FL).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: First Busey Corporation Closes Depositary Share Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEAWOOD, Kan., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Busey Corporation (“Busey”) (Nasdaq: BUSE), the holding company for Busey Bank and CrossFirst Bank, today announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering of 8,600,000 depositary shares (inclusive of 600,000 depositary shares offered in connection with the partial exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option), each representing a 1/40th ownership interest in a share of its 8.25% Fixed Rate Series B Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (equivalent to $25.00 per depositary share). As a result of the public offering, Busey received proceeds of approximately $207,477,500, net of estimated expenses and underwriting discounts and commissions.

    Piper Sandler & Co., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. acted as joint bookrunning managers for the offering, and Janney Montgomery Scott LLC is acting as the co-manager.

    A shelf registration statement, including a prospectus, with respect to the offering was previously filed by Busey with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 21, 2023. A prospectus supplement relating to the offering has been filed with the SEC. The offering has been made by means of a prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to these securities may be obtained free of charge by visiting the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, Busey or any underwriter or any dealer participating in the offering will arrange to send you the prospectus supplement if you request it by emailing Piper Sandler & Co. at fsg-dcm@psc.com or calling Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC toll-free at 1-866-718-1649 or Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company at 1-800-966-1559.

    Corporate Profile
    As of March 31, 2025, First Busey Corporation (Nasdaq: BUSE) was a $19.46 billion financial holding company headquartered in Leawood, Kansas.

    Busey Bank, a wholly-owned bank subsidiary of First Busey Corporation headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, had total assets of $11.98 billion as of March 31, 2025. Busey Bank currently has 62 banking centers, with 21 in Central Illinois markets, 17 in suburban Chicago markets, 20 in the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area, three in Southwest Florida, and one in Indianapolis. More information about Busey Bank can be found at busey.com.

    CrossFirst Bank, a wholly-owned bank subsidiary of First Busey Corporation headquartered in Leawood, Kansas, had total assets of $7.45 billion as of March 31, 2025. CrossFirst Bank currently has 16 banking centers located across Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. More information about CrossFirst Bank can be found at crossfirstbank.com. It is anticipated that CrossFirst Bank will be merged with and into Busey Bank on June 20, 2025.

    Through Busey Bank’s Wealth Management division, Busey provides a full range of asset management, investment, brokerage, fiduciary, philanthropic advisory, tax preparation, and farm management services to individuals, businesses, and foundations. Assets under care totaled $13.68 billion as of March 31, 2025. More information about Busey’s Wealth Management services can be found at busey.com/wealth-management.

    Busey Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiary, FirsTech, Inc. (“FirsTech”) specializes in the evolving financial technology needs of small and medium-sized businesses, highly regulated enterprise industries, and financial institutions. FirsTech provides comprehensive and innovative payment technology solutions, including online, mobile, and voice-recognition bill payments; money and data movement; merchant services; direct debit services; lockbox remittance processing for payments made by mail; and walk-in payments at retail agents. Additionally, FirsTech simplifies client workflows through integrations enabling support with billing, reconciliation, bill reminders, and treasury services. More information about FirsTech can be found at firstechpayments.com.

    For the fourth consecutive year, Busey was named among 2025’s America’s Best Banks by Forbes. Ranked 88th overall, Busey was one of seven banks headquartered in Illinois included on this year’s list. Busey was also named among the 2024 Best Banks to Work For by American Banker, the 2024 Best Places to Work in Money Management by Pensions and Investments, the 2024 Best Places to Work in Illinois by Daily Herald Business Ledger, the 2025 Best Places to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, and the 2024 Best Companies to Work For in Florida by Florida Trend magazine. We are honored to be consistently recognized globally, nationally and locally for our engaged culture of integrity and commitment to community development.

    First Busey Corporation Contacts
    For Financials: For Media:
    Scott Phillips, Interim CFO Amy L. Randolph, EVP & COO
    First Busey Corporation  First Busey Corporation
    (239) 689-7167 (217) 365-4049
    scott.phillips@busey.com amy.randolph@busey.com
       

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to Busey’s financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of Busey’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “position,” or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and Busey undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.

    A number of factors, many of which are beyond Busey’s ability to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the following: (1) the strength of the local, state, national, and international economies and financial markets (including effects of inflationary pressures, the threat or implementation of tariffs, trade wars, and changes to immigration policy); (2) changes in, and the interpretation and prioritization of, local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and governmental policies (including those concerning Busey’s general business); (3) the economic impact of any future terrorist threats or attacks, widespread disease or pandemics, or other adverse external events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets (including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East); (4) unexpected results of acquisitions, including the acquisition of CrossFirst, which may include the failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisitions and the possibility that the transaction and integration costs may be greater than anticipated; (5) the imposition of tariffs or other governmental policies impacting the value of products produced by Busey’s commercial borrowers; (6) new or revised accounting policies and practices as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory banking agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; (7) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of Busey’s assets (including the impact of sustained elevated interest rates); (8) increased competition in the financial services sector (including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and fintech companies) and the inability to attract new customers; (9) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (10) the loss of key executives or associates, talent shortages, and employee turnover; (11) unexpected outcomes and costs of existing or new litigation, investigations, or other legal proceedings, inquiries, and regulatory actions involving Busey (including with respect to Busey’s Illinois franchise taxes); (12) fluctuations in the value of securities held in Busey’s securities portfolio, including as a result of changes in interest rates; (13) credit risk and risk from concentrations (by type of borrower, geographic area, collateral, and industry), within Busey’s loan portfolio and large loans to certain borrowers (including commercial real estate loans); (14) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits and may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (15) the level of non-performing assets on Busey’s balance sheets; (16) interruptions involving information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers; (17) breaches or failures of information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents; (18) the economic impact on Busey and its customers of climate change, natural disasters, and exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, blizzards, and droughts; (19) the ability to successfully manage liquidity risk, which may increase dependence on non-core funding sources such as brokered deposits, and may negatively impact Busey’s cost of funds; (20) the ability to maintain an adequate level of allowance for credit losses on loans; (21) the effectiveness of Busey’s risk management framework; and (22) the ability of Busey to manage the risks associated with the foregoing. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    After a two-hour phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on May 19, US president Donald Trump took to social media to declare that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire and an end to the war. He did, however, add that the conditions for peace “will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be”.

