NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rural News – Government delivers lifeline for flood-affected farmers – Federated Farmers

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers are welcoming the announcement of a $600,000 Government support package to help flood-affected farmers in the Nelson Tasman region get back on their feet.
    “This funding is desperately needed to support recovery efforts on the ground and will make a real difference for farming families,” says Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford.
    “We’re incredibly grateful that the Government have recognised this need early and taken practical steps that will allow clean-up work to get underway immediately.”
    The Government package includes $50,000 for the Farmers Adverse Events Trust, established by Federated Farmers, and will be matched dollar-for-dollar by donations from other farmers.
    Langford has visited many impacted farmers over the past fortnight, and will be on the ground again today surveying the damage and assessing what further support might be needed.
    “Each farm is completely different. Some have only had minor damage that they will be able to fix themselves, but others will definitely need some significant help,” Langford says.
    “That’s where Federated Farmers are going to be focusing most of our efforts. We need to prioritise those who have been hit hardest and then work our way out from there.
    “What this $50,000 from the Government means is that we can start work almost immediately with diggers, bulldozers and fencers from later this week.
    “That’s the kind of support these farmers need the most right now. They need boots on the ground, shovels in the dirt, and heavy machinery starting to roll in.”
    Langford says Federated Farmers will be playing a key role in coordinating this work but more donations will still be required to fund recovery efforts over the coming weeks.
    “We really need New Zealanders to get in behind these farmers with donations. It doesn’t matter if they’re large or small, every dollar counts and will make a difference.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: And the Emmy goes to….California!

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 15, 2025

    What you need to know: Productions filmed in California are raking in the nominations in this year’s Emmy bids. 

    SACRAMENTO –  Today, the nominees for the 77th Emmy Awards were announced, with California-based television productions securing at least 104 nominations across all categories. With today’s announcement, the Golden State continues to prove that it is the premier place to work, create and tell stories that reach across the world.

    Here are the 14 California-based productions that were nominated for an Emmy in a key category (listed in order of total nominations):

    1. “The Studio”, Apple TV+

    Courtesy of Apple TV+

    Total nominations: 23, including:

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Seth Rogen, Best Actor in a Comedy Series
    • Kathryn Hahn, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Catherine O’Hara, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Ike Barinholtz, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

    2. “Hacks”, HBO Max

    Courtesy of HBO Max

    Total nominations: 14, including

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Jean Smart, Best Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Hannah Einbinder, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

    3. “The Pitt”*, HBO Max

    Courtesy of Warner Bros.

    Total nominations: 13, including:

    • Best Drama Series
    • Noah Wyle, Best Actor in a Drama Series
    • Katherine LaNasa, Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

    4. “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”, Netflix

    Courtesy of Miles Cris/Netflix

    Total nominations: 11, including:

    • Best Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Cooper Koch, Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Chloë Sevigny, Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Javier Bardem, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

    5. “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, MTV

    Courtesy of MTV/World of Wonder

    Total nominations: 8, including

    • Best Reality Competition

    6. “Shrinking”, Apple TV+

    Courtesy of Apple TV+

    Total nominations: 7, including:

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Jason Segel, Best Actor in a Comedy Series
    • Jessica Williams, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Harrison Ford, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
    • Michael Urie, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

    7. “Abbott Elementary”, ABC

    Courtesy of ABC

    Total nominations: 6, including

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Quinta Brunson, Best Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Janelle Hames, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Sheryl Lee Ralph, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

    8. “The Oscars”, ABC

    Courtesy of ABC

    Total nominations: 6, including

    • Best Variety Special

    9. “Paradise”*, Hulu

    Courtesy of Ser Baffo/Disney

    Total nominations: 4, including

    • Best Drama Series
    • Sterling K. Brown, Best Actor in a Drama Series
    • Julianne Nicholson, Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
    • James Marsden, Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

    10. “Presumed Innocent”*, Apple TV+

    Courtesy of Apple TV+

    Total nominations: 4, including

    • Jake Gyllenhaal, Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Ruth Negga, Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Bill Camp, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Peter Sarsgaard, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

    11. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, ABC

    Courtesy of ABC

    Total nominations: 3, including

    • Best Talk Series

    12. “Nobody Wants This”, Netflix

    Courtesy of Stefania Rosini/Netflix 

    Total nominations: 3, including

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Kristen Bell, Best Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Adam Brody, Best Actor in a Comedy Series

    13. “Matlock”*, CBS

    Courtesy of CBS

    Total nominations: 1

    • Kathy Bates, Best Actress in a Drama Series

    14. “The Residence”*, Netflix

    Courtesy of Erin Simkin/Netflix

    Total nominations: 1

    • Uzo Aduba, Best Actress in a Comedy Series

    The 77th Emmy Awards will take place on September 14th at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles’ L.A. Live.

    *Denotes inclusion in California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. For the full list of productions that are a part of the program, see here.

    Lights, camera, jobs

    Earlier this month, Governor Gavin Newsom joined labor representatives, entertainment leaders and state officials to mark the official expansion of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program—solidifying the Golden State’s status as the global epicenter of film and television production. The move more than doubled the program’s annual funding—from $330 million to $750 million—and introduced key updates to keep production, below-the-line jobs, and investment rooted in California.

    The expanded program – now one of the largest capped film incentives in the nation – maintains California’s competitive edge in the creative economy while continuing to prioritize workforce diversity provisions, more funding for the Career Pathways Training Program, and the nation’s first Safety on Production Pilot Program.

    The California Film Commission has already integrated the expanded funding and refundable credit mechanism into its immediately upcoming application cycles, the next of which is scheduled for August 25–27, 2025 for independent and non-independent films.

    Recent news

    Jul 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: The LA Rises public outreach campaign will connect and support Angelenos impacted by the Eaton and Palisades fires with resources for long-term recovery and rebuilding. LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the launch of a…

    Jul 15, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Despite a concerted misinformation campaign driven by Republicans – from the President to state lawmakers – to create confusion around gas prices in California, prices actually remain lower now than they were one week ago, one month ago and one year…

    Jul 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom is advancing California’s efficiency strategy by connecting state agencies with tech executives to identify new opportunities for efficiency, engagement, and effectiveness throughout the state government to improve services…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: And the Emmy goes to….California!

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 15, 2025

    What you need to know: Productions filmed in California are raking in the nominations in this year’s Emmy bids. 

    SACRAMENTO –  Today, the nominees for the 77th Emmy Awards were announced, with California-based television productions securing at least 104 nominations across all categories. With today’s announcement, the Golden State continues to prove that it is the premier place to work, create and tell stories that reach across the world.

    Here are the 14 California-based productions that were nominated for an Emmy in a key category (listed in order of total nominations):

    1. “The Studio”, Apple TV+

    Courtesy of Apple TV+

    Total nominations: 23, including:

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Seth Rogen, Best Actor in a Comedy Series
    • Kathryn Hahn, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Catherine O’Hara, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Ike Barinholtz, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

    2. “Hacks”, HBO Max

    Courtesy of HBO Max

    Total nominations: 14, including

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Jean Smart, Best Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Hannah Einbinder, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

    3. “The Pitt”*, HBO Max

    Courtesy of Warner Bros.

    Total nominations: 13, including:

    • Best Drama Series
    • Noah Wyle, Best Actor in a Drama Series
    • Katherine LaNasa, Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

    4. “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”, Netflix

    Courtesy of Miles Cris/Netflix

    Total nominations: 11, including:

    • Best Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Cooper Koch, Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Chloë Sevigny, Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Javier Bardem, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

    5. “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, MTV

    Courtesy of MTV/World of Wonder

    Total nominations: 8, including

    • Best Reality Competition

    6. “Shrinking”, Apple TV+

    Courtesy of Apple TV+

    Total nominations: 7, including:

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Jason Segel, Best Actor in a Comedy Series
    • Jessica Williams, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Harrison Ford, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
    • Michael Urie, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

    7. “Abbott Elementary”, ABC

    Courtesy of ABC

    Total nominations: 6, including

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Quinta Brunson, Best Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Janelle Hames, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Sheryl Lee Ralph, Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

    8. “The Oscars”, ABC

    Courtesy of ABC

    Total nominations: 6, including

    • Best Variety Special

    9. “Paradise”*, Hulu

    Courtesy of Ser Baffo/Disney

    Total nominations: 4, including

    • Best Drama Series
    • Sterling K. Brown, Best Actor in a Drama Series
    • Julianne Nicholson, Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
    • James Marsden, Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

    10. “Presumed Innocent”*, Apple TV+

    Courtesy of Apple TV+

    Total nominations: 4, including

    • Jake Gyllenhaal, Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Ruth Negga, Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Bill Camp, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
    • Peter Sarsgaard, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

    11. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, ABC

    Courtesy of ABC

    Total nominations: 3, including

    • Best Talk Series

    12. “Nobody Wants This”, Netflix

    Courtesy of Stefania Rosini/Netflix 

    Total nominations: 3, including

    • Best Comedy Series
    • Kristen Bell, Best Actress in a Comedy Series
    • Adam Brody, Best Actor in a Comedy Series

    13. “Matlock”*, CBS

    Courtesy of CBS

    Total nominations: 1

    • Kathy Bates, Best Actress in a Drama Series

    14. “The Residence”*, Netflix

    Courtesy of Erin Simkin/Netflix

    Total nominations: 1

    • Uzo Aduba, Best Actress in a Comedy Series

    The 77th Emmy Awards will take place on September 14th at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles’ L.A. Live.

    *Denotes inclusion in California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. For the full list of productions that are a part of the program, see here.

    Lights, camera, jobs

    Earlier this month, Governor Gavin Newsom joined labor representatives, entertainment leaders and state officials to mark the official expansion of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program—solidifying the Golden State’s status as the global epicenter of film and television production. The move more than doubled the program’s annual funding—from $330 million to $750 million—and introduced key updates to keep production, below-the-line jobs, and investment rooted in California.

    The expanded program – now one of the largest capped film incentives in the nation – maintains California’s competitive edge in the creative economy while continuing to prioritize workforce diversity provisions, more funding for the Career Pathways Training Program, and the nation’s first Safety on Production Pilot Program.

    The California Film Commission has already integrated the expanded funding and refundable credit mechanism into its immediately upcoming application cycles, the next of which is scheduled for August 25–27, 2025 for independent and non-independent films.

    Recent news

    Jul 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: The LA Rises public outreach campaign will connect and support Angelenos impacted by the Eaton and Palisades fires with resources for long-term recovery and rebuilding. LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the launch of a…

    Jul 15, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Despite a concerted misinformation campaign driven by Republicans – from the President to state lawmakers – to create confusion around gas prices in California, prices actually remain lower now than they were one week ago, one month ago and one year…

    Jul 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom is advancing California’s efficiency strategy by connecting state agencies with tech executives to identify new opportunities for efficiency, engagement, and effectiveness throughout the state government to improve services…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple lands record-breaking 81 Emmy Award nominations with Severance leading

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple lands record-breaking 81 Emmy Award nominations with Severance leading

    July 15, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple lands record-breaking 81 Emmy Award nominations, with Severance leading as this year’s most-nominated series and The Studio becoming the most-nominated freshman comedy in history

    Global phenomenon Severance scores 27 nominations for hit second season, including Outstanding Drama Series and nine performance category nominations

    Breakout comedy The Studio sweeps with 23 nominations, including Outstanding Comedy Series, making history with the most nominations for a freshman comedy and most overall acting nominations this year

    Apple TV+ leads as the only network to land multiple title nominations across Outstanding Comedy and Drama Series categories, as The Studio, Severance, Slow Horses, and Shrinking land top program nominations, alongside Apple’s first-ever Outstanding Television Movie nod for The Gorge

    Apple also lands the most acting nominations of any network or studio this year, with 31 performance nods total

    Apple Originals honored with nominations across 14 titles, including Severance, The Studio, Slow Horses, Shrinking, Presumed Innocent, The Gorge, Bad Sisters, Dope Thief, Disclaimer, Pachinko, Your Friends & Neighbors, Dark Matter, Deaf President Now!, and Bono: Stories of Surrender

    CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA Apple TV+ today earned a record-breaking 81 Emmy Award nominations across 14 hit Apple Original titles for this year’s 77th Emmy Awards. Severance became this year’s most-nominated series with 27 nominations, and The Studio made history as the most-nominated freshman comedy series with 23 nominations in total. Additionally, with top program nominations for drama (Slow Horses) and comedy (Shrinking), Apple TV+ became the only network to have multiple titles nominated in the Outstanding Comedy and Drama Series categories. Apple also landed the most acting nominations of any network or studio this year, with 31 performance nods total.

