Category: Natural Disasters

MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Details Trump Administration’s Destruction Of USAID, Deadly Consequences That Followed As Senate Considers Codifying DOGE Cuts

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

WASHINGTON – As the U.S. Senate considers a rescissions package to codify $9 billion dollars in cuts to foreign assistance and public broadcasting, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) spoke out against the Trump administration’s illegal dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the catastrophic consequences the elimination of aid has had on vulnerable people around the world. Schatz, who is the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations which oversees foreign assistance, noted that over 360,000 people had already died as a result of not having food and medication in the wake of the funding cuts. Schatz also noted that the none of the programs that Republicans have objected to are currently active, and that the funding being rescinded is valid through the end of the next fiscal year and can be reprogrammed by the Trump administration to reflect its priorities.

“Presidents can save lives. They can also cost lives. And while almost every president has chosen to do the former, Donald Trump, aided by a band of loyalists and ideologues, has chosen instead to inflict death and disease and starvation on the world’s most vulnerable,” said Senator Schatz. “We used to be the indispensable nation that people around the world counted on for help. People would see the American flag, whether on the side of a truck or a sticker on a food parcel, and think, ‘The good guys are here. Help is coming,’ But not anymore. We are causing death now. We are spreading disease now. We are deepening starvation now.”

Senator Schatz continued, “We are not going to prevent every death – we know that. We’re not going to be able to feed every child – we understand that. We cannot feasibly help every community that needs help – we accept that. But this is something different altogether. This is knowingly and willingly and needlessly inflicting horrific suffering on millions and millions of the most vulnerable people live anywhere on the planet. And for what? To save money? The idea that any of this is about finding savings, while at the same time, Republicans are exploding the national debt by $4 trillion to cut taxes for billionaires just doesn’t pass the smell test. And to top it all off, the administration is about to incinerate – is about to light on fire – 500 metric tons of food aid because they let it expire while sitting in a warehouse for months.”

“There were a bunch of controversial programs that precipitated this effort to cut USAID. All of those programs were discontinued. This is a budget that was enacted in March. This is Trump’s budget. This is Trump’s State Department. This is economic support funds. This is global public health. This is humanitarian assistance. This is helping our friends in Jordan and elsewhere to maintain the basic stability so that there is not a conflagration in a region. That is what’s being rescinded from this package,” Senator Schatz added.

A transcript of Senator Schatz’s remarks is below. Video is available here.

It all started with the stroke of a pen. Within hours of taking office in January, the president signed what can only be called a death sentence to millions of people all over the world. Executive Order 14 169 simply read, “It is the policy of the United States that no further United States foreign assistance shall be disbursed in a manner that is not fully aligned with the foreign policy of the president of the United States.” The order directed a 90 day pause in payments while foreign assistance was reviewed. But it became clear that this was not a process for reviewing or reforming programs. It was the beginning of the end, a wholesale destruction of the enterprise from top to bottom, in defiance of the law and of logic.

Presidents can save lives. They can also cost lives. And while almost every president has chosen to do the former, Donald Trump, aided by a band of loyalists and ideologues, has chosen instead to inflict death and disease and starvation on the world’s most vulnerable. We used to be the indispensable nation that people around the world counted on for help. People would see the American flag, whether on the side of a truck or a sticker on a food parcel, and think, the good guys are here. Help is coming.

But not anymore. We are causing death now. We are spreading disease now. We are deepening starvation now. And it’s not because it’s saving us huge sums of money, or because saving lives somehow stopped being in our national interest. All of this suffering and misery is because a few people were hellbent on ransacking the government and tearing down whatever it is that they didn’t like or they didn’t understand, to hell with the consequences. To them, the lives lost or just the cost of doing business. Move fast and break things is the ethos of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. But when you move fast and you break things in the United States Agency for International Development, tens of thousands of people perish.

So let’s start with how we got here. Following Trump’s executive order, Secretary Rubio and Peter Marocco, the new director of the State Department’s Office of Foreign Assistance, issued a stop work order on all 6,200 grants and contracts worldwide. They also ordered an immediate pause on new foreign assistance spending. That meant that partners who had already completed work were not getting paid. Contracts that had already been signed couldn’t be executed. Days later, Marocco, along with a bunch of DOGE staffers, including a 19-year-old and a 23-year-old, physically barged into U.S. aid and forced dozens of senior career officials to be put on leave over so-called insubordination. These people were just doing their jobs. His issue seemingly was with payments that had been approved before the executive order and were then making their way through the USAID payment system. Nevertheless, the career civil servants were escorted out of the building and locked out of their emails.

Anyone who dared to push back or speak up was sidelined, including the acting administrator, who was pushed out to make way for Marocco to become deputy administrator. As he and his team looked for not just savings or efficiencies, but what they called “viral abuse” that would be easy to mock out of context, Fox Mews stepped into the breach to help for days on end. Their chyrons blared: “Viper’s Nest: USAID Accused of Corruption Long Before Trump Administration Took Aim.” “More Ridiculous USAID Spending Revealed.” “Elon Purged DC’s Slush Fund.”

As the smear campaign kicked into overdrive. DOGE locked out all of the agency’s employees, including those working in conflict zones, from their phones and emails. And in early February, Musk tweeted, “USAID is a criminal organization. Time for it to die.” Days later, after carrying out the destruction, he wrote, “We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the woodchipper.”

And just like that, one of the United States’ primary instruments of soft power over the last 60 years, which has done everything from curing diseases to thwarting terrorism, was decapitated overnight. USAID’s success in moral, political, economic, and security terms was made possible by scores of public servants who felt a responsibility to alleviate suffering, even if that meant putting themselves in harm’s way. But in the end, it was torn down by a bunch of crazed ideologues who saw foreign assistance as an easy target to test drive their project of crippling the government.

Perhaps abolishing the health department or the VA in the first few weeks was a bridge too far. But here was money going to help people in, as Madeleine Albright used to say, faraway places with hard to pronounce names. And no matter how much good it was doing for the people whose lives were saved and communities were built, but also for our national security – none of that mattered when all you had to do was make up some lies to justify the vandalism.

It’s been only a few months and already the loss of USAID and its critical work around the world has been catastrophic. More than 360,000 people have died as a result of the cuts. 360,000 deaths. And so I will be damned if I let a pundit, or Democratic strategist, or Republican strategist tell me that the American people signed up for allowing 360,000 people to die. On purpose. For what? Deficit reduction? And to Patty Murray’s point, two weeks ago, they just blew up the deficit by trillions of dollars. The amount of money that it takes to save a starving child, or to prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS from mother to child, is minuscule. And we do this because we’re the good guys. And we do this because it’s cheap. And we do this because when we need something from a friend in a foreign land, they think of us well, because we’re always on the scene to be helpful.

These are not hypothetical or distant outcomes. We are no longer arguing about what might happen in the future. We are talking about what is happening across the planet right now. People are dying right now, not in spite of us, but because of us. We are causing death. We have gone from being the good guys – flaws, mistakes and all – to being a conduit for death and sickness and hunger.

A ten-year-old boy named Peter in South Sudan contracted HIV from his mother at birth. His parents died while he was young, but medication through PEPFAR kept him alive. That was until February, when, without access to medication, Peter fell severely sick and later died. The health outreach worker who had cared for him said simply, “If USAID would be here, Peter would not have died.”

A pregnant woman in a Liberian village hemorrhaged and began to bleed heavily while in labor. But without gas, because of funding cuts, USAID ambulances stood idle, unable to help. And despite her neighbors’ best efforts to carry her ten miles on foot through the jungle to the nearest hospital, she died mid-journey, along with her unborn son.

Dorcas, a ten-year-old in Zambia, had gotten so used to her routine of taking HIV medication every night with her mom that she was confused when it ran out a few months ago. Her mom recounted: “In the past week, she’ll open up the tin and find that it’s empty. So she’ll run down to the clinic and go check if she can collect her medication, and she’ll come back and say, oh, you’re right, the clinic is closed. They’re not there anymore.”

In Sudan, which has been ravaged by war and gripped by famine, a mother watched two of her children under the age of three wither from malnutrition and die after a soup kitchen that had been supported by USAID closed overnight. Days before he died, the older of the two children had asked for porridge. “I told him, we don’t have any wheat to make that,” his mother recalled, adding that the soup kitchen’s daily meal – which the family was shared – was a godsend.

A mother in Nigeria worried about how she would keep her infant alive, having just lost the other twin to malnutrition in the wake of funding cuts. A peanut paste supplement that had been paid for by American foreign assistance had been used to treat her newborns for malnutrition. She wondered about how she’d feed her child. And she said, “I don’t want to bury another child.”

There are thousands and thousands of gut-wrenching stories just like these – from every corner of the planet; with newborns and children and families and communities. And this is only what’s happened in the last few months. Just imagine what’s going to happen if we codify these cuts.

We are not going to prevent every death – we know that. We’re not going to be able to feed every child – we understand that. We cannot feasibly help every community that needs help – we accept that. But this is something different altogether. This is knowingly and willingly and needlessly inflicting horrific suffering on millions and millions of the most vulnerable people live anywhere on the planet. And for what? To save money? The idea that any of this is about finding savings, while at the same time, Republicans are exploding the national debt by $4 trillion to cut taxes for billionaires just doesn’t pass the smell test. And to top it all off, the administration is about to incinerate – is about to light on fire – 500 metric tons of food aid because they let it expire while sitting in a warehouse for months.

They are lighting food on fire. Food grown in the United States, manufactured in the United States, to be sent out to the most vulnerable people on the planet with a sticker with the United States emblem on it. And Making America Great Again, apparently, is doing all of that and then letting it rot in a warehouse and then incinerating it. What the hell are we doing here? You want to have a conversation about debt and deficits? You want to have a conversation about aligning our foreign policy better? You want to have a conversation about whether or not the State Department – not the USAID agency – should have been funding operas and cultural enterprises in foreign countries. Fine. We can have that conversation. But I dare you to justify lighting food on fire.

It wasn’t so long ago that a Republican senator stood on this very floor, talking about those in his party who claimed that cutting foreign aid was an easy way to save money. “A lot of times people will say, well, ‘Cut foreign aid.’ But foreign aid is less than 1% of our budget. Foreign aid can make a difference when properly used. And if you ever have a chance to travel to the African continent, you will meet people who are alive today because the American taxpayer funded antiviral HIV medications that kept them alive. It is not easy to radicalize people who are alive because of the American taxpayer.” That was Secretary Rubio as Senator Rubio.

Why is this happening at all? I worry that there is a very specific and rather dark view about what the United States is capable of. It’s a view of our military. It’s a view of our economic power. It’s a view of our cultural power. And it’s a view of our moral authority. Which is the best path forward, as we decline, is to lock it down, is to not engage with the world, is to not project power militarily, culturally, economically, morally.

We are going from the indispensable nation. And by the way, this is a real thing. If you ever do foreign policy trips, people hang on the words of United States senators who sit on the Foreign Relations Committee. First among equals. People want to know, what’s the United States doing? What’s the United States doing? It doesn’t matter what the issue is. It could be it could be fighting malnutrition. It could be economics and trade. It could be military strategy. Everyone wants to know: what’s the United States doing? You know what has changed in the last six months? They’re moving on from us. They’re not waiting to hear what the United States is doing. They’ve seen what the United States is doing. In Trump 1.0, we could basically be reassuring and say, ‘We’ll be back, don’t worry. We’re going through a rocky time.’

Now, China is in the breech. China has stepped up. It’s not just that America’s retreat is bad for us. It is really good for China. It is great for Russia. It’s great if you’re Hungary. The Kremlin was nearly instantaneous with its praise calling the dismantling of the foreign aid enterprise a smart move. Autocrats in Hungary and El Salvador also celebrated USAID’s demise. Now there’s a basic principle in political campaigns, which is if you are doing something that your opponent loves, you may want to reconsider whether it’s a good strategy. The moment we did this, all the bad guys were like, ‘Very smart. Good job. We’re very happy for you. Excellent.’ China has seized this opportunity with a little more specificity because they have the opportunity to step into this role. They are working on child nutrition and landmine clearing in Cambodia. Health and education in Nepal. Disaster response in Myanmar. Climate resilience in Mongolia. And it doesn’t take a great deal of imagination to understand what this will look like in a few years’ time. China will become the partner of choice for countries, big and small, all around the world. It will have increased its funding to global bodies like the World Health Organization, enabling it to win leadership posts and rewrite the rules in its favor. And we will have facilitated that process.

So that’s the background. Now let’s talk about the specifics of what’s in this package. And this point I want to make really clear. And I made this point in the Appropriations Committee. There were a bunch of controversial programs that precipitated this effort to cut USAID. Two points to be made. One, the total dollar amount of all the controversial programs was like in the $100-200 million range. That’s number one.

Number two is all of those programs were discontinued. This is a budget that was enacted in March. This is Trump’s budget. This is Trump’s State Department. This is Trump’s USAID. And so there is not a single thing that was on that Fox chyron that Marco Rubio is continuing to do. So this rescissions package doesn’t have any of that stuff. And by the way, some of my Republican colleagues who understandably weren’t super engrossed in the details, I had to send them a line-by-line of what these rescissions do. And they’re sitting there going, ‘Where’s the opera in Ecuador? Where’s the cultural exchange program or the parade in South Africa? Where’s all the goofy sounding stuff?’

And the answer is a lot of that stuff was made up in the first place. But even if you stipulate to the idea that there was inappropriate spending, it’s literally not in this package. What’s in this package is stuff that 90 out of 100 of us have asked for. And what do I mean by that? I mean, as the ranking member of the State and Foreign Ops Subcommittee – basically as a chair or ranking member of any of the subcommittees – you get a bunch of letters from your colleagues saying: ‘This program is important to me. Could you please take care of it in the coming appropriation cycle?’ And these letters are private and I will protect the confidentiality of these interactions. But suffice it to say, a lot of the people voting for the rescissions are also privately asking for me to fund the thing that they are defunding. So this is all about the momentum that came from DOGE and Trump and some tweets and some animus – real animus – to the foreign aid enterprise.

So let’s go through what’s in it. $4.15 billion for economic support and development assistance. Our economic and development assistance is not charity. It is for countering the influence of the People’s Republic of China or promoting regional stability. This work is in our economic and security interests. If this administration disagrees with some of the projects pursued by the previous administration, the good news is they have pretty broad authority to reprogram the money. Like if we’re doing a program, I don’t want to name a country because it’ll have foreign policy implications. If we’re doing a program in a country and this administration says, you know, that’s not as important. They don’t have to rescind the money. They can reprogram it to China or Russia or Ukraine or whatever it is. They have that flexibility. What they are saying is they want less money to counter foreign influence.

$563 million for treaty dues. Now we’re members of organizations with whom we disagree. That’s kind of the deal, right? Because if we want to be in an international forum, even arguing for our interests, even arguing against other countries, or being frustrated with the body with which we’re interacting, we have two choices. We can either participate. Or if we don’t pay our dues, we relegate ourselves to something called observer status, which basically means we’re on the outside looking in. In order to get in the room, you got to pay your dues to the relevant organization. And that is what we’re doing here. We’re rescinding all the funds for all of the payments to all these international organizations.

Why? Not because it’s in our foreign policy interests. It’s actually not, but because a bunch of ideologues don’t actually understand how foreign policy works. And that’s the thing here. You can have a different view under whatever it is to have an America First foreign policy. But this isn’t that. This is just vandalism, right? I’m not having a disagreement with Jim Risch about how hawkish to be or how much to prioritize global health versus something else. We’re just literally cutting off our nose to spite our face, because what they want is vandalism to the enterprise. And the tools of foreign policy are being shredded. So this isn’t about policy unless you think the policy is: I wish my State Department were weaker. I wish the tools in our toolkit were more limited. I wish our ability to prevent war and keep nations stable were less well funded. I wish that the only tool in our toolkit was military might.

And it is not a small thing that many former Secretaries of Defense have said something along the lines of if you defund foreign aid, I’m going to need more ammunition because this is the cheapest way to prevent war.

$500 million from global health programs. Now, the new Republican proposal protects some of those programs funded by this account, but it leaves out pandemic prevention, family planning, and work on a wide range of issues.

$1.3 billion for migration and refugee assistance and international disaster assistance. This funding supports our efforts to help refugees and other displaced people in conflict zones around the world. You know, most of us at some point out of the 100 of us do some sort of CODEL, some sort of foreign travel, and this is the kind of stuff we visit. And this is the stuff on a bipartisan basis that we all nod approvingly about. It’s great that we’re doing this. It’s great that we’re providing this kind of assistance. And $1.3 billion for refugee assistance is being cut.

And I’ll tell you why. It’s because it’s got the word refugee in it. I mean, that’s how they figured out what they wanted to cut, right? They ran word searches. They’re pretending it’s sophisticated. Maybe it was, maybe it wasn’t. But all they were doing was looking for words like gender. Or looking for words like climate. Looking for words like equity. Looking for words like refugee. And if the program was named in such a way that it mentioned it, just use those words. It was out. Just totally preposterous.

Our contributions to and participate to participation in organizations like UNICEF is being cut. I mean, good luck explaining why you cut UNICEF. I’m pretty good at like imagining what my political competitors on the other side of the aisle would say. But why did you cut UNICEF? Like, are you trying to pretend that some number of hundreds of millions of dollars to prevent starvation among children is like going to do the trick in terms of getting debt and deficits under control? Nobody actually believes that. Why are you cutting UNICEF? If this is about tightening our belts? Why would you cut UNICEF?

$460 million for the assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia. This account funds a whole bunch of bipartisan foreign policy priorities, including energy security in Ukraine, that will be cut completely if this recession is enacted. If there were programs under the previous administration that the current administration disagrees with, good news: they literally have the authority to reprogram those dollars. This is two-year money. It doesn’t actually have to be spent by the end of the federal fiscal year. They have pretty good authority to reprogram it, but they don’t want to reprogram it to something that they consider important. They want to shred the enterprise.