    With the Vatican, according to Trump, “very interested in hosting the negotiations” and European leaders duly informed, it seems clear that the US has effectively abandoned its stalled mediation efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

    It was always a possibility that Trump could walk away from the war, despite previous claims he could end it in 24 hours. This only became more likely on May 16, when the first face-to-face negotiations between Ukraine and Russia for more than three years predictably ended without a ceasefire agreement.

    When Trump announced shortly afterwards that he would be speaking to his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts by phone a few days later, he effectively mounted the beginning of a rearguard action. This was further underlined when, shortly before the Trump-Putin call, Vice-President J.D. Vance, explicitly told reporters that the US could end its shuttle diplomacy.

    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.

    The meagre outcomes of the talks between Russia and Ukraine – as well as between Trump and Putin – are not surprising. Russia is clearly not ready for any concessions yet. It keeps insisting that Ukraine accept its maximalist demands of territorial concessions and future neutrality.

    Putin also continues to slow-walk any negotiations. After his call with Trump, he reportedly said that “Russia will offer and is ready to work with Ukraine on a memorandum on a possible future peace agreement”, including “a possible ceasefire for a certain period of time, should relevant agreements be reached.”

    The lack of urgency on Russia’s part to end the fighting and, in fact, the Kremlin’s ability and willingness to continue the war was emphasised the day before the Trump-Putin call. Russia carried out its largest drone attack against Ukraine so far in the war, targeting several regions including Kyiv.

    There has been no let-up in the fighting since. And the fact that Putin spoke to Trump while visiting a music school in the southern Russian city of Sochi does not suggest that a ceasefire in Ukraine is high on the Russian leader’s priority list.

    A large part of the Kremlin’s calculation seems to be its desire to strike a grand bargain with the White House on a broader reset of relations between the US and Russia. It is signalling clearly that this is more important than the war in Ukraine and might even happen without the fighting there ending.

    This also appears to be driving thinking in Washington. Trump foreshadowed an improvement in bilateral relations by describing the “tone and spirit” of his conversation with Putin as “excellent”. He also seemed pleased about the prospects of “large-scale trade” with Russia.

    Abandoning European allies

    Trump is on record as saying that there would be no progress towards peace in Ukraine until he and Putin get together. But it is worth bearing mind that very little movement towards a ceasefire in Ukraine – let alone a peace agreement – occurred after the last phone call between the two presidents in February.

    Part of this lack of progress has been Trump’s reluctance to put any real pressure on Putin. And despite agreement in Brussels and preparations in Washington for an escalation in sanctions against Russia, it is unlikely that Trump will change his approach.

    In this context, the sequence in which the calls occurred is telling. Trump and Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, had a short call before the former spoke with Putin. Zelensky said he told Trump not to make decisions about Ukraine “without us”.

    But rather than presenting Putin with a clear ultimatum to accept a ceasefire, Trump apparently discussed future relations with Putin at great length before informing Zelensky and key European allies that the war in Ukraine is now solely their problem to solve.

    This has certainly raised justifiable fears in Kyiv and European capitals that, for the sake of a reset with Russia, the US might yet completely abandon its allies across the Atlantic.

    However, if a reset with Russia at any cost really is Trump’s strategy, it is bound to fail. As much as Putin seems willing to continue with his aggression against Ukraine, Zelensky is as unwilling to surrender. Putin can rely on China’s continued backing while Zelensky can count on support from Europe.

    Supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine is essential for China to keep Moscow on side in its rivalry with the US. And for Europe, supporting Ukraine has become an existential question of deterring and containing a revisionist Russia hell-bent on restoring a Soviet-style sphere of influence in central and eastern Europe.

    In a world that has been in flux since Trump’s return to the White House, these are some of the emerging constants. And they make a US-Russia reset highly improbable.

    Even if it were to happen, it would not strengthen Washington’s position with Beijing. Walking away from Ukraine and Europe now will deprive the US of the very allies it will need in the long term to prevail in its rivalry with China.

    By abandoning his mediation between Moscow and Kyiv, Trump may have broken the deadlock in his efforts to achieve a reset with Russia. But getting this deal over the line will be a pyrrhic victory.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine – https://theconversation.com/after-another-call-with-putin-it-looks-like-trump-has-abandoned-efforts-to-mediate-peace-in-ukraine-257021

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Queensland melioidosis outbreak is still growing. What’s keeping this deadly mud bug active?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Jeffries, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, Western Sydney University

    ap-studio/Shutterstock

    The outbreak of the deadly “mud bug” melioidosis in north Queensland has not yet abated since it began at the start of this year.

    So far there have been 221 cases and 31 deaths from the disease in 2025. This encompasses a 400% increase in cases in Cairns and a 600% increase in Townsville compared to the average over previous years.

    Fortunately, case numbers have begun to drop. Queensland Health reports new cases weekly, and in the most recent reporting period – up to May 6 – seven new cases were recorded, down from a peak of 29 cases in the week to February 16.

    However, people are still contracting and dying from this disease. So what’s keeping it active in Queensland, and are there any promising vaccines on the horizon?

    What is melioidosis?

    Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei which lives in soil, mud and groundwater, usually not causing any harm. But B. pseudomallei can cause disease in humans and animals if it enters the skin via a cut. Or it can be inhaled in water droplets and enter the lungs.

    The disease generally takes one to four weeks to establish itself, meaning people don’t develop symptoms immediately after they’ve been exposed.

    Melioidosis most commonly presents as pneumonia. However chronic skin infections, called cutaneous infections, occur in 10–20% of cases. Melioidosis can also lead to blood infections.

    Symptoms of the pneumonia form include fever, headache, difficulty breathing, muscle pain, chest pain and confusion.

    We don’t understand cutaneous infections as well as we do lung infections with melioidosis. Cutaneous infections are also less responsive to standard antibiotic treatments due to the nature of the chronic wound. For example, the bacteria can form a slimy layer called a biofilm. This can help the bacteria produce proteins which can block the antibiotics from working.

    Melioidosis occurs most commonly in tropical areas, such as Thailand. But it’s also regarded as endemic in northern Australia, occurring in Queensland and the Northern Territory. Nonetheless, the scale of the current outbreak in north Queensland is highly unusual.