    “Everyone at Apple is celebrating the talent, creativity, and hard work of all of our Emmy nominees this morning,” said Zack Van Amburg, Apple’s head of Worldwide Video. “Severance and The Studio have exceeded our wildest expectations in earning the most nominations for both drama and comedy series, alongside the phenomenal Shrinking and Slow Horses. These shows have connected deeply with audiences around the world, and we’re incredibly appreciative to the Television Academy for recognizing the breadth of storytelling that has been an honor for us to champion. We send our warmest congratulations to all of today’s nominees.”

    “This record-breaking year is a milestone for Apple, and we’re especially proud of the continued impact our outstanding series nominees — Severance, The Studio, Shrinking, and Slow Horses — are having on global culture,” said Jamie Erlicht, Apple’s Head of Worldwide Video. “These nominations honor bold storytelling, exceptional performances, and remarkable craftsmanship, and we’re deeply grateful to the Television Academy for recognizing these visionary creators.”

    Severance dominates as the most-nominated series this year, with 27 overall nominations, including Outstanding Drama, Outstanding Lead Actor for Adam Scott, Outstanding Lead Actress for Britt Lower, Outstanding Directing for Ben Stiller and Jessica Lee Gagné, Outstanding Writing for Dan Erickson, alongside recognition for outstanding performances by Zach Cherry, Tramell Tillman, John Turturro, Patricia Arquette, Jane Alexander, Gwendoline Christie, and Merritt Wever, as well as nods across several craft categories.

    As the most-nominated freshman comedy series in history, in addition to Outstanding Comedy, The Studio scores Outstanding Lead Actor, Directing, and Writing for Seth Rogen; Outstanding Supporting Actor for Ike Barinholtz; and Outstanding Supporting Actress for Kathryn Hahn and Catherine O’Hara. It also earned five of the six nominations in the Outstanding Guest Actor category, including first-ever acting nominations for directors Martin Scorsese and Ron Howard, alongside Bryan Cranston, Dave Franco, and Anthony Mackie, plus an Outstanding Guest Actress nomination for Zoë Kravitz.

    In its sophomore season, Apple’s beloved Shrinking nabs its first-ever nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series, and Harrison Ford is recognized with his first Emmy Award nomination for his celebrated performance in the series. Jason Segel nabs Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy, alongside Outstanding Supporting Actor and Actress nominations for Michael Urie and Jessica Williams, respectively.

    Following last year’s Emmy Award win for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series, Slow Horses lands nominations for Outstanding Drama, Outstanding Lead Actor for Sir Gary Oldman, Outstanding Directing for Adam Randall, Outstanding Casting, and Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series for Will Smith.

    Apple Original Films’ The Gorge lands the first Outstanding Television Movie nomination for Apple TV+, as Apple Original documentaries Deaf President Now! and Bono: Stories of Surrender are also recognized.

    Apple TV+ series stars lead with the most performance nominations overall, earning 31 acting category nominations, including 10 top acting nominations for acclaimed performances in The Studio, nine nominations for the stars and guest stars of Severance, and four nominations each for performances in Shrinking and Presumed Innocent. Dope Thief star Brian Tyree Henry also scores a nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, as Sir Gary Oldman lands his second nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Slow Horses, and Sharon Horgan is recognized with her second nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for the BAFTA Award-winning Bad Sisters.

    The nominations were announced today by the Television Academy, and the winners will be unveiled at the Creative Arts ceremonies on September 6 and 7, and the Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony on September 14, 2025.

    To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have earned 580 wins and 2,761 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy Ted Lasso and historic Oscar Best Picture winner CODA.

    In total, Apple scores 81 Emmy Award nominations, including:

    Severance (27)

    • Outstanding Drama Series
    • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Adam Scott
    • Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Britt Lower
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Zach Cherry
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Tramell Tillman
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: John Turturro
    • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: Patricia Arquette
    • Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Jane Alexander
    • Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Gwendoline Christie
    • Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Merritt Wever
    • Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series: Jessica Lee Gagné
    • Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series: Ben Stiller
    • Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series: Dan Erickson
    • Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour or More)
    • Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)
    • Outstanding Casting For A Drama Series 
    • Outstanding Choreography For Scripted Programming 
    • Outstanding Cinematography For A Series (One Hour)
    • Outstanding Picture Editing For A Drama Series (X3)
    • Outstanding Title Design
    • Outstanding Music Supervision
    • Outstanding Sound Editing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One Hour)
    • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One Hour)
    • Outstanding Special Visual Effects In A Single Episode
    • Outstanding Stunt Performance

    The Studio (23)

    • Outstanding Comedy Series
    • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Seth Rogen
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Ike Barinholtz
    • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Kathryn Hahn
    • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Catherine O’Hara
    • Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Bryan Cranston
    • Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Dave Franco
    • Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Ron Howard
    • Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Anthony Mackie
    • Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Martin Scorsese
    • Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series: Zoë Kravitz
    • Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg
    • Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Peter Heck, Alex Gregory, Frida Perez
    • Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Program (Half-Hour)
    • Outstanding Casting For A Comedy Series
    • Outstanding Cinematography For A Series (Half-Hour)
    • Outstanding Contemporary Costumes For A Series
    • Outstanding Picture Editing For A Single Camera Comedy Series
    • Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling 
    • Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)
    • Outstanding Music Supervision
    • Outstanding Sound Editing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (Half-Hour)
    • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (Half-Hour) And Animation

    Shrinking (7)

    • Outstanding Comedy Series
    • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Jason Segel
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Harrison Ford
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Michael Urie
    • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Jessica Williams
    • Outstanding Casting For A Comedy Series
    • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (Half-Hour) And Animation

    Slow Horses (5)

    • Outstanding Drama Series
    • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Gary Oldman
    • Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series: Will Smith
    • Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series: Adam Randall
    • Outstanding Casting For A Drama Series

    Presumed Innocent (4)

    • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie: Jake Gyllenhaal
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie: Bill Camp
    • Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie: Peter Sarsgaard
    • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie: Ruth Negga

    Disclaimer (2)

    • Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie: Cate Blanchett
    • Outstanding Cinematography For A Limited Or Anthology Series or Movie

    Bad Sisters (1)

    • Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Sharon Horgan

    Dope Thief (1)

    • Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie: Brian Tyree Henry

    The Gorge (2)

    • Outstanding Television Movie
    • Outstanding Sound Editing For A Limited Or Anthology Series, Movie Or Special

    Deaf President Now! (2)

    • Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special
    • Outstanding Directing For A Documentary/Nonfiction Program: Nyle DiMarco, Davis Guggenheim

    Pachinko (2)

    • Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Period or Fantasy Program (One Hour or More)
    • Outstanding Cinematography For A Series (One Hour)

    Your Friends & Neighbors (1)

    • Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music

    Bono: Stories of Surrender (1)

    • Outstanding Technical Direction and Camerawork For A Special

    Dark Matter (1)

    • Outstanding Title Design

    Nominees for Outstanding Commercial (2)

    • “Heartstrings” — Apple AirPods Pro
    • “Flock” — Apple Privacy

    Severance
    In Severance, Mark Scout (Adam Scott) leads a team at Lumon Industries, whose employees have undergone a severance procedure that surgically divides their memories between their work and personal lives. This daring experiment in “work-life balance” is called into question as Mark finds himself at the center of an unraveling mystery that will force him to confront the true nature of his work … and of himself. In season two, Mark and his friends learn the dire consequences of trifling with the severance barrier, leading them further down a path of woe.

    The Studio
    In The Studio, Seth Rogen stars as Matt Remick, the newly appointed head of embattled Continental Studios. As movies struggle to stay alive and relevant, Matt and his core team of infighting executives battle their insecurities as they wrangle narcissistic artists and craven corporate overlords in the ever-elusive pursuit of making great films. With their power suits masking their never-ending sense of panic, every party, set visit, casting decision, marketing meeting and award show presents them with an opportunity for glittering success or career-ending catastrophe. As someone who eats, sleeps and breathes movies, it’s the job Matt’s been pursuing his whole life, and it may very well destroy him.

    Shrinking
    Shrinking follows a grieving therapist who starts to break the rules and tell his clients exactly what he thinks. Ignoring his training and ethics, he finds himself making huge, tumultuous changes to people’s lives … including his own.

    Slow Horses
    This darkly funny espionage drama follows a team of British intelligence agents who serve in a dumping ground department of MI5 due to their career-ending mistakes. Led by their brilliant but irascible leader, the notorious Jackson Lamb (Academy Award winner Sir Gary Oldman), they navigate the espionage world’s smoke and mirrors to defend England from sinister forces.

    Presumed Innocent
    Presumed Innocent is an eight-episode limited series starring and executive produced by Jake Gyllenhaal, hailing from David E. Kelley and executive producer J.J. Abrams and based on the New York Times bestselling novel of the same name by Scott Turow. Starring Gyllenhaal in the lead role of chief deputy prosecutor Rusty Sabich, the series takes viewers on a gripping journey through the horrific murder that upends the Chicago Prosecuting Attorney’s office when one of its own is suspected of the crime. The series explores obsession, sex, politics, and the power and limits of love, as the accused fights to hold his family and marriage together. The star-studded ensemble cast of the thriller also includes Ruth Negga, Bill Camp, Elizabeth Marvel, Peter Sarsgaard, O-T Fagbenle and Renate Reinsve.

    Disclaimer
    Disclaimer is a gripping psychological thriller in seven chapters, starring Academy Award winners Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline. Written and directed by five-time Academy Award winner Alfonso Cuarón, “Disclaimer” is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Renée Knight. Acclaimed journalist Catherine Ravenscroft (Blanchett) built her reputation revealing the misdeeds and transgressions of others. When she receives a novel from an unknown author, she is horrified to realize she is now the main character in a story that exposes her darkest secrets. As Catherine races to uncover the writer’s true identity, she is forced to confront her past before it destroys her life and her relationships with her husband Robert (Sacha Baron Cohen) and their son Nicholas (Kodi Smit-McPhee). The ensemble cast includes Lesley Manville, Louis Partridge, Leila George and Hoyeon, and features Indira Varma as the narrator.

    Bad Sisters
    Bad Sisters season two returns to follow the lives of the Garvey sisters played by Sharon Horgan as Eva, Anne-Marie Duff as Grace, Eva Birthistle as Ursula, Sarah Greene as Bibi and Eve Hewson as Becka. Two years after the “accidental death” of Grace’s abusive husband, the close-knit Garvey sisters may have moved on, but when past truths resurface, the ladies are thrust back into the spotlight, suspicions are at an all-time high, lies are told, secrets revealed and the sisters are forced to work out who they can trust.

    Dope Thief
    Based on Dennis Tafoya’s book Dope Thief, the series follows long-time Philly friends and delinquents who pose as DEA agents to rob an unknown house in the countryside, only to have their small-time grift become a life-and-death enterprise, as they unwittingly reveal and unravel the biggest hidden narcotics corridor on the Eastern Seaboard.

    The Gorge
    Two highly-trained operatives (Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy) are appointed to posts in guard towers on opposite sides of a vast and highly classified gorge, protecting the world from an undisclosed, mysterious evil that lurks within. They bond from a distance while trying to stay vigilant in defending against an unseen enemy. When the cataclysmic threat to humanity is revealed to them, they must work together in a test of both their physical and mental strength to keep the secret in the gorge before it’s too late.

    Pachinko
    Epic in scope and intimate in tone, the story begins with a forbidden love and crescendos into a sweeping saga that journeys between Korea, Japan and America to tell an unforgettable story of war and peace, love and loss, triumph and reckoning.

    Your Friends & Neighbors
    After being fired in disgrace, a hedge fund manager still grappling with his recent divorce, resorts to stealing from his neighbors’ homes in the exceedingly affluent Westmont Village, only to discover that the secrets and affairs hidden behind those wealthy facades might be more dangerous than he ever imagined.