$125 million for the U.S. Agency for International Development operating expenses. Now, this administration is illegally dismantling USAID and functionally merging it under the State Department. Here’s the problem with the $125 million. And yes, it’s admin expenses. I’ve been in the nonprofit sector and I’ve been in the grant giving side, and nobody loves the idea of paying for administrative expenses. But I know for a fact the State Department didn’t want this in the rescissions package. Because now that they have merged USAID under the State Department, they literally don’t have the money, and they’ve got to absorb $125 million hit.

$100 million for the Transition Initiatives in the Complex Crisis Fund. This is flexible funding and contingency accounts that didn’t expire, and the administration can program it in any way they want.

$83 million for the Democracy Fund. $83 million. Promoting democratic values is directly in our interest and supporting resistance to dictators – resistance to dictators. We’re cutting resistance to dictators. Good for us. Make America Great Again. Ronald Reagan would be proud. The party of Cold Warriors, the party that vanquished the Soviet Union, the party that claims a hawkish mantle is now saying, you know what? This thing which is probably 0.00 whatever of the entire federal spend and an even tinier amount of the debt and deficit of the United States. Let’s defund that, because it’s not our business if dictators maintain power. It’s a real change in policy here.

$27 million for the Inter-American Foundation. This provides small, cost effective grants and technical support for locally led development projects. Strengthening stability and self-reliance in partner countries is in our interest. And this is another one that I get a lot of letters from these guys saying, ‘Please fund it. Dear Ranking Chairman Graham and Ranking Member Schatz, this program is super important. And would you please fund it in the next appropriations cycle?’ That’s the private letter that we get. The public action is to rescind the money.

$22 million for the African Development Foundation. The administration says the African Development Foundation’s work is duplicative of the State Department’s work. But the kind of grants and technical support that the African Development Foundation provides is not available through the State Department.

15 million bucks for the United States Institute of Peace. A creature of statute. A creature of one of the first senators from the great state of Hawai‘i. Mr. Spark Matsunaga.

The through line between all of this is that there’s no correlation between the rationale provided by the administration for these cuts, and what’s actually in the package. And I’ve talked to Eric Schmidt, with whom I have a reasonable, functional working relationship. But we’re like talking past each other. Because every time I talk about what’s actually in this package, he pivots back to what’s actually not in this package and starts naming line items on things that are not in the eight-page rescissions bill. This is not the BBB which took 11.5 hours to read. This thing is eight pages. You can go and see there is no line item for $1.8 billion for operas and festivals and underwater basket weaving and whatever else nonsense people wanted to characterize as the U.S. foreign aid enterprise. This is economic support funds. This is global public health. This is humanitarian assistance. This is helping our friends in Jordan and elsewhere to maintain the basic stability so that there is not a conflagration in a region. That’s what’s in this package. That is what’s being rescinded from this package.

I understand that there is some obligation as a party member to oblige the requests of this party’s president. I get it. But we are still a system with separate, co-equal, independent branches of government. The problem is, if you don’t assert your authority, you don’t functionally have it. So it’s true that we hold the purse strings. It’s true that we’re the Article One branch. It’s true that we’re in charge of whether a bill passes or not. But I will tell you, the thing that is most alarming to me is not the bad policy outcomes – and there are terrible policy outcomes. The thing that is most alarming to me is that I have not yet seen in the last six months, in this final term of Donald Trump, what I saw in the first term of Donald Trump. Which is quietly, not rudely, not provocatively, but occasionally, this branch of government, on a bipartisan basis, stood up for itself and said – and those guys would say – ‘Look, we love you, Mr. Trump. We love you, Mr. President. But on this one, I can’t be with you.’

And on BBB, I understand, like it’s very hard to reject the president’s signature policy accomplishment. But this seemed like one where we could have gotten four no votes. This really did, to me, seem like one where it would be a good opportunity to stand up to the president and just say, like, we’re going to do the appropriating over here. Like, let me show you what Article One says and what Article Two says, and we’re going to defer to you on lots of matters, but not 100% of matters.

And so my question is if they’re going to have the votes to enact this rescission package. When is it that Republicans are going to stand up for their own prerogatives? And why would you run for office? Would you put your family through all of that? Would you go through the difficulty of a campaign? Would you go through the difficulty of being a public figure and subject to scrutiny and criticism, and all of the late nights and the kind of uncomfortable interactions and all that? It really is a sacrifice. It’s certainly an honor, but it’s also a sacrifice. Why would you do that if you don’t get to make up your own mind?

I don’t pretend to be able to get into the mind or the position of a Republican colleague of mine. I’m from Hawaii. It’s different. But I do think that there’s a point at which it’s just not worth it to give this guy every single thing that he wants. And it would be important, and it will age well, and your family will be happy and your staff will be secretly happy, at least some of them, if at some point you establish that there are some limits to the executive branch’s power.

MIL-OSI Security: KC Sex Offender Sentenced to 12 Years for Illegal Firearm

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm after officers found a firearm when they investigated him for driving while intoxicated.

Bryan A. Bay, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 12 years in federal prison without parole. Bay’s sentence was ordered to run consecutive to a state sentence for endangering the welfare of a child.

On Feb. 27, 2025, Bay pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On July 7, 2023, Independence, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to investigate a report that the occupants of a Chevrolet Silverado were passed out. The officers contacted the occupants and identified Bay as the driver of the vehicle. Bay appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. A computer check of Bay showed that he is a registered sex offender and on supervision through Missouri Probation and Parole for endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree and domestic assault in the second degree. Officers located a Smith and Wesson, Model SD9, semi-automatic pistol. The firearm was loaded with a 12-round magazine with one round in the chamber.

On Oct. 4, 2023, Independence, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to a residence for an aggravated assault. The victim reported that Bay, her ex-boyfriend, refused to leave her residence and threatened her. She ran into the street to get away from Bay. Her cousin saw her and got into his vehicle to get away from Bay, and Bay’s ex-girlfriend got into the passenger seat. The victim reported that Bay opened the door where she was seated and pointed his 300 blackout AR-15 in the middle of her forehead. Investigators did not locate Bay and issued a pickup order for Bay.

On Nov. 10, 2023, Kansas City, Mo. Police Department officers conducted a car check on a Kia, which was bearing a license plate that belonged to a Saturn. Officers contacted Bay, who was standing between the Kia and his Chevrolet Silverado. Officers arrested Bay on a parole violation warrant and the stop order previously issued by the Independence, Mo. Police Department.

Officers searched Bay’s Chevrolet Silverado and found approximately 5.49 grams of a crystal substance and 7.67 grams of a powder substance. Both substances tested positive for methamphetamine. Officers also found an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, multi-caliber pistol.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Bay has two prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance and prior felony convictions for domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Bay’s conviction for endangering the welfare of a child requires him to register as a sex offender.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Independence, Missouri Police Department and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

MIL Security OSI –

MIL-OSI USA: McClellan Introduces Resolution on Extreme Weather’s Threat to Children’s Health and Well-Being

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) led 32 of her colleagues to introduce a resolution calling on Congress to acknowledge and address the threat extreme weather poses to children’s health and well-being.

H.Res. 585 urges Congress to develop solutions that account for children’s unique developmental vulnerabilities as they relate to extreme weather conditions and highlights enforceable and adaptive measures, such as timely and accessible public extreme weather alerts; education and training for health care professionals, educators and caregivers; and expanded access to safe places for children and families during extreme weather events.

“Just in the past month, extreme weather events have utterly devastated communities across the country — and we know that climate change only accelerates the frequency and intensity of these events,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “As a mother, I am fighting to advance climate and environmental policies that ensure a safe, habitable planet for our children and future generations to thrive. My resolution calls on Congress to implement solutions to comprehensively protect the health and well-being of our nation’s children, who have the most at stake in the decisions we make today.”

The resolution lays out specific impacts of extreme weather on child and adolescent health, including:

Children’s disproportionate exposure to pollutants in the air, increasing levels of wildfire smoke, and changing dust patterns that negatively impact children’s developing bodies and behavioral patterns;
Extreme heat’s link to impairment in children’s cognition, making it harder for them to learn at school, and an increase in schools across the country closing for heat days, disrupting academic performance; and
The disproportionate impact of life-altering trauma due to extreme weather disasters, including separation from or harm to caregivers, interruption in education, and other adverse mental health impacts that exacerbate the mental health crisis children and adolescents already face.

McClellan’s resolution is endorsed by Moms Clean Air Force, Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, American Association of Children and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, American Medical Informatics Association, American Public Health Association, Association of Community Health Nursing Educators, Association of Public Health Nurses, Children & Nature Network, Children’s Environmental Health Network, Climate Mental Health Network, Climate Psychiatry Alliance, Climate Psychology Alliance, Council of Public Health Nursing Organizations, ecoAmerica, Environmental Defense Fund, First Focus on Children, Green Schoolyards America, Mothers Out Front, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National League for Nursing, OneGreenThing, Physicians for Social Responsibility, Sierra Club, Society of Behavioral Medicine, Trust for America’s Health, Virginia Clinicians for Climate Action, and ZERO TO THREE.

“Extreme weather events, supercharged by climate pollution, are going to become more frequent, more intense —and more dangerous,” said Dominique Browning, Founder of Moms Clean Air Force. “We are indebted to Representative McClellan for her leadership in protecting our children. With the weather on steroids, we must consider children’s unique vulnerabilities as we create and fund adaptations. Moms Clean Air Force will continue our fight against climate and air pollution. But we must also adapt to the damaging effects now baked into our weather systems, so we can keep our children safe.”

Read the full resolution text here.

MIL-OSI China: Israel strikes Syrian presidential palace area, army HQ in Damascus

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

Israeli warplanes intensified their air campaign across southern Syria on Wednesday, striking the Syrian Army General Command headquarters and the presidential palace area in central Damascus.

The Syrian health authorities said one civilian was killed, and 18 others injured in the strikes on the capital, which included at least five separate air raids targeting central Damascus. Footage aired on local TV showed smoke billowing from Umayyad Square, where the army’s main command building is located.

Smoke is seen near the Syrian Army General Command headquarters in Damascus, Syria, on July 16, 2025. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said parts of the headquarters and the defense authorities were destroyed, and additional strikes hit buildings in the upscale al-Malki neighborhood and near the Tishreen Palace. The fate of senior officials inside the facilities remained unknown.

An Israeli military spokesperson confirmed the operation, saying that “the military headquarters in Damascus is the location from which Syrian regime commanders direct combat operations and deploy regime forces to the Sweida area.”

In a statement, the spokesperson added that also “a military target in the area of the Syrian regime’s presidential palace in Damascus was struck.”

A fire truck is seen near a structure damaged in an Israeli airstrike at the Syrian Army General Command headquarters in Damascus, Syria, on July 16, 2025. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

In southern Syria, Israeli strikes also targeted government forces’ convoys and positions in Sweida province, killing at least three senior officers in the village of al-Majimer, according to the observatory. Earlier raids in the region had killed at least seven others, bringing the total toll among government forces to 10.

Additional air raids late Wednesday struck multiple locations in and around Daraa city, including the governor’s palace, the military intelligence branch, and the civil registry office, the observatory said. Further strikes hit the 189th regiment in Jabab and the 132nd brigade west of Daraa, prompting ambulances to rush to the scene.

In the Damascus countryside, Israeli jets also bombed the town of al-Kiswah, though no casualties were immediately reported.

Photo taken on July 16, 2025 shows a building of the Syrian Army General Command headquarters damaged in an Israeli airstrike in Damascus, Syria. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

The strikes came after the collapse of a ceasefire between Syrian government forces and armed Druze groups in Sweida, the heartland of the Druze community in Syria. The war monitor said at least 248 people have been killed in the area since Sunday.

The Druze are a religious and ethnic minority originating from Islam, living primarily in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel, with smaller communities in Jordan and elsewhere.

Israel carried out several waves of strikes in Damascus and Sweida, with the stated aim of preventing the Druze minority from being harmed.

MIL OSI China News –

MIL-OSI: OceanFirst Financial Corp. Announces 2025 Stock Repurchase Program

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RED BANK, N.J., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OceanFirst Financial Corp. (NASDAQ:“OCFC”), (the “Company”), the holding company for OceanFirst Bank N.A. (the “Bank”), today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a 2025 Stock Repurchase Program, under which the Company may repurchase up to 3 million shares, or approximately 5% of its outstanding common stock. This authorization is incremental to the Company’s existing 2021 Stock Repurchase Program.

“The repurchase program underscores our belief that OceanFirst shares represent a compelling investment opportunity,” said Christopher D. Maher, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “The program enhances our capital deployment flexibility, allowing us to respond opportunistically to market conditions while maintaining the capacity to invest in organic growth, strategic initiatives, and shareholder returns.”

OceanFirst Financial Corp.’s press releases are available by visiting us at www.oceanfirst.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

In addition to historical information, this news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies and expectations of the Company. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by use of the words “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “will”, “should”, “may”, “view”, “opportunity”, “potential”, or similar expressions or expressions of confidence. The Company’s ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. Factors which could have a material adverse effect on the operations of the Company and its subsidiaries include, but are not limited to: changes in interest rates, inflation, general economic conditions, including potential recessionary conditions, levels of unemployment in the Company’s lending area, real estate market values in the Company’s lending area, potential goodwill impairment, natural disasters, potential increases to flood insurance premiums, the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events, the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies, and retaliatory responses, the level of prepayments on loans and mortgage-backed securities, legislative/regulatory changes, monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. Government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the quality or composition of the loan or investment portfolios, demand for loan products, deposit flows, the availability of low-cost funding, changes in liquidity, including the size and composition of the Company’s deposit portfolio, and the percentage of uninsured deposits in the portfolio, changes in capital management and balance sheet strategies and the ability to successfully implement such strategies, competition, demand for financial services in the Company’s market area, changes in investor sentiment and consumer spending, borrowing and saving habits, changes in accounting principles, a failure in or breach of the Company’s operational or security systems or infrastructure, including cyberattacks, the failure to maintain current technologies, failure to retain or attract employees, the impact of pandemics on our operations and financial results and those of our customers and the Bank’s ability to successfully integrate acquired operations. These risks and uncertainties are further discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, under Item 1A – Risk Factors and elsewhere, and subsequent securities filings and should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to publicly release the result of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

Company Contact:

Patrick S. Barrett
Chief Financial Officer
OceanFirst Financial Corp.
Tel: (732) 240-4500, ext. 27507
Email: pbarrett@oceanfirst.com

MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: Powell Has Lost the Confidence of the President & the American People, & Should Resign

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Talk About Fed Chairman Jerome Powell
Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Elizabeth McDonald on Fox Business’ The Evening Edit to discuss Jerome Powell’s tenure at the Federal Reserve, why interest rates need to come down for the good of the country, and concerns about the overspending on the Federal Reserve HQ renovations.
Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
On whether President Trump will fire Jerome Powell:
“I don’t see the president firing him, but Jay Powell should resign. That’s what he should do. He’s lost the confidence of the President and the American people. There’s a reason the President calls him ‘too late.’ He was too late when we saw Bidenflation just jump through the roof; they told us it would be transient, [but] he was so late that inflation was persistent.
“Then, a month before the November election, he suddenly, without good reason, he drops the interest rate. And now we just had a quarter of 2.1% inflation numbers, and he refuses to drop them. It just seems to me that Jay Powell has a blind spot. That he’s too much emotionally invested in the situation. Now it probably be best if he resigned. Gave us give us some notice, though, and let America’s economy get on the way here. We need to drop the interest rates.”
On the ongoing costs of the Federal Reserve HQ Renovations:
“We certainly need an inspector general, or the Government Accounting Office, to go in there and figure this out. This building costs $2,000 a square foot. It has a theater, it has wellness centers, and I don’t know if it’s gold-plated or not, but it’s way over budget. Did we even need a new one to start with? There’s much better things we could do with this money, and I do expect to see more of this as we go through some type of congressional hearing.”

MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Crapo, Schmitt Introduce Bill to Increase Penalties for Crimes Against First Responders

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) introduced the Graham Hoffman Act, which will make it a federal crime to assault first responders.
“Last month’s evil attack on first responders in North Idaho is a stark reminder of the dangers our brave men and women in uniform face every day,” said Risch. “The Graham Hoffman Act is commonsense legislation to properly punish those who assault the men and women who keep our communities safe. Vicki and I continue to pray for the victims of the North Idaho ambush, their loved ones, and all affected by this reprehensible act.”
“The devastating loss of Idaho firefighters John Morrison and Frank Harwood and severe injury of David Tysdal during a premeditated, deadly ambush last month in Coeur D’Alene remind us of the real dangers and sacrifices first responders make every day to protect our families and communities,” Crapo said. “Their loss impels us to strengthen the law and deter further violence to ensure justice is fully meted on any individual who attacks our law enforcement or first responders.”
“Graham Hoffman was a courageous firefighter-paramedic whose life was tragically cut short at the hands of a known criminal who had been released from custody shortly before the attack. This tragic loss underscores the urgent need to protect our first responders, who put their lives on the line to serve our communities. This legislation, in honor of Graham, ensures that anyone who assaults or kills a first responder faces the full force of federal law,” said Schmitt.
Risch and Crapo are joined by U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
On June 29, 2025, two North Idaho firefighters—Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Chief Frank Hardwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison—were killed in an ambush while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Another first responder, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Engineer Dave Tysdal, was seriously injured and remains in recovery.
This legislation is named in honor of Graham Hoffman, a paramedic from Kansas City, Mo., who was attacked and killed in the line of duty by a known criminal on April 27, 2025.

MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Risch, Schmitt Introduce Bill to Increase Penalties for Crimes Against First Responders

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Washington D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) introduced the Graham Hoffman Act, which would make it a federal crime to assault first responders.
“The devastating loss of Idaho firefighters John Morrison and Frank Harwood and severe injury of David Tysdal during a premeditated, deadly ambush last month in Coeur d’Alene remind us of the real dangers and sacrifices first responders make every day to protect our families and communities,” Crapo said. “Their loss impels us to strengthen the law and deter further violence to ensure justice is fully meted on any individual who attacks our law enforcement or first responders.”
“Last month’s evil attack on first responders in north Idaho is a stark reminder of the dangers our brave men and women in uniform face every day,” said Risch. “The Graham Hoffman Act is commonsense legislation to properly punish those who assault the men and women who keep our communities safe. Vicki and I continue to pray for the victims of the north Idaho ambush, their loved ones and all affected by this reprehensible act.”
“Graham Hoffman was a courageous firefighter-paramedic whose life was tragically cut short at the hands of a known criminal who had been released from custody shortly before the attack. This tragic loss underscores the urgent need to protect our first responders, who put their lives on the line to serve our communities. This legislation, in honor of Graham, ensures that anyone who assaults or kills a first responder faces the full force of federal law,” said Schmitt.
Crapo and Risch are joined by U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Ashley Moody (R-Florida), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee) and Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire).
On June 29, 2025, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Hardwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison were killed in an ambush while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Another first responder, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Engineer Dave Tysdal, was seriously injured and remains in recovery.
This legislation is named in honor of Graham Hoffman, a paramedic from Kansas City, Missouri, who was attacked and killed in the line of duty by a known criminal on April 27, 2025.

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Montana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning May 1.

The declaration covers the Montana counties of Beaverhead, Carter, Cascade, Chouteau, Custer, Dawson, Deer Lodge, Fallon, Flathead, Garfield, Granite, Jefferson, Judith Basin, Lake, Lewis and Clark, Madison, McCone, Meagher, Missoula, Powder River, Powell, Prairie, Ravalli, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sanders, Silver Bow, Teton and Wibaux as well as Idaho counties of Clark, Fremont, Idaho and Lemhi, North Dakota counties of Bowman, Golden Valley, McKenzie, Slope and Williams, South Dakota counties of Butte and Harding, and the Wyoming county of Crook.

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

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

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than March 9, 2026.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Wyoming Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Wyoming to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning May 1.

The declaration covers the Wyoming counties of Campbell, Converse, Crook, Fremont, Lincoln, Niobrara, Park, Sublette, Teton and Weston as well as the Idaho counties of Bonneville, Fremont and Teton, the Montana County of Gallatin, and South Dakota counties of Custer, Lawrence and Pennington.

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

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

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than March 9, 2026.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Great British Energy to cut energy bills for community facilities

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

Press release

Great British Energy to cut energy bills for community facilities

Great British Energy to cut energy bills for local community libraries, fire stations, care homes and community centres.

Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills through Great British Energy community funding as part of Plan for Change
Mayoral authorities to receive a share of £10 million for publicly-owned clean energy projects
Complements Great British Energy’s drive to cut bills for around 200 schools and 200 hospitals, which is already seeing savings

Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills as Great British Energy delivers on the government’s clean energy superpower mission to make working people and their communities better off.

Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean energy company, has awarded mayoral authorities a share of £10 million in grant funding to roll out clean energy projects at the centre of communities – including rooftop solar on Merseyside care homes and on leisure centres and libraries in Yorkshire.

These grants will mean that the community services and institutions that working people use will be able to save on their electricity bills and spend more money on the frontline services that strengthen local communities and boost local economic growth.

It is estimated that these schemes could produce a total of around £35 million of lifetime savings on energy bills, while improving energy security and creating good jobs.

As well as solar panels on public buildings, the grants will pay to install batteries for community buildings in areas including Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, so they can store renewable energy and use it later. The grants will also fund EV chargers in Greater Manchester, to make it easier for drivers to benefit from cheaper to power electric vehicles.

Great British Energy is already cutting energy bills for public services, with solar panels already installed on 11 schools as part of plans to roll out the panels on around 200 schools and 200 hospitals in England.

The government’s clean energy superpower mission will protect billpayers, create jobs and bring greater energy security through delivering clean power by 2030. Great British Energy will accelerate this by developing, investing and building clean energy projects across the UK.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Your local sports hall, library and community centre could have their energy bills cut by Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean energy company.

Our plans will mean more money can be spent on the services that make working people better off and help strengthen the ties that bind us in our communities.

This is what Great British Energy is all about – taking back control to deliver lower bills for good.

Great British Energy CEO Dan McGrail said:

Today’s support for new clean power projects in every region in England shows our mission in action – providing a lasting positive impact for the country by creating new jobs, lower bills, and a cleaner future.

It’s important that communities feel the benefits of the energy transition and that we demonstrate the very real rewards it can bring.

Earlier this year, all Mayoral Strategic Authorities were invited to submit expressions of interest for funding renewable energy projects that can be delivered in the 2025/2026 financial year.

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority will use the money to support a rooftop solar project to support care homes and leisure centres, cutting around £4.6 million on lifetime energy bills, while Greater Manchester will also roll out rooftop solar on libraries, fire stations, police stations and sports centres, leading to estimated savings of over £2.1million on lifetime bills. Projects in York and North Yorkshire are estimated to bring around £4 million in lifetime bill savings, they include solar panels to help power an Edwardian swimming pool in York and leisure centres in Whitby, Ripon and Thirsk.

It follows the government’s announcement in March to award £180 million of funding for schools and hospitals to install rooftop solar, marking the first major project for Great British Energy – a company owned by the British people, for the British people. This could see millions invested back into frontline services, targeting deprived areas, with lifetime bill savings for schools and the NHS sites of up to £400 million over the next 30 years.

Notes to editors

Successful Mayoral schemes:

The figures below were estimated by DESNZ in collaboration with MSAs, based on a combination of project-level data and DESNZ standard assumptions. It should be noted these are initial estimates that will be refined as projects become operational and actual data is collected.

MSA	Technology	Project Type	Grant Funding Requested (£)	Total expected project cost (£)	Estimated Net Yearly Average Energy Bill Savings (£ undiscounted, 2025 prices)	Estimated Net Lifetime Energy Bill Savings (£ undiscounted, 2025 prices)
Greater Lincolnshire	Solar	Leisure centres and fire stations	£607,845	£627,845	TBC	TBC
South Yorkshire	Solar	Schools, outdoor covered market and library	£572,025	£615,397	£51,938	£1,558,131
Greater London Authority	Solar	Schools	£607,838	£674,220	£30,376	£911,280
Hull and East Yorkshire	Solar	Service buildings and car parks	£700,000	£1,842,879	£89,822	£2,694,647
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough	Solar	Police headquarters, car park and border canopies	£700,000	£774,226	£51,630	£1,548,886
Greater Manchester	Solar, Battery and EV	Libraries, fire stations, police stations and sports centres	£695,900	£1,301,800	£71,846	£2,155,384
North-East	Solar	Schools	£700,000	£749,946	£46,060	£1,381,806
York and North Yorkshire	Solar	Leisure centres, libraries, schools, transport sites	£700,000	£1,219,948	£134,898	£4,046,936
West Yorkshire	Solar and Battery	Police stations, Arrium plant nursery, primary school, sports centres and Lotherton Hall Estate	£700,000	£1,154,838	£275,669	£8,270,082
Tees Valley Combined Authority	Solar	Solar on roof of depot and public buildings	£444,738	£444,738	£34,664	£1,039,911
Liverpool City Region	Solar	Leisure centres and care homes	£700,000	£760,319	£152,402	£4,572,054
East Midlands	Solar	Former colliery	£700,000	£1,900,000	£113,340	£3,400,200
West Midlands	Solar	Schools	£700,000	£820,000	£58,474	£1,754,207
West of England	Solar	Schools	£700,000	£1,657,522	£54,123	£1,623,697
Total			£9,228,346	£14,543,678	£1,165,241	£34,957,222

Published 17 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

MIL-OSI Australia: Cigarettes continue to pose deadly home fire threat to Victorians

Source:

Victoria’s fire services are issuing a strong warning about the serious risks of smoking indoors, as it remains the leading cause of fatal house fires across the state.

Half of the 18 fatal fires in Victoria in 2024 were attributed to discarded cigarettes and smoking materials, such as lighters, matches, or open flames, while smokers remain over-represented in residential fire fatalities.

Smoking in bed is the leading cause of smoking-related fire deaths, as falling asleep with a lit cigarette in hand can easily set fire to soft materials such as bed linen.

In addition to the fire fatality figures, more than 10 per cent of residential structure fires that Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to between May 2024 and March 2025 were caused by smoking materials.

In May this year FRV also responded to two significant house fires in Melbourne within days of each other caused by cigarettes. On May 6, a brick unit in Moorabbin was destroyed by a fire originating from an incorrectly extinguished cigarette, with an elderly resident in a neighbouring property assisted to safety after their house was affected by smoke.

Just days later, another unattended cigarette was the cause of a significant fire in a Box Hill North weatherboard home.

FRV Commander Julian Bisbal, who led the response to the Moorabbin fire, said the incidents should serve as a wake-up call to the devastation unattended cigarettes can cause.

“It’s imperative you make sure your cigarette is disposed of in an area that cannot catch or spread fire. It was a ferocious, fast-moving fire because of the wind on that day.” Julian said.

“People think a cigarette is tame and safe, because it’s in your hand, but in reality, it can cause devastation. You’re holding an ignition source.”

FRV Deputy Commissioner, Community Safety, Joshua Fischer said the statistics reflected the gravity of the danger of cigarettes.

“The numbers don’t lie – cigarettes are dangerous when misused or used while drowsy, and must be handled with extreme caution,” Deputy Commissioner Fischer said.

“If you notice burn marks on a friend or family member’s carpet, furniture, clothing, or nightwear, speak up. Let them know the dangers and encourage them to take action.

“Quitting smoking is the safest option from both a health and fire safety perspective, but if that isn’t possible, firefighters recommend smoking outdoors.”

Country Fire Authority (CFA) Chief Fire Officer Jason Heffernan said smoking while affected by alcohol, drugs or medication can also increase the risk of fire.

“All it takes is a small ember from a cigarette to ignite a fire and you could be facing a life-changing event that puts yourself and others in harm’s way,” Chief Officer Heffernan said.

“We urge all smokers to properly extinguish and dispose of your cigarette in a heavy glass or metal ashtray to prevent any more major fires from occurring.

“As Victorians know, to help safeguard your family, you must have a working smoke alarm in your home. However, if smoking occurs inside your home, please have one in every room.”

Victorian fire services recommend:

If you can, smoke outside the home in a single location.
If smoking occurs in the home, there should be a smoke alarm in every room.
Never smoke in bed.
Don’t smoke when affected by alcohol, drugs or medications that may cause drowsiness.
Use heavy, high-sided, non-combustible ashtrays to dispose of cigarette butts. Pour some water on the ash and butts to make sure they’re out.
“Stick it don’t flick it” – never flick cigarette butts, either inside or outside.
Never leave a lit cigarette unattended and butt out your cigarette before you walk away.
Keep matches and cigarette lighters out of reach of children.

Submitted by	CFA media

MIL OSI News –

MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Signs HALT Fentanyl Act into Law

US Senate News:

Source: US Whitehouse
Today, surrounded by families who have lost loved ones to the scourge of fentanyl, President Donald J. Trump officially signed the HALT Fentanyl Act into law — permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act.
As President Trump said, the legislation is “delivering another defeat for the savage drug smugglers and criminals and the cartels” — and is just one of the many historic actions the Trump Administration has taken to end the carnage wrought by foreign drug cartels in our communities.
President Trump was joined by a few of the millions of Americans whose lives have been permanently changed by the fentanyl epidemic:
Greg Swan, who lost his son to fentanyl: “I would just like to say, thank you, Mr. President, for stopping the border crossings — full stop, mic drop … It was amazing what you did. We were being gaslit — and you came and lit a fire to that story, and we’re a lot safer for of it.” Watch
Anne Fundner, who lost her son to fentanyl: “In the last four years, fentanyl became the number one killer to Americans ages 15 to 48 … President Trump, for four years we felt ignored, but you’ve changed that … It is a lifeline for families across America in keeping our families safe … Thank you for keeping America safe for our children. This is what we voted for.” Watch
Jackie Siegel, who lost her daughter and sister to drug overdoses: “Mr. President, it’s an honor to be here today on behalf of our family … for this important signing.” Watch

Click to download the APP to learn more highlights

MIL-OSI: Topnotch Crypto Launches Innovative Cloud Mining App, Turning Smartphones into Bitcoin Mining Machines

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

London, UK, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Topnotch Crypto is a leading provider of blockchain and digital asset solutions is excited to announce the launch of their new cloud mining mobile app. The cloud mining mobile app easily makes the average smartphone a bitcoin mining machine, making crypto mining simple and open to the masses.

Details of the New Cloud Mining App

The app recently launched by Topnotch Crypto is an exciting development for cryptocurrency mining! Their application utilizes secure cloud (SaaS) infrastructure and takes out the barriers of crypto mining; you no longer have to pay a premium for expensive hardware, juggle the complexities of hardware, and then pay for the electricity!

Users leverage Topnotch Crypto’s prolific servers; after downloading the app and quickly registering as a user, they can start mining Bitcoin instantly. You will find the experience very straightforward, and they’ll aid you through it even if you’re new to cryptocurrency.

Advantages of Using a Mobile Mining App

One of the key benefits of Topnotch Crypto’s solution is sheer convenience. Traditional mining configurations require thousands of dollars in hardware and a space with noisy, heat-generating rigs. Topnotch Crypto’s mobile app on the other hand, allows users to mine Bitcoin from almost anywhere — whether enjoying a coffee at a café, lounging while on vacation, or during a brief break at work.

Because the heavy compute occurs in the cloud, the user’s smartphone remains cool, efficient, fully available for other mobile functions. Moreover, the app utilizes minimal battery so that mining does not interfere with other mobile matters.

With this kind of accessibility, even total novices can quickly participate in the global Bitcoin network, adding to the ever-growing ledger, simply by tapping buttons on their smartphone.

Key Features and Benefits

Get started quickly: After downloading the app, you can complete the registration in just a few seconds, get $15, and start mining immediately without any technical barriers.

24/7 Cloud Mining: The platform does not stop running, allowing users’ Bitcoin to grow at all times, even while they sleep.

Live Reporting & Analytics: The intelligent dashboards demonstrate live mining statistics, current Bitcoin prices, and more detailed earning reports than anyone would need.

Advanced Security Model: Each user has their information, wallets, and funds protected with state-of-the-art encryption standards and multiple levels of data protocols.

Instant Withdrawals: Users can withdraw mined Bitcoin to their wallets without delay whenever they want.

Referrals: The built-in referral system allows users to earn engagement bonuses every time they invite friends to join the platform, with additional bonuses for reaching referral goals.

Statements from Topnotch Crypto

A representative from Topnotch Crypto emphasized how the app fits nicely within their larger vision of bringing everyone along the ride of blockchain:

“We’re incredibly excited to launch this mobile-first solution and make Bitcoin-mining accessible to anyone with a phone and an internet connection. This is a huge step forward to true decentralization and mass adoption of cryptocurrency.”

The company believes this innovation will catalyze a flood of new players into the crypto ecosystem, building even more awareness and confidence in Bitcoin as a long-term store of value.

Driving a New Era of Bitcoin Adoption

Topnotch Crypto’s cloud mining app is intending to eliminate the costly and technical barriers to entry that have traditionally prevented more individuals worldwide from mining Bitcoin. More users in the ecosystem ultimately makes the network stronger and speeds up the global transition to decentralized finance.

For existing crypto fans, the app will allow them to diversify their portfolio in an efficient manner and let them grow their Bitcoin assets passively. For new entrants, it’s a great way for them to explore the crypto world without incurring large investment upfront.

How to Get Started with Topnotch Crypto

It’s simple to get up and running. The Topnotch Crypto app is now available on both Android and iOS. Users can begin mining Bitcoin within minutes after installation and sign up, monitor their daily status, and take out their earnings whenever they wish.

User will also receive educational tips, market news, and customer support so all users may have a positive experience no matter their crypto experience level.

About Topnotch Crypto

Topnotch Crypto is a cutting edge blockchain company that is working to make cryptocurrency accessible, safe, and rewarding. Using advanced platforms and solutions that focus on the user, Topnotch Crypto is enabling individuals around the world to participate in the future of digital finance.

For press inquiries, partnership opportunities, or more information, please contact:

Topnotch Crypto Media Relations
info@topnotchcrypto.com
https://www.topnotchcrypto.com/

Experience the freedom to mine Bitcoin anytime, anywhere. Download the Topnotch Crypto app today and turn your smartphone into a powerful Bitcoin mining machine.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

Click to download the APP to learn more highlights

MIL-OSI: Topnotch Crypto Launches Innovative Cloud Mining App, Turning Smartphones into Bitcoin Mining Machines

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

London, UK, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Topnotch Crypto is a leading provider of blockchain and digital asset solutions is excited to announce the launch of their new cloud mining mobile app. The cloud mining mobile app easily makes the average smartphone a bitcoin mining machine, making crypto mining simple and open to the masses.

Details of the New Cloud Mining App

The app recently launched by Topnotch Crypto is an exciting development for cryptocurrency mining! Their application utilizes secure cloud (SaaS) infrastructure and takes out the barriers of crypto mining; you no longer have to pay a premium for expensive hardware, juggle the complexities of hardware, and then pay for the electricity!

Users leverage Topnotch Crypto’s prolific servers; after downloading the app and quickly registering as a user, they can start mining Bitcoin instantly. You will find the experience very straightforward, and they’ll aid you through it even if you’re new to cryptocurrency.

Advantages of Using a Mobile Mining App

One of the key benefits of Topnotch Crypto’s solution is sheer convenience. Traditional mining configurations require thousands of dollars in hardware and a space with noisy, heat-generating rigs. Topnotch Crypto’s mobile app on the other hand, allows users to mine Bitcoin from almost anywhere — whether enjoying a coffee at a café, lounging while on vacation, or during a brief break at work.

Because the heavy compute occurs in the cloud, the user’s smartphone remains cool, efficient, fully available for other mobile functions. Moreover, the app utilizes minimal battery so that mining does not interfere with other mobile matters.

With this kind of accessibility, even total novices can quickly participate in the global Bitcoin network, adding to the ever-growing ledger, simply by tapping buttons on their smartphone.