    Anyone can contract melioidosis, but certain medical conditions can increase a person’s risk. These include diabetes, liver, kidney or lung disease, cancer, or other conditions which might compromise the patient’s immune system.

    During the current Queensland outbreak 95% of cases have been in people with risk factors such as diabetes or lung disease.

    How is melioidosis spreading in Queensland?

    Melioidosis increases during periods of high rainfall and flooding, and this has been the case in the current outbreak. However, patterns have begun to emerge suggesting the bacterium may now be spreading in other ways.

    Experts have suggested that while the Townsville cases can be explained by flooding and correlate to high levels of rainfall, the Cairns cases do not match with this explanation.

    One suggestion is that the construction of the Bruce Highway upgrade south of Cairns has caused an increase in cases due to clay soil particles becoming airborne during construction.

    It’s not an entirely new idea. The movement of soil during highway construction and urban expansion has been investigated as a potential mode of transmission during previous spikes of melioidosis cases in far north Queensland.

    The infrastructure body responsible for the upgrade has pledged to follow expert health advice as investigations continue.

    Could B. pseudomallei be evolving and becoming more deadly?

    This potential change in how the disease is spreading, and the increased number of cases and deaths, might indicate the organism is evolving to spread more easily and become more deadly. Genome analysis is ongoing to determine this.

    Notably, bacteria found in the environment can acquire genes from other bacteria in soil and water. This may give them enhanced abilities to survive in unfavourable conditions and be more resilient to changes in their natural habitat, as well as potentially infect human hosts more effectively.

    In a warming climate with increased rainfall, the bacterium behind melioidosis is likely to be a prime candidate for this kind of change.

    Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium B. pseudomallei.
    TheBlueHydrangea/Shutterstock

    How about treatments and protection?

    There’s currently only one way to treat melioidosis, which involves receiving intravenous antibiotics in hospital for several weeks, followed by up to six months of oral antibiotics.

    Against a backdrop of urgent calls for more research and increased public awareness around melioidosis, there may be hope on the horizon.

    Researchers at the University of California have developed a vaccine which produces a protein that mimics the proteins in B. pseudomallei, leading to an immune response against this bacterium. The vaccine has been successful in mouse models and will continue to a further animal trial, which, if successful, will lead to human trials.

    It seems melioidosis is a problem that’s not going away.

    If you live in an affected region such as tropical Queensland or the NT, limit exposure to mud and water as much as possible. If you’re spending time in muddy areas, use appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and boots. You can also protect yourself by covering any open wounds and wearing a respirator if you’re working closely with water.

    Monitor for symptoms and see a doctor if you feel unwell. More information is also available from Queensland Health.

    Thomas Jeffries does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The Queensland melioidosis outbreak is still growing. What’s keeping this deadly mud bug active? – https://theconversation.com/the-queensland-melioidosis-outbreak-is-still-growing-whats-keeping-this-deadly-mud-bug-active-256794

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Brad Sherman & Judy Chu Host Congressional Roundtable on Fire Recovery with Los Angeles County Leaders

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted a roundtable with California Members of Congress and Los Angeles County officials to discuss ongoing recovery efforts following January’s devastating Palisades and Eaton Fires. Together, these fires scorched more than 37,000 acres, destroyed over 13,000 homes, displaced tens of thousands of residents, and claimed 30 lives.                   

    The discussion offered an opportunity for the Members to hear directly from Los Angeles County leaders, including Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for Altadena and Pasadena, about the ongoing challenges facing fire-impacted communities and the work being done to ensure communities can rebuild swiftly and safely. 

    During the roundtable, Members and LA County officials discussed the status of ongoing debris removal and mitigation, soil testing and remediation, utility restoration, social and medical services, and housing solutions for disaster victims.

    After the roundtable, Representatives Sherman and Chu released the following joint statement: “In response to the many challenges our communities face following the Los Angeles fires, we were grateful to host today’s roundtable to discuss solutions with LA County officials leading recovery efforts on the ground and advocate for the urgent support our communities need to rebuild.”

    The Members also emphasized the need to protect the federal agencies carrying out disaster recovery operations for their communities from the Trump administration’s mass layoffs of federal workers, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and AmeriCorps. 

    Lastly, the Members emphasized their commitment to securing additional federal disaster funding in Congress so that California disaster victims have the resources they need to rebuild their homes, businesses, and communities — just as Congress has done after every other major disaster across the country.

    Representatives Sherman and Chu concluded: “We have both consistently voted for disaster aid to Republican-led states regardless of whether we strongly disagreed with their policies, because disasters have no political affiliation. Our constituents have demonstrated so much strength and resolve throughout the course of this catastrophe, and they urgently need and deserve additional federal resources to rebuild their lives. Disaster relief is not and should never be a partisan issue, and we will continue to work with Congressional leadership and President Trump to deliver relief to our communities. Far too many families are still living in uncertainty as we work to rebuild after the fires. We are committed to working alongside our local partners to deliver every possible resource to help our communities recover.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Turkish military ‘Sea Wolf’ exercise threatens peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean – E-001912/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001912/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Geadis Geadi (ECR)

    As part of the Turkish military ‘Sea Wolf’ exercise, operational movements with live fire are being carried out in maritime areas that fall within the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus. According to what has been publicly released by both the newspaper ‘Simerini’ and many official Turkish websites, based on the coordinates of the exercise, this activity extends from Thrace to the maritime zones near the coasts of the Republic of Cyprus, at a distance of under 20 nautical miles.

    Given the European Union’s commitment to promoting peace, security and respect for international law:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s official position on the legal basis of Turkish military actions taking place in areas where the Republic of Cyprus has declared an EEZ?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to ensure respect for international law and the protection of the sovereign rights of Member States against such military challenges?
    • 3.Does the Commission condemn these actions, which may threaten peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean?

    Submitted: 13.5.2025

    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Executives Plead Guilty to Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    Two California men pleaded guilty yesterday to not paying over employment taxes to the IRS.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Lalo Valdez and Matthew Olson, both of Northern California, operated a San Jose-based health informatics and product development company that provided clinical care and technology services to clients in healthcare and academia. Valdez was the CEO and Olson the CFO. As such, both were responsible for the company’s operations, managed its internal books and records, signed checks on behalf of the company, and hired and fired employees. Both men also were responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes from employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the government each quarter. The timely payment of quarterly employment taxes is critical to the functioning of the U.S. government, because, for example, they are the primary source of funding for Social Security and Medicare. The federal income taxes that are withheld from employees’ wages also account for a significant portion of all federal income taxes collected each year.