    Deaf President Now!
    The story of the greatest civil rights movement most people have never heard of. Deaf President Now! recounts the eight days of historic protests held at Gallaudet University in 1988 after the school’s board of trustees appointed a hearing president over several very qualified Deaf candidates. After a week of rallies, boycotts and protests, the students of Gallaudet University triumph as the hearing president resigns and beloved dean Dr. I. King Jordan becomes the university’s first Deaf president. The protests marked a pivotal moment in civil rights history, with an impact that extended well beyond the Gallaudet campus, and paved the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Deaf President Now! features exclusive interviews with the five key figures of the movement, including the DPN4 — Jerry Covell, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Tim Rarus and Greg Hlibok — alongside I. King Jordan, as well as archival and scripted elements. The film also incorporates an experimental narrative approach called Deaf Point of View, using impressionistic visual photography and intricate sound design to thrust the audience into the Deaf experience.

    Bono: Stories of Surrender
    Bono: Stories of Surrender is a vivid reimagining of Bono’s critically acclaimed one-man stage show, Stories of Surrender: An Evening of Words, Music and Some Mischief… As he pulls back the curtain on a remarkable life and the family, friends and faith that have challenged and sustained him, he also reveals personal stories about his journey as a son, father, husband, activist and rock star. Along with never-before-seen, exclusive footage from the tour, the film features Bono performing many of the iconic U2 songs that have shaped his life and legacy.

    Dark Matter
    Hailed as one of the best sci-fi novels of the decade, Dark Matter is a story about the road not taken. The series will follow Jason Dessen (played by Joel Edgerton), a physicist, professor and family man who — one night while walking home on the streets of Chicago — is abducted into an alternate version of his life. Wonder quickly turns to nightmare when he tries to return to his reality amid the mind-bending landscape of lives he could have lived. In this labyrinth of realities, he embarks on a harrowing journey to get back to his true family and save them from the most terrifying, unbeatable foe imaginable: himself.

    All programs are currently streaming on Apple TV+.

    Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut.

    About Apple TV+ Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone; iPad; Apple TV; Apple Vision Pro; Mac; popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, and others; Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices; Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation, and Xbox gaming consoles; and at tv.apple.com, for $9.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.1About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.

    Press Contacts

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government announces $600,000 support package for flood-affected farmers, growers and foresters

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is increasing its financial contribution to support rural communities in the Nelson Tasman Region, with additional funding to help farmers, foresters, growers and rural contractors recover from recent severe weather events.

    Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay speaking during a visit to the Tasman District today announced an additional $600,000 in Government and industry support, bringing the total Government financial contribution for the affected primary sector to $500,000.

    “These regions have experienced significant damage to forests, farms and rural infrastructure. This funding will help meet immediate recovery needs and help rural businesses get back on their feet,” Mr McClay says. 

    The support package includes:

    • A $300,000 Government contribution to the Mayoral Relief Fund tagged to the rural sector.
    • $100,000 contribution by the Government and Federated Farmers to the Farmers Adverse Events Trust to support with the immediate recovery needs for the most impacted pastoral farmers in the Nelson Tasman region.
    • $100,000 contribution by the Government and Horticulture New Zealand, to help the horticulture sector across the Top of the South.
    • $100,000 announced by Government in June to support and coordinate recovery efforts, including $20,000 for the Top of the South Rural Support Trust.

    “We continue to work with New Zealand Winegrowers to ensure appropriate support for affected vineyards, including the potential use of Enhanced Taskforce Green,” Mr McClay said.

    “Many farmers and growers are facing their second clean-up in a fortnight from floods and storm damage. Rural communities are resilient, but the relentless wet weather conditions have taken a toll. This support is designed to provide meaningful and direct assistance quickly,” Mr McClay says.

    MPI staff are on the ground working with the Rural Support Trust and industry groups assessing damage and coordinating assistance.

    “Farmers, foresters and growers will face many, many months of work to repair damage to their land and get their businesses back on track. We will continue to assess what further assistance might be required.”

    “Farmers and growers who need help or assistance should in the first instance contact their local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254,” Mr McClay said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 515

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 515
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    430 PM MDT Tue Jul 15 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Central Wyoming

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 430 PM until
    1000 PM MDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A band of thunderstorms will likely intensify while moving
    eastward across central Wyoming, with the potential to produce
    severe outflow gusts up to 70 mph and isolated large hail up to 1
    inch in diameter.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
    statute miles north and south of a line from 40 miles northwest of
    Riverton WY to 45 miles north northeast of Casper WY. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    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 513…WW 514…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    27025.

    …Thompson

    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 515
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    430 PM MDT Tue Jul 15 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Central Wyoming

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 430 PM until
    1000 PM MDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A band of thunderstorms will likely intensify while moving
    eastward across central Wyoming, with the potential to produce
    severe outflow gusts up to 70 mph and isolated large hail up to 1
    inch in diameter.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
    statute miles north and south of a line from 40 miles northwest of
    Riverton WY to 45 miles north northeast of Casper WY. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    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 513…WW 514…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    27025.

    …Thompson

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW5
    WW 515 SEVERE TSTM WY 152230Z – 160400Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    40NW RIW/RIVERTON WY/ – 45NNE CPR/CASPER WY/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /31W BOY – 26NNE DDY/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27025.

    LAT…LON 44350901 44370613 42630613 42610901

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

    Watch 515 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (10%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    Mod (60%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ovidio Guzman Lopez — son of El Chapo and head of Sinaloa Cartel — pleads guilty to federal drug charges in Chicago

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    TUCSON, Ariz., — Ovidio Guzman Lopez, who succeeded his father — Joaquin Guzman Loera, also known as El Chapo — as one of the heads of the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Chicago to federal drug charges. The guilty plea is the result of a collaboration between several agencies to include U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Justice Department’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, and prosecutors from the Northern District of Illinois, the Southern District of New York and the Southern District of California, and law enforcement partners from the FBI and the DEA.

    “The guilty plea by Ovidio Guzman Lopez, son of El Chapo, is a real victory for both the U.S. and Mexico but also a clear win for the rule of law,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations acting special agent in charge Ray Rede. “So much blood and violence lay with the Guzman family as well as spreading terror and plaguing both sides of the border with deadly drugs and weapons — no more. It’s impossible to measure the amount of work HSI and partner agencies have spent in securing this guilty verdict, but what is clear and evident is that no one is beyond the reach of law enforcement and our nation’s laws. Deliberate and coordinated teamwork resulted in today’s victory.”

    Guzman Lopez, 35, pleaded guilty to two counts of drug conspiracy and two counts of knowingly engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise. The guilty plea was entered as part of a multidistrict plea agreement with the government that resolves charges against Guzman Lopez brought by grand juries in the Northern District of Illinois and the Southern District of New York.

    U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman did not set a sentencing date. Guzman Lopez has been detained without bond since his extradition from Mexico to the U.S. in 2023.

    The guilty plea was announced as part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve various law enforcement goals, including the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, as well as protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces.

    “Today’s historic guilty plea sends yet another crystal-clear message that this administration is going to shut down and hold accountable transnational criminal organizations and their highest-ranking members and associates,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros. “Under my leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago will continue to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of drug cartels, several of which, including the Sinaloa Cartel, have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations. Our enforcement work will also extend to drug trafficking organizations, narcotics traffickers and other dangerous criminal enterprises that seek to poison the American public with illegal and harmful drugs. Our successes stem from our close partnership with federal prosecutors across the country as well as our tight collaboration with our many law enforcement partners.”

    As heirs to the Sinaloa Cartel, Guzman Lopez stated in his plea agreement that he and his three brothers, collectively known as the Chapitos, assumed their father’s leadership role following El Chapo’s arrest in 2016 and subsequent conviction in the Eastern District of New York. Guzman Lopez admitted in the plea agreement that he coordinated the transportation of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and other drugs and precursor chemicals from Mexico to the United States border, at times in shipments of hundreds or thousands of kilograms. Guzman Lopez used a network of couriers affiliated with the cartel to smuggle the drugs into the U.S. using vehicles, rail cars, tunnels, aircraft and other means, the plea agreement states.

    After the drugs were distributed throughout the U.S, individuals working for Guzman Lopez used bulk cash transport, wire transfers, trade of goods and cryptocurrency to launder the illicit proceeds and ensure the money was transmitted to Guzman Lopez and other members of the cartel in Mexico, the plea agreement says. Guzman Lopez admitted that he and his cartel associates perpetrated violence against law enforcement officials, civilians, and rival drug traffickers in order to protect the cartel’s drug trafficking activities.

    As part of his plea agreement, Guzman Lopez agreed to the entry of an $80 million forfeiture money judgment.

    “Today’s guilty plea is another major step toward holding the Sinaloa Cartel and its leaders accountable for their role in fueling the fentanyl epidemic that has plagued so many Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “We remain committed to dismantling the Cartel’s entire fentanyl infrastructure and ensuring that the Chapitos and their violent organization can no longer flood our communities with this poison.”

    “With each passing day, you are seeing the sunset of the Sinaloa cartel,” said U.S. Attorney Todd Gordon. “The Chapitos’ latest violence reflects their fading future. Their leaders who remain free are now paranoid, distrusted and desperate.”

    Guzman Lopez’s three brothers — Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar and Joaquin Guzman Lopez — were also charged with drug trafficking in U.S. indictments. Joaquin Guzman Lopez was arrested last year and remains detained in U.S. custody without bond. He pleaded not guilty to charges filed in the Northern District of Illinois and is awaiting trial. Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar and Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar are charged in the Northern District of Illinois and Southern District of New York. They are not in custody and warrants have been issued for their arrests. The U.S. State Department has issued rewards of up to $10 million for information leading to their arrests and convictions. (See Reward information for Guzmán Salazar, Ivan Archivaldo and Reward information for Guzmán Salazar, Jesus Alfredo.)

    The charges against Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar and Joaquin Guzman Lopez are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    Read the plea agreement

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Questions Mike Waltz on Trump Administration’s Kneecapping Of U.S. Counter-Propaganda Efforts, Failures In Yemen

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Tuesday questioned former National Security Adviser Mike Waltz at a confirmation hearing on his nomination to be the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Murphy demanded answers from Waltz on the Trump administration’s decision to cede ground to Russia and China in the global information war by shutting down USAGM, the umbrella agency for American foreign media operations such as Radio Free Europe and Voice of America. He also pushed Waltz about the Trump administration’s failure to disrupt Houthi attacks against American allies and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. 
    Murphy highlighted the Trump administration’s reckless dismantling of American counter-propaganda capabilities: “This administration, while you were at the NSC, essentially shut down USAGM, which is the umbrella agency for our global media operations, fired 92% of the staff, announced plans to shut down Radio Free Europe and Voice of America. They’re only open today because of court orders. The administration does not support the Global Engagement Center, which is also now shut down, which was the State Department’s ability to try to work with partners around the world to counter Chinese propaganda and Russian propaganda.” 
    Stressing that the administration’s decisions will further empower our adversaries and set back U.S. national security interests, Murphy continued: “We were already having circles run around us by Russia and by China predominantly even before the administration went forward with this essential destruction of our existing information and counter-propaganda capacity. So maybe just share with me: while you were National Security Adviser, why did you believe that it advanced U.S. national security interests to shut down our most important agencies that try to win the information war, which is a war that whether we like it or not, exists in this world, and we’re not fighting it today, while our adversaries are?” 
    On Waltz and the Trump Administration’s strategically inconsequential campaign against the Houthis in Yemen, Murphy said: “You were very involved in the offensive operations in Yemen. As you saw in this last week, the Houthis have restarted attacks on the shipping lanes. Two very devastating attacks. Throughout the last two months, they have been continuing to take offensive operations against Israel. It doesn’t look like we did much to really fundamentally change the battle space there. They still have pretty robust offensive capabilities to target shipping lanes and to target our friends. We spent, it looks like, around $1 billion, depleted a lot of our ammunition stocks. How do you look at that operation in retrospect knowing that, as we sit here today, the Houthis have once again begun attacks in the Red Sea?”
    A full transcript of Murphy’s exchanges with Waltz is available below. 
    MURPHY: “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Thank you all for being here.
    “Mr. Waltz, the U.N. doesn’t have a conventional army. It’s got peacekeepers, but there’s no aircraft carriers, there’s no air force. This is a place where smart power matters, right? This is a place where we invest in things like diplomacy and humanitarian aid and economic development to try to stabilize the world. 
    “I think what worries me about your fit for this position is that while you were at the National Security Council, you oversaw the dismantling of many of our most important smart power tools in the U.S. foreign policy toolkit. A lot of conversations happened on this committee about what has happened to USAID, our ability to influence the world through economic development and humanitarian assistance. But not as much conversation has happened about the attempted destruction – I think, led by an NSC process – of our information and media operations around the world. 
    “This administration, while you were at the NSC, essentially shut down USAGM, which is the umbrella agency for our global media operations, fired 92% of the staff, announced plans to shut down Radio Free Europe and Voice of America. They’re only open today because of court orders. The administration does not support the Global Engagement Center, which is also now shut down, which was the State Department’s ability to try to work with partners around the world to counter Chinese propaganda and Russian propaganda. I mean, listen, we were already having circles run around us by Russia and by China predominantly even before the administration went forward with this essential destruction of our existing information and counter-propaganda capacity. 
    “So maybe just share with me: while you were National Security Adviser, why did you believe that it advanced U.S. national security interests to shut down our most important agencies that try to win the information war, which is a war that whether we like it or not, exists in this world, and we’re not fighting it today, while our adversaries are?”
    WALTZ: “Thank you for the question. And I think we’re in violent agreement that we have to win the information war. We may have a disagreement on the best way to do that. What we did not see were the metrics, were the actual results. As you mentioned, we’re getting, in many ways, outpaced in the information space. Yet for decades we’ve had these entities that have become expensive and have become quite bloated. I think the best way to block and tackle our adversaries abroad is through our amazing private sector, through innovation, through what we’re seeing in our leadership role in AI and in other spaces. And so as the president, as the secretary looked across the interagency and those entities, they made those decisions.”
    MURPHY: “But the private sector isn’t going to fight Russian and Chinese propaganda around the world, right? I mean, that has to be an essential function of U.S. national security policy, correct?”
    WALTZ: “Well, what they are going to do is show the power of free markets, the power of entrepreneurship, and show, really, the power of the U.S. in terms of a free society and with our values.”
    MURPHY: “We’re going to rely on Disney?”
    WALTZ: “I think we’re actually more aligned than what you think. What we were looking at is the actual effectiveness. It’s the tool that we questioned, and then the president and secretary made a decision to reallocate resources.”
    MURPHY: “Listen, I hope the administration does rethink this. If they’ve got a better idea on how to try to project power in the information space, then I think we’re all willing to hear it. But right now, we’re taking ourselves off the playing field. 
    “You were very involved in the offensive operations in Yemen. As you saw in this last week, the Houthis have restarted attacks on the shipping lanes. Two very devastating attacks. Throughout the last two months, they have been continuing to take offensive operations against Israel. It doesn’t look like we did much to really fundamentally change the battle space there. They still have pretty robust offensive capabilities to target shipping lanes and to target our friends. We spent, it looks like, around $1 billion, depleted a lot of our ammunition stocks. How do you look at that operation in retrospect knowing that, as we sit here today, the Houthis have once again begun attacks in the Red Sea?”
    WALTZ: “Well, thank you, senator, for the question. I think we also have to look at it in the context of, from the figures that I’ve seen, a 20% to 30% increase in shipping through the Red Sea, an increase in revenues through the Suez Canal. And what we do not have are our warships being used as target practice by the Houthis, which is what, frankly, we had in the last administration. Now, do we need to work to make sure that’s enduring? Perhaps the Houthi leadership hasn’t fully gotten the message. But I would defer to Secretary Rubio, Secretary Hegseth and the president on the way forward there.”
    MURPHY: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Four weeks of major work on northbound I-5 Ship Canal Bridge begins with a weekend-long mainline closure July 18-21

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Express lanes will be northbound only during summer 2025 work 

    SEATTLE – The long-anticipated major work to revive the Interstate 5 Ship Canal Bridge will kick off with a weekend-long closure of northbound I-5 in Seattle Friday night, July 18 through early Monday morning, July 21. Following the closure, the freeway will be reduced to two lanes for four weeks northbound across the bridge, as Washington State Department of Transportation contractors work on one of Seattle’s busiest corridors. 

    ”We’ve been planning and preparing for this work for over a year,” said Brian Nielsen, WSDOT’s region administrator with oversight for King County. “This is one of the most important and challenging preservation projects in the state. We know it will disrupt travel, but the repairs are essential to extend the life of one of the region’s busiest and most vital transportation links. Our team has worked closely with city, regional and transit partners to reduce the effects as much as possible and keep people moving.”

    Crews will use the four-week work window to repave and repair portions of the bridge’s two left lanes and continue replacing stormwater drains. Later this year, weekend lane reductions will begin on southbound I-5 to prepare for future phases of the project.

    What to expect

    • Friday night, July 18 to Monday morning, July 21: Northbound I-5 closed from near the I-90 interchange to Northeast 45th Street.
    • Monday, July 21 to Friday night, Aug. 15: Northbound I-5 reduced to two lanes across the Ship Canal Bridge.
    • Friday, Aug. 15 to Monday morning, Aug. 18: Northbound I-5 closed from near the I-90 interchange to Northeast 45th Street.
    • Monday morning, Aug. 18: All lanes of northbound I-5 reopen.

    The express lanes will operate northbound only around the clock during summer construction. 

    Throughout the weekend, people traveling on northbound I-5 who are going to downtown Seattle should use the exits to Edgar Martinez Drive or to Dearborn, James or Madison streets. 

    The express lanes have no northbound exits to downtown Seattle; the first exit is at Northeast 42nd Street in the University District. Express lane on-ramps at Columbia, Cherry and Pine streets will be open to all vehicles throughout the weekend. Those ramps usually are reserved for high-occupancy vehicles.

    When the northbound I-5 mainline reopens by 5 a.m. Monday, July 21, the freeway will be reduced to two lanes near the Ship Canal Bridge until the evening of Friday, Aug. 15, when the second weekend-long closure will occur to remove the work zone.

    Regional coordination

    Reducing capacity on I-5 through the heart of Seattle is a big shift. WSDOT has worked closely with the city of Seattle and SDOT, King County Metro, Sound Transit, emergency services and freight partners to prepare for this summer’s construction. Together, partners have adjusted signal timing, expanded bus-only lanes, modified transit routes and developed contingency plans to help people navigate to and through Seattle during construction. 

    WSDOT has also collaborated with organizations like the Downtown Seattle Association, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Commute Seattle. These groups play an important role in helping people who live and work in Seattle, as well as those attending events, fairs and festivals, navigate the city and continue to enjoy everything downtown has to offer while Ship Canal Bridge construction is underway. 

    While this level of construction brings challenges, this work is critical and planning ahead can help ease disruptions. People should allow extra travel time, utilize transit and alternate routes and adjust travel schedules when possible. Real time traffic tools and route planning can make a major difference during this work. 

    A glimpse ahead to 2026 and 2027

    Construction this year is a preview of long-term lane reductions planned for 2026 and 2027, when one direction of the bridge each year will be reduced to two lanes for eight to nine months. Work will pause during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when all lanes of the bridge will be open in both directions.

    In winter 2026, the northbound Ship Canal Bridge will be reduced to two lanes until early June, just prior to World Cup matches in Seattle and Vancouver. Contractor crews will remove the work zone and reopen all lanes throughout the tournament.

    In mid-July, after the conclusion of the tournament, the contractor will close the northbound two right lanes until fall to repair and repave them.

    The work will shift to southbound I-5 in 2027, with crews working on the two left lanes from winter into summer, then the right lanes through the fall.

    Real-time travel information is available from the WSDOT mobile app, the WSDOT Travel Center Map or by signing up for WSDOT’s email updates. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Four weeks of major work on northbound I-5 Ship Canal Bridge begins with a weekend-long mainline closure July 18-21

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Express lanes will be northbound only during summer 2025 work 

    SEATTLE – The long-anticipated major work to revive the Interstate 5 Ship Canal Bridge will kick off with a weekend-long closure of northbound I-5 in Seattle Friday night, July 18 through early Monday morning, July 21. Following the closure, the freeway will be reduced to two lanes for four weeks northbound across the bridge, as Washington State Department of Transportation contractors work on one of Seattle’s busiest corridors. 

    ”We’ve been planning and preparing for this work for over a year,” said Brian Nielsen, WSDOT’s region administrator with oversight for King County. “This is one of the most important and challenging preservation projects in the state. We know it will disrupt travel, but the repairs are essential to extend the life of one of the region’s busiest and most vital transportation links. Our team has worked closely with city, regional and transit partners to reduce the effects as much as possible and keep people moving.”

    Crews will use the four-week work window to repave and repair portions of the bridge’s two left lanes and continue replacing stormwater drains. Later this year, weekend lane reductions will begin on southbound I-5 to prepare for future phases of the project.

    What to expect

    • Friday night, July 18 to Monday morning, July 21: Northbound I-5 closed from near the I-90 interchange to Northeast 45th Street.
    • Monday, July 21 to Friday night, Aug. 15: Northbound I-5 reduced to two lanes across the Ship Canal Bridge.
    • Friday, Aug. 15 to Monday morning, Aug. 18: Northbound I-5 closed from near the I-90 interchange to Northeast 45th Street.
    • Monday morning, Aug. 18: All lanes of northbound I-5 reopen.

    The express lanes will operate northbound only around the clock during summer construction. 

    Throughout the weekend, people traveling on northbound I-5 who are going to downtown Seattle should use the exits to Edgar Martinez Drive or to Dearborn, James or Madison streets. 

    The express lanes have no northbound exits to downtown Seattle; the first exit is at Northeast 42nd Street in the University District. Express lane on-ramps at Columbia, Cherry and Pine streets will be open to all vehicles throughout the weekend. Those ramps usually are reserved for high-occupancy vehicles.

    When the northbound I-5 mainline reopens by 5 a.m. Monday, July 21, the freeway will be reduced to two lanes near the Ship Canal Bridge until the evening of Friday, Aug. 15, when the second weekend-long closure will occur to remove the work zone.

    Regional coordination

    Reducing capacity on I-5 through the heart of Seattle is a big shift. WSDOT has worked closely with the city of Seattle and SDOT, King County Metro, Sound Transit, emergency services and freight partners to prepare for this summer’s construction. Together, partners have adjusted signal timing, expanded bus-only lanes, modified transit routes and developed contingency plans to help people navigate to and through Seattle during construction. 

    WSDOT has also collaborated with organizations like the Downtown Seattle Association, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Commute Seattle. These groups play an important role in helping people who live and work in Seattle, as well as those attending events, fairs and festivals, navigate the city and continue to enjoy everything downtown has to offer while Ship Canal Bridge construction is underway. 

    While this level of construction brings challenges, this work is critical and planning ahead can help ease disruptions. People should allow extra travel time, utilize transit and alternate routes and adjust travel schedules when possible. Real time traffic tools and route planning can make a major difference during this work. 

    A glimpse ahead to 2026 and 2027

    Construction this year is a preview of long-term lane reductions planned for 2026 and 2027, when one direction of the bridge each year will be reduced to two lanes for eight to nine months. Work will pause during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when all lanes of the bridge will be open in both directions.

    In winter 2026, the northbound Ship Canal Bridge will be reduced to two lanes until early June, just prior to World Cup matches in Seattle and Vancouver. Contractor crews will remove the work zone and reopen all lanes throughout the tournament.

    In mid-July, after the conclusion of the tournament, the contractor will close the northbound two right lanes until fall to repair and repave them.

    The work will shift to southbound I-5 in 2027, with crews working on the two left lanes from winter into summer, then the right lanes through the fall.

    Real-time travel information is available from the WSDOT mobile app, the WSDOT Travel Center Map or by signing up for WSDOT’s email updates. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Four weeks of major work on northbound I-5 Ship Canal Bridge begins with a weekend-long mainline closure July 18-21

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Express lanes will be northbound only during summer 2025 work 

    SEATTLE – The long-anticipated major work to revive the Interstate 5 Ship Canal Bridge will kick off with a weekend-long closure of northbound I-5 in Seattle Friday night, July 18 through early Monday morning, July 21. Following the closure, the freeway will be reduced to two lanes for four weeks northbound across the bridge, as Washington State Department of Transportation contractors work on one of Seattle’s busiest corridors. 

    ”We’ve been planning and preparing for this work for over a year,” said Brian Nielsen, WSDOT’s region administrator with oversight for King County. “This is one of the most important and challenging preservation projects in the state. We know it will disrupt travel, but the repairs are essential to extend the life of one of the region’s busiest and most vital transportation links. Our team has worked closely with city, regional and transit partners to reduce the effects as much as possible and keep people moving.”

    Crews will use the four-week work window to repave and repair portions of the bridge’s two left lanes and continue replacing stormwater drains. Later this year, weekend lane reductions will begin on southbound I-5 to prepare for future phases of the project.

    What to expect

    • Friday night, July 18 to Monday morning, July 21: Northbound I-5 closed from near the I-90 interchange to Northeast 45th Street.
    • Monday, July 21 to Friday night, Aug. 15: Northbound I-5 reduced to two lanes across the Ship Canal Bridge.
    • Friday, Aug. 15 to Monday morning, Aug. 18: Northbound I-5 closed from near the I-90 interchange to Northeast 45th Street.
    • Monday morning, Aug. 18: All lanes of northbound I-5 reopen.

    The express lanes will operate northbound only around the clock during summer construction. 

    Throughout the weekend, people traveling on northbound I-5 who are going to downtown Seattle should use the exits to Edgar Martinez Drive or to Dearborn, James or Madison streets. 

    The express lanes have no northbound exits to downtown Seattle; the first exit is at Northeast 42nd Street in the University District. Express lane on-ramps at Columbia, Cherry and Pine streets will be open to all vehicles throughout the weekend. Those ramps usually are reserved for high-occupancy vehicles.

    When the northbound I-5 mainline reopens by 5 a.m. Monday, July 21, the freeway will be reduced to two lanes near the Ship Canal Bridge until the evening of Friday, Aug. 15, when the second weekend-long closure will occur to remove the work zone.

    Regional coordination

    Reducing capacity on I-5 through the heart of Seattle is a big shift. WSDOT has worked closely with the city of Seattle and SDOT, King County Metro, Sound Transit, emergency services and freight partners to prepare for this summer’s construction. Together, partners have adjusted signal timing, expanded bus-only lanes, modified transit routes and developed contingency plans to help people navigate to and through Seattle during construction. 

    WSDOT has also collaborated with organizations like the Downtown Seattle Association, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Commute Seattle. These groups play an important role in helping people who live and work in Seattle, as well as those attending events, fairs and festivals, navigate the city and continue to enjoy everything downtown has to offer while Ship Canal Bridge construction is underway. 

    While this level of construction brings challenges, this work is critical and planning ahead can help ease disruptions. People should allow extra travel time, utilize transit and alternate routes and adjust travel schedules when possible. Real time traffic tools and route planning can make a major difference during this work. 

    A glimpse ahead to 2026 and 2027

    Construction this year is a preview of long-term lane reductions planned for 2026 and 2027, when one direction of the bridge each year will be reduced to two lanes for eight to nine months. Work will pause during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when all lanes of the bridge will be open in both directions.

    In winter 2026, the northbound Ship Canal Bridge will be reduced to two lanes until early June, just prior to World Cup matches in Seattle and Vancouver. Contractor crews will remove the work zone and reopen all lanes throughout the tournament.

    In mid-July, after the conclusion of the tournament, the contractor will close the northbound two right lanes until fall to repair and repave them.

    The work will shift to southbound I-5 in 2027, with crews working on the two left lanes from winter into summer, then the right lanes through the fall.

    Real-time travel information is available from the WSDOT mobile app, the WSDOT Travel Center Map or by signing up for WSDOT’s email updates. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Adopting Resolution 2787 (2025), Security Council Extends Reporting Requirement on Houthi Attacks against Merchant, Commercial Vessels in Red Sea

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The Security Council today extended the request to the Secretary-General to provide written monthly reports through 15 January 2026 on any further Houthi attacks on merchant and commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

    Adopting resolution 2787 (2025) (to be issued as document S/RES/2787(2025)) with a vote of 12 in favour to none against, with 3 abstentions (Algeria, China, Russian Federation), the Council extended the reporting request in paragraph 10 of resolution 2722 (2024), while also recalling all its relevant resolutions on the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea, including resolutions 2216 (2015), 2722 (2024), 2739 (2024) and 2768 (2025).

    Acts of Terrorism by Houthis

    In the ensuing discussion, the representative of the United States, who served as co-penholder of today’s resolution, said that the recent Houthi attacks on two civilian cargo vessels — the MV Magic Seas and the MV Eternity Sea — are yet another stark reminder of the Houthis’ terrorist tactics and their blatant disregard for civilian life.  These attacks have also disrupted the free flow of global commerce through the Red Sea and, according to some reports, more than doubled the cost of operating commercial vessels in the area.  “The United States strongly condemns these acts of terrorism, which threaten freedom of navigation and undermine regional economic and maritime security,” she said, calling for the immediate and permanent cessation of all Houthi attacks against vessels transiting the Red Sea.  Demanding the unconditional release of the crew of the MV Eternity Sea, who remain in Houthi custody, she also reiterated condemnation of Iran’s ongoing violations of Council resolution 2216 (2015), which continue to “enable Houthi terrorism” — including these latest attacks.

    No Justification for Any Attack against Innocent Seafarers

    The representative of Greece, also co-penholder of today’s resolution, said that the recent, unprovoked attacks against two commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea region “provide a clear testimony of the Houthis’ continued aggression and destabilizing role, as well as the need to keep the reporting mechanism in place”.  Underscoring that there is no justification for any attack against innocent seafarers — “whose contribution to international maritime trade is irreplaceable” — he stressed that, if the Red Sea region “becomes even more degraded, it will expose the international community to more acute security risks and economic uncertainty”.  He therefore called on all Member States to respect and implement the arms embargo established by resolution 2216 (2015).

    As a nation deeply invested in the stability of the Red Sea, Somalia’s delegate said that he supported the resolution as a reflection of an unwavering commitment to maritime security.  “We recognize the gravity of the current threats and their far-reaching implications, from economic disruption to environmental risks,” he said.  While this resolution is a constructive step forward, its effectiveness will depend on a thoughtful approach that accounts for regional realities and sensitivities.  Security in the Red Sea cannot be separated from the stability of its coastal States or the broader peace process.  Lasting solutions must tackle the root causes of instability while upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations in the region.  “We must avoid actions that risk further escalation and instead focus on addressing the legitimate concerns of all stakeholders,” he said.

    Nexus between Attacks in Red Sea and Aggression against Palestinians in Gaza

    The representative of Algeria said that his delegation’s abstention “comes in line with its principled position”, including abstentions on resolutions 2722 (2024), 2739 (2024) and 2768 (2025).  He stressed, however, that this abstention must not be interpreted either as a reservation regarding the Secretary-General’s monthly reports or as a justification for the attacks targeting commercial vessels or cargo carriers. Rather, it is a “reflection of our deep concern” over the implementation of resolution 2722 (2024), he said, noting that such resolution has been misused to justify attacks on the territory of sovereign States.  He added that the Council cannot disregard the “clear nexus between the attacks in the Red Sea and the aggression against the Palestinian people in Gaza”.

    The representative of the Russian Federation — whose delegation also abstained — noted with concern that the text represents a direct continuation of resolution 2722 (2024) — an instrument that, despite its stated aim of ensuring freedom of navigation, has “raised serious concerns on our side” regarding its interpretation and application in practice.  While the resolution’s original intent is commendable, namely safeguarding maritime security around Yemen, the broad and ambiguous language has opened the door to arbitrary interpretations, including its use as justification for unilateral military actions on the sovereign territory of Yemen.  “We emphasize that such misinterpretations are unacceptable and undermine the authority of the Security Council,” he said.  Stabilization efforts in and around Yemen must be pursued exclusively through political and diplomatic means, in full respect of international law.  Moreover, it is impossible to decouple the Red Sea’s security from the wider instability across the region — most notably the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he said.  Achieving sustainable peace requires immediate steps:  a ceasefire, the release of hostages and detainees, and unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.

    Council Resolutions Should Not Be ‘Misinterpreted or Abused’

    The representative of China — whose delegation also abstained — recalled its similar abstention on resolution 2722 (2024).  “Following the adoption of that resolution, certain countries took military actions against Yemen, which seriously impacted Yemen’s peace process and exacerbated tensions in the Red Sea,” he recalled, adding that the “negative effects” of such actions “continue until today”.  He underscored that Council resolutions should not be “misinterpreted or abused”, and that Yemen’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should be respected.  Adding that tensions in the Red Sea are a “major manifestation of the spillover from the Gaza conflict”, he said that issues in the Red Sea and Yemen cannot be resolved without easing tensions and de-escalating the overall situation in the region.

    Red Sea Corridor for Global Trade, Vital Channel for Humanitarian Aid

    The representative of Pakistan, Council President for July, having voted in favor of resolution 2787 (2025) and speaking in his national capacity, reaffirmed “our principled and longstanding commitment” to upholding maritime security and unequivocally condemning attacks on all commercial shipping.  He denounced the recent assaults on vessels in the Red Sea and called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained crew members.  In the current context, the extension of the reporting mandate is a necessary and timely step.  “We underscore the strategic significance of the Red Sea maritime corridor — not only as a critical artery for global trade, but also as a vital channel for humanitarian aid to Yemen,” he said.  All attacks on merchant and commercial vessels navigating the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden must cease immediately and permanently, in full compliance with international law.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls for Resignation of DHS Secretary Noem 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch took to the Senate floor to demand Noem resign or be fired 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today called for the resignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing Secretary Noem’s mishandling of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and record of undermining FEMA’s work, as well as her handling of President Trump’s cruel and illegal mass deportation campaign.
    “The Department of Homeland Security has a simple but extremely important mission: keep Americans safe. Under that mission, the department is tasked with two critical jobs—border security and disaster response. Our current Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, has failed both. In her short tenure, Secretary Noem has overstepped, underperformed, and endangered the lives of countless Americans,” said Senator Welch. “I believe it is time for Secretary Noem to resign or for her to be fired.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    Read key excerpts of Senator Welch’s remarks:  
    “Secretary Noem has undermined FEMA’s work, and in so doing has endangered disaster victims. Just a few months ago, Secretary Noem said in a cabinet meeting, and I quote ‘We are eliminating FEMA.’ And she meant it.  
    “And we saw evidence of that in not just Texas, but in North Carolina, New Mexico, California, Kentucky, Hawaii, and Vermont—where FEMA is crucial to helping people, and communities, and businesses recover from disaster. We need FEMA. It’s only the federal government that can surge into affected communities. We can’t lose that function and that capacity. When you need safety from a flood, and when you need to start the long road to recovery, you need the support of the federal government. No state, no community can do this alone. They cannot do this alone.  
    “I have seen from our experience in Vermont that FEMA, in fact, must be reformed—it must not be destroyed, as Secretary Noem has suggested. We cannot have a leader in charge of FEMA that is committed to its destruction. We must have one who is energetically committed to its reform.” 
    • • • 
    “We are seeing under the leadership of Secretary Noem that her response is an across-the-board embarkation on a massive and far-reaching deportation plan. There is no distinction in her policy among those who were brought here as children, who have families, who have jobs, who pay taxes, and who serve their communities.   
    “And there is a big difference between deporting known criminals and rounding up immigrants—some of whom have status to be here, in fact, are here legally—from work sites, and schools, and churches. This mass deportation policy is not about serving America and doing what our country needs to be strong and safe. It is instead about Secretary Noem accumulating the highest possible headcount of deportees. It’s hurting those folks, their families, and their communities, of course. 
    “It’s also hurting America. Particularly rural America. Our farmers depend on labor to milk their cows, to pick their crops. It’s weakening our construction industry, where workplace raids are shutting down construction sites, including for low-income housing, which we desperately need. This is decimating our health care workforce and the hospitality industry in every state in the union. 
    “We need a Homeland Security Secretary who will help us develop a sensible policy for folks who are here without status but have no criminal record; work; who have families; and are taxpayers.” 
    • • • 
    “We have an obligation to protect the safety of the families that all of us represent. I urge every one of my colleagues to demand better for our constituents and for every American. We need a Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who puts public safety and preparedness before her personal image or political aspirations. Secretary Noem must resign.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls for Resignation of DHS Secretary Noem 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch took to the Senate floor to demand Noem resign or be fired 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today called for the resignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing Secretary Noem’s mishandling of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and record of undermining FEMA’s work, as well as her handling of President Trump’s cruel and illegal mass deportation campaign.
    “The Department of Homeland Security has a simple but extremely important mission: keep Americans safe. Under that mission, the department is tasked with two critical jobs—border security and disaster response. Our current Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, has failed both. In her short tenure, Secretary Noem has overstepped, underperformed, and endangered the lives of countless Americans,” said Senator Welch. “I believe it is time for Secretary Noem to resign or for her to be fired.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    Read key excerpts of Senator Welch’s remarks:  
    “Secretary Noem has undermined FEMA’s work, and in so doing has endangered disaster victims. Just a few months ago, Secretary Noem said in a cabinet meeting, and I quote ‘We are eliminating FEMA.’ And she meant it.  
    “And we saw evidence of that in not just Texas, but in North Carolina, New Mexico, California, Kentucky, Hawaii, and Vermont—where FEMA is crucial to helping people, and communities, and businesses recover from disaster. We need FEMA. It’s only the federal government that can surge into affected communities. We can’t lose that function and that capacity. When you need safety from a flood, and when you need to start the long road to recovery, you need the support of the federal government. No state, no community can do this alone. They cannot do this alone.  
    “I have seen from our experience in Vermont that FEMA, in fact, must be reformed—it must not be destroyed, as Secretary Noem has suggested. We cannot have a leader in charge of FEMA that is committed to its destruction. We must have one who is energetically committed to its reform.” 
    • • • 
    “We are seeing under the leadership of Secretary Noem that her response is an across-the-board embarkation on a massive and far-reaching deportation plan. There is no distinction in her policy among those who were brought here as children, who have families, who have jobs, who pay taxes, and who serve their communities.   
    “And there is a big difference between deporting known criminals and rounding up immigrants—some of whom have status to be here, in fact, are here legally—from work sites, and schools, and churches. This mass deportation policy is not about serving America and doing what our country needs to be strong and safe. It is instead about Secretary Noem accumulating the highest possible headcount of deportees. It’s hurting those folks, their families, and their communities, of course. 
    “It’s also hurting America. Particularly rural America. Our farmers depend on labor to milk their cows, to pick their crops. It’s weakening our construction industry, where workplace raids are shutting down construction sites, including for low-income housing, which we desperately need. This is decimating our health care workforce and the hospitality industry in every state in the union. 
    “We need a Homeland Security Secretary who will help us develop a sensible policy for folks who are here without status but have no criminal record; work; who have families; and are taxpayers.” 
    • • • 
    “We have an obligation to protect the safety of the families that all of us represent. I urge every one of my colleagues to demand better for our constituents and for every American. We need a Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who puts public safety and preparedness before her personal image or political aspirations. Secretary Noem must resign.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls for Resignation of DHS Secretary Noem 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch took to the Senate floor to demand Noem resign or be fired 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today called for the resignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing Secretary Noem’s mishandling of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and record of undermining FEMA’s work, as well as her handling of President Trump’s cruel and illegal mass deportation campaign.
    “The Department of Homeland Security has a simple but extremely important mission: keep Americans safe. Under that mission, the department is tasked with two critical jobs—border security and disaster response. Our current Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, has failed both. In her short tenure, Secretary Noem has overstepped, underperformed, and endangered the lives of countless Americans,” said Senator Welch. “I believe it is time for Secretary Noem to resign or for her to be fired.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    Read key excerpts of Senator Welch’s remarks:  
    “Secretary Noem has undermined FEMA’s work, and in so doing has endangered disaster victims. Just a few months ago, Secretary Noem said in a cabinet meeting, and I quote ‘We are eliminating FEMA.’ And she meant it.  
    “And we saw evidence of that in not just Texas, but in North Carolina, New Mexico, California, Kentucky, Hawaii, and Vermont—where FEMA is crucial to helping people, and communities, and businesses recover from disaster. We need FEMA. It’s only the federal government that can surge into affected communities. We can’t lose that function and that capacity. When you need safety from a flood, and when you need to start the long road to recovery, you need the support of the federal government. No state, no community can do this alone. They cannot do this alone.  
    “I have seen from our experience in Vermont that FEMA, in fact, must be reformed—it must not be destroyed, as Secretary Noem has suggested. We cannot have a leader in charge of FEMA that is committed to its destruction. We must have one who is energetically committed to its reform.” 
    • • • 
    “We are seeing under the leadership of Secretary Noem that her response is an across-the-board embarkation on a massive and far-reaching deportation plan. There is no distinction in her policy among those who were brought here as children, who have families, who have jobs, who pay taxes, and who serve their communities.   
    “And there is a big difference between deporting known criminals and rounding up immigrants—some of whom have status to be here, in fact, are here legally—from work sites, and schools, and churches. This mass deportation policy is not about serving America and doing what our country needs to be strong and safe. It is instead about Secretary Noem accumulating the highest possible headcount of deportees. It’s hurting those folks, their families, and their communities, of course. 
    “It’s also hurting America. Particularly rural America. Our farmers depend on labor to milk their cows, to pick their crops. It’s weakening our construction industry, where workplace raids are shutting down construction sites, including for low-income housing, which we desperately need. This is decimating our health care workforce and the hospitality industry in every state in the union. 
    “We need a Homeland Security Secretary who will help us develop a sensible policy for folks who are here without status but have no criminal record; work; who have families; and are taxpayers.” 
    • • • 
    “We have an obligation to protect the safety of the families that all of us represent. I urge every one of my colleagues to demand better for our constituents and for every American. We need a Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who puts public safety and preparedness before her personal image or political aspirations. Secretary Noem must resign.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls for Resignation of DHS Secretary Noem 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch took to the Senate floor to demand Noem resign or be fired 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today called for the resignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing Secretary Noem’s mishandling of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and record of undermining FEMA’s work, as well as her handling of President Trump’s cruel and illegal mass deportation campaign.
    “The Department of Homeland Security has a simple but extremely important mission: keep Americans safe. Under that mission, the department is tasked with two critical jobs—border security and disaster response. Our current Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, has failed both. In her short tenure, Secretary Noem has overstepped, underperformed, and endangered the lives of countless Americans,” said Senator Welch. “I believe it is time for Secretary Noem to resign or for her to be fired.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    Read key excerpts of Senator Welch’s remarks:  
    “Secretary Noem has undermined FEMA’s work, and in so doing has endangered disaster victims. Just a few months ago, Secretary Noem said in a cabinet meeting, and I quote ‘We are eliminating FEMA.’ And she meant it.  
    “And we saw evidence of that in not just Texas, but in North Carolina, New Mexico, California, Kentucky, Hawaii, and Vermont—where FEMA is crucial to helping people, and communities, and businesses recover from disaster. We need FEMA. It’s only the federal government that can surge into affected communities. We can’t lose that function and that capacity. When you need safety from a flood, and when you need to start the long road to recovery, you need the support of the federal government. No state, no community can do this alone. They cannot do this alone.  
    “I have seen from our experience in Vermont that FEMA, in fact, must be reformed—it must not be destroyed, as Secretary Noem has suggested. We cannot have a leader in charge of FEMA that is committed to its destruction. We must have one who is energetically committed to its reform.” 
    • • • 
    “We are seeing under the leadership of Secretary Noem that her response is an across-the-board embarkation on a massive and far-reaching deportation plan. There is no distinction in her policy among those who were brought here as children, who have families, who have jobs, who pay taxes, and who serve their communities.   
    “And there is a big difference between deporting known criminals and rounding up immigrants—some of whom have status to be here, in fact, are here legally—from work sites, and schools, and churches. This mass deportation policy is not about serving America and doing what our country needs to be strong and safe. It is instead about Secretary Noem accumulating the highest possible headcount of deportees. It’s hurting those folks, their families, and their communities, of course. 
    “It’s also hurting America. Particularly rural America. Our farmers depend on labor to milk their cows, to pick their crops. It’s weakening our construction industry, where workplace raids are shutting down construction sites, including for low-income housing, which we desperately need. This is decimating our health care workforce and the hospitality industry in every state in the union. 
    “We need a Homeland Security Secretary who will help us develop a sensible policy for folks who are here without status but have no criminal record; work; who have families; and are taxpayers.” 
    • • • 
    “We have an obligation to protect the safety of the families that all of us represent. I urge every one of my colleagues to demand better for our constituents and for every American. We need a Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who puts public safety and preparedness before her personal image or political aspirations. Secretary Noem must resign.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls for Resignation of DHS Secretary Noem 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch took to the Senate floor to demand Noem resign or be fired 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today called for the resignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing Secretary Noem’s mishandling of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and record of undermining FEMA’s work, as well as her handling of President Trump’s cruel and illegal mass deportation campaign.
    “The Department of Homeland Security has a simple but extremely important mission: keep Americans safe. Under that mission, the department is tasked with two critical jobs—border security and disaster response. Our current Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, has failed both. In her short tenure, Secretary Noem has overstepped, underperformed, and endangered the lives of countless Americans,” said Senator Welch. “I believe it is time for Secretary Noem to resign or for her to be fired.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    Read key excerpts of Senator Welch’s remarks:  
    “Secretary Noem has undermined FEMA’s work, and in so doing has endangered disaster victims. Just a few months ago, Secretary Noem said in a cabinet meeting, and I quote ‘We are eliminating FEMA.’ And she meant it.  
    “And we saw evidence of that in not just Texas, but in North Carolina, New Mexico, California, Kentucky, Hawaii, and Vermont—where FEMA is crucial to helping people, and communities, and businesses recover from disaster. We need FEMA. It’s only the federal government that can surge into affected communities. We can’t lose that function and that capacity. When you need safety from a flood, and when you need to start the long road to recovery, you need the support of the federal government. No state, no community can do this alone. They cannot do this alone.  
    “I have seen from our experience in Vermont that FEMA, in fact, must be reformed—it must not be destroyed, as Secretary Noem has suggested. We cannot have a leader in charge of FEMA that is committed to its destruction. We must have one who is energetically committed to its reform.” 
    • • • 
    “We are seeing under the leadership of Secretary Noem that her response is an across-the-board embarkation on a massive and far-reaching deportation plan. There is no distinction in her policy among those who were brought here as children, who have families, who have jobs, who pay taxes, and who serve their communities.   
    “And there is a big difference between deporting known criminals and rounding up immigrants—some of whom have status to be here, in fact, are here legally—from work sites, and schools, and churches. This mass deportation policy is not about serving America and doing what our country needs to be strong and safe. It is instead about Secretary Noem accumulating the highest possible headcount of deportees. It’s hurting those folks, their families, and their communities, of course. 
    “It’s also hurting America. Particularly rural America. Our farmers depend on labor to milk their cows, to pick their crops. It’s weakening our construction industry, where workplace raids are shutting down construction sites, including for low-income housing, which we desperately need. This is decimating our health care workforce and the hospitality industry in every state in the union. 
    “We need a Homeland Security Secretary who will help us develop a sensible policy for folks who are here without status but have no criminal record; work; who have families; and are taxpayers.” 
    • • • 
    “We have an obligation to protect the safety of the families that all of us represent. I urge every one of my colleagues to demand better for our constituents and for every American. We need a Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who puts public safety and preparedness before her personal image or political aspirations. Secretary Noem must resign.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority: Best Value Inspector appointment letters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority: Best Value Inspector appointment letters

    Letters appointing Best Value Inspectors in relation to West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority: Lead Inspector appointment letter (Fenella Morris KC)

    PDF, 322 KB, 2 pages

    West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Anna Bicarregui)

    PDF, 321 KB, 2 pages

    West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Gethin Thomas)

    PDF, 321 KB, 2 pages

    West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Tasnim Shawkat)

    PDF, 322 KB, 2 pages

    Details

    Letters from Suzie Daykin and Yvette Bosworth, Deputy Director, Fire Strategy and Reform Unit at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to:

    • Fenella Morris KC confirming her appointment as the Lead Inspector
    • Anna Bicarregui confirming her appointment as Assistant Inspector
    • Gethin Thomas confirming his appointment as Assistant Inspector
    • Tasnim Shawkat confirming her appointment as Assistant Inspector (Monitoring Officer)

    The letters set out the scope of the inspection and the responsibilities of the inspectors.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo arrests illegally present Cuban national and convicted sex offender

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. – ICE Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo personnel, in coordination with United States Border Patrol, arrested an illegally present Cuban national with several criminal convictions, including sexual abuse of a child under age 11 and aggravated assault with a weapon.

    “For nearly 20 years, this individual had free reign to commit alleged crimes from coast-to-coast – in New York, New Jersey and California – including at least one offense that involved the sexual abuse of a young child. With this arrest, his luck has finally run out,” said HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan. “I commend HSI Buffalo and our U.S. Border Patrol partners for placing the wellbeing of the public above all else.”

    ICE HSI Buffalo arrested Geraldo Lunas-Campos, a convicted sex offender, on July 14 in Rochester, New York.

    Lunas, 55, is considered an aggravated felon with an extensive criminal history of violence.

    His criminal record, which spans from at least 1997 through October 2015, includes, but is not limited to:

    • First-degree sexual abuse involving a child under the age of 11
    • Aggravated assault with a weapon
    • Criminal possession of a loaded firearm
    • Driving while intoxicated
    • Criminal sale of a controlled substance
    • Three separate instances of petit larceny

    Lunas was paroled into the U.S. via Miami, Florida, on Jan. 12, 1996. On March 1, 2005, an immigration judge ordered his removal.

    He now remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo arrests illegally present Cuban national and convicted sex offender

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. – ICE Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo personnel, in coordination with United States Border Patrol, arrested an illegally present Cuban national with several criminal convictions, including sexual abuse of a child under age 11 and aggravated assault with a weapon.

    “For nearly 20 years, this individual had free reign to commit alleged crimes from coast-to-coast – in New York, New Jersey and California – including at least one offense that involved the sexual abuse of a young child. With this arrest, his luck has finally run out,” said HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan. “I commend HSI Buffalo and our U.S. Border Patrol partners for placing the wellbeing of the public above all else.”

    ICE HSI Buffalo arrested Geraldo Lunas-Campos, a convicted sex offender, on July 14 in Rochester, New York.

    Lunas, 55, is considered an aggravated felon with an extensive criminal history of violence.

    His criminal record, which spans from at least 1997 through October 2015, includes, but is not limited to:

    • First-degree sexual abuse involving a child under the age of 11
    • Aggravated assault with a weapon
    • Criminal possession of a loaded firearm
    • Driving while intoxicated
    • Criminal sale of a controlled substance
    • Three separate instances of petit larceny

    Lunas was paroled into the U.S. via Miami, Florida, on Jan. 12, 1996. On March 1, 2005, an immigration judge ordered his removal.

    He now remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 514

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 514
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    350 PM CDT Tue Jul 15 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Northern Kansas
    Western and Central Nebraska
    Southeast South Dakota

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 350 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 80
    mph likely
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered thunderstorms are forecast to develop along a
    front this afternoon into the evening and grow upscale into a linear
    cluster. Large hail will be the primary severe hazard this
    afternoon before storms increase in coverage and congeal into one or
    two linear clusters. Severe gusts will become the primary severe
    hazard during the evening as this activity moves east-southeast
    across the Watch area.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 85
    statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles east northeast
    of Chamberlain SD to 20 miles south southeast of Mccook NE. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 513…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 70 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    28025.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 514 SEVERE TSTM KS NE SD 152050Z – 160400Z
    AXIS..85 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    35ENE 9V9/CHAMBERLAIN SD/ – 20SSE MCK/MCCOOK NE/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 75NM E/W /70ESE PIR – 18SSE MCK/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..70 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28025.

    LAT…LON 43959696 39919883 39910204 43950038

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

    Watch 514 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (10%)

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

    Low ( 65 knots

    Mod (60%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 13: Alberta wildfire update (July 15, 3 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Wildfire Update – July 15

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 15, 2025

    As of 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 15, there are 50 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Of those active fires, four are categorized as contained, 12 are not contained, 18 are ongoing assessment and 16 are listed as protecting values.

    Forty firefighters from Australia have arrived to assist with the wildfire efforts and another forty will be joining from Mexico later this week. This is in addition to the assistance that arrived last week from Quebec through two CL-415 aircraft and 100 wildfire personnel.

    “Saskatchewan is grateful to everyone who has helped with the unprecedented wildfire season,” SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts said. “Thank you to everyone local and abroad for the immense support in the air and on the ground.”

    Over the past several months our province has received aircraft support from Quebec, British Columbia and Alaska, as well as wildland firefighters and personnel from Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Alberta, Quebec, British Columbia, Yukon, Oregon, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Washington, South Dakota and the United States Forest Service.

    Nine communities are currently under an evacuation order: Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval, Jans Bay, Patuanak/English River First Nation as well as priority individuals from Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Northern Village of Pinehouse, Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse and Canoe Lake Cree First Nation/Cole Bay/Canoe Narrows. 

    Any evacuees should register through the Sask Evac Web Application and then call 1-855-559-5502 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to have their needs assessed and for additional assistance. Individuals who need help registering through the application can call the 855 Line for assistance. 

    Evacuees supported by the Canadian Red Cross should call 1-800-863-6582.

    As a reminder, there is a fire ban in place in the area north of the provincial forest boundary, up to the Churchill River. The fire ban prohibits any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks in the designated boundary. This includes provincial parks, provincial recreation sites and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District within the boundary.

    A full list of evacuated communities can be found on the Active Evacuations webpage.

    The latest wildfire information, an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips can be found at saskpublicsafety.ca.

    Review the current fire bans and restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Highlights DEA Drug Seizures for First Half of 2025, Successful Operations Over the Last Several Weeks

    Source: United States Attorneys General 11

    WASHINGTON — Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi highlighted the great work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to get illegal drugs off our streets and protect innocent Americans from addiction, overdose, and drug-related crime and violence. Since January 20, 2025, DEA has seized approximately 44 million fentanyl pills, 4,500 pounds of fentanyl powder, nearly 65,000 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 201,500 pounds of cocaine, and made over 2,105 fentanyl-related arrests.

    “Our DEA agents are doing historic work to keep our communities safe from deadly drugs like fentanyl and dismantle the cartels selling them,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I want to remind all Americans to exercise extreme caution: a pill can kill.”

    “DEA is hitting the cartels where it hurts—with arrests, with seizures, and with relentless pressure. From meth labs in California to fentanyl pills disguised as pharmaceuticals seized at our border, these operations are saving American lives every single day,” said DEA Acting Administrator Robert Murphy. “We are not slowing down. We are dismantling these networks piece by piece—and we won’t stop until the last brick of their empire falls.”

    Over the last several weeks, DEA has conducted a number of successful operations across the United States including:

    • In Lexington County, South Carolina,  DEA, in coordination with its state and local partners, seized over 156 pounds of fentanyl and 44 pounds of methamphetamine, a firearm and arrested one trafficker.
    • In Gainesville, Georgia, DEA, and its state and local partners intercepted over 705 pounds of methamphetamine hidden in a truckload of cucumbers and arrested two traffickers.
    • In Minneapolis, Minnesota, DEA and its federal and local partners seized 889 pounds of methamphetamine, one handgun and arrested three traffickers.
    • In Kern County, California, DEA and its local partners shut down a major methamphetamine conversion lab, seizing over 240 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, 151 gallons of liquid methamphetamine, and arrested five traffickers.
    • In Fresno, California, DEA and its federal, state and local partners seized 24 pounds of carfentanil disguised as real prescription pills— the largest single seizure to date of carfentanil in Northern California.
    • In Galveston, Texas, DEA, in close coordination with its federal partners at CBP, helped uncover over 1,700 pounds of methamphetamine—worth more than $15 million dollars—hidden inside a vehicle.
    • In Austin, Texas, DEA, in coordination with its FBI, state and local partners, seized 783 pounds of methamphetamine hidden inside a refrigerated truck carrying blueberries.
    • In a single coordinated takedown spanning Indiana, Kentucky, and Arizona, DEA, working alongside its federal, state and local partners, DEA seized 59 illegal firearms, possessed by serious violent felons—along with 74 pounds of methamphetamine, 11 pounds of fentanyl, 11 pounds of cocaine, cash, and conducted 23 arrests.
    • In Miami, Florida, DEA in coordination with its FBI partners, seized over $10 million dollars in cryptocurrency, directly linked to the Sinaloa cartel.
    • In El Paso, Texas, DEA, with the assistance of its federal partners at HSI and U.S. Border Patrol, seized 115 pounds of methamphetamine from a drug-laden vehicle outfitted with a GPS tracker.
    • In Omaha, Nebraska, DEA and its local partners seized machinegun conversion devices, AR-style pistols and fentanyl pills in a raid that dismantled a multi-state poly-drug operation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly W/C 30 June

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLIC MEETINGS

    Tuesday 1 July

    New London Fire Commissioner

    Fire Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    On his first day as London Fire Commissioner, Jonathan Smith will answer questions from the Fire Committee.

    The Committee will ask the Commissioner about what his plans are for the London Fire Brigade, as he starts his new role, and how he intends to deliver a modern and effective fire service for London. The guests are:

    Panel 1: 10-10.45

    • Steve Hamm, CEO, Institution of Fire Engineers
    • Professor José Torero, Professor of Civil Engineering and Head of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at University College London, Grenfell Tower Inquiry (GTI) expert witness
    • Suzanne McCarthy, Chair, Fire Standards Board

    Panel 2: 11-11.45

    • Martin Forde KC, Independent Chair, LFB Advisory Panel on Culture
    • Dave Shek, Executive Council Member for London, Fire Brigades Union
    • Deborah Riviere-Williams, Chair Unison, LFB Unison Branch

    Panel 3: LFC & DMF 12-12.45

    • Jonathan Smith, London Fire Commissioner (as of July 1 20205)
    • Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252 310 / [email protected]

    Wednesday 2 July

    Neighbourhood policing

    Police and Crime Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    37 per cent of young people said their trust in the police had decreased over the last year, according to a 2024 survey.

    The Police and Crime Committee will meet to begin its investigation into neighbourhood policing, specifically looking at the effectiveness of how the teams engage and maintain relationships with young people. The guests are:

    • Carly Adams Elias, Director of Practice, Safer London
    • Rhys Barfoot, Youth Involvement Manager, London Youth
    • Katya Moran, Director, Youth Justice Legal Centre
    • Shelli Green, Team Leader, Prevention & Diversion Team, Young Hackney

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251 727 / [email protected]

    Wednesday 2 July

    Men’s mental health

    Health Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm

    As part of its investigation into men’s mental health, the Health Committee will hear from guests who have lived experience of challenges with mental health. The guests are:

    Panel 1: 14:00 – 15:25

    • Guests with lived experience

    Panel 2: 15:30 – 17:00

    • Dr Tom Coffey OBE, Mayoral Health Advisor
    • Dan Barrett, Director, Thrive LDN & Good Thinking, and Co-Director, PHI-UK Population Mental Health Consortium
    • Karen Bonner MBE, Regional Chief Nurse, NHS England (London region)
    • Dr Billy Boland, Regional Clinical Director for Mental Health, NHS England (London region)

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    Thursday 3 July

    Transport for London & Oxford St Mayoral Development Area

    All Assembly meeting – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    Assembly Members will ask how Transport for London (TfL) is delivering for London, and what its priorities and challenges are for 2025/26.  The guests are:

    • Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, in his capacity as Chair of Transport for London (TfL)
    • Andy Lord, Commissioner of TfL

    From 1pm, the Assembly will consider the Mayor’s proposal to designate a Mayoral Development Area (MDA) for Oxford Street, and whether or not to reject the proposal.  Guests to be confirmed.

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REMARKS: Senator Coons grills U.N. nominee Mike Waltz over his role in leaking sensitive information at confirmation hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today pushed Mike Waltz – President Trump’s nominee to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations – during a confirmation hearing to take accountability for his mishandling of sensitive military information that could have endangered the lives of U.S. servicemembers.
    Waltz was questioned by lawmakers for the first time since he was ousted as national security adviser in May, weeks after The Atlantic reported that Waltz added the magazine’s editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal group chat where senior administration officials, including Waltz, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Vice President J.D. Vance discussed sensitive military plans for airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including real-time updates about the strike. If the information in the chat had fallen into the wrong hands, Houthi rebels would have been able to prepare for the strikes and target the servicemembers carrying them out.
    “We both know signal is not an appropriate, secure means of communicating highly sensitive information, and yet, on March 24, The Atlantic published a series of Signal messages including sensitive information about a U.S. military operation against the Houthis involving you and several other Trump officials,” said Senator Coons. “Were you investigated for this disclosure of sensitive operational information?”
    In his response, Waltz repeatedly insisted that the information shared in the group chat was not “classified.” However, multiple military and intelligence officials have asserted that the information could have endangered servicemembers regardless of its classification. Sarah Streyder, Executive Director of the Secure Families Initiative, which advocates for military families, said her group had heard from members that they were feeling “a range of emotions, from heartbroken, disappointment, pretty angry … it feels like we’re being let down by our leaders who are at the bare minimum, supposed to be keeping us safe from unnecessary and preventable harm.”
    Waltz acknowledged he built the Signal chain but has downplayed the security risks. While the National Security Council and the White House Counsel’s office claimed they were investigating how the breach occurred, the White House closed the case shortly after and failed to provide any details.
    “We both know Signal is not a secure way to convey classified information, and I was hoping to hear from you that you had some sense of regret over sharing what was very sensitive, timely information about a military strike on a commercially available app, that’s not, as we both know, the appropriate way to share such critical information,” said Senator Coons.
    A full video of his remarks and transcript are below.
    WATCH HERE.
    Senator Coons: I want to get to the larger questions of the U.N. and the U.N. Mission but – in your role in the army, in the house, as national security advisor, you have long handled classified and sensitive information.
    We both know Signal is not an appropriate, secure means of communicating highly sensitive information, and yet, on March 24, The Atlantic magazine published a series of Signal messages including sensitive information about a U.S. military operation against the Houthis in Yemen involving you and several other Trump officials. Were you investigated for this disclosure of sensitive operational information? 
    Waltz: Thank you, senator, and that engagement was driven by and recommended by the cyber security – infrastructure security agency – by the Biden administration CISA guidance. 
    Senator Coons: I’m sorry –
    Waltz: And I have here – well, just the use of Signal
    Senator Coons: Your sharing this information on Signal was driven by –
    Waltz: No excuse me, the use of Signal is not only – as an encrypted app – is not only authorized, it was recommended in the Biden-era CISA guidance, and in fact, it says here, I’ll read it to you: “Use only end-to-end encrypted communications. Adopt a free messaging application to secure communications that guarantees end-to-end encryption – particularly if you are a highly targeted individual, such as Signal or similar apps. CISA recommends end-to-end encryption messaging on both government and personal devices.
    Senator Coons: For sensitive military information? 
    Waltz: Oh, of course, of course. Senator, there was no classified information exchanged. 
    Senator Coons: For sensitive military operations… You were sharing details about an upcoming airstrike and the time of launch and the potential targets. This was demonstrably sensitive information. And the question I asked was, were you investigated for this expansion of the Signal group to include a journalist?
    Waltz: The White House conducted an investigation, and my understanding is the Department of Defense is still conducting an investigation. 
    Senator Coons: Was any disciplinary action taken?
    Waltz: From the White House investigation, senator?
    Senator Coons: Yes.
    Waltz: No. The use of Signal was not only authorized, it’s still authorized and highly recommended. 
    Senator Coons: Would you recommend the use of Signal for classified information to be shared between folks who have access to classified information? 
    Waltz: Again, we followed the recommendation, almost the demand, to use end-to-end encryption, but there was no classified information shared. 
    Senator Coons: Did you speak to Secretary Hegseth about his decision to share detailed information on the specifics of an imminent military strike? 
    Waltz: What we spoke about, senator, was a highly successful mission that did something that, something that the Biden administration did not do, was actually target the Houthi leadership. We subsequently saw a ceasefire, an increase in shipping and a drop in attacks on our ships. 
    Senator Coons: Well, look, here’s what I hear on this exchange, and I want to get to the U.N. point. At the time you took responsibility for having added a journalist inadvertently to a Signal chat, but it doesn’t seem to me that the administration has taken any action to make sure this doesn’t happen again, there’s been no consequences, and yet the president continues to denounce those who leak information. We both know Signal is not a secure way to convey classified information, and I was hoping to hear from you that you had some sense of regret over sharing what was very sensitive, timely information about a military strike on a commercially available app, that’s not, as we both know, the appropriate way to share such critical information.
    Waltz: Again, senator, I think, where we have a fundamental disagreement is there was no classified information on that – uh, on that chat.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Slam Republican Attempts to Defund Public Broadcasting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

     

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) slammed efforts by congressional Republicans to defund public media and revoke more than $1.07 billion in previously-appropriated funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, including $100 million for Virginia. This move would cut federal support for more than 1,500 public radio and TV stations, nearly half of which serve rural communities.

    “In yet another shortsighted effort, President Trump is now trying to gut public radio and broadcast TV news, which deliver impartial news, critical information, and educational programming to communities all across the country. As former governors, we are deeply disturbed by these efforts because we know that public media is often the only source of local news available to rural communities. We also know that public radio plays a key role in public safety, delivering emergency alerts during disasters like floods, hurricanes, and wildfires,” said the senators. “While our Republican colleagues in the House may be comfortable ceding their constitutionally-established authority over to a power-hungry president, we plan to fight this backwards legislation and protect the funding that was approved by both Democrats and Republicans in Congress.”

    Since 2013, public TV stations have helped the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system deliver emergency alerts to people’s cell phones via the stations’ own transmitters when cell companies’ connections fail. In 2024, over 11,000 alerts were issued by federal, state, and local authorities via the PBS WARN system. Similarly, the Public Radio Satellite System (PRSS), which is managed by NPR, helps send presidential emergency alerts to local public radio stations nationwide—allowing critical communications to reach people, even when the internet or cellular connections fail.

    The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the authority to approve and appropriate federal dollars. While a sitting president can propose the cancelation of appropriated funding, only Congress has the authority to revoke it, and must do so by passing a rescissions bill. The rescissions package being championed by Republicans comes in response to President Trump’s demand that Congress cancel $9.4 billion in federal funding, including $1.07 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which was authorized by Congress in 1967 in order to ensure universal access to non-commercial, high-quality content and telecommunications services. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting delivers funding to more than 1,500 locally owned public radio and TV stations and serves as the largest single source of funding for public radio, television, and related online and mobile services.

    The legislation, passed by the House of Representatives earlier this month, is now under consideration by the Senate.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Slam Republican Attempts to Defund Public Broadcasting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

     

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) slammed efforts by congressional Republicans to defund public media and revoke more than $1.07 billion in previously-appropriated funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, including $100 million for Virginia. This move would cut federal support for more than 1,500 public radio and TV stations, nearly half of which serve rural communities.

    “In yet another shortsighted effort, President Trump is now trying to gut public radio and broadcast TV news, which deliver impartial news, critical information, and educational programming to communities all across the country. As former governors, we are deeply disturbed by these efforts because we know that public media is often the only source of local news available to rural communities. We also know that public radio plays a key role in public safety, delivering emergency alerts during disasters like floods, hurricanes, and wildfires,” said the senators. “While our Republican colleagues in the House may be comfortable ceding their constitutionally-established authority over to a power-hungry president, we plan to fight this backwards legislation and protect the funding that was approved by both Democrats and Republicans in Congress.”

    Since 2013, public TV stations have helped the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system deliver emergency alerts to people’s cell phones via the stations’ own transmitters when cell companies’ connections fail. In 2024, over 11,000 alerts were issued by federal, state, and local authorities via the PBS WARN system. Similarly, the Public Radio Satellite System (PRSS), which is managed by NPR, helps send presidential emergency alerts to local public radio stations nationwide—allowing critical communications to reach people, even when the internet or cellular connections fail.

    The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the authority to approve and appropriate federal dollars. While a sitting president can propose the cancelation of appropriated funding, only Congress has the authority to revoke it, and must do so by passing a rescissions bill. The rescissions package being championed by Republicans comes in response to President Trump’s demand that Congress cancel $9.4 billion in federal funding, including $1.07 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which was authorized by Congress in 1967 in order to ensure universal access to non-commercial, high-quality content and telecommunications services. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting delivers funding to more than 1,500 locally owned public radio and TV stations and serves as the largest single source of funding for public radio, television, and related online and mobile services.

    The legislation, passed by the House of Representatives earlier this month, is now under consideration by the Senate.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa Legislation to Streamline Firefighter Hiring Unanimously Passes Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Darrell Issa’s bill, Direct Hire to Fight Fires (H.R. 435), passed the House Natural Resources Committee with unanimous consent. 

    “Wildfires are a known menace in my home region of San Diego and Riverside Counties, and the names of history’s worst fires still echo in our memories: The Cedar Fire, the Harris Fire, the Witch Creek Fire, and the devastating Valley Fire,” said Rep. Issa. “Today’s unacceptably slow hiring process means critical positions used to combat fires go unfilled and blazes burn that much longer. We need this common-sense federal hiring process to bring this available resource where it is needed the most.”

    The legislation grants permanent authority to federal firefighting agencies to streamline the hiring of essential firefighting roles so that no critical position is left unfilled due to bureaucratic red tape.

    “Wildfire season is no longer a specific time of year—it’s now a year-round battle waged by our brave and dedicated wildland firefighters. Devastating wildfires continue to rage on our federal lands as we work today in Congress, and there is no time to waste when it comes to hiring qualified men and women to fight them,” said Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Chairman, House Committee on Natural Resources. “Thanks to this thoughtful legislation from Congressman Issa, the hiring process for wildland firefighters will be more efficient and expeditious. I’d like to thank him for his leadership on this issue, and I look forward to helping usher this bill through the legislative process.” 

    Read the bill text for Direct Hire to Fight Fires here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Announces ICE Law Enforcement are Now Facing an 830 Percent Increase in Assaults

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Mainstream media lies and hysterical political rhetoric are directly contributing to a massive surge in attacks on federal immigration enforcement officers

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials are facing an 830 percent increase in assaults from January 21st to July 14th compared with the same period in 2024.

    “Brave ICE law enforcement are risking their lives every day to keep our communities safe from the worst of the worst criminals,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “ICE law enforcement are succeeding to remove terrorists, murderers, pedophiles and the most depraved among us from America’s communities, even as crazed rhetoric from gutter politicians are inspiring a massive increase in assaults against them. It is reprehensible that our officers are facing this threat while simply doing their jobs and enforcing the law.”

    In recent weeks, both the media and politicians have escalated their anti-ICE rhetoric. Democratic members of Congress have been caught red-handed doxing and even physically assaulting ICE officials.

    Just this week, Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA) showed a violent mob an ICE employee’s business card, putting a target on his back and prompting the mob to attack him. The official was struck by a rock and sent to the emergency room where he received multiple stitches.

    Injuries sustained by an ICE employee after he was doxed to a violent mob by Rep. Carbajal

    Earlier this year, Representative LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) trespassed on and stormed the Delaney Hall detention facility, where she proceeded to physically assault an ICE officer. She has been indicted on federal assault charges.

    In Portland, ICE officers have been doxed and threatened by local antifa-affiliated organizations who are posting their pictures and personal addresses and threatening them and their families. One officer even had an individual show up at their house and dump trash on their lawn, which included signs that read “F**k you” and named the officer directly.

    Trash dumped on ICE officer’s lawn with threatening language in Portland, Oregon

    Meanwhile, the mainstream media continues to publish alarmist, patently false stories about federal immigration enforcement efforts.

    During an enforcement operation where ICE and federal law enforcement rescued 14 children from potential exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking, the media falsely reported that a man died in law enforcement custody. This was an outright lie. The man was not being pursued by law enforcement but still chose to climb up to the roof of a green house, where he fell 30 feet.

    The media also falsely accused ICE of “targeting” children in a clear attempt to demonize law enforcement. Rather than separate families, ICE asks mothers if they want to be removed with their children or if the child should be placed with someone else safe the parent designates.

    DHS has debunked dozens of these and other fake news narratives that are demonizing federal law enforcement, especially ICE officers, who are just trying to do their job. Their lies and fake stories continue to stir up hate and violence, which is leading to these assaults.

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    MIL Security OSI –