Key Features and Benefits

Get started quickly: After downloading the app, you can complete the registration in just a few seconds, get $15, and start mining immediately without any technical barriers.

24/7 Cloud Mining: The platform does not stop running, allowing users’ Bitcoin to grow at all times, even while they sleep.

Live Reporting & Analytics: The intelligent dashboards demonstrate live mining statistics, current Bitcoin prices, and more detailed earning reports than anyone would need.

Advanced Security Model: Each user has their information, wallets, and funds protected with state-of-the-art encryption standards and multiple levels of data protocols.

Instant Withdrawals: Users can withdraw mined Bitcoin to their wallets without delay whenever they want.

Referrals: The built-in referral system allows users to earn engagement bonuses every time they invite friends to join the platform, with additional bonuses for reaching referral goals.

Statements from Topnotch Crypto

A representative from Topnotch Crypto emphasized how the app fits nicely within their larger vision of bringing everyone along the ride of blockchain:

“We’re incredibly excited to launch this mobile-first solution and make Bitcoin-mining accessible to anyone with a phone and an internet connection. This is a huge step forward to true decentralization and mass adoption of cryptocurrency.”

The company believes this innovation will catalyze a flood of new players into the crypto ecosystem, building even more awareness and confidence in Bitcoin as a long-term store of value.

Driving a New Era of Bitcoin Adoption

Topnotch Crypto’s cloud mining app is intending to eliminate the costly and technical barriers to entry that have traditionally prevented more individuals worldwide from mining Bitcoin. More users in the ecosystem ultimately makes the network stronger and speeds up the global transition to decentralized finance.

For existing crypto fans, the app will allow them to diversify their portfolio in an efficient manner and let them grow their Bitcoin assets passively. For new entrants, it’s a great way for them to explore the crypto world without incurring large investment upfront.

How to Get Started with Topnotch Crypto

It’s simple to get up and running. The Topnotch Crypto app is now available on both Android and iOS. Users can begin mining Bitcoin within minutes after installation and sign up, monitor their daily status, and take out their earnings whenever they wish.

User will also receive educational tips, market news, and customer support so all users may have a positive experience no matter their crypto experience level.

About Topnotch Crypto

Topnotch Crypto is a cutting edge blockchain company that is working to make cryptocurrency accessible, safe, and rewarding. Using advanced platforms and solutions that focus on the user, Topnotch Crypto is enabling individuals around the world to participate in the future of digital finance.

For press inquiries, partnership opportunities, or more information, please contact:

Topnotch Crypto Media Relations
info@topnotchcrypto.com
https://www.topnotchcrypto.com/

Experience the freedom to mine Bitcoin anytime, anywhere. Download the Topnotch Crypto app today and turn your smartphone into a powerful Bitcoin mining machine.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 520

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL0

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 520
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
550 PM EDT Wed Jul 16 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Northern Indiana
Southwest Lower Michigan
Lake Michigan

* Effective this Wednesday afternoon from 550 PM until Midnight
EDT.

* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

SUMMARY…Thunderstorms currently affecting northeast Illinois will
track eastward across the watch area through the early evening.
Locally damaging wind gusts are the primary concern.

The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
statute miles east and west of a line from 60 miles south of South
Bend IN to 35 miles north northwest of Kalamazoo MI. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 517…WW 518…WW 519…

AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
25025.

…Hart

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW0
WW 520 SEVERE TSTM IN MI LM 162150Z – 170400Z
AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
60S SBN/SOUTH BEND IN/ – 35NNW AZO/KALAMAZOO MI/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM E/W /38ENE BVT – 15WSW GRR/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25025.

LAT…LON 40838709 42698660 42698503 40838555

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

Watch 520 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

Low (

MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Applauds More Counties in TX-11 Added to Major Disaster Declaration for Support from FEMA

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

SAN ANGELO, TX — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), alongside local leaders, applauded the decision to add more counties across Texas’s 11th Congressional District to President Trump’s Major Disaster Declaration to receive varying levels of support from FEMA. Within the 11th District, the list currently includes Kimble, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, and Menard Counties for Public Assistance, and San Saba and Tom Green Counties for Public and Individual Assistance.

“Texas has experienced unimaginable tragedy over the past week from the devastating floods that swept through Central and West Texas on July 4th,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Several counties in my district were hit especially hard. Thanks to Governor Abbott’s advocacy and the President’s Major Disaster Declaration, Kimble, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, San Saba, and Tom Green counties are all eligible for vital FEMA assistance. My team and I have worked closely with local leaders and officials to ensure accurate damage assessments, and we will continue working to secure the resources these counties, and others, need.”

“I would like to express my thanks to everyone, including Federal, State, and in particular our county emergency management and response teams, who assisted in the disaster response from the recent flood incidents and related damages in Kimble County. I am thankful that our county has been added to President Trump’s Disaster Declaration to ensure we receive the support necessary to rebuild and provide the necessary resources to the county and individuals in a timely manner. I have been blown away by, and very thankful for, how the community has come together in such difficult times, and I remain hopeful that we will recover from this disaster as quickly as is practical,” said Kimble County Judge Hal Rose.

“Llano County is grateful for Congressman August Pfluger’s leadership and dedicated assistance in response to the catastrophic flooding in the Texas Hill Country that occurred during the July 4th holiday. In the face of an unprecedented natural disaster, Congressman Pfluger demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the well-being of our residents. His prompt coordination with state and federal agencies, advocacy for emergency resources, and visible presence in affected areas were instrumental in accelerating critical response efforts and facilitating the deployment of relief measures. Through his actions, Congressman Pfluger and his staff exemplified the highest standards of public service, ensuring that Llano County’s needs were heard and addressed during a time of urgent crisis. We are immensely grateful for his partnership and resolute service to our community during this time of adversity,” said Llano County Judge Ron Cunningham.

“Mason County is grateful for the concern and support provided at the state and federal levels in response to the July 4^th flooding event. To be added to the major Disaster Declaration is huge, as destruction of this magnitude challenges a small county budget and resources. Having the commitment of our state and federal leaders is crucial to the long-term recovery of destroyed infrastructure. Mason County is blessed to be in the 11^th District of Texas under the leadership of Congressman Pfluger,” said Mason County Judge Sheree Hardin.

“McCulloch County has been truly humbled by the response from our Local, State, and Federal entities as we deal with the July 4^th flood-related damages. A traumatic event such as this is overwhelming, and the outpouring of support from President Trump and Congressman August Pfluger eases our citizens’ burdens and allows our local governments the ability to make necessary repairs and plan for future improvements to emergency responses,” said McCulloch County Judge Frank Trull.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped submit the damage caused by the July 4^th flood that enabled our inclusion in the disaster declaration for Public Assistance. Without this support, Menard County would have been set back years as we try to repair the damaged roads and public buildings. We are especially grateful to our regional partners with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, the local leaders of the Menard Mission Team and the Beautification of Menard, and the volunteers and neighbors who have lent a helping hand or encouraging word through this trying time. We sincerely appreciate the support of Congressman Pfluger and his staff as we work to document the damage inflicted on the citizens of Menard County, and are optimistic that our efforts will highlight the need for our community to be escalated into the proclamation for Individual Assistance as well,” said Menard County Judge Brandon Corbin.

ICYMI: Last week, Congressman Pfluger announced the addition of San Saba and Tom Green counties to the Major Disaster Declaration alongside local leaders. You can read the announcement and their statements HERE.

If you have been impacted by the floods, please visit the FEMA website to request support: www.DisasterAssistance.gov

MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Speaks on the House Floor to Honor the Lives Lost in the July 4th Floods and Share His Personal Story

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

Read his remarks as delivered below:

I thank my colleague, and I want to say that he’s done a great job of representing in a very tough time. It’s easy to lead when times are good, but when times are tough, you see character, and Mr. Roy has done a very nice job, an extraordinary job, of leading in a very challenging situation.

It’s with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor all of the lives that were lost during this devastating, tragic series of floods that swept through Central and West Texas last week, and to recognize the bravery and the selflessness of the heroes who stepped up when they were needed most.And I’ll start by honoring the memory of the 11 lives that were lost from my district: Officer Bailey Martin, Bobby Martin, Amanda Martin and Jayda Floyd from Odessa; Shellie Crossland, Cody Crossland, Joel Ramos, Kyndall Ramos, and Tasha Ramos from Midland; Tanya Burwick from Blackwell, who worked in San Angelo for many years, and Steve Edwards from San Angelo. These lives were lost far too soon. These were selfless individuals, leaders, officers in the police force, and people that we will miss dearly. We’re going to continue to pray for the many more lives that have been lost, and for the families that are still searching for them, hoping and praying for a miracle.

You know, I sent my young girls to Camp Mystic for a couple of reasons. Number one, because for young women, this was a place where they didn’t have access to the digital world. They had access to relationships. They were taught about faith. They were placed in cabins with other young girls, where they learned how to develop friendships. They learned things like horseback riding and archery, swimming, and camp craft. And my girls are fourth-generation campers at Camp Mystic. I learned about this when I was a kid and went to many closing ceremonies as a young child, watching my sister and her friends, and now I have had the opportunity to watch my own girls, for the last 10 years, attend this camp. I want to say that my wife, Camille, and I are eternally grateful that we are reunited with my two daughters, who were present at the camp during this tragedy. And while we rejoice their safety, and I will be forever grateful to God for sparing their lives, we are mourning and deeply grieving with the many families who are having to say goodbye to their loved ones, to their daughters, up and down the river, campers who were there for the Fourth of July to celebrate our nation’s independence, to celebrate being with families. It’s just unimaginable the grief, and it’s unimaginable the heartbreak, especially those young kids and those young girls, specifically at Camp Mystic.

I want to honor Dick Eastland, who is the owner of Camp Mystic, a man that I’ve known my entire life. A man who gave his life trying to save campers at Camp Mystic. The Eastland family, for years, has poured their lives into young women, building these young women and these young ladies to be women of faith, to be women of character, to be citizens of this great nation, to raise families in a way that you see the character and the strength of their faith. And you know, Dick Eastland and the entire Eastland family are like many other families throughout this country that run camps, whether it be Boy Scout camps, Girl Scout camps, YMCA camps, summer camps, church camps, it doesn’t matter. But these camps are important for our nation in a way that sometimes parents can’t always do. These camps represent a place where these kids can come and they can learn how to be better citizens, how to be better friends, how to be better community members. And they’re important. Camp Mystic was important.

The image that I’ll never forget in my mind as I walked through the camp just two days after this tragedy, is where my young daughter stood getting away from the flood that was rising very rapidly. And where she had her head bowed, praying for safety, and as they were singing songs, knowing that there was a really tragic event unfolding in front of them, praying for their friends and for their safety. My middle daughter said that this was a family. Everybody knew everybody. And this family is deeply grieving right now. I hope that this serves as a wake-up call to our nation; that it serves as a wake-up call for us to congratulate and celebrate the countless heroes, some of whom gave their lives, and we will never know their stories, and to celebrate the fact that we live in a country where we can freely worship, where we can stand firm on our faith.

Camp Mystic was a place, like other places throughout this country, that taught these young, innocent souls. That taught them to lean on their faith. That taught them to lean on their friends and their relationships and their families. That taught them the core values of what this great country affords. And I hope that this serves as a wake-up call for all of us to get back to that foundation that we can take a lesson from this tragedy, and we can build on it in a way that we do good, that we honor the memory of almost 130 people now, and rising, that tragically lost their lives, that we won’t ever forget. This green ribbon here serves as a reminder today. Again, I want to thank my friend Chip Roy for representing during this hard time and for calling this hour to recognize that memory. And I yield back.

MIL-OSI USA: News 07/16/2025 VIDEO: Blackburn Details Wasteful Government Spending, Highlighting Need for Senate to Pass Rescissions Package

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor detailing the need for the U.S. Senate to pass the $9 billion rescissions package to eliminate wasteful government spending.

Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks on the Senate floor.
REMARKS AS PREPARED
America’s Current Fiscal Path Is Unsustainable, and President Trump Has a Mandate to Rein in Wasteful Spending
Mister President, when I talk to Tennesseans, one of the biggest concerns they have for our nation’s future is our national debt.
After four years of reckless, far-left spending under the Biden administration, it now sits at $37 trillion.
That’s $108,000 for every American citizen.
Today, we are spending more on interest payments on the debt than what we spend to fund our entire military.
Tennesseans and the American people know that this path is unsustainable.
That’s why they returned President Trump to the Oval Office with a mandate to rein in wasteful spending.
And that’s exactly what he has done.
Congress Must Permanently Eliminate Wasteful Spending
Since Inauguration Day, this administration has identified more than $190 billion in potential savings across the federal government—on everything from unused office space to far-left DEI programming.
This is a victory for the American people.
But while President Trump can stop these funds from going out the door, it is Congress’s responsibility to claw them back and make these savings permanent.
Otherwise, a future Democrat President could open the floodgates of wasteful spending once again.
That’s why Republicans are moving forward with a rescissions package this week that will save American taxpayers $9 billion.
With our national debt at unsustainable levels, we must be careful stewards of taxpayer dollars. That means eliminating obvious waste that serves no benefit for the American people.
Rescissions Package Will Eliminate Reckless Spending on Biased Public Media
That’s exactly what this bill accomplishes, and this is only the beginning of the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate reckless spending.
It eliminates $1.1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
This is the organization that funds NPR and PBS—which have pushed left-wing ideology on the taxpayers’ dime for years.
NPR’s CEO, Katherine Maher, has called President Trump a “fascist” and “deranged racist.”
Ahead of the 2020 election, her outlet refused to cover the revelations about Hunter Biden’s laptop and overseas business deals—which turned out to be entirely true.
As NPR’s leadership put it at the time: “We don’t want to waste the listeners’ and readers’ time on stories that are just pure distractions.”
Rescissions Package Will Cut Billions in Foreign Spending That Undermines American Values
The rescissions package also cuts billions in foreign spending that does absolutely nothing to promote American values and interests abroad:
$4 million for “sedentary migrants” in Colombia;
$3 million for an Iraqi version of Sesame Street;
$1 million for voter ID efforts in Haiti;
$500,000 for electric buses in Rwanda;
$6 million for “Net Zero Cities” in Mexico;
$2.1 million for “climate resilience” in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
And on and on.
At the same time, the package eliminates $1 billion in funding for international organizations that work against American interests, including:
$135 million for the corrupt World Health Organization, which covered for Communist China throughout the COVID pandemic;
And $8 million for the UN Human Rights Council, which supports dictators and repressive regimes while demonizing our ally, Israel.
Americans Support Fiscal Responsibility
All in all, these savings are just common sense.
The American people support these cuts. They want fiscal responsibility. They want a future where their children and grandchildren do not have to bear the burden of crippling debt. And this rescissions package is an incredible first step in taking on this problem.

MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Haiti funding cuts bite, civilian suffering intensifies in Myanmar, Belarus deaths in custody alert

Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

Ongoing violence is compounding the country’s food crisis, disrupting local food production in critical areas such as the commune of Kenscoff and the Artibonite department, often considered the breadbaskets of Haiti.

While the UN and its partners are responding “wherever and whenever possible,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said this Wednesday that humanitarians have only been able to reach 38 per cent of the population they aim to support.

Multiple roadblocks

“This is due to ongoing violence and insecurity, severe underfunding of the response, and the obvious access challenges,” he said.

Over halfway through the year, Haiti is the least-funded of the many humanitarian appeals that the UN coordinates – despite shortfalls for food security in the country being at extreme levels – with just over two per cent of the $425 million needed this year received to date.

Myanmar: Intensifying conflict impedes humanitarian aid

Almost four months after Myanmar’s devastating earthquake, the UN is deeply concerned over the plight of civilians caught up in the country’s devastating and continuing conflict between the military regime and opposition armed groups.

As fighting intensifies, civilians are particularly vulnerable, with increasing attacks on infrastructure.

According to reports, an air strike hit a monastery in Sagan Township in Sagaing Region on 11 July, killing 22 people and injuring at least 50 others. The monastery had been providing shelter to displaced people who had fled nearby villages.

A displacement camp in North Shan State was also reportedly hit by an airstrike over the weekend.

‘Broader pattern’

“These incidents are part of a broader pattern of attacks affecting people across Myanmar,” said Mr. Dujarric, with frequent reports of people being killed, injured or displaced by violence.

Such insecurity also impacts the ability of humanitarian teams to reach people in need: with one in three people now facing acute hunger, and the current monsoon season having caused flooding, “the UN urgently calls on all parties to respect human rights and international humanitarian law,” he said.

Belarus: Rights experts urge probe into deaths in custody of opposition activists

Top independent human rights experts called on Belarus on Wednesday to launch urgent investigations into the deaths of several people jailed for political dissent.

The experts – who are known as Special Rapporteurs – highlighted the case of 61-year-old businessman Valiantsin Shtermer. He died in May 2025 while serving his sentence in a so-called “Correctional Colony” in Šklou.

Mr. Shtermer had been jailed for making critical remarks about Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Despite his serious medical condition, he was allegedly denied adequate care in prison.

Fifty-year-old opposition activist Vitold Ashurak meanwhile, also died shortly after being placed in an isolation in the same prison.

According to the Special Rapporteurs, Mr. Ashurak was a member of the Belarusian National Front who was jailed for violating public order during protests related to the disputed 2020 presidential elections.

We must not ignore these deaths

“These deaths must not be ignored,” said the experts, who added that there were strong grounds to believe that they resulted from abuse or neglect linked to the exercise of fundamental rights.

“It is of the utmost importance to thoroughly investigate the alleged instances of ill-treatment and neglect that resulted in the deaths of Shtermer, Ashurak, Puškin and other persons designated as political prisoners by human rights defenders,” the Human Rights Council appointed experts underscored.

“There are strong reasons to believe that these individuals lost their lives in retaliation for exercising their civil and political rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.”

The independent experts voiced concern that some opposition figures had been stigmatised and labelled as “extremists” or even “terrorists”.