    For every calendar quarter from the first quarter of 2017 through the second quarter of 2021, Valdez and Olson withheld these taxes from employees’ wages but did not pay them over to the IRS or report them on quarterly tax forms. Instead of paying over the taxes, Valdez and Olson used the company’s money to pay for country club memberships and season tickets to the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League.

    During this same period, Olson also was one of the owners and operators of a day spa located in Saratoga, California. There, Olson was responsible for collecting and paying Social Security, Medicare, and income taxes to the IRS. From the second quarter of 2017 through the fourth quarter of 2020, however, Olson collected but did not pay them over to the IRS or report them on quarterly tax forms.

    In total, Olson caused a tax loss to the IRS exceeding $2.1 million.

    Valdez caused a total tax loss to the IRS of nearly $1.5 million.

    Valdez and Olson are scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 20. Both men face a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Mahana Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Green for the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Makes $360 Million Available to Communities to Increase Number of Trained Firefighters and Keep Communities Safe

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Makes $360 Million Available to Communities to Increase Number of Trained Firefighters and Keep Communities Safe

    DHS Makes $360 Million Available to Communities to Increase Number of Trained Firefighters and Keep Communities Safe

    Additional $36 Million to be Made Available for Research to Improve Firefighter Health and SafetyWASHINGTON – Under the leadership of President Trump, states and localities will be empowered to manage disasters and emergencies

    These fire grant programs align with that vision by helping communities build the response capabilities they need to keep their citizens and communities safe

    Today, FEMA announced that $360 million in funding are available to help keep communities and firefighters safe through the Fiscal Year 2024 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program

    FEMA will award SAFER grants directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations across the country to help them increase or maintain the number of trained firefighters available in their communities

     FEMA also announced that applications will be accepted for $36 million available through the FY 2024 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program

    These funds help strengthen community fire prevention programs and support scientific research on innovations that improve firefighter safety, health and well-being

     In 2024, there were approximately 4,200 home fire fatalities in the United States, including 61 firefighters

    To help keep communities and firefighters safer, FEMA will award SAFER funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to assist in increasing the number of firefighters to help communities meet industry minimum standards and attain 24-hour staffing, provide adequate fire protection from fire and fire-related hazards and fulfill traditional missions of fire departments

    The purpose of the FP&S grant program is to award grants directly to fire departments, national, regional, state, local, Tribal Nation and non-profit organizations such as academic (e

    g

    , universities), research foundations, public safety institutes, public health, occupational health and injury prevention institutions for fire prevention programs and to support firefighter health and safety research and development such as clinical studies that address behavioral, social science and cultural research

    The application period for both the FY24 SAFER and FP&S programs will open at 9 a

    m

    ET on May 23, 2025, and close on July 3, 2025, at 5 p

    m

    ET

    Over the years, SAFER funds have had a big impact in communities around the nation

    The Medway (Massachusetts) Fire Department received $741,443 in SAFER funds to hire four new firefighters

    Chief Jeff Lynch said the award had measurable impacts on the department’s staffing levels and response times

    For example, because of the presence of a firefighter hired using SAFER funds, the department was able to respond with extra personnel to a house fire on March 20, 2019

    The firefighters rescued the family’s pet dog and stopped the fire in time to save their house and belongings

    The FP&S grant program has also made a difference for the fire service

    The Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association (CVVFA) advocates for all fire service in their region, which includes departments in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia

    The group has received more than $3

    5 million in FP&S funding since 2016, spread out over eight awards

    CVVFA used that funding to build ResponderSafety

    com and the Responder Safety Learning Network (RSLN

    org), their resources and programming

    The grant funds have also supported nationwide outreach and education

    Products include 48 online training modules on roadway incident response safety for firefighters; multiple training videos in topics like safe backing up of apparatus and high visibility; and public service announcements featuring emergency services personnel who survived being struck on the roadway and family members of responders who were struck and killed in the line-of-duty

    Since 2005, the SAFER program has awarded approximately $5

    2 billion in grant funding and the FP&S grant program has awarded nearly $900 million since its inception in 2002

     The FY 2024 SAFER and FP&S Notices of Funding opportunity and technical assistance documents for both programs are available at www

    grants

    gov and on the FEMA website here: SAFER and FP&S

    Additional information about upcoming webinars to assist applicants is also available on the FEMA website

    joy

    li
    Tue, 05/20/2025 – 16:45

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Sets Coverage for 32nd SpaceX Resupply Mission Departure

    Source: NASA

    NASA and its international partners will soon receive scientific research samples and hardware after a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft departs the International Space Station on Thursday, May 22, for its return to Earth.
    Live coverage of undocking and departure begins at 11:45 a.m. EDT on NASA+. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media.
    The Dragon spacecraft will undock from the zenith, or space-facing, port of the station’s Harmony module at 12:05 p.m. and fire its thrusters to move a safe distance away from the station under command by SpaceX’s Mission Control in Hawthorne, California.
    After re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, the spacecraft will splash down on Friday, May 23, off the coast of California. NASA will post updates on the agency’s space station blog. There is no livestream video of the splashdown.
    Filled with nearly 6,700 pounds of supplies, science investigations, equipment, and food, the spacecraft arrived at the space station on April 22 after launching April 21 on a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for the agency’s SpaceX 32nd commercial resupply services mission.
    Some of the scientific hardware and samples Dragon will return to Earth include MISSE-20 (Multipurpose International Space Station Experiment), which exposed various materials to space, including radiation shielding and detection materials, solar sails and reflective coatings, ceramic composites for reentry spacecraft studies, and resins for potential use in heat shields. Samples were retrieved on the exterior of the station and can improve knowledge of how these materials respond to ultraviolet radiation, atomic oxygen, charged particles, thermal cycling, and other factors.
    Additionally, Astrobee-REACCH (Responsive Engaging Arms for Captive Care and Handling) is returning to Earth after successfully demonstrating grasping and relocating capabilities on the space station. The REACCH demonstration used Astrobee robots to capture space objects of different geometries or surface materials using tentacle-like arms and adhesive pads. Testing a way to safely capture and relocate debris and other objects in orbit could help address end-of-life satellite servicing, orbit change maneuvers, and orbital debris removal. These capabilities maximize satellite lifespan and protect satellites and spacecraft in low Earth orbit that provide services to people on Earth.
    Books from the Story Time from Space project also will return. Crew members aboard the space station read five science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related children’s books in orbit and videotaped themselves completing science experiments. Video and data collected during the readings and demonstrations were downlinked to Earth and were posted in a video library with accompanying educational materials.
    Hardware and data from a one-year technology demonstration called OPTICA (Onboard Programmable Technology for Image Compression and Analysis) also will return to Earth. The OPTICA technology was designed to advance transmission of real-time, ultra-high-resolution hyperspectral imagery from space to Earth, and it provided valuable insights for data compression and processing that could reduce the bandwidth required for communication, lowering the cost of acquiring data from space-based imaging systems without reducing the volume of data. This technology also could improve services, such as disaster response, that rely on Earth observations.
    For more than 24 years, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge, and conducting critical research for the benefit of humanity and our home planet. Space station research supports the future of human spaceflight as NASA looks toward deep space missions to the Moon under the Artemis campaign and in preparation for future human missions to Mars, as well as expanding commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit and beyond.
    Learn more about the International Space Station at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station
    -end-
    Julian Coltre / Josh FinchHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600julian.n.coltre@nasa.gov / joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov
    Sandra Jones / Joseph ZakrzewskiJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov / joseph.a.zakrzewski@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA to Welcome Expedition 72 Astronauts Home at Space Center Houston 

    Source: NASA

    Four NASA astronauts will participate in a welcome home ceremony at Space Center Houston after recently returning from missions aboard the International Space Station.
    NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Don Pettit will share highlights from their missions at 6 p.m. CDT Thursday, May 22, during a free, public event at NASA Johnson Space Center’s visitor center. The astronauts also will recognize key mission contributors during an awards ceremony after their presentation.
    Williams and Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft and United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on June 5, 2024, from Space Launch Complex 41 as part of NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test. The duo arrived at the space station on June 6. In August, NASA announced the uncrewed return of Starliner to Earth and integrated Wilmore and Williams with the Expedition 71/72 crew and a return on Crew-9.
    Hague launched Sept. 28, 2024, with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida as part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission. The next day, they docked to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module.
    Hague, Gorbunov, Wilmore, and Williams returned to Earth on March 18, 2025, splashing down safely off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida, in the Gulf of America.
    Williams and Wilmore traveled 121,347,491 miles during their mission, spent 286 days in space, and completed 4,576 orbits around Earth. Hague and Gorbunov traveled 72,553,920 miles during their mission, spent 171 days in space, and completed 2,736 orbits around Earth. Hague has logged 374 days in space during two missions. It was the third spaceflight for both Williams and Wilmore. Williams has logged 608 total days in space, and Wilmore has logged 464 days.
    Pettit launched aboard the Soyuz MS-26 spacecraft on Sept. 11, 2024, alongside Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner. The seven-month research mission as an Expedition 72 flight engineer was the fourth spaceflight of Pettit’s career, completing 3,520 orbits of the Earth and a journey of 93.3 million miles. He has logged a total of 590 days in orbit. Pettit and his crewmembers safely landed in Kazakhstan on April 19, 2025 (April 20, 2025, Kazakhstan time).
    The Expedition 72 crew dedicated more than 1,000 combined hours to scientific research and technology demonstrations aboard the International Space Station. Their work included enhancing metal 3D printing capabilities in orbit, exploring the potential of stem cell technology for treating diseases, preparing the first wooden satellite for deployment, and collecting samples from the station’s exterior to examine whether microorganisms can survive in the harsh environment of space. They also conducted studies on plant growth and quality, investigated how fire behaves in microgravity, and advanced life support systems, all aimed at improving the health, safety, and sustainability of future space missions. Pettit also used his spare time and surroundings aboard station to conduct unique experiments and captivate the public with his photography. Expedition 72 captured a record one million photos during the mission, showcasing the unique research and views aboard the orbiting laboratory through astronauts’ eyes.
    For more than 24 years, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge, and conducting critical research for the benefit of humanity and our home planet. Space station research supports the future of human spaceflight as NASA looks toward deep space missions to the Moon under the Artemis campaign and in preparation for future human missions to Mars, as well as expanding commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit and beyond.
    Learn more about the International Space Station at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station
    -end-
    Jaden JenningsJohnson Space Center, Houston713-281-0984jaden.r.jennings@nasa.gov
    Dana DavisJohnson Space Center, Houston281-244-0933dana.l.davis@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ohio County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ohio County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ohio County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Ohio County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Ohio County is located at: Ohio County Community Center, 130 E

    Washington St

    , Hartford, KY 42347 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 05/20/2025 – 13:25

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Webster County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Webster County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Webster County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    –A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Webster County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Webster County is located at: Onton United Methodist Church, 15 Wrightsburg Road, Sebree, KY 42455 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 05/20/2025 – 13:26

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Centers in 6 Kentucky Counties To Permanently Close, Help Is Still Available

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Centers in 6 Kentucky Counties To Permanently Close, Help Is Still Available

    Disaster Recovery Centers in 6 Kentucky Counties To Permanently Close, Help Is Still Available

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    –Disaster Recovery Centers in 6 Kentucky counties will close permanently this weekend

    The center in Leslie County will close at 7 p

    m

    May 23

    The center in Leslie County is located at:911 Dispatch Center, 24770 Highway 421, Hyden, KY 41749 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Friday May 23

    The centers in Breathitt, Knott, Letcher, Martin and the Belfry Public Library location in Pike County will close at 7 p

    m

    May 24

    The centers are located at: Breathitt County, Breathitt County Library, 1024 College Avenue, Jackson, KY 41339Knott County, Knott County Sports Complex, 450 Kennedy Loop #8765, Leburn, KY 41831Letcher County, Letcher County Recreation Center, 1505 Jenkins Road, Whitesburg, KY 41858Martin County, Martin County Public Library, 180 E