Special Rapporteurs report regularly to the Human Rights Council. They are not UN staff and do not receive payment for their work.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Joins McCollum In Leading 45 Bicameral Colleagues In Letter Opposing Cuts To The Corporation For Public Broadcasting

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Lawmakers emphasize importance of emergency broadcasting funding to keep Americans safe amid natural disasters and emergencies

Washington, DC — On Wednesday, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), joined Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) in leading a letter alongside 45 bicameral Congressional colleagues to President Trump urging him to reconsider his decision to defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The CPB supports America’s children with educational programming and ensures that emergency broadcasting keeps Americans safe amid natural disasters and emergencies. The proposed rescission to the CPB will force small stations around the country to close, leaving significant gaps in coverage for Americans who rely on these vital services for noncommercial, high-quality, localized content and telecommunications.

The letter comes amid Congressional Republicans’ attempt to pass President Trump’s proposal to rescind $10 Billion in federal funding that Congress approved four months ago on a bipartisan basis. Despite bipartisan opposition to the bill, the US Senate voted to move forward to debating and amending the legislation on Wednesday by the slimmest possible margin following a tie-breaking vote cast by Vice President JD Vance.

“We write to express our deep concern regarding the $1.1 Billion claw back of funds to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) included in the proposed recissions you sent to Congress on May 28, 2025,” said the lawmakers in their letter to the White House. “The package was passed through the House of Representatives on June 12, over the objections of all Democratic and four Republican Members. The cuts to CPB in the recission package undermine the public media that Americans rely on for unfettered access to information, educational programming for kids, cultural programming, and nationwide emergency alerting.

“Public media has received bipartisan support for the past 50 years because Congress has continuously recognized that access to public media is in the public’s best interest. The Public Radio Satellite System (PRSS) is the backbone of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Amber Alerts and plays a critical role in keeping Americans informed and safe during emergencies. As key local news providers, public radio stations leverage their reporting resources to offer live news and information on disasters and other emergencies, providing real-time information on where local audiences can access resources and safe locations.

“As our nation experiences increased instances of severe weather and climate shocks, this service is more important than ever. In Minnesota, Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) delivers programming and services across the state, and in some areas is the only local source for news and updates during an emergency. When the power goes out, and cell networks or the internet go down, MPR is the most reliable form of communication in an emergency and provides essential backstopping for all other emergency alerting services and activities across the public media system. This is true across all 50 states, and losing this important service in the middle of hurricane, flood, and tornado season will prove devastating nationwide.

“Of the $1.1 Billion included in the rescission proposal, 70% of these funds will be pulled out of local stations that are independently owned and operated in our communities. For many smaller stations in rural communities across the country, these cuts will prove utterly devastating, because they provide local, state, and regional news that is no longer provided through other outlets. These small stations will not survive, resulting in news deserts for these communities and putting thousands of American lives at risk.

“We ask your administration to withdraw this rescission proposal and protect the vital services that CPB provides. If the rescissions go ahead as planned, we will be requesting a report to Congress as to how your administration plans to fill the void left behind, particularly in the areas of emergency alerting and local news reporting.”

The letter is co-signed by Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and 44 Democratic Representatives: Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Ami Bera (CA-06), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Shontel Brown (OH-11), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Danny Davis (IL-07), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Laura Friedman (CA-30), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), William Keating (MA-09), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), James McGovern (MA-02), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Dave Min (CA-47), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Richard Neal (MA-01), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Adam Smith (WA-09), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

Click here to read the letter.

# # #

MIL-OSI Security: DHS Statement on Capture of Violent Extremist Involved in Prairieland Attack on ICE Agents

Source: US Department of Homeland Security

FBI Most Wanted Suspect for attack on ICE agents arrested after joint investigation with ICE and law enforcement partners

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the following statement as the week-long manhunt for Benjamin Hanil Song--a fugitive wanted in connection with the July 4 ambush on federal officers at the Prairieland Detention Center–ended Monday with his arrest by FBI agents in Dallas, Texas. Song had been on the FBI’s Most Wanted list since a Blue Alert was issued following his alleged role in the organized, armed attack.

Song, a former U.S. Marine Corps reservist, joined a violent group of at least 10 individuals in opening fire on officers at the federal facility just after 10:30 p.m. on Independence Day. He is charged with three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. His capture brings the total number of arrests in the attack to 14.

“On Independence Day, as Americans were celebrating our freedoms, a group of violent extremists attempted to assassinate federal officers protecting us from violent criminals,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Song’s arrest sends a clear message: under President Trump and Secretary Noem, if you lay a hand on an ICE agent, you will NOT walk free. We will not forget, and we will not rest until every attacker is in custody.”

The Prairieland Detention Center, which housed more than 1,000 illegal aliens on the night of the attack, includes detainees with convictions for rape, child molestation, murder, kidnapping, arson, human trafficking, and terrorism. Nearly 50 known members of MS-13, Tren de Aragua, and other transnational gangs were among the detainees, in addition to 13 Known or Suspected Terrorists (KSTs).

This is just the latest in a disturbing pattern of politically motivated violence targeting DHS personnel. Last week, ICE officers conducting enforcement operations in San Francisco were assaulted by violent protestors. In June, rioters stormed an ICE field office in Portland. ICE agents are now facing an 830% increase in assaults against them.

DHS and its law enforcement partners continue working around the clock to identify, arrest, and prosecute anyone involved in the July 4 ambush or other coordinated attacks against federal officers.

###

MIL Security OSI –

MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz Honors McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia, Dr. James C. Lee

Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

De La Cruz Honors McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia, Dr. James C. Lee

WASHINGTON, July 16, 2025

Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) honored McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia and the life of Dr. James C. Lee of Seguin on the House floor.

Officer Ismael Garcia was injured during the attack on the Border Patrol annex facility in McAllen. Remarks as prepared are below, or watch the full speech here.

“I rise today to honor the brave service of McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia during the horrific attack on the McAllen Border Patrol facility last week.

When an active shooter opened fire, Officer Garcia did not hesitate to jump into action. He willingly put himself in harm’s way, to protect his brothers and sisters in blue and green.

In the face of danger, he displayed valor, sacrifice, and selflessness.

When I visited him in recovery, he expressed pride in taking the bullet to protect others.

Officer Garcia served our nation for four years in the Marine Corps, earning the Combat Action Ribbon for his bravery. For nearly a decade since, he has continued to answer the call of duty as a McAllen Police Department officer.

We wish him a speedy recovery. May God bless Officer Garcia, our law enforcement, first responders, and border patrol.”

Additionally, De La Cruz honored the life and legacy of Dr. James C. Lee of Seguin. Remarks as prepared are below, or watch the full speech here.

“I rise today to recognize Dr. James C. Lee of Seguin for his lifetime of service and dedication to the well-being of his fellow Texans.

Originally born in Houston, Dr. Lee made Seguin his home in the late 70s. For nearly three decades, he cared for patients of all ages and served as a founding member, treasurer, and finance chair of the Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation. He served on the medical center’s governing board as Chairman and on the MHMR board, helping those with disabilities and mental health needs access support.

Beloved by both patients and staff, Dr. Lee’s presence will be dearly missed, but his work to help community members access their health care will live on. Outside of his work in the medical field, he was a devout Catholic, President of the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce, a 50-year member of the Knights of Columbus, and 30-year member of the Rotary Club of Seguin.

Dr. Lee’s legacy is remembered by his wife, Janice, his four daughters, Crystal, Cynthia, Catherine, Carol, and 10 grandchildren.

Thank you and I yield back.”

MIL-OSI United Nations: Killing of Civilians in Gaza Waiting in Line for Humanitarian Aid Must End, Relief Chief Tells Security Council, Urging Return to UN-Led Delivery Mechanism

Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

As civilians lining up for humanitarian aid in Gaza are being killed, speakers in the Security Council today urged Israel to lift restrictions on aid operations in the Strip, called for a return to United Nations-led delivery mechanisms, and stressed the urgent need for both the release of hostages and a ceasefire.

“Gaza’s soaring humanitarian needs must be met without drawing people into a firing line,” said Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. He recalled General Assembly resolution 46/182, adopted in 1991, which laid the groundwork for modern international humanitarian assistance by establishing a framework and guiding principles — humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence — for the UN’s role in coordinating humanitarian efforts during emergencies.

Israel, as the occupying Power, is obligated to ensure that people have food and medical supplies, he said, adding: “But that is not happening. Instead, civilians are exposed to death and injury, forcible displacement, stripped of dignity.” He went on to urge Council members to consider whether Israel’s rules of engagement incorporate all feasible precautions to avoid and minimize civilian harm, in all circumstances. This means verifying targets, giving effective advance warnings, carefully choosing tactics and weapons, and canceling or suspending an attack if it would cause disproportionate civilian harm, he said.

Number of Aid Trucks Currently Allowed into Gaza ‘Drop in the Ocean’

Between 19 May and 14 July, only 1,633 trucks — or 62 per cent of the roughly 2,600 submitted to the Israeli authorities and 74 per cent of those approved for entry — reached the Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings. “To be clear, this is a drop in the ocean of needs, compared to the average of 630 truckloads, that entered daily” during an earlier ceasefire, he said. The ceasefire proved what’s possible. It’s time to return to those levels without delay.

Turning to recent remarks by Israel’s Defence Minister about moving Palestinians into a “humanitarian city”, he said the proposal to forcibly displace Palestinians to a designated zone near Rafah is “not humanitarian”, underscoring the need to protect civilians wherever they are, release all hostages held by Hamas, allow humanitarian aid at scale and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers. “You owe that to Israeli and Palestinian civilians, to the last hopes of a sustainable peace, and to the UN Charter,” he said, calling for a ceasefire.

Today’s meeting was called by Denmark, France, Greece, Slovenia and the United Kingdom, following abhorrent reports of human suffering in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including killings at aid distribution sites operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation — a non-UN mechanism established with support from Israel and the United States. Between 27 May and 7 July, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) recorded the killings of 798 Palestinian civilians — including children — desperate to find food, at or near distribution sites and humanitarian convoys.

International Community Failing Gaza’s Children

“Among the survivors was Donia, a mother seeking a lifeline for her family after months of desperation and hunger,” said Catherine Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Donia’s 1-year-old son, Mohammed, was killed in the attack after speaking his first words just hours earlier. The mother was lying critically injured in a hospital bed, clutching her son’s tiny shoe. “No parent should experience such a horrific tragedy,” she said.

“The simple truth is that we are failing Gaza’s children,” she said, noting that child malnutrition in Gaza has surged 180 per cent since February, with nearly 6,000 cases in June. Most households lack safe water, fueling disease outbreaks — waterborne illnesses now make up 44 per cent of medical consultations. Hospitals are overwhelmed, short on medicine and fuel, and emergency care is collapsing. At least 12,500 patients, including many children, need urgent medical evacuation, but few are being accepted abroad. “History will judge this failure harshly,” she warned, adding: “And the children will judge it too.”

She implored that UNICEF and its humanitarian partners be allowed to do their jobs. “We have proven that essentials like medicine, vaccines, water, food, and nutrition for babies can reach those in need, wherever they are, when we have appropriate access,” she said, calling for an urgent return to the functioning UN-led aid pipeline with safe and sustained humanitarian access through all available crossings.

[…]

MIL OSI United Nations News –

MIL-OSI: Consistency, Strength & Earnings Power Remain the Story at HOMB

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CONWAY, Ark., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Home BancShares, Inc. (NYSE: HOMB) (“Home” or the “Company”), parent company of Centennial Bank, released quarterly earnings today.

Quarterly Highlights
Metric	Q2 2025	Q1 2025	Q4 2024	Q3 2024	Q2 2024
Net income	$118.4 million	$115.2 million	$100.6 million	$100.0 million	$101.5 million
Net income, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	$114.6 million	$111.9 million	$99.8 million	$99.0 million	$103.9 million
Total revenue (net)	$271.0 million	$260.1 million	$258.4 million	$258.0 million	$254.6 million
Income before income taxes	$152.0 million	$147.2 million	$129.5 million	$129.1 million	$133.4 million
Pre-tax, pre-provision, net income (PPNR) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	$155.0 million	$147.2 million	$146.2 million	$148.0 million	$141.4 million
PPNR, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	$150.4 million	$142.8 million	$145.2 million	$146.6 million	$141.9 million
Pre-tax net income to total revenue (net)	56.08%	56.58%	50.11%	50.03%	52.40%
Pre-tax net income, as adjusted, to total revenue (net) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	54.39%	54.91%	49.74%	49.49%	52.59%
P5_NR (Pre-tax, pre-provision, profit percentage) (PPNR to total revenue (net)) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	57.19%	56.58%	56.57%	57.35%	55.54%
P5_NR, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	55.49%	54.91%	56.20%	56.81%	55.73%
ROA	2.08%	2.07%	1.77%	1.74%	1.79%
ROA, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	2.02%	2.01%	1.76%	1.72%	1.83%
NIM	4.44%	4.44%	4.39%	4.28%	4.27%
Purchase accounting accretion	$1.2 million	$1.4 million	$1.6 million	$1.9 million	$1.9 million
ROE	11.77%	11.75%	10.13%	10.23%	10.73%
ROE, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	11.39%	11.41%	10.05%	10.12%	10.98%
ROTCE (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	18.26%	18.39%	15.94%	16.26%	17.29%
ROTCE, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	17.68%	17.87%	15.82%	16.09%	17.69%
Diluted earnings per share	$0.60	$0.58	$0.51	$0.50	$0.51
Diluted earnings per share, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	$0.58	$0.56	$0.50	$0.50	$0.52
Non-performing assets to total assets	0.60%	0.56%	0.63%	0.63%	0.56%
Common equity tier 1 capital	15.6%	15.4%	15.1%	14.7%	14.4%
Leverage	13.4%	13.3%	13.0%	12.5%	12.3%
Tier 1 capital	15.6%	15.4%	15.1%	14.7%	14.4%
Total risk-based capital	19.3%	19.1%	18.7%	18.3%	18.0%
Allowance for credit losses to total loans	1.86%	1.87%	1.87%	2.11%	2.00%
Book value per share	$20.71	$20.40	$19.92	$19.91	$19.30
Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾	$13.44	$13.15	$12.68	$12.67	$12.08
Dividends per share	$0.20	$0.195	$0.195	$0.195	$0.18
Shareholder buyback yield⁽²⁾	0.49%	0.53%	0.05%	0.56%	0.67%

⁽¹⁾ Calculation of this metric and the reconciliation to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.
⁽²⁾ Calculation of this metric is included in the schedules accompanying this release.

“I am once again very pleased with our quarterly results. Diluted EPS of $0.60 and net income of $118.4 million are both records for HOMB. The ongoing, consistent performance from our bankers led to numerous other records being set in the second quarter, further highlighting that strength is no accident,” said John Allison, Chairman & CEO of HOMB.

Stock Repurchases and Dividends

During the three-month period ended June 30, 2025, the Company repurchased 1.0 million shares of common stock, which equated to a shareholder buyback yield of 0.49%⁽¹⁾. In comparison, during the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, the Company repurchased 1.0 million shares of common stock, which equated to a shareholder buyback yield of 0.53%⁽¹⁾. The Company defines shareholder buyback yield as the percentage of the Company’s market capitalization spent on share repurchases. It reflects how much the Company is returning to the shareholders by reducing the number of outstanding shares, and it is calculated by dividing the Company’s total share repurchase cost for the period by the Company’s total market capitalization at the beginning of the period.

In addition, during the quarter ended June 30, 2025, the Company paid a dividend of $0.20 per share. This cash dividend represented a $0.005 per share, or 2.6%, increase over the $0.195 cash dividend paid during the first quarter of 2025.

Operating Highlights

Net income for the three-month period ended June 30, 2025 was $118.4 million, or $0.60 diluted earnings per share, both of which were records for the Company. When adjusting for non-fundamental items, net income and diluted earnings per share on an as-adjusted basis (non-GAAP), were $114.6 million⁽²⁾ and $0.58 per share⁽²⁾, respectively, for the three months ended June 30, 2025.

Our net interest margin was 4.44% for both of the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025. The yield on loans was 7.36% and 7.38% for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively, as average loans increased from $14.89 billion to $15.06 billion. Additionally, the rate on interest bearing deposits decreased to 2.64% as of June 30, 2025, from 2.67% as of March 31, 2025, while average interest-bearing deposits increased from $13.20 billion to $13.43 billion.

During the second quarter of 2025, there was $516,000 of event interest income compared to $1.3 million of event interest income for the first quarter of 2025. Purchase accounting accretion on acquired loans was $1.2 million and $1.4 million for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively, and average purchase accounting loan discounts were $16.2 million and $17.5 million for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively.

Net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis was $222.5 million for the three-month period ended June 30, 2025, and $217.2 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025. This increase in net interest income for the three-month period ended June 30, 2025, was the result of a $6.6 million increase in interest income, partially offset by a $1.3 million increase in interest expense. The $6.6 million increase in interest income was primarily the result of a $5.3 million increase in loan income and a $2.3 million increase in income from deposits with other banks, partially offset by a $1.0 million decrease in investment income. The $1.3 million increase in interest expense was due to a $1.7 million increase in interest expense on deposits, partially offset by a $363,000 decrease in FHLB and other borrowed funds.

The Company reported $51.1 million of non-interest income for the second quarter of 2025. The most important components of non-interest income were $13.5 million from other income, $12.6 million from other service charges and fees, $9.6 million from service charges on deposit accounts, $5.2 million from trust fees, $4.8 million in mortgage lending income, $2.7 million from dividends from FHLB, FRB, FNBB and other, $1.4 million from the increase in cash value of life insurance and $972,000 from the gain on sale of branches, equipment and other assets, net. Included within other income was $3.5 million in special income from equity investments and $885,000 in legal fee reimbursements.

Non-interest expense for the second quarter of 2025 was $116.0 million. The most important components of non-interest expense were $64.3 million from salaries and employee benefits, $29.3 million in other operating expense, $14.0 million in occupancy and equipment expenses and $8.4 million in data processing expenses. Included within other expense was $3.3 million in legal claims expense, which was partially offset by a $1.5 million FDIC assessment reduction. For the second quarter of 2025, our efficiency ratio was 41.68%, and our efficiency ratio, as adjusted (non-GAAP), was 42.01%⁽²⁾_.

Financial Condition

Total loans receivable were $15.18 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $14.95 billion at March 31, 2025. Total loans receivable of $15.18 billion were a record for the Company. Total deposits were $17.49 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $17.54 billion at March 31, 2025. Total assets were $22.91 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $22.99 billion at March 31, 2025.

During the second quarter of 2025, the Company had a $228.5 million increase in loans. Our community banking footprint experienced $106.8 million in organic loan growth during the quarter ended June 30, 2025, and Centennial CFG experienced $121.7 million of organic loan growth and had loans of $1.83 billion at June 30, 2025.

Non-performing loans to total loans were 0.63% and 0.60% at June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively. Non-performing assets to total assets were 0.60% and 0.56% at June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively. Net loans charged-off were $1.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, and net loans recovered were $4.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The charge-off detail by region for the quarters ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025 can be seen below.

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2025
(in thousands)	Texas			Arkansas			Centennial CFG		Shore Premier Finance			Florida			Alabama			Total
Charge-offs	$	2,588		$	462		$	181	$	582		$	245		$	13		$	4,071
Recoveries		(2,172	)		(223	)		—		(22	)		(577	)		(2	)		(2,996	)
Net charge-offs (recoveries)	$	416		$	239		$	181	$	560		$	(332	)	$	11		$	1,075

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
(in thousands)	Texas			Arkansas			Centennial CFG			Shore Premier Finance			Florida			Alabama			Total
Charge-offs	$	444		$	474		$	—		$	53		$	2,479		$	8		$	3,458
Recoveries		(6,514	)		(228	)		(658	)		(3	)		(117	)		(2	)		(7,522	)
Net (recoveries) charge-offs	$	(6,070	)	$	246		$	(658	)	$	50		$	2,362		$	6		$	(4,064	)

At June 30, 2025, non-performing loans were $96.3 million, and non-performing assets were $137.8 million. At March 31, 2025, non-performing loans were $89.6 million, and non-performing assets were $129.4 million.

The table below shows the non-performing loans and non-performing assets by region as June 30, 2025:

(in thousands)	Texas	Arkansas	Centennial CFG	Shore Premier Finance	Florida	Alabama	Total
Non-accrual loans	22,487	16,276	787	11,716	37,833	162	89,261
Loans 90+ days past due	3,557	2,341	—	—	1,133	—	7,031
Total non-performing loans	26,044	18,617	787	11,716	38,966	162	96,292

Foreclosed assets held for sale	17,259	863	22,842	—	565	—	41,529
Other non-performing assets	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
Total other non-performing assets	17,259	863	22,842	—	565	—	41,529
Total non-performing assets	43,303	19,480	23,629	11,716	39,531	162	137,821

The table below shows the non-performing loans and non-performing assets by region as March 31, 2025:

(in thousands)	Texas	Arkansas	Centennial CFG	Shore Premier Finance	Florida	Alabama	Total
Non-accrual loans	23,694	15,214	2,766	5,444	39,108	157	86,383
Loans 90+ days past due	3,264	—	—	—	—	—	3,264
Total non-performing loans	26,958	15,214	2,766	5,444	39,108	157	89,647

Foreclosed assets held for sale	15,357	1,052	22,820	—	451	—	39,680
Other non-performing assets	63	—	—	—	—	—	63
Total other non-performing assets	15,420	1,052	22,820	—	451	—	39,743
Total non-performing assets	42,378	16,266	25,586	5,444	39,559	157	129,390

The Company’s allowance for credit losses on loans was $281.9 million at June 30, 2025, or 1.86% of total loans, compared to the allowance for credit losses on loans of $279.9 million, or 1.87% of total loans, at March 31, 2025. As of June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, the Company’s allowance for credit losses on loans was 292.72% and 312.27% of its total non-performing loans, respectively.

Stockholders’ equity was $4.09 billion at June 30, 2025, which increased approximately $42.8 million from March 31, 2025. The net increase in stockholders’ equity is primarily associated with the $78.9 million increase in retained earnings, which was partially offset by the $11.4 million increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss and the $27.5 million in stock repurchases for the quarter. Book value per common share was $20.71 at June 30, 2025, compared to $20.40 at March 31, 2025. Tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP) was $13.44⁽²⁾ at June 30, 2025, compared to $13.15⁽²⁾ at March 31, 2025. Book value per common share and tangible book value per common share, as of June 30, 2025, were both records for the Company.

Branches

The Company currently has 75 branches in Arkansas, 78 branches in Florida, 58 branches in Texas, 5 branches in Alabama and one branch in New York City.

Conference Call

Management will conduct a conference call to review this information at 1:00 p.m. CT (2:00 p.m. ET) on Thursday, July 17, 2025. We strongly encourage all participants to pre-register for the conference call webcast or the live call using one of the following links. First, participants can pre-register for the conference call webcast using the following link: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/133918928. Participants who pre-register will be given a unique webcast link to gain immediate access to the conference call webcast. Second, participants can pre-register for the live call using the following link: https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=862a0326&confId=84106. Participants who pre-register will be given the phone number and unique access codes to gain immediate access to the live call. Participants may pre-register now, or at any time prior to the call, and will immediately receive simple instructions via email. The Home BancShares conference call will also be scheduled as an event in your Outlook calendar.

Those without internet access or unable to pre-register may dial in and listen to the live call by calling 1-833-470-1428, Passcode: 171523. A replay of the call will be available by calling 1-866-813-9403, Passcode: 539251, which will be available until July 24, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT. Internet access to the call will be available live or in recorded version on the Company’s website at www.homebancshares.com.

About Home BancShares

Home BancShares, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Conway, Arkansas. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Centennial Bank, provides a broad range of commercial and retail banking plus related financial services to businesses, real estate developers, investors, individuals and municipalities. Centennial Bank has branch locations in Arkansas, Florida, Texas, South Alabama and New York City. The Company’s common stock is traded through the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “HOMB.” The Company was founded in 1998. Visit www.homebancshares.com or www.my100bank.com for more information.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release contains financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The Company’s management uses these non-GAAP financial measures–including net income (earnings), as adjusted; pre-tax, pre-provision, net income (PPNR); PPNR, as adjusted; pre-tax net income, as adjusted, to total revenue (net); pre-tax, pre-provision, profit percentage; pre-tax, pre-provision, profit percentage, as adjusted; diluted earnings per common share, as adjusted; return on average assets, as adjusted; return on average assets excluding intangible amortization; return on average assets, as adjusted, excluding intangible amortization; return on average common equity, as adjusted; return on average tangible common equity; return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted; return on average tangible common equity excluding intangible amortization; return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted, excluding intangible amortization; efficiency ratio, as adjusted; tangible book value per common share and tangible common equity to tangible assets–to provide meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance. These measures typically adjust GAAP performance measures to include the tax benefit associated with revenue items that are tax-exempt, as well as adjust income available to common shareholders for certain significant items or transactions that management believes are not indicative of the Company’s primary business operating results. Since the presentation of these GAAP performance measures and their impact differ between companies, management believes presentations of these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful supplemental information that is essential to a proper understanding of the operating results of the Company’s business. These non-GAAP disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. Where non-GAAP financial measures are used, the comparable GAAP financial measure, as well as the reconciliation to the comparable GAAP financial measure, can be found in the tables of this release.

(1) Calculation of this metric is included in the schedules accompanying this release.
(2) Calculation of this metric and the reconciliation to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.

General

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding the Company’s plans, expectations, goals and outlook for the future, including future financial results. Statements in this press release that are not historical facts should be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events, performance or results. When we use words or phrases like “may,” “plan,” “propose,” “contemplate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “continue,” “expect,” “project,” “predict,” “estimate,” “could,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions, you should consider them as identifying forward-looking statements, although we may use other phrasing. Forward-looking statements of this type speak only as of the date of this news release. By nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Various factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following: economic conditions, credit quality, interest rates, loan demand, real estate values and unemployment, including any future impacts from inflation or changes in tariffs or trade policies; the ability to identify, complete and successfully integrate new acquisitions; the risk that expected cost savings and other benefits from acquisitions may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; diversion of management time on acquisition-related issues; the availability of and access to capital and liquidity on terms acceptable to us; legislative and regulatory changes and risks and expenses associated with current and future legislation and regulations; technological changes and cybersecurity risks and incidents; the effects of changes in accounting policies and practices; changes in governmental monetary and fiscal policies; political instability, military conflicts and other major domestic or international events; the impacts of recent or future adverse weather events, including hurricanes, and other natural disasters; disruptions, uncertainties and related effects on credit quality, liquidity and other aspects of our business and operations that may result from any future public health crises; competition from other financial institutions; potential claims, expenses and other adverse effects related to current or future litigation, regulatory examinations or other government actions; potential increases in deposit insurance assessments, increased regulatory scrutiny or market disruptions resulting from financial challenges in the banking industry; changes in the assumptions used in making the forward-looking statements; and other factors described in reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including those factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on February 27, 2025.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Donna Townsell
Director of Investor Relations
Home BancShares, Inc.
(501) 328-4625

Home BancShares, Inc.
Consolidated End of Period Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)

(In thousands)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024
ASSETS

Cash and due from banks	$	291,344		$	319,747		$	281,063		$	265,408		$	229,209
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks		809,729			975,983			629,284			752,269			829,507
Cash and cash equivalents		1,101,073			1,295,730			910,347			1,017,677			1,058,716
Federal funds sold		2,600			6,275			3,725			6,425			—
Investment securities – available-for-sale, net of allowance for credit losses		2,899,968			3,003,320			3,072,639			3,270,620			3,344,539
Investment securities – held-to-maturity, net of allowance for credit losses		1,265,292			1,269,896			1,275,204			1,277,090			1,278,853
Total investment securities		4,165,260			4,273,216			4,347,843			4,547,710			4,623,392
Loans receivable		15,180,624			14,952,116			14,764,500			14,823,979			14,781,457
Allowance for credit losses		(281,869	)		(279,944	)		(275,880	)		(312,574	)		(295,856	)
Loans receivable, net		14,898,755			14,672,172			14,488,620			14,511,405			14,485,601
Bank premises and equipment, net		379,729			384,843			386,322			388,776			383,691
Foreclosed assets held for sale		41,529			39,680			43,407			43,040			41,347
Cash value of life insurance		218,113			221,621			219,786			219,353			218,198
Accrued interest receivable		107,732			115,983			120,129			118,871			120,984
Deferred tax asset, net		174,323			170,120			186,697			176,629			195,041
Goodwill		1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253
Core deposit intangible		36,255			38,280			40,327			42,395			44,490
Other assets		383,400			376,030			345,292			352,583			350,192
Total assets	$	22,907,022		$	22,992,203		$	22,490,748		$	22,823,117		$	22,919,905

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities
Deposits:
Demand and non-interest-bearing	$	4,024,574		$	4,079,289		$	4,006,115		$	3,937,168		$	4,068,302
Savings and interest-bearing transaction accounts		11,571,949			11,586,106			11,347,850			10,966,426			11,150,516
Time deposits		1,891,909			1,876,096			1,792,332			1,802,116			1,736,985
Total deposits		17,488,432			17,541,491			17,146,297			16,705,710			16,955,803
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		140,813			161,401			162,350			179,416			137,996
FHLB and other borrowed funds		550,500			600,500			600,750			1,300,750			1,301,050
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities		203,004			207,154			181,080			238,058			230,011
Subordinated debentures		438,957			439,102			439,246			439,394			439,542
Total liabilities		18,821,706			18,949,648			18,529,723			18,863,328			19,064,402

Stockholders’ equity
Common stock		1,972			1,982			1,989			1,989			1,997
Capital surplus		2,221,576			2,246,312			2,272,794			2,272,100			2,295,893
Retained earnings		2,097,712			2,018,801			1,942,350			1,880,562			1,819,412
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(235,944	)		(224,540	)		(256,108	)		(194,862	)		(261,799	)
Total stockholders’ equity		4,085,316			4,042,555			3,961,025			3,959,789			3,855,503
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	22,907,022		$	22,992,203		$	22,490,748		$	22,823,117		$	22,919,905

Home BancShares, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended															Six Months Ended
(In thousands)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2025			Jun. 30, 2024
Interest income:
Loans	$	276,041		$	270,784		$	278,409		$	281,977		$	274,324		$	546,825		$	539,618
Investment securities
Taxable		26,444			27,433			28,943			31,006			32,587			53,877			65,816
Tax-exempt		7,626			7,650			7,704			7,704			7,769			15,276			15,572
Deposits – other banks		8,951			6,620			7,585			12,096			12,564			15,571			23,092
Federal funds sold		53			55			73			62			59			108			120
Total interest income		319,115			312,542			322,714			332,845			327,303			631,657			644,218
Interest expense:
Interest on deposits		88,489			86,786			90,564			97,785			95,741			175,275			188,289
Federal funds purchased		—			—			—			1			—			—			—
FHLB and other borrowed funds		5,539			5,902			9,541			14,383			14,255			11,441			28,531
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		1,012			1,074			1,346			1,335			1,363			2,086			2,767
Subordinated debentures		4,123			4,124			4,121			4,121			4,122			8,247			8,219
Total interest expense		99,163			97,886			105,572			117,625			115,481			197,049			227,806
Net interest income		219,952			214,656			217,142			215,220			211,822			434,608			416,412
Provision for credit losses on loans		3,000			—			16,700			18,200			8,000			3,000			13,500
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses on unfunded commitments		—			—			—			1,000			—			—			(1,000	)
Recovery of credit losses on investment securities		—			—			—			(330	)		—			—			—
Total credit loss expense		3,000			—			16,700			18,870			8,000			3,000			12,500
Net interest income after credit loss expense		216,952			214,656			200,442			196,350			203,822			431,608			403,912
Non-interest income:
Service charges on deposit accounts		9,552			9,650			9,935			9,888			9,714			19,202			19,400
Other service charges and fees		12,643			10,689			11,651			10,490			10,679			23,332			20,868
Trust fees		5,234			4,760			4,526			4,403			4,722			9,994			9,788
Mortgage lending income		4,780			3,599			3,518			4,437			4,276			8,379			7,834
Insurance commissions		589			535			483			595			565			1,124			1,073
Increase in cash value of life insurance		1,415			1,842			1,215			1,161			1,279			3,257			2,474
Dividends from FHLB, FRB, FNBB & other		2,657			2,718			2,820			2,637			2,998			5,375			6,005
Gain on SBA loans		—			288			218			145			56			288			254
Gain (loss) on branches, equipment and other assets, net		972			(163	)		26			32			2,052			809			2,044
Gain (loss) on OREO, net		13			(376	)		(2,423	)		85			49			(363	)		66
Fair value adjustment for marketable securities		(238	)		442			850			1,392			(274	)		204			729
Other income		13,462			11,442			8,403			7,514			6,658			24,904			14,038
Total non-interest income		51,079			45,426			41,222			42,779			42,774			96,505			84,573
Non-interest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits		64,318			61,855			60,824			58,861			60,427			126,173			121,337
Occupancy and equipment		14,023			14,425			14,526			14,546			14,408			28,448			28,959
Data processing expense		8,364			8,558			9,324			9,088			8,935			16,922			18,082
Other operating expenses		29,335			28,090			27,536			27,550			29,415			57,425			56,303
Total non-interest expense		116,040			112,928			112,210			110,045			113,185			228,968			224,681
Income before income taxes		151,991			147,154			129,454			129,084			133,411			299,145			263,804
Income tax expense		33,588			31,945			28,890			29,046			31,881			65,533			62,165
Net income	$	118,403		$	115,209		$	100,564		$	100,038		$	101,530		$	233,612		$	201,639

Home BancShares, Inc.
Selected Financial Information
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended															Six Months Ended
(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share data)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2025			Jun. 30, 2024
PER SHARE DATA
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.60		$	0.58		$	0.51		$	0.50		$	0.51		$	1.18		$	1.00
Diluted earnings per common share, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		0.58			0.56			0.50			0.50			0.52			1.14			1.01
Basic earnings per common share		0.60			0.58			0.51			0.50			0.51			1.18			1.00
Dividends per share – common		0.20			0.195			0.195			0.195			0.18			0.395			0.36
Shareholder buyback yield⁽²⁾		0.49	%		0.53	%		0.05	%		0.56	%		0.67	%		1.02	%		1.12	%
Book value per common share	$	20.71		$	20.40		$	19.92		$	19.91		$	19.30		$	20.71		$	19.30
Tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		13.44			13.15			12.68			12.67			12.08			13.44			12.08

STOCK INFORMATION
Average common shares outstanding		197,532			198,657			198,863			199,380			200,319			198,091			200,765
Average diluted shares outstanding		197,765			198,852			198,973			199,461			200,465			198,289			200,909
End of period common shares outstanding		197,239			198,206			198,882			198,879			199,746			197,239			199,746

ANNUALIZED PERFORMANCE METRICS

Return on average assets (ROA)		2.08	%		2.07	%		1.77	%		1.74	%		1.79	%		2.08	%		1.78	%
Return on average assets, as adjusted: (ROA, as adjusted) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		2.02	%		2.01	%		1.76	%		1.72	%		1.83	%		2.02	%		1.79	%
Return on average assets excluding intangible amortization (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		2.25	%		2.24	%		1.92	%		1.88	%		1.94	%		2.25	%		1.93	%
Return on average assets, as adjusted, excluding intangible amortization (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		2.18	%		2.18	%		1.91	%		1.86	%		1.98	%		2.18	%		1.94	%
Return on average common equity (ROE)		11.77	%		11.75	%		10.13	%		10.23	%		10.73	%		11.76	%		10.69	%
Return on average common equity, as adjusted: (ROE, as adjusted) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		11.39	%		11.41	%		10.05	%		10.12	%		10.98	%		11.40	%		10.76	%
Return on average tangible common equity (ROTCE) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		18.26	%		18.39	%		15.94	%		16.26	%		17.29	%		18.33	%		17.26	%
Return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted: (ROTCE, as adjusted) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		17.68	%		17.87	%		15.82	%		16.09	%		17.69	%		17.77	%		17.38	%
Return on average tangible common equity excluding intangible amortization (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		18.50	%		18.64	%		16.18	%		16.51	%		17.56	%		18.57	%		17.53	%
Return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted, excluding intangible amortization (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		17.92	%		18.12	%		16.07	%		16.34	%		17.97	%		18.02	%		17.66	%

(1) Calculation of this metric and the reconciliation to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.
(2) Calculation of this metric is included in the schedules accompanying this release.

Home BancShares, Inc.
Selected Financial Information
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended															Six Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2025			Jun. 30, 2024
Efficiency ratio		41.68	%		42.22	%		42.24	%		41.42	%		43.17	%		41.94	%		43.69	%
Efficiency ratio, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		42.01	%		42.84	%		42.00	%		41.66	%		42.59	%		42.42	%		43.50	%
Net interest margin – FTE (NIM)		4.44	%		4.44	%		4.39	%		4.28	%		4.27	%		4.44	%		4.20	%
Fully taxable equivalent adjustment	$	2,526		$	2,534		$	2,398		$	2,616		$	2,628		$	5,060		$	3,520
Total revenue (net)		271,031			260,082			258,364			257,999			254,596			531,113			500,985
Pre-tax, pre-provision, net income (PPNR) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		154,991			147,154			146,154			147,954			141,411			302,145			276,304
PPNR, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		150,404			142,821			145,209			146,562			141,886			293,225			275,614
Pre-tax net income to total revenue (net)		56.08	%		56.58	%		50.11	%		50.03	%		52.40	%		56.32	%		52.66	%
Pre-tax net income, as adjusted, to total revenue (net) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		54.39	%		54.91	%		49.74	%		49.49	%		52.59	%		54.64	%		52.52	%
P5_NR (Pre-tax, pre-provision, profit percentage) (PPNR to total revenue (net)) (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		57.19	%		56.58	%		56.57	%		57.35	%		55.54	%		56.89	%		55.15	%
P5_NR, as adjusted (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		55.49	%		54.91	%		56.20	%		56.81	%		55.73	%		55.21	%		55.01	%
Total purchase accounting accretion	$	1,233		$	1,378		$	1,610		$	1,878		$	1,873		$	2,611		$	4,645
Average purchase accounting loan discounts		16,219			17,493			19,090			20,832			22,788			16,873			23,813

OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
Advertising	$	2,054		$	1,928		$	1,941		$	1,810		$	1,692		$	3,982		$	3,346
Amortization of intangibles		2,025			2,047			2,068			2,095			2,140			4,072			4,280
Electronic banking expense		3,172			3,055			3,307			3,569			3,412			6,227			6,568
Directors’ fees		431			452			356			362			423			883			921
Due from bank service charges		283			281			271			302			282			564			558
FDIC and state assessment		1,636			3,387			3,216			3,360			5,494			5,023			8,812
Insurance		1,049			999			900			926			905			2,048			1,808
Legal and accounting		2,360			3,641			2,361			1,902			2,617			6,001			4,698
Other professional fees		2,211			1,947			1,736			2,062			2,108			4,158			4,344
Operating supplies		711			711			711			673			613			1,422			1,296
Postage		488			503			518			522			497			991			1,020
Telephone		419			436			438			455			444			855			914
Other expense		12,496			8,703			9,713			9,512			8,788			21,199			17,738
Total other operating expenses	$	29,335		$	28,090		$	27,536		$	27,550		$	29,415		$	57,425		$	56,303

(1) Calculation of this metric and the reconciliation to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.

Home BancShares, Inc.
Selected Financial Information
(Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024
BALANCE SHEET RATIOS
Total loans to total deposits		86.80	%		85.24	%		86.11	%		88.74	%		87.18	%
Common equity to assets		17.83	%		17.58	%		17.61	%		17.35	%		16.82	%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)⁽¹⁾		12.35	%		12.09	%		11.98	%		11.78	%		11.23	%
										.
LOANS RECEIVABLE
Real estate
Commercial real estate loans
Non-farm/non-residential	$	5,553,182		$	5,588,681		$	5,426,780		$	5,496,536		$	5,599,925
Construction/land development		2,695,561			2,735,760			2,736,214			2,741,419			2,511,817
Agricultural		315,926			335,437			336,993			335,965			345,461
Residential real estate loans
Residential 1-4 family		2,138,990			1,947,872			1,956,489			1,932,352			1,910,143
Multifamily residential		620,439			576,089			496,484			482,648			509,091
Total real estate		11,324,098			11,183,839			10,952,960			10,988,920			10,876,437
Consumer		1,218,834			1,227,745			1,234,361			1,219,197			1,189,386
Commercial and industrial		2,107,326			2,045,036			2,022,775			2,084,667			2,242,072
Agricultural		323,457			314,323			367,251			352,963			314,600
Other		206,909			181,173			187,153			178,232			158,962
Loans receivable	$	15,180,624		$	14,952,116		$	14,764,500		$	14,823,979		$	14,781,457

ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES
Balance, beginning of period	$	279,944		$	275,880		$	312,574		$	295,856		$	290,294
Loans charged off		4,071			3,458			53,959			2,001			3,098
Recoveries of loans previously charged off		2,996			7,522			565			519			660
Net loans charged off (recovered)		1,075			(4,064	)		53,394			1,482			2,438
Provision for credit losses – loans		3,000			—			16,700			18,200			8,000
Balance, end of period	$	281,869		$	279,944		$	275,880		$	312,574		$	295,856

Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average total loans		0.03	%		(0.11	)%		1.44	%		0.04	%		0.07	%
Allowance for credit losses to total loans		1.86	%		1.87	%		1.87	%		2.11	%		2.00	%

NON-PERFORMING ASSETS
Non-performing loans
Non-accrual loans	$	89,261		$	86,383		$	93,853		$	95,747		$	78,090
Loans past due 90 days or more		7,031			3,264			5,034			5,356			8,251
Total non-performing loans		96,292			89,647			98,887			101,103			86,341
Other non-performing assets
Foreclosed assets held for sale, net		41,529			39,680			43,407			43,040			41,347
Other non-performing assets		—			63			63			63			63
Total other non-performing assets		41,529			39,743			43,470			43,103			41,410
Total non-performing assets	$	137,821		$	129,390		$	142,357		$	144,206		$	127,751

Allowance for credit losses for loans to non-performing loans		292.72	%		312.27	%		278.99	%		309.16	%		342.66	%
Non-performing loans to total loans		0.63	%		0.60	%		0.67	%		0.68	%		0.58	%
Non-performing assets to total assets		0.60	%		0.56	%		0.63	%		0.63	%		0.56	%

(1) Calculation of this metric and the reconciliation to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.

Home BancShares, Inc.
Consolidated Net Interest Margin
(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended
	June 30, 2025						March 31, 2025
(Dollars in thousands)	Average Balance		Income/ Expense		Yield/ Rate		Average Balance		Income/ Expense		Yield/ Rate
ASSETS
Earning assets
Interest-bearing balances due from banks	$	813,833	$	8,951	4.41	%	$	611,962	$	6,620	4.39	%
Federal funds sold		4,878		53	4.36	%		5,091		55	4.38	%
Investment securities – taxable		3,095,764		26,444	3.43	%		3,179,290		27,433	3.50	%
Investment securities – non-taxable – FTE		1,113,044		10,033	3.62	%		1,135,783		10,061	3.59	%
Loans receivable – FTE		15,055,414		276,160	7.36	%		14,893,912		270,907	7.38	%
Total interest-earning assets		20,082,933		321,641	6.42	%		19,826,038		315,076	6.45	%
Non-earning assets		2,714,805						2,722,797
Total assets	$	22,797,738					$	22,548,835

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities
Interest-bearing liabilities
Savings and interest-bearing transaction accounts	$	11,541,641	$	71,042	2.47	%	$	11,402,688	$	69,672	2.48	%
Time deposits		1,886,147		17,447	3.71	%		1,801,503		17,114	3.85	%
Total interest-bearing deposits		13,427,788		88,489	2.64	%		13,204,191		86,786	2.67	%
Federal funds purchased		46		—	—	%		—		—	—	%
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase		143,752		1,012	2.82	%		155,861		1,074	2.79	%
FHLB and other borrowed funds		566,984		5,539	3.92	%		600,681		5,902	3.98	%
Subordinated debentures		439,027		4,123	3.77	%		439,173		4,124	3.81	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		14,577,597		99,163	2.73	%		14,399,906		97,886	2.76	%
Non-interest bearing liabilities
Non-interest bearing deposits		3,981,901						3,980,944
Other liabilities		202,085						190,314
Total liabilities		18,761,583						18,571,164
Shareholders’ equity		4,036,155						3,977,671
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	22,797,738					$	22,548,835
Net interest spread					3.69	%					3.69	%
Net interest income and margin – FTE			$	222,478	4.44	%			$	217,190	4.44	%

Home BancShares, Inc.
Consolidated Net Interest Margin
(Unaudited)

	Six Months Ended
	June 30, 2025						June 30, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)	Average Balance		Income/ Expense		Yield/ Rate		Average Balance		Income/ Expense		Yield/ Rate
ASSETS
Earning assets
Interest-bearing balances due from banks	$	713,455	$	15,571	4.40	%	$	865,686	$	23,092	5.36	%
Federal funds sold		4,984		108	4.37	%		4,718		120	5.11	%
Investment securities – taxable		3,137,296		53,877	3.46	%		3,459,639		65,816	3.83	%
Investment securities – non-taxable – FTE		1,124,351		20,094	3.60	%		1,221,431		18,896	3.11	%
Loans receivable – FTE		14,975,109		547,067	7.37	%		14,568,029		539,814	7.45	%
Total interest-earning assets		19,955,195		636,717	6.43	%		20,119,503		647,738	6.47	%
Non-earning assets		2,718,779						2,660,101
Total assets	$	22,673,974					$	22,779,604

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities
Interest-bearing liabilities
Savings and interest-bearing transaction accounts	$	11,472,548	$	140,713	2.47	%	$	11,078,749	$	153,525	2.79	%
Time deposits		1,844,059		34,562	3.78	%		1,708,902		34,764	4.09	%
Total interest-bearing deposits		13,316,607		175,275	2.65	%		12,787,651		188,289	2.96	%
Federal funds purchased		23		—	—	%		17		—	—	%
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase		149,773		2,086	2.81	%		165,962		2,767	3.35	%
FHLB and other borrowed funds		583,739		11,441	3.95	%		1,301,071		28,531	4.41	%
Subordinated debentures		439,100		8,247	3.79	%		439,686		8,219	3.76	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		14,489,242		197,049	2.74	%		14,694,387		227,806	3.12	%
Non-interest bearing liabilities
Non-interest bearing deposits		3,981,425						4,050,787
Other liabilities		196,232						239,704
Total liabilities		18,666,899						18,984,878
Shareholders’ equity		4,007,075						3,794,726
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	22,673,974					$	22,779,604
Net interest spread					3.69	%					3.35	%
Net interest income and margin – FTE			$	439,668	4.44	%			$	419,932	4.20	%

Home BancShares, Inc.
Non-GAAP Reconciliations
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended															Six Months Ended
(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share data)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2025			Jun. 30, 2024
EARNINGS, AS ADJUSTED
GAAP net income available to common shareholders (A)	$	118,403		$	115,209		$	100,564		$	100,038		$	101,530		$	233,612		$	201,639
Pre-tax adjustments
FDIC special assessment		(1,516	)		—			—			—			2,260			(1,516	)		2,260
BOLI death benefits		(1,243	)		—			(95	)		—			—			(1,243	)		(162	)
Gain on sale of premises and equipment		(983	)		—			—			—			(2,059	)		(983	)		(2,059	)
Fair value adjustment for marketable securities		238			(442	)		(850	)		(1,392	)		274			(204	)		(729	)
Special income from equity investment		(3,498	)		(3,891	)		—			—			—			(7,389	)		—
Legal fee reimbursement		(885	)		—			—			—			—			(885	)		—
Legal claims expense		3,300			—			—			—			—			3,300			—
Total pre-tax adjustments		(4,587	)		(4,333	)		(945	)		(1,392	)		475			(8,920	)		(690	)
Tax-effect of adjustments		(817	)		(1,059	)		(208	)		(348	)		119			(1,876	)		(132	)
Deferred tax asset write-down		—			—			—			—			2,030			—			2,030
Total adjustments after-tax (B)		(3,770	)		(3,274	)		(737	)		(1,044	)		2,386			(7,044	)		1,472
Earnings, as adjusted (C)	$	114,633		$	111,935		$	99,827		$	98,994		$	103,916		$	226,568		$	203,111

Average diluted shares outstanding (D)		197,765			198,852			198,973			199,461			200,465			198,289			200,909

GAAP diluted earnings per share: (A/D)	$	0.60		$	0.58		$	0.51		$	0.50		$	0.51		$	1.18		$	1.00
Adjustments after-tax: (B/D)		(0.02	)		(0.02	)		(0.01	)		0.00			0.01			(0.04	)		0.01
Diluted earnings per common share, as adjusted: (C/D)	$	0.58		$	0.56		$	0.50		$	0.50		$	0.52		$	1.14		$	1.01

ANNUALIZED RETURN ON AVERAGE ASSETS
Return on average assets: (A/E)		2.08	%		2.07	%		1.77	%		1.74	%		1.79	%		2.08	%		1.78	%
Return on average assets, as adjusted: (ROA, as adjusted) ((A+D)/E)		2.02	%		2.01	%		1.76	%		1.72	%		1.83	%		2.02	%		1.79	%
Return on average assets excluding intangible amortization: ((A+C)/(E-F))		2.25	%		2.24	%		1.92	%		1.88	%		1.94	%		2.25	%		1.93	%
Return on average assets, as adjusted, excluding intangible amortization: ((A+C+D)/(E-F))		2.18	%		2.18	%		1.91	%		1.86	%		1.98	%		2.18	%		1.94	%

GAAP net income available to common shareholders (A)	$	118,403		$	115,209		$	100,564		$	100,038		$	101,530		$	233,612		$	201,639
Amortization of intangibles (B)		2,025			2,047			2,068			2,095			2,140			4,072			4,280
Amortization of intangibles after-tax (C)		1,530			1,547			1,563			1,572			1,605			3,077			3,210
Adjustments after-tax (D)		(3,770	)		(3,274	)		(737	)		(1,044	)		2,386			(7,044	)		1,472
Average assets (E)		22,797,738			22,548,835			22,565,077			22,893,784			22,875,949			22,673,974			22,779,604
Average goodwill & core deposit intangible (F)		1,435,480			1,437,515			1,439,566			1,441,654			1,443,778			1,436,492			1,444,840

Home BancShares, Inc.
Non-GAAP Reconciliations
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended															Six Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2025			Jun. 30, 2024
ANNUALIZED RETURN ON AVERAGE COMMON EQUITY
Return on average common equity: (A/D)		11.77	%		11.75	%		10.13	%		10.23	%		10.73	%		11.76	%		10.69	%
Return on average common equity, as adjusted: (ROE, as adjusted) ((A+C)/D)		11.39	%		11.41	%		10.05	%		10.12	%		10.98	%		11.40	%		10.76	%
Return on average tangible common equity: (ROTCE) (A/(D-E))		18.26	%		18.39	%		15.94	%		16.26	%		17.29	%		18.33	%		17.26	%
Return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted: (ROTCE, as adjusted) ((A+C)/(D-E))		17.68	%		17.87	%		15.82	%		16.09	%		17.69	%		17.77	%		17.38	%
Return on average tangible common equity excluding intangible amortization: (B/(D-E))		18.50	%		18.64	%		16.18	%		16.51	%		17.56	%		18.57	%		17.53	%
Return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted, excluding intangible amortization: ((B+C)/(D-E))		17.92	%		18.12	%		16.07	%		16.34	%		17.97	%		18.02	%		17.66	%

GAAP net income available to common shareholders (A)	$	118,403		$	115,209		$	100,564		$	100,038		$	101,530		$	233,612		$	201,639
Earnings excluding intangible amortization (B)		119,933			116,756			102,127			101,610			103,135			236,689			204,849
Adjustments after-tax (C)		(3,770	)		(3,274	)		(737	)		(1,044	)		2,386			(7,044	)		1,472
Average common equity (D)		4,036,155			3,977,671			3,950,176			3,889,712			3,805,800			4,007,075			3,794,726
Average goodwill & core deposits intangible (E)		1,435,480			1,437,515			1,439,566			1,441,654			1,443,778			1,436,492			1,444,840

EFFICIENCY RATIO & P5_NR
Efficiency ratio: ((D-G)/(B+C+E))		41.68	%		42.22	%		42.24	%		41.42	%		43.17	%		41.94	%		43.69	%
Efficiency ratio, as adjusted: ((D-G-I)/(B+C+E-H))		42.01	%		42.84	%		42.00	%		41.66	%		42.59	%		42.42	%		43.50	%
Pre-tax net income to total revenue (net) (A/(B+C))		56.08	%		56.58	%		50.11	%		50.03	%		52.40	%		56.32	%		52.66	%
Pre-tax net income, as adjusted, to total revenue (net) ((A+F)/(B+C))		54.39	%		54.91	%		49.74	%		49.49	%		52.59	%		54.64	%		52.52	%
Pre-tax, pre-provision, net income (PPNR) (B+C-D)	$	154,991		$	147,154		$	146,154		$	147,954		$	141,411		$	302,145		$	276,304
Pre-tax, pre-provision, net income, as adjusted (B+C-D+F)	$	150,404		$	142,821		$	145,209		$	146,562		$	141,886		$	293,225		$	275,614
P5_NR (Pre-tax, pre-provision, profit percentage) PPNR to total revenue (net)) (B+C-D)/(B+C)		57.19	%		56.58	%		56.57	%		57.35	%		55.54	%		56.89	%		55.15	%
P5_NR, as adjusted (B+C-D+F)/(B+C)		55.49	%		54.91	%		56.20	%		56.81	%		55.73	%		55.21	%		55.01	%

Pre-tax net income (A)	$	151,991		$	147,154		$	129,454		$	129,084		$	133,411		$	299,145		$	263,804
Net interest income (B)		219,952			214,656			217,142			215,220			211,822			434,608			416,412
Non-interest income (C)		51,079			45,426			41,222			42,779			42,774			96,505			84,573
Non-interest expense (D)		116,040			112,928			112,210			110,045			113,185			228,968			224,681
Fully taxable equivalent adjustment (E)		2,526			2,534			2,398			2,616			2,628			5,060			3,520
Total pre-tax adjustments (F)		(4,587	)		(4,333	)		(945	)		(1,392	)		475			(8,920	)		(690	)
Amortization of intangibles (G)		2,025			2,047			2,068			2,095			2,140			4,072			4,280

Adjustments:
Non-interest income:
Fair value adjustment for marketable securities	$	(238	)	$	442		$	850		$	1,392		$	(274	)	$	204		$	729
Gain (loss) on OREO		13			(376	)		(2,423	)		85			49			(363	)		66
Gain (loss) on branches, equipment and other assets, net		972			(163	)		26			32			2,052			809			2,044
Special income from equity investment		3,498			3,891			—			—			—			7,389			—
BOLI death benefits		1,243			—			95			—			—			1,243			162
Legal expense reimbursement		885			—			—			—			—			885			—
Total non-interest income adjustments (H)	$	6,373		$	3,794		$	(1,452	)	$	1,509		$	1,827		$	10,167		$	3,001

Non-interest expense:
FDIC special assessment		(1,516	)		—			—			—			2,260			(1,516	)		2,260
Legal claims expense		3,300			—			—			—			—			3,300			—
Total non-interest expense adjustments (I)	$	1,784		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	2,260		$	1,784		$	2,260

Home BancShares, Inc.
Non-GAAP Reconciliations
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended
	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024
TANGIBLE BOOK VALUE PER COMMON SHARE
Book value per common share: (A/B)	$	20.71		$	20.40		$	19.92		$	19.91		$	19.30
Tangible book value per common share: ((A-C-D)/B)		13.44			13.15			12.68			12.67			12.08

Total stockholders’ equity (A)	$	4,085,316		$	4,042,555		$	3,961,025		$	3,959,789		$	3,855,503
End of period common shares outstanding (B)		197,239			198,206			198,882			198,879			199,746
Goodwill (C)		1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253
Core deposit and other intangibles (D)		36,255			38,280			40,327			42,395			44,490

TANGIBLE COMMON EQUITY TO TANGIBLE ASSETS
Equity to assets: (B/A)		17.83	%		17.58	%		17.61	%		17.35	%		16.82	%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets: ((B-C-D)/(A-C-D))		12.35	%		12.09	%		11.98	%		11.78	%		11.23	%

Total assets (A)	$	22,907,022		$	22,992,203		$	22,490,748		$	22,823,117		$	22,919,905
Total stockholders’ equity (B)		4,085,316			4,042,555			3,961,025			3,959,789			3,855,503
Goodwill (C)		1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253			1,398,253
Core deposit and other intangibles (D)		36,255			38,280			40,327			42,395			44,490

Home BancShares, Inc.
Shareholder Buyback Yield
(Unaudited)

	Quarter Ended															Six Months Ended
(Dollars and shares in thousands)	Jun. 30, 2025			Mar. 31, 2025			Dec. 31, 2024			Sep. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2024			Jun. 30, 2025			Jun. 30, 2024
SHAREHOLDER BUYBACK YIELD
Shareholder buyback yield: (A/B)		0.49	%		0.53	%		0.05	%		0.56	%		0.67	%		1.02	%		1.12	%

Shares repurchased		1,000			1,000			96			1,000			1,400			2,000			2,426
Average price per share	$	26.99		$	29.67		$	26.38		$	26.90		$	23.26		$	28.33		$	23.31
Principal cost		26,989			29,668			2,526			26,902			32,562			56,657			56,549
Excise tax		459			117			(72	)		63			285			576			421
Total share repurchase cost (A)	$	27,448		$	29,785		$	2,454		$	26,965		$	32,847		$	57,233		$	56,970

Shares outstanding beginning of period		198,206			198,882			198,879			199,746			200,797			198,882			201,526
Price per share beginning of period	$	28.27		$	28.30		$	27.09		$	23.96		$	24.57		$	28.30		$	25.33
Market capitalization beginning of period (B)	$	5,603,284		$	5,628,361		$	5,387,632		$	4,785,914		$	4,933,582		$	5,628,361		$	5,104,654

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Germany landmark agreement to help smash smuggling gangs and boost defence exports

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

UK-Germany landmark agreement to help smash smuggling gangs and boost defence exports

Brits and Germans alike will benefit from a closer partnership on the issues that matter most to them, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to host Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a comprehensive visit to London.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will welcome Chancellor Merz to London today for his first official visit to the UK as Chancellor
The leaders will sign a new Treaty to strengthen their partnership and deliver benefits for UK and German citizens
PM set to welcome German commitment to criminalise facilitating illegal migration to the UK this year, as leaders agree to boost joint defence exports

Brits and Germans alike will benefit from a closer partnership on the issues that matter most to them, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to host Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a comprehensive visit to London today (Thursday 17 July) to revamp the UK-Germany friendship and sign a first of its kind Bilateral Friendship and Cooperation Treaty.

Alongside the Treaty, Germany is expected to make a landmark commitment to make it illegal in Germany to facilitate illegal migration to the UK with the law change to be adopted by the end of the year.

The change will give law enforcement the tools they need to investigate and take action against warehouses and storage facilities used by migrant smugglers to conceal dangerous small boats intended for illegal crossings to the UK. This will bolster efforts to prosecute those involved in smuggling and support the dismantling of the criminal networks driving unacceptable and unlawful journeys through Europe.

This significant and long-awaited step is further evidence that the Prime Minister’s approach to working more closely with our European partners is bearing fruit, and demonstrates progress on delivering the Joint Action Plan on Irregular Migration agreed with Germany last year. Through increased cooperation between UK and German law enforcement bodies we are expanding efforts to tackle people smuggling and bring criminal networks to justice. In the last 18 months the NCA has worked with partners across Europe to seize more than 600 boats and engines, with this change expected to drive that number up further.

It will also complement bolstered UK efforts to smash the criminal gangs responsible for dangerous, illegal journeys to the UK via small boats, through the game-changing pilot returns agreement reached with France last week, and the continued work upstream of the Border Security Command to disrupt and deter criminal smuggling networks.

The new Treaty will detail closer collaboration on issues ranging from migration and security to business, commercial and infrastructure links. This joint commitment to pursue a range of ambitious projects demonstrates how closer partnerships with our trusted allies will help deliver the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

“The progress we are making today is further proof that by investing in our relationships with likeminded friends and partners, we can deliver real change for working people.

“The Treaty we will sign today, the first of its kind, will bring the UK and Germany closer than ever. It not only marks the progress we have already made and the history we share. It is the foundation on which we go further to tackle shared problems and invest in shared strengths.

“Chancellor Merz’s commitment to make necessary changes to German law to disrupt the supply lines of the dangerous vessels which carry illegal migrants across the Channel is hugely welcome. As the closest of allies, we will continue to work closely together to deliver on the priorities that Brits and Germans share.”

Deepening our security and defence cooperation is also high on the agenda, with the leaders set to discuss their strong shared support for Ukraine.

Building on the landmark Trinity House Agreement on Defence signed in October, the leaders will unveil a new agreement to boost world-class UK defence exports such as Boxer armoured vehicles and Typhoon jets, with the two countries set to pursue joint export campaigns for jointly produced equipment. The agreement is likely to lead to billions of pounds additional defence exports in the coming years – excellent news for the UK economy and thousands of highly skilled defence industrial workers.

The leaders are also set to make a new commitment to deliver their new Deep Precision Strike capability in the next decade. The rapid development of this capability will safeguard the British public and reinforce NATO deterrence, while boosting the UK and European defence sectors through significant industrial investment. The new capability is set to have a range of over 2,000 km, and will be among the most advanced systems ever designed by the UK.

The Treaty also includes the establishment of a new UK-Germany Business Forum in order to improve business and investment relationship between the UK and Germany, with trade between the two countries already accounting for 8.5% of all UK trade and supporting almost 500,000 jobs. This is further illustrated by a series of commercial investment announced today worth more than £200 million and creating more than 600 new jobs.

One such example is German defence tech company, STARK, which has announced a landmark investment in the UK, marking its first production expansion outside of Germany. The move will create over 100 highly skilled jobs in the UK within the first year, including through STARK’s new 40,000 square feet facility in Swindon.

Mike Armstrong, Managing Director of STARK UK, said:

“The UK and Germany are world-leaders in new technology that will define the battlefields of the future. We need rapid and scalable production to protect our people, defend our sovereignty and deter aggression. That means resilient supply chains stretching across Europe.

“That is why STARK has chosen the UK as our first production location outside of Germany – taking advantage of the vast technological, industrial and defence expertise that exists here to create AI-powered, unmanned systems to defend Europe and NATO.”

Other announcements from German companies in the UK today include:

Conversational AI firm Cognigy plans to invest £50 million in the UK, expanding its team from 13 to 150.
AI ESG platform osapiens plans to invest £30 million in the UK, creating 150 high-skilled jobs.
Siemens Energy is creating 200 new jobs as well as 100 new apprentices and graduates starting this autumn.
Venture Capital fund, HV Capital, has the ambition to deploy around £150 million in the UK as part of their next fund generation.

Published 16 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Titus Leads NV Delegation Democrats’ Effort to Restore FEMA Funding that Keeps Our Communities Safe

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) today led Nevada’s Congressional Democratic Delegation in urging U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to administer FEMA’s Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grants which have been delayed under the Trump Administration.

“We are writing to urge the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to immediately publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant program, as required under current law,” Rep. Titus and the Delegation said in a letter.

Through the UASI program, FEMA provides communities critical assistance to help them prevent, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism and other disasters. In Southern Nevada, UASI grants were used to purchase equipment deployed by fire and EMS personnel during the Harvest Festival mass shooting in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017.

“Given the track record of these grants keeping our constituents safe, we are deeply concerned that the Department of Homeland Security has missed the statutory deadline to publish a NOFO for UASI, the first step in administering these grants,” the letter reads. “The safety and security of our communities are on the line.”

Rep. Titus added “With all the high volume of events in my district, like the F1 Race, the Super Bowl, and various concerts, UASI funds can help our first responders be ready to meet any threats to these gatherings of people.”

Background

Section 303 of Division C of Public Law 118-47 requires FEMA to make applications for Federal Assistance grants, including UASI, available to eligible applicants no later than 60 days after the enactment of the law. According to that timeline, the grants should have been made available by May 16, 2025. Nevertheless, FEMA has yet to issue a notice of funding opportunity to make these grants available to the communities who rely on them.

MIL-Evening Report: The secret stories of trees are written in the knots and swirls of your floorboards. An expert explains how to read them

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Senior Research Associate, School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, The University of Melbourne

Magda Ehlers/Pexels, CC BY

Have you ever examined timber floorboards and pondered why they look the way they do? Perhaps you admired the super-fine grain, a stunning red hue or a swirling knot, and wondered how it came to be?

Or perhaps you don’t know what tree species your floorboards are made from, and how to best look after them?

Finely polished floorboards reveal detail about the timber that can be much harder to detect in unpolished boards or other sawn timbers.

“Reading” the knots, stubs and other characteristics of floorboards can reveal what type of tree produced it and how it grew. It can also reveal fascinating details about the lives of the trees they once were.

Reading floorboards can reveal what type of tree produced it, and how it grew.
Greta Hoffman/Pexels, CC BY

Telling soft from hard

A variety of tree species are used to make timber floors. Hardwood species include the pale cream of Tasmanian oak, the honeyed hues of spotted gum and the deep red of jarrah.

Other times, softwood such as pine or spruce is used. Such species are often fast-growing, and prized for their availability and affordability.

Hardwoods are, by definition, flowering trees, while softwoods are from cone-bearing trees. Paradoxically, not all softwoods are soft or hardwoods hard. The balsa tree, for example, is a fast-growing hardwood tree renowned for its soft wood.

It’s not always easy to tell if a floor is hardwood or softwood, but there are discernible differences in their appearance.

Softwood such as pine or spruce is often fast-growing.
Geography Photos/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Tales in the grain

The real differences between softwood and hardwood lie in the anatomy and structure of the “xylem tissues” that make up the wood. These tissues transported water and nutrients from the roots to the rest of the plant when the tree was alive.

The arrangement of xylem tissue in the tree largely determines the “grain” in your floorboards. The grain is the appearance of wood fibres in the timber. The grain can be straight, wavy or spiralled.

In floorboards with straight grains, a tree’s growth history may be clear. As a tree trunk grows in diameter, it typically produces a layer of bark on the outside and a lighter layer of xylem tissue on the inside. When a tree is cut horizontally, the growth appears as rings. In a tree cut lengthwise (which happens when floorboards are milled) the growth appears as long lines in the timber.

If the lines in floorboards are very close together, this indicates the tree grew slowly. Wider lines suggest the tree grew rapidly.

Vessels in a tree’s xylem transport water from the roots to the rest of the plant. Hardwood tree species tend to have large vessels. This gives hardwood floorboards a coarser-grained and less uniform appearance. In contrast, softwood species such as conifers have smaller, dispersed vessels and produce more fine-grained, smoother timber.

Close lines in floorboards indicate the tree grew slowly.
Magda Ehlers/Pexels, CC BY

Knotty histories

Knots in floorboards occur when a branch dies or is cut, then tissue grows over the stub. The bigger the missing branch, the more substantial the knot.

Knots in floorboards can reveal much about the source tree. Pine, for example, often features multiple small knots originating from a common point. This reflects the growth pattern of young plantation pines, where several branches grow out from the trunk at the same height from the ground.

Often, the distance between knots tells us how quickly the tree grew. The greater the distance between the knots, the faster the tree grew in height.

Knots in floorboards occur when a branch dies or is cut.
eminumana/Pexels, CC BY

Clever chemical defence

The presence of a tree’s “defence chemicals”, known as polyphenols, can be seen clearly in some floorboards.

Polyphenols in floorboards sometimes appear as dark brown verging on black.
Author provided

Polyphenols protect plants against stressors such as pathogens, drought and UV radiation.

The chemicals contribute to the red hue in some floorboards. Because polyphenols have a preservative effect, they can also make timber more durable.

Dark reddish or brown timbers containing a high concentration of polyphenols include mahogany, merbau, red gum, ironbark and conifers such as cedar and cypress.

In cases where a tree is burnt by fire, or attacked by insects or fungus, it produces a lot of polyphenols at the site of the damage.

In these cases, the presence of polyphenols in floorboards can be very obvious – sometimes appearing as a section that is dark brown verging on black.

Keeping your floorboards for longer

It’s widely known that living trees store carbon, and that this helps limit climate change. It’s less well known that timber floorboards also store carbon. And as long as that timber is preserved – and not destroyed by fire, decay or wood rot – that carbon will stay there.

If floorboards have to be removed, try to make sure the timber is reused or repurposed into other products.

And if you are installing a new polished timber floor, or already have one, there are steps you can take to make it last for a long time.

Softwood boards will benefit from a hard surface coating, especially in high-use areas.

Reducing the exposure of the floor to bright sunlight can preserve the colour of the floorboards and prolong the life of the coating and the timber itself.

Large knots in floorboards can twist and start to protrude from the surface. To ensure the floor remains even and safe, and to prevent the board from splitting, secure the knot to a floor joist with a nail or glue.

And take the time to understand the lessons embedded in your floorboards. They have much to teach us about biology and history, if we take the time to read them.

Gregory Moore 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 secret stories of trees are written in the knots and swirls of your floorboards. An expert explains how to read them – https://theconversation.com/the-secret-stories-of-trees-are-written-in-the-knots-and-swirls-of-your-floorboards-an-expert-explains-how-to-read-them-250776

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

MIL-OSI Canada: Determined to Work Together for Jasper: Parks Canada and Partners Bolster Safe and Swift Return Home

Source: Government of Canada News (2)

New financial support will enable remediation efforts and help Jasper residents return home safely and swiftly.

July 16, 2025 Jasper, Alberta Parks Canada

One year after the Jasper Wildfire forced residents from their homes, Parks Canada, the Municipality of Jasper, the Canadian Red Cross, and Prairies Economic Development Canada continue to work as partners in the recovery and rebuild of Jasper, with a shared focus on quickly returning residents to safe and permanent homes.

Today, Parks Canada and the Canadian Red Cross jointly announced up to $5 million in additional support for Jasper residents. This will be intended for Jasperites who require contaminated soil testing and removal prior to rebuilding permanent housing. This new funding will ensure a swift, safe and dignified path forward for those most impacted.

New financial assistance, administered by the Canadian Red Cross, will provide support to residents for uninsured costs related to soil remediation and testing that will ensure the long-term health of residents.

The Government of Canada, through Parks Canada and other federal partners, has invested more than $180 million in rebuilding Jasper, and the work continues.

Together, we have:

· expedited reconstruction efforts through streamlined processes to make rebuilding as efficient as possible;

· secured interim housing for 300 Jasper families to allow them to return to the community as soon as possible;

· coordinated debris removal on 100 per cent of affected lots; and

· welcomed a number of residents back to permanent housing.

With debris removal complete and development permits issued through a streamlined process, the focus has now shifted to soil remediation and ensuring the future health of residents. Parks Canada is continuing to work closely with homeowners to provide clear and timely information, practical solutions, and flexibility throughout this phase. A coordinated plan to guide expedited soil remediation efforts and support residents will be shared very soon. We remain focussed on quickly getting building permits for residents who lost their homes and businesses so that they can move forward with their lives.

Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to helping Jasper rebuild stronger and faster, with the well-being of residents at the heart of every decision.

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MIL OSI Canada News –