    Main St

    , Inez, KY 41224Pike County, Belfry Public Library, 24371 US-119 North, Belfry, KY 41514Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday May 24

    The centers in Floyd and Perry counties and the Pikeville location in Pike County are scheduled to remain open

    These centers are located at:Floyd County, Floyd County Board of Education, 442 KY-550, Eastern, KY 41622Perry County, Hazard Community College, 1 Old Community College Drive, Hazard, KY 41701Pike County, Pike County Public Library, 126 Lee Avenue, Pikeville, KY 41514Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday, and closed Sundays

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    FEMA is urging Kentuckians affected by the February storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is May 25

    Kentuckians affected by the April storms have until June 25 to apply for federal disaster assistance

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 05/20/2025 – 13:28

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in LaRue County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in LaRue County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in LaRue County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in LaRue County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in LaRue County is located at: Emergency Medical Services Classroom, 924 South Lincoln Blvd

    , Hodgenville, KY 42748 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 05/20/2025 – 13:23

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Largest ever multi-agency operation seizes $123.5 million in illicit cannabis

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 20, 2025

    What you need to know: State and local law enforcement partners seized $123.5 million in illegal cannabis in the Central Valley.

    SACRAMENTO – In its largest operation to date, the state’s task force dedicated to eradicating illegal cannabis operations conducted a large-scale, multi-agency operation in the Central Valley, leading to the seizure of 105,700 illicit cannabis plants and 22,057 pounds of processed cannabis worth $123.5 million.  

    Through the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (Task Force), during the week of May 5, 2025, more than 200 sworn officers and staff from 15 state, local, and federal law enforcement partners coordinated a multifaceted search warrant operation through Kern, Kings, and Tulare counties in an area of about 4,600 square miles.

    Let this be a reminder to all who grow cannabis illegally: we won’t tolerate the undermining of our legal industry and impacts to our environment. I appreciate the multi-agency, cross-county efforts to take on the illicit market.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    A total of 71 search warrants were served and nine firearms were confiscated. Throughout the course of the operation, numerous individuals were detained, and several arrests were made. Task Force partners are working with local District Attorney’s offices to file charges and pursue prosecutions. 

    “This operation represents the power of collaboration across agencies with a shared commitment to protecting our natural resources and preserving the integrity of California’s legal cannabis market,” said Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Charlton H. Bonham. “The scale of this historic effort—and its success—would not have been possible without the dedication and coordination of every agency involved.”

    Officers found evidence of banned or restricted pesticides at eight of the locations. These chemicals and waste products pose a serious environmental threat to California’s native species, plants, and habitats and present health risks  to those who ingest the illicit cannabis laced with these products. 

    “This operation sends a clear message: California will not tolerate illicit cannabis activity that threatens public safety, the environment, and the integrity of the legal market,” said Director at the Department of Cannabis Control Nicole Elliott. “The scale of this enforcement effort reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to holding illicit operators accountable while protecting communities and ecosystems across the state.”

    The actions announced today, which are expected to significantly disrupt the illicit cannabis market, are on top of the already staggering work done in recent months to take down nefarious cannabis growers, including the $534 million seized by the task force in 2024 alone.  

    In addition to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Cannabis Control, the co-leads of the task force, the following partners were instrumental in the success of this operation:

    • California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
    • California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
    • California National Guard
    • California State Parks
    • U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
    • Kern County Sheriff’s Office
    • Kern County Probation Department
    • Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
    • San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
    • Kings County Sheriff’s Office
    • Kings County Code Enforcement
    • Kings County District Attorney Investigators
    • Tulare County Sheriff’s Office
    • Tulare County Code Enforcement

    California’s regulated cannabis market is the largest in the world, fostering environmental stewardship, compliance-tested products, and fair labor practices, while driving economic growth and funding vital programs in education, public health, and environmental protection. The Department of Cannabis Control recently released a market outlook report that shows prices are stable, industry value is up, and the licensed market is growing. 

    A unified strategy across California 

    Since its inception in 2022, the Task Force has served 500 search warrants against illicit cannabis operations, seizing and destroying over $650 million in unlicensed cannabis. Operations have resulted in the eradication of more than 800,000 plants and over 220 tons of processed cannabis, along with the seizure of 190 firearms, more than $1 million in cash, and over 50 arrests statewide.

    The cannabis task force was established in 2022 by Governor Newsom to enhance collaboration and enforcement coordination between state, local, and federal partners. Partners on the task force include the Department of Cannabis Control, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Toxic Substances Control, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, among others. 

    To learn more about the legal California cannabis market, state licenses, and laws, visit cannabis.ca.gov.

    Recent news

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    May 19, 2025

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    May 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined Marcie Frost (CEO, CalPERS) and Cassandra Lichnock (CEO, CalSTRS) at the annual Catalyst event for a candid conversation on the role California’s public institutions can play in opening access to funding…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 305

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 305
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    235 PM CDT Tue May 20 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northern Alabama
    Northwest Georgia
    Southeast Illinois
    Southwest Indiana
    Central Kentucky
    Middle Tennessee

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 235 PM until
    1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 2.5 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will spread quickly eastward across the
    watch area through the afternoon and early evening hours. Damaging
    winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes are expected.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 85 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles north of Bowling Green KY to
    35 miles south of Huntsville AL. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 302…WW 303…WW 304…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 25030.

    …Hart

    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 305
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    235 PM CDT Tue May 20 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northern Alabama
    Northwest Georgia
    Southeast Illinois
    Southwest Indiana
    Central Kentucky
    Middle Tennessee

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 235 PM until
    1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 2.5 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will spread quickly eastward across the
    watch area through the afternoon and early evening hours. Damaging
    winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes are expected.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 85 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles north of Bowling Green KY to
    35 miles south of Huntsville AL. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 302…WW 303…WW 304…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 25030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW5
    WW 305 TORNADO AL GA IL IN KY TN 201935Z – 210300Z
    AXIS..85 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    50N BWG/BOWLING GREEN KY/ – 35S HSV/HUNTSVILLE AL/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 75NM E/W /46N BWG – 29NNE VUZ/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25030.

    LAT…LON 37688487 34138529 34138827 37688797

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU5.

    Watch 305 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (60%)

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

    Mod (40%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Executives Plead Guilty to Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Two California men pleaded guilty yesterday to not paying over employment taxes to the IRS.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Lalo Valdez and Matthew Olson, both of Northern California, operated a San Jose-based health informatics and product development company that provided clinical care and technology services to clients in healthcare and academia. Valdez was the CEO and Olson the CFO. As such, both were responsible for the company’s operations, managed its internal books and records, signed checks on behalf of the company, and hired and fired employees. Both men also were responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes from employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the government each quarter. The timely payment of quarterly employment taxes is critical to the functioning of the U.S. government, because, for example, they are the primary source of funding for Social Security and Medicare. The federal income taxes that are withheld from employees’ wages also account for a significant portion of all federal income taxes collected each year.

    For every calendar quarter from the first quarter of 2017 through the second quarter of 2021, Valdez and Olson withheld these taxes from employees’ wages but did not pay them over to the IRS or report them on quarterly tax forms. Instead of paying over the taxes, Valdez and Olson used the company’s money to pay for country club memberships and season tickets to the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League.

    During this same period, Olson also was one of the owners and operators of a day spa located in Saratoga, California. There, Olson was responsible for collecting and paying Social Security, Medicare, and income taxes to the IRS. From the second quarter of 2017 through the fourth quarter of 2020, however, Olson collected but did not pay them over to the IRS or report them on quarterly tax forms.

    In total, Olson caused a tax loss to the IRS exceeding $2.1 million.

    Valdez caused a total tax loss to the IRS of nearly $1.5 million.

    Valdez and Olson are scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 20. Both men face a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Mahana Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Green for the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revitalizing Long Island Downtowns

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 23 transformational projects on Long Island as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Eight projects were announced for Smithtown-Kings Park, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; eight projects were announced for Brookhaven-North Bellport, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and seven projects were announced for Mineola, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Long Island’s towns and villages represent the best of our state, and I’m investing in 23 transformation projects so they can continue to be the hubs of industry and culture we cherish,” Governor Hochul said. “These projects will make our communities stronger for generations of residents and businesses while honoring the historic character that makes New York special.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.” 

    Town of Smithtown – Kings Park

    The Town of Smithtown has already taken significant steps toward revitalizing Kings Park with aggressive housing and economic development goals to catalyze future transformation through the DRI. The DRI projects will help to support the Town’s vision to create a walkable, mixed-use business district centered around the Long Island Rail Road station with access to restaurants, commercial development, community space and new diverse housing opportunities.

    The 8 Smithtown DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Implement Main Street and Pedestrian Improvements ($4,500,000): Implement streetscape and pedestrian improvements to increase walkability and safety for both pedestrians and drivers along Main Street. Improvements may include utility line relocation on Main Street, bulb-outs, reduced curb cuts, widened sidewalks, accessible pedestrian ramps and high-visibility crosswalks. The streetscape improvements would also provide a reconfigured parking lot near 75 Main Street.
    • Install Town Green and Library Outdoor Learning Area with Connections to Local Trails ($1,435,000): Convert an underutilized municipal parking lot and parts of the library’s open space into a new park. The new, expanded park will feature a gazebo/stage, a multi-functional outdoor learning area, a new playground community garden and seating. The park will have expanded pathway connections to the Hike and Bike Trailhead.
    • Transform 26-34 Main Street into Mixed-Use Development ($900,000): Construct a three-story mixed-use development at the heart of Main Street with new retail and community facility spaces and approximately 16 apartments. Building will be further set back from Main Street to widen sidewalks and improve pedestrian experience by Russ Savatt Park.
    • Rehabilitate the Historic Mixed-Use Building at 4 Main Street ($850,000): Renovate the restaurant, apartments and outdoor seating areas of a historic building on Main Street’s most prominent corner. Exterior renovations include lighting, signage, landscaping, windows and insulation. Interior renovations include upgrades to HVAC, flooring, ceilings and equipment.
    • Restore the VFW Building for Community Events at 40 Church Street ($728,000): Complete restorations to enable community facility usage and events including roof, sidings, foundation sealing, windows, sewer connection, new signage and an awning. Interior work includes electrical, HVAC, flooring, painting, plumbing, generator and fire safety.
    • Establish a Small Project Grant Program to Support Capital Improvements ($600,000): Create a small grant fund that will help small businesses and property owners improve exteriors and interiors including signage and awnings, windows, entrances, patios, doors and sidings.
    • Implement Branding, Marketing and Signage Strategy for Kings Park ($400,000): Utilize marketing services to attract businesses and create a cohesive visual identity. This includes the re-design and installation of wayfinding signage, a new web and media presence and new programing strategies.
    • Create a Pedestrian Pathway from LIRR Main Street and Russ Savatt Park ($287,000): Create a pedestrian walkway from the LIRR Station to Main Street via Russ Savatt Park to guide pedestrians and visitors. The walkway will be improved with landscaping, crosswalks and lighting.

    Town of Brookhaven-North Bellport

    The Town of Brookhaven will use public/private partnerships to overcome inequities and strengthen the community. Through the development of NY Forward projects the Town will foster new affordable housing close and accessible to the LIRR station; a mixed-use business district; upgrade public amenities; building façade improvements; and streetscape enhancements to improve pedestrian safety.

    The 8 North Bellport NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Implement Sidewalks and Lighting Improvements ($1,300,000): Implement new sidewalks on Atlantic Ave from Provost to Station Rd and Post Ave from Patchogue to Montauk Hwy. Install lighting on Atlantic Ave from Station Rd to North Dunton Ave, Post Ave and Montauk Hwy.
    • Develop Affordable Homeownership on Ecke Avenue ($1,250,000): Construct 32 homes with 32 Accessory Apartments (ADU) (64 total units) on vacant land.
    • Create Storefronts and Office Space at 1700-1742 Montauk Highway ($786,855): Commercial development with first floor retail and second floor office and community space.
    • Renovate a School Annex at 1415 Montauk Highway ($446,000): Renovate a school annex for Pre-K to second grade classes. Space will host events and programs open to the public.
    • Upgrade Robert Rowley Park ($345,152): Park improvements including upgraded playground equipment and surfacing, landscaping, new benches, upgraded and increased lighting, pickleball courts, basketball court improvements and upgraded fencing and paving.
    • Enhance Bellport Station ($200,000): Improvements to Bellport Station including cleaned up vegetation and new landscaping.
    • Improve Outdoor Space at the Boys and Girls Club ($96,993): Improvements include backyard and playground upgrades, basketball court construction, parking lot lighting and a meditation garden.
    • Upgrade the Facade at 1414 Montauk Highway ($75,000): Reface the exterior of the building and add new lighting, store signage and a sidewalk complex sign.

    Village of Mineola

    The Village of Mineola has engaged in thoughtful planning and supportive zoning changes to attract new businesses and people to the downtown, which has helped create over 1,400 housing units during the last decade. The NY Forward projects will build on these important prior efforts by creating more public spaces in the downtown; developing vacant parcels into mixed-use buildings; and completing placemaking and pedestrian improvements.

    The 7 Mineola NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Redevelop Second and Main Street to Strengthen the Downtown Core ($1,300,000): Expand sidewalks on the north side of Second Street and east side of Main Street, install automatic bollards for temporary road closures, remove utility poles and bury power lines, and enhance streetscapes with landscaping and amenities.
    • Redevelop 199 Jericho Turnpike into a Mixed-Use Building that Preserves the Historic Façade ($1,000,000): Redevelop 199 Jericho Turnpike with a 40,000-square-foot mixed-use building featuring 30 residential apartments, including 15 affordable units and a 2,685-square-foot retail space, while preserving the historic bank façade and adding sidewalk pavers, street trees and parking.
    • Strengthen Pedestrian Streetscapes With a Focus on Lighting the Downtown Core and Installing Area-Wide Wayfinding ($850,000): Install wayfinding and gateway signage to promote Village identity and guide visitors to key destinations, while enhancing streetscapes with trees, planters, seating and the removal of cluttered poles.
    • Install a Public Mural on the Pavilion Garage and Activate Surrounding Public Space ($505,000): Install a large-scale mural on the north-facing wall of The Pavilion Parking Garage and transform the ground area into a flexible space with landscaping, lighting, seating and public amenities to create an inviting environment for events, commuters and residents.
    • Activate and Improve Connection from Station Plaza to Second Street Passageway ($417,000): Enhance pedestrian connectivity between the train station and Downtown Mineola by upgrading the Mineola Boulevard Bridge underpasses and Morgan Parc alleyway with improved lighting, public art and aesthetic enhancements.
    • Establish a Small Project Fund to Support Local Businesses and Improve the Public Realm ($300,000): Establish a fund to support property improvements within the NYF Area, offering grants for façade enhancements, signage, building renovations, accessibility upgrades, sustainability projects and public art, with tailored guidelines for private and non-profit applicants.
    • Renovate Facade of the St. James to Promote a More Vibrant Second Street ($128,000): Renovate the St. James façade to modernize its appearance with French sliding doors, updated lighting, new signage, an upgraded entryway and enhanced surface treatments to enhance customer experience and align with Second Street’s revitalization.

    In the FY25 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for cities, towns and villages to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward. To date, more than 300 municipalities across the State have become certified. To further support localities that are doing their part to address the housing crisis, Governor Hochul secured $100 million in the FY26 Enacted Budget to create a Pro-Housing Supply fund to assist certified Pro-Housing Communities with critical infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing, such as sewer and water infrastructure upgrades.

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.” 

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

     Empire State Development Board Chair Kevin Law said, “As a Long Islander, I’m especially proud to see these transformative investments in Kings Park, North Bellport, and Mineola. These awards demonstrate how targeted funding can reinvigorate commercial centers while preserving their distinct identities. These projects address critical needs—enhancing accessibility around transit hubs, diversifying residential options, and modernizing infrastructure—that will position these localities for long-term prosperity and fuel regional economic growth that will benefit Long Islanders for generations.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “From creating a walkable, transit-connected downtown in Kings Park to advancing affordable housing and public amenities in North Bellport, and mixed-use revitalization in Mineola, these projects are reshaping Long Island’s economic landscape. Through DRI and NY Forward, we’re delivering smart, community-driven investments that support small businesses, strengthen infrastructure, and foster vibrant, inclusive downtowns where residents and visitors alike can thrive.”

    State Senator Siela A. Bynoe said, “The seven NY Forward Projects planned in the Village of Mineola are a welcome investment in the future of the village and its residents. These grants stand as a testament to the forward-thinking work the Village of Mineola has engaged in to attract business and increase housing. It is an exciting opportunity for the village to now expand on that work with beautified streetscapes, improved lighting, support for local businesses, and increased walkability. I extend my gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing the transformational effect of investing in our downtowns.”

    Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said, “I’m incredibly proud and grateful to see Kings Park’s vision come to life through the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative. From Main Street beautification, which includes the prospect for the highly sought-after utility line relocation, to the new Town Green, Library Outdoor Learning Area, trail access and pedestrian connections to the LIRR and Russ Savatt Park, these projects will give our downtown the vibrant facelift it truly deserves—right where our community gathers every day. This milestone reflects the hard work of a talented team of planners, environmental experts, consultants, and our partners in government. I want to sincerely thank Governor Kathy Hochul, Empire State Development, the Regional Economic Development Council, and especially the Kings Park community for their continued input and commitment throughout this incredible process.”

    Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Daniel J. Panico said, “The people and community of North Bellport have been and continue to be a priority of mine since being elected Supervisor of Brookhaven Town. This investment continues the positive momentum forward toward brighter days. I have long believed that people believe more of what they see with their eyes compared to what they hear with their ears. Accordingly, this investment will deliver tangible improvements and will enable us to continue our work in the North Bellport community. I thank the Governor, her staff, and all those who see the value in partnering with and investing in Brookhaven Town.”

    Village of Mineola Mayor Paul Pereira said, “The Village of Mineola is excited to get these transformational projects started. The NY Forward Program will help the village achieve its goals of revitalizing the downtown into the premier destination on Long Island that it deserves to be. The local planning committee worked tirelessly with the community and the state planners to present the most transformative projects possible. As these projects get under way, along with the projects that have already been approved locally, our residents can see the positive change that is happening. Thank you to the governor and her team for their continued support of our great community. We are excited to get to work.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

     About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –