Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced the Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act, bipartisan legislation to ensure physical therapy services and care remain accessible for Medicare patients nationwide even when patients’ regular physical therapist is temporarily unavailable. Current restrictions on physical therapy substitute providers jeopardize consistent care that helps restore mobility, function and independent living and coincides with an increased quality of life.
This legislation expands upon the Boozman-backed 21st Century Cures Act passed into law in 2016 that bolstered access to physical therapy services in rural and underserved communities during a temporary provider absence. The Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act extends the flexibilities for physical therapists to permit a temporary substitution of a provider, just as other physicians can during typical leaves of absence to avoid interruptions in care and bureaucratic delays.
“Physical therapy is an important part of the care seniors in Arkansas and around our country rely on, but disruptions in treatment can hinder recovery as well as compound burdens and costs,” said Boozman. “I am pleased to work on a bipartisan solution to help ensure Medicare patients can continue receiving this essential care conveniently from qualified providers while keeping their healing process on track.”
“Nationwide, there are millions of Americans, myself included, who have benefited from physical therapy and received the care they needed to get stronger and better,” said Luján.“As patients embark on their journey to recovery, any interruption in physical therapy can be damaging to a patient’s long-term recovery and health. I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to bridge those interruptions and allow physical therapists and patients the flexibility that benefits the provider and the patient.”
This legislation is endorsed by the American Physical Therapy Association.
Headline: Health Care Company GMAX Industries Selects Forsyth County for Its First North American Production Site
Health Care Company GMAX Industries Selects Forsyth County for Its First North American Production Site lsaito
Raleigh, NC
Today Governor Josh Stein announced GMAX Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of medical products, will create 36 new jobs in Forsyth County. The company will invest $11.4 million to establish its first North American production facility in Winston-Salem.
“I welcome GMAX Industries to the best state in the nation to do business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “North Carolina continues to build on its reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse with its world-class workforce, excellent infrastructure, and outstanding supply chain access that will support this company’s future success.”
GMAX Industries, Inc. is a New York-based certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and a manufacturer and global sourcing partner specializing in high-quality disposable medical supplies. With over 30 years of industry expertise, GMAX provides essential products, including medical textiles, patient bedside plastics and single-use OEM components. The company is expanding its U.S. footprint with a new 144,000 square foot facility to support domestic manufacturing and national distribution. This investment strengthens the healthcare supply chain by shifting production closer to patient demand and increasing resilience across the system.
“We’re proud to introduce GMAX as a trusted partner in the healthcare supply chain,” said Eric Liu, President and CEO of GMAX Industries, Inc. “As we expand our U.S. manufacturing capabilities, our focus remains on delivering high-quality, dependable medical products with greater speed, control, and responsiveness. By investing in domestic production, we’re not only strengthening the supply chain but also supporting American jobs and healthcare resilience.”
“Companies like GMAX benefit greatly from North Carolina’s legacy of manufacturing excellence and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our state has the largest manufacturing workforce in the southeastern United States, great partnerships, and a storied history of innovation that continues to take our economy, community, and businesses to new heights.”
While wages vary by position, the annual average salary for the new positions will be $66,667, exceeding Forsyth County’s average of $65,319. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $2.4 million for the region.
A performance-based grant of $75,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company expand to North Carolina. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require matching participation from local governments, and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.
“This is great news for Forsyth County and the surrounding communities,” said Senator Paul A. Lowe, Jr. “Our growing pool of talent and manufacturing environment are fueling the economy for companies like GMAX to operate, grow, and thrive.”
In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Forsyth Tech Community College, Forsyth County, Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., and the City of Winston-Salem.
Mild tremors were felt across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Friday evening after an earthquake struck Haryana’s Jhajjar for the second day in a row.
According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), a 3.7 magnitude quake hit Jhajjar at 7.49 pm at a depth of 10 km. Jhajjar lies about 60 km from the national capital.
On Thursday morning, a stronger 4.4 magnitude earthquake had jolted the same area around 9 am, causing brief panic among residents.
There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
ST. LOUIS – A man and a woman who committed two armed carjackings in St. Louis, Missouri in 2022 have been sentenced to more than 11 years in prison.
U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Thursday sentenced Jermanine Smith, 51, of St. Louis, to 141 months in prison. Judge Ross sentenced Bianka North, 29, of Illinois, to 154 months in prison on June 20.
Smith pleaded guilty on March 20, 2025, to one count of carjacking and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. North pleaded guilty 10 days earlier to two counts of carjacking and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Both admitted stealing a 2006 Pontiac G6 on May 14, 2022, and a 2009 Toyota Scion the next day.
The first victim was sitting in her G6 in North Riverfront Park in St. Louis when Smith and North pulled up in a Dodge Charger. A short time later, Smith approached the victims and asked for their help jump-starting the Charger. When the G6 driver and her friend got out of their car, North pointed a silver handgun at them and ordered them to move away. North then stole that car and drove away, followed by Smith in the Charger.
On May 15, 2022, North was driving the carjacked G6 and parked near a Scion XD in the 1600 block of South 9th Street in St. Louis just after midnight. North opened the door of the Scion and ordered the driver out at gunpoint before driving away. North also ordered the victim to leave her mobile phone in the car. After the carjacking, someone tried to use Cash App on the victim’s phone to transfer $300 to Smith.
The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski prosecuted the case.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jason Rigdon, 44, of Crawfordville, Florida, pleaded guilty July 9, 2025, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of multiple firearms by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the excellent work of our federal, state, and local partners to make our community safer by getting this dangerous individual off the streets. My office remains fully committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America by targeting violent criminals with the full force of the law.”
Court documents reflect that pursuant to a federal search warrant of Rigdon’s Crawfordville residence, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and thirteen firearms were seized. Rigdon was previously convicted of multiple State of Florida felony charges including drug trafficking, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding law enforcement, and illegal possession of firearms. At the time of arrest, a privately made firearm, commonly known as a “ghost gun,” was also seized.
Rigdon is scheduled for sentencing before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle on September 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Tallahassee, Florida. Rigdon faces up to thirty years’ imprisonment on the drug charge, and up to fifteen years’ imprisonment on the firearms charge.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tallahassee Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
The World Health Organization (WHO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) co-hosted a technical webinar on July 3rd, 2025, discussing the role of public procurement, including pooled procurement, to promote global, equitable and timely access to health technologies. The webinar underscored that effective public procurement procedures depend on access to quality and up-to-date information on health product markets, a clear understanding of the needs, and the ability of suppliers to deliver required quality products at affordable prices. It also presented procurement as a mechanism to foster innovation, technology transfer and local manufacturing.
Clive Ondari from the WHO Secretariat noted that in many countries, access to medical technologies is driven by public procurement, as pharmaceuticals are often made available through public funding or subsidies. To ensure efficient procurement, systems must rely on quality medical products obtained in a timely manner in the required quantities and at affordable prices. These elements are particularly important in the health sector given the large expenditures, with some programmes reportedly paying considerably more than necessary for medicines.
Amy Dietterich from the WIPO Secretariat emphasized the role of collaboration and tailored strategies to ensure procurement serves as an effective tool for innovation and access. Learning how governments develop laws and policies, how different initiatives determine strategies and priorities to support procurement practices, and how this tool benefits from an integrated view of public health, intellectual property (IP), and trade is important.
Roger Kampf from the WTO Secretariat highlighted the importance of a cross-disciplinary approach, including IP, procurement, and competition frameworks to effectively address global health challenges. He noted that beyond obtaining best value for money, sound procurement can foster technology transfer, boost local manufacturing capacities, and strengthen R&D capacities as well as supply chain resilience.
The webinar featured presentations examining the health, IP, and trade dimensions of public procurement, alongside case studies from experts representing various regional and local mechanisms, who highlighted their respective approaches to public procurement.
Lisa Hedman from the WHO Secretariat in her presentation highlighted procurement as a lever in the context of the WHO Roadmap on Access to Medicines 2025 – 2030 to improve affordability, availability, accessibility and acceptability for health products and technologies.
Giovanni Napolitano from the WIPO Secretariat in his presentation explained the role of public procurement as a key driver of innovation in the healthcare area. IP may influence access, pricing, and innovation by informing who holds rights to key technologies (patent landscapes), delimiting freedom to operate and avoiding IP infringement, encouraging voluntary licensing for broader access, and assessing the impact of data exclusivity on competition. Well-designed, pro-competitive tenders are essential for rewarding R&D, preventing monopolies, and improving access. He emphasized the importance of IP due diligence early in procurement processes, building capacity for IP management within agencies, and fostering public-private partnerships around IP.
Astghik Solomonyan from the WTO Secretariat in her remarks addressed the benefits of combining pooled public procurement with international trade. At the country level, pooled procurement with its implied larger orders, and trade agreements (e.g. the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement 2012) with their market access and good governance guarantees, can attract international suppliers offering competitive prices or superior quality. At the international level, recent experience has highlighted the importance of global supply chain resilience. Trade agreements provide international suppliers with the market access needed to establish additional production and distribution facilities while pooled procurement helps to generate the level of demand necessary to keep such facilities operational.
Lucia Rizka Andalucia, Ministry of Health Indonesia representative, shared how the country has strategically positioned public procurement as a key instrument to drive national innovation and industrial development by boosting local production, ensuring market access for domestic products, and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders.
The representative of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Santiago Cornejo, explained the Revolving Fund mechanism which enables countries across the Americas to access quality vaccines, essential medicines, and health products including diagnostics, using pooled procurement, which consolidates reliable and predictable demand from member states. He also mentioned the reorientation of the Fund in response to COVID-19 toward supporting innovation, technology transfer, and local manufacturing.
TheEU Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority(HERA) representative, Katarzyna Motyka, presented the EU joint procurement mechanism based on the lessons learned from COVID-19. She highlighted how the mechanism ensures equitable access to essential health products among member states, complements national initiatives and strengthens public procurement systems across Europe on a voluntary basis.
The representative of the Gulf Health Council, Fathi Alkathiry, clarified how the Gulf Joint Procurement Program has, through the years, developed efficient decision-making processes for a multi-country pooled procurement tendering to facilitate the procurement of medicines and medical supplies. The Gulf Cooperation Council has also taken measures to promote local manufacturing, including the use of procurement to develop local industries. These efforts have contributed to regional growth in the industrial sector. In 2024, the Gulf region counted 74 pharmaceutical factories and 140 medical supply factories.
Lastly, the representative from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and Regional Economic Communities, Wesley Ronoh, shared Africa’s experience with public procurement, highlighting the role of the East African Community, Southern African Development Community, and Economic Community of West African States in fostering collaboration. He further noted that public procurement plays a critical role in national health strategies in Africa, as an estimated 40% of health spending in many African countries occurs through it. The African Pooled Procurement Mechanism, established in 2024 was also presented.
The video recording of the webinar is availablehere.
The Trilateral collaboration of WHO, WIPO and WTO
The Secretariats of the WHO, WIPO, and the WTO organize capacity building and technical assistance activities on current issues to enhance the flow of updated and technical information related to innovation and access to health technologies. The objective of the Trilateral Cooperation workshops and webinars is to strengthen the capacity of law and policymakers and experts in Member governments by facilitating access to expertise, data, and evidence and deepen discussions of critical issues at the intersection of public health, IP, and trade.
The new funding includes $3.5 million for 20 new projects to help restore and protect watersheds across the province. The new funding will help make Alberta more flood and drought resistant.
Healthy and resilient watersheds help prevent floods during storms, release water during droughts, and help Alberta’s growing communities and environment thrive. They carry water through rivers, lakes and streams, helping to sustain ecosystems.
This funding will help one city, two counties and 17 non-profits restore riverbanks and watersheds, stabilize streambanks, and improve the natural movement of water to mitigate floods and droughts.
“By investing in watersheds, we are improving community protections from future floods and droughts. This funding not only supports landowners, it also results in cleaner water, thriving ecosystems, and a healthier environment for people and wildlife across the province.”
“Our government is proud to fund and support our local partners who play a vital role in restoring wetlands and riparian areas while fostering stewardship to protect Alberta’s water systems for future generations.”
The new Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program funding is investing in important projects across the province, from improving watershed health in the Lesser Slave region to revitalizing the urban banks of Calgary’s Elbow River. In Medicine Hat, students will gain hands-on experience in bioengineering techniques for stabilizing riverbanks, blending restoration with education. Drought resilience efforts will help urban homeowners in Lethbridge manage water more effectively and support landowners in Milk River as they design sustainable irrigation plans.
Applications are now open for another $3.5 million in funding to support even more watershed resilience and restoration projects. Organizations, non-profits, Indigenous communities, and municipalities can apply until September 15, 2025.
“Funding from the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program will help our residents implement long-term strategies to address drought in Lethbridge. By transitioning to water-wise, drought resilient landscaping, homeowners can put plans in action today that will lead to water conservation success in the future. Environment Lethbridge is thrilled to be able to use this funding to help urban residents achieve their outdoor water conservation goals.”
“With funding from the province’s WRRP program, the Lesser Slave Watershed Council maintains capacity to engage with municipal and community partners, educate and inform watershed residents about the importance of resilient riparian areas and wetlands, assess riparian condition on streams in our basin, and work one-on-one with landowners to implement on-the-ground projects that protect or enhance valuable riparian habitat. The program has been essential to the Lesser Slave Watershed Council’s Watershed Resiliency Program since 2016.”
Quick facts
Since 2020, Alberta’s government has invested approximately $50 million through the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program.
To date, the program has provided 215 grants to 85 organizations that have helped support the restoration, enhancement and conservation of 5,475 hectares of wetlands as well as more than 2,300 hectares of riparian areas covering 320 kilometres of streambank.
More than 11,000 Albertans have participated in training workshops funded through the program on natural restoration techniques and other practices that enhance watershed resiliency.
Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
***Click here for audio.***
BISMARCK, N.D. – The Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) advanced the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation, which makes major investments in North Dakota’s contribution to national security and military readiness, will now head to the Senate floor for consideration.
Among other provisions, this year’s NDAA codifies support for President Trump’s Golden Dome architecture, recognizes the importance of robust and timely mental health care for military personnel and their families by addressing staffing shortfalls at military medical treatment facilities, and improves the process for service members transitioning to civilian life.
“Well, advancing the [National] Defense Authorization Act out of the Armed Services Committee really is an important first step to fulfilling our Constitutional duty by providing for the common defense,” said Cramer, chair of the SASC Airland Subcommittee and co-chair of the Senate Defense Modernization Caucus. “Whether it’s investing in Grand Forks’ intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, modernizing our nuclear triad in Minot, or really upgrading the radar at Cavalier Space Force Station, the bill solidifies the crucial role that North Dakota plays in protecting our homeland. I really appreciate Chairman Wicker and Ranking Member Reed for their leadership, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass the bill on the Senate floor, hopefully very soon.”
Cramer has consistently used his seat on SASC to strengthen North Dakota-based defense missions and military communities. The SASC FY26 NDAA authorizes multiple projects across North Dakota:
Cavalier Space Force Station (SFS)
This year’s NDAA provides $22 million for the modernization of the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) at Cavalier SFS. The single-faced, multi-function, UHF-Band, and phased-array radar system tracks over half of all earth-orbiting objects. Modernizing PARCS improves detection of intercontinental and sea-launched missile threats, while improving space domain awareness capabilities.
Cavalier SFS will play a central role in the Golden Dome initiative. President Trump’s vision for a layered missile defense shield for America calls for the modernization and expansion of U.S. missile defense capabilities across all domains to protect the homeland against ballistic, cruise and hypersonic missiles, and drone threats. Cramer and U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) introduced the bicameral Ground and Orbital Launched Defeat of Emergent Nuclear Destruction and Other Missile Engagements (GOLDEN DOME) Act, a sweeping legislative initiative which complements President Trump’s executive order directing the implementation of a next-generation missile defense shield for the nation.
Grand Forks
The bill includes investments in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities at Grand Forks Air Force Base and maintains the base’s inventory requirements of RQ-4 Global Hawks. Further, the FY26 NDAA will provide:
$277 million for Tranche 3 of the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. According to SDA, Tranche 3 satellites will “accelerate the capability to provide global, persistent indications, detection, warning, tracking, and identification of conventional and advanced missile threats, including hypersonic missile systems.”
$17 million for the development of corrosion resistant coatings produced by Technology Applications Group (TAG) in Grand Forks. TAG is a leader in magnesium surface protection and inventor of the Tanite anodize coating.
Minot
The year’s NDAA secures $2 billion for the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program. The Sentinel ICBM, which will replace 50-year-old Minuteman IIIs, is a key component of the nation’s nuclear deterrence. This is in addition to the $2.5 billion investment included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act which was signed into law on July 4. The NDAA requires the ICBM count to be no less than 400 to adequately deter nuclear aggression abroad.
Additionally, the legislation encourages the U.S. Air Force to establish wing-level additive manufacturing facilities to better support conventional and nuclear long-range strike platforms. The initiative improves readiness while decreasing cost and time of repair.
Fargo
North Dakota’s “Happy Hooligans” in Fargo operate MQ-9 Reapers, which are central to the state’s growing role in operating Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). The NDAA establishes a formal combat identifier to recognize the participation of RPA crew members who conduct operations in direct support of combat missions. This identification would enable the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to administer benefits and services which account for combat-related service.
Cramer and U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Combat Action Recognition and Evaluation (CARE) for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Crews Act which ensures provides RPA crew members with the recognition and access to services they deserve.
North Dakota National Guard (NDNG)
The SASC-passed version of the legislation authorizes $5 million for the planning and design of an Armory in Jamestown. The planned project is a top priority of the NDNG.
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the authorization of an exchange from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) with ExxonMobil Corporation to address logistical challenges impacting crude oil deliveries to the company’s Baton Rouge refinery. U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright authorized this action to help maintain stable regional supply of transportation fuels across Louisiana and the broader Gulf Coast. This action preserves the SPR’s operational flexibility and will not impact or delay the Department’s ongoing efforts to refill the reserve.
Under the exchange agreement, DOE will provide up to 1 million barrels of crude oil from the SPR. The exchange will support ExxonMobil’s restoration of refinery operations that were reduced due to an offshore supply disruption. ExxonMobil will return the borrowed crude along with additional barrels of crude oil for the SPR at no cost to the taxpayer.
The Department remains in close coordination with industry partners to ensure stability in the fuel supply chain during the peak demand season. DOE continues to encourage refiners to prioritize efficient production and delivery of refined fuels, stands ready to support the nation’s energy security through the responsible use of strategic resources, and will continue to deliver on President Trump’s commitment to protect American energy security by refilling the SPR.
Background:
Sections 159 and 160 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), 42 U.S.C.A. §§ 6239 and 6240, authorize the Secretary of Energy to exchange SPR petroleum products and to acquire petroleum products by exchange for storage in the SPR. The Secretary of Energy has previously exercised this legal authority to conduct emergency exchanges in response to supply disruptions, including Keystone Pipeline in 2022, and the Calcasieu Ship Channel closures in 2006 and 2000.
An oil supply disruption has led to reduced operations at the Baton Rouge refinery, limiting production of transportation fuels. The exchange is intended to ensure the maximum supply of refined fuel products in the Gulf Coast region while ExxonMobil resolves logistical challenges.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Joint statement on recent developments in Georgia
The Foreign Secretary has released a joint statement on recent developments in Georgia alongside European partners
Joint statement of 11 July 2025 by the Foreign Ministers of Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the High Representative of the European Union on recent developments in Georgia:
We, the Foreign Ministers of European democracies, are disturbed and deeply concerned at the deteriorating situation in Georgia.
We strongly condemn the recent, politically motivated, imprisonment and detention of the leaders of Georgian opposition, clearly designed to stifle political opposition in Georgia, a few months ahead of the local elections. Their detention, as well as arbitrary arrests and increasing repression of other Georgian authorities` critics, representatives of civil society, peaceful protesters and independent journalists, contribute to dismantling of democracy in Georgia and rapid transformation towards an authoritarian system, in contradiction to European norms and values. Recent legislative changes aim at stifling independent civil society and legitimate protest.
The course of political repression carried out by the Georgian authorities has led, in reaction, to a considerable downgrading of our relationship, including reduction of assistance and cooperation with Georgian authorities. Today, the authoritarian and anti-European course of the Georgian authorities further threatens Georgia’s democratic achievements and relations with our countries.
We will continue to call out Georgian authorities’ undemocratic actions and violations of human rights and will not hesitate to make use of the range of unilateral and multilateral tools available to us should Georgian authorities continue to take steps that erode Georgia’s democracy and respect for human rights.
It is not too late to reverse course. We call on the Georgian authorities to immediately release unjustly detained politicians, journalists and activists, to reverse repressive legislation and to engage in a national dialogue with all relevant stakeholders to find a way out of the current situation.
As armed clashes intensify and conditions worsen inside Myanmar, thousands continue to cross the border seeking safety in the overcrowded camps of Cox’s Bazar, where nearly one million Rohingya refugees already live in densely populated camps.
“This is the largest movement of Rohingya refugees into Bangladesh since 2017,” said Babar Baloch, spokesperson for the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, briefing journalists in Geneva on Friday.
He clarified that unlike the mass influx in 2017, when some 750,000 Rohingya fled deadly violence in Rakhine state, this uptick in refugees has unfolded more gradually.
Advocating for asylum
UNHCR is working closely with local authorities to respond to urgent humanitarian needs.
“As the conflict in Myanmar continues unabated, we are advocating with the Bangladeshi authorities to provide managed access to safety and asylum for civilians fleeing the conflict,” he said.
Bangladesh has long provided refuge to the Rohingya, a mostly Muslim minority community in Myanmar, which is mainly Buddhist.
The country currently hosts nearly one million people in the refugee camps and the recent arrivals – many of them women and children – are placing further strain on resources. Many are relying heavily on local solidarity and sharing limited resources with those already living in the camps.
Appeal for support
By the end of June, nearly 121,000 newly arrived refugees had been biometrically registered, although many more are believed to be residing informally in the camps. Access to adequate shelter remains a major concern as facilities struggle to absorb the new population.
“These new arrivals join another nearly one million Rohingya refugees crammed into just 24 square kilometres,” said Mr. Baloch. “More humanitarian support is urgently required.”
Aid partners have been able to provide basic services including food, medical care, education, and essential relief items. However, the response is now under serious threat due to a lack of funding.
UNHCR warned that the 2024 humanitarian appeal for $255 million is only 35 per cent funded. Without immediate financial support, the entire operation could face systemic collapse.
Action needed now
Unless additional funds are secured, health services will be severely disrupted by September and essential cooking fuel — liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) – will run out by December. Food assistance will stop and education for some 230,000 Rohingya children, including 63,000 new arrivals, is in danger of being discontinued.
Despite a strictly controlled and officially closed border, the Government of Bangladesh has allowed new arrivals to access emergency services in the camps. The UN agency expressed deep appreciation for this humanitarian gesture under highly challenging conditions.
“We don’t have the resources to take care of the new arrivals and also those who were there before them,” said Mr. Baloch. “Everything will be impacted.”
As displacement from Rakhine state continues, UNHCR and its partners are urging the international community to act swiftly. Without immediate and sustained support, the already fragile humanitarian response in Cox’s Bazar could begin to unravel – with devastating consequences for more than one million people who rely on it for survival.
New York City, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, the price of Bitcoin has soared to a record high of $118,000. Since the beginning of this year, Bitcoin has risen by more than 23%. The rise is mainly due to the increased acceptance of cryptocurrencies by traditional financial market participants, the increase in risk appetite, and the continued growth of institutional demand. At the same time, OurCryptoMiner, the world’s leading cloud mining platform, has attracted much attention due to its deep integration with BTC technology. According to a spokesperson for the OurCryptoMiner platform, some investors have made profits of up to $33,000 in a short period of time, with daily returns exceeding $6,700.
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday chaired the first Governing Council Meeting of the National Cadet Corps Alumni Association (NCCAA) at South Block, New Delhi. Addressing the delegation, the Defence Minister described the NCC as “a platform that presents an ideal for the youth of the country.”
He termed former NCC cadets as strong pillars of India who are contributing to the nation’s development across diverse fields — not passively, but as active drivers of change.
“We need to include the guidance of our former cadets to accelerate the goal of national development,” he said, expressing confidence that the NCCAA will provide new energy and direction to the NCC.
Singh also exhorted the NCC to spread the values and qualities of its cadets to a larger section of the population under the spirit of NCC Plus.
“NCC instills these values in the youth who are associated with it. Our effort should be to ensure that these values reach even those who could not join the NCC,” the Defence Minister said.
He further highlighted that the NCCAA can play an active role in nation-building efforts through programmes such as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Swachhta Abhiyan, and various community development and social service schemes, which have the potential to impact a large segment of the population.
Lauding the NCC for its significant contribution to the all-round development of the youth, he said, “In the true spirit of its motto ‘Unity & Discipline,’ the NCC has always been committed to national unity and nation-building. It has helped lakhs of youth, including students from remote areas, to become disciplined and motivated.”
The NCCAA is a flagship association of NCC alumni, aimed at carrying forward the work of the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation by bringing together former and current cadets under one umbrella and enhancing their participation in the nation-building process.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the first registered member of the association, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is the second.
The meeting was attended by Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Department of Education) Sanjay Kumar, Secretary (Department of Youth Affairs) Dr. Pallavi Jain Govil, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Defence Dipti Mohil Chawla, DGNCC Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, Joint Secretary (Training) Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, CEO LD Remedial World Bala Saraswathy Nair, and Secretary, NCCAA Col Gagan Sharma.
Last week, the MP for Coventry South, Zarah Sultana, made an audacious decision. Having already lost the Labour party whip for opposing the two-child benefit cap, Sultana announced she would co-lead a new leftwing party with Jeremy Corbyn, who was expelled from Labour in 2024.
From one angle, her decision may seem simple. Discontent with Keir Starmer’s Labour government, on everything from welfare cuts to Gaza, has never been higher, and Sultana is a vocal critic. Yet, launching a (still unnamed) new party is bold. It tackles head-on an old and vexing question for socialist critics of capitalism in the UK.
In 1976, the socialist theorist Ralph Miliband (yes, Ed and David’s dad) described the faith in Labour’s capacity to become a socialist vehicle as “the most crippling of all illusions”. But socialists who agree with Miliband senior then have an almighty problem.
Writing months after the 2019 defeat of Corbyn’s Labour party, the veteran “New Left” academics Colin Leys and Leo Panitch echoed Miliband in their book Searching for Socialism. But they also saw few immediate alternatives with “any prospect of electoral success”. This, they wrote, is the “central dilemma” for British democratic socialists.
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The reaction to Sultana’s announcement from the British left has been accordingly mixed. Leaks revealed that Corbyn’s team was caught off guard. Responses from prominent potential supporters were reserved. Momentum, the leftwing grassroots organisation, hastily distributed the pamphlet Why Socialists Should Be in the Labour Party.
It’s too early to know whether these issues are teething problems or portents. But the barriers to Sultana’s venture are formidable. What would it take for a new leftwing party to succeed? What would “success” even look like?
A careful reading of political history can help us answer these questions. This is not the first time that new parties have emerged from Labour factionalism. Many readers will be aware of the 1981 departure of the “gang of four” Labour figures, who founded the Social Democratic party (SDP) that later merged with the Liberal party to form the Liberal Democrats.
Nor is it the first time that smaller parties have appeared on Labour’s left. Between 1920 and 1991, the Communist party of Great Britain was a potent force in the trade union movement. From the 1990s to the 2010s, several vehicles contested local and national elections against Labour, from the Socialist Alliance to Left Unity.
Challenges for a new party
Each of these iterations had its historical peculiarities. But stepping back, we can identify three recurring challenges that any leftwing insurgent party must confront.
First, they must agree on an electoral strategy and purpose, given the institutional brutality of British democracy. The UK has some proportional elections, including in Scotland and Wales (expected to be next contested in 2026). Councils are also possible avenues of influence.
But there is no avoiding the fact that legislative and executive power is hoarded in the House of Commons, elected by first past the post. Labour will discourage possible defectors by warning that a split in the left vote will let in the right. Neil Kinnock, Labour’s former leader who found himself fighting off the SDP while trying to evict Thatcher in the 1980s, dubbed Sultana and Corbyn’s venture the “Farage assistance party”.
Left of Labour parties are often aware of the risk. Indeed, far left activists have in the past advocated voting Labour, with “varying degrees of (un)enthusiasm”.
Advocates of a new party will note that Labour is only polling in the low 20s, suggesting a pool of ex-Labour voters potentially interested in shopping around. However, there are others it could torpedo too.
One recent poll on support for a hypothetical Corbyn-led party – which we should take with some salt – found that its 10% support comes partly from eating into the Green vote. An electoral arrangement with the Greens, on the other hand, may require shared policy platforms, raising the question of why a separate party is needed.
A poll from More in Common conducted specifically about a Sultana-Corbyn party found 9% of Labour voters and 26% of current Green voters saying that would vote for such a party.
The Socialist Labour party (SLP) – founded in 1996 by the prominent trade unionist Arthur Scargill in reaction to Tony Blair’s New Labour – is the obvious cautionary tale. Scargill wanted a purer, better Labour party. Yet, Labour looked set to kick out an 18-year-long Conservative government.
Scargill could not convince many sympathetic activists to join. As historian Alfie Steer argues, the SLP instead became dominated by socialists hostile to the Labour party. The party could not overcome the resultant contradictions in its purpose and collapsed into acrimony.
The SLP also illustrates the second key consideration: timing. The SLP struggled partly because it launched just as Labour was sweeping triumphantly into power. Sultana’s timing is arguably more astute. She has waited for Starmer’s bubble to burst and for disillusionment to fester.
However, the broad left within Labour has also just found its voice by rebelling against government policy. The temptation for a risk-averse Labour activist may be to leap onto this critical bandwagon without taking the more dangerous step of defecting.
The final challenge is securing institutional durability without debilitating splits. It is telling that Sultana felt compelled to include Corbyn’s name despite his reported reservations.
Sultana herself has an impressive political profile, especially on TikTok. Any new party will rely heavily on prominent spokespeople to force it into the national conversation. Yet, such vehicles can become trapped by their dependence on individuals. The Respect party of the 2000s, for example, was reliant on the charismatic but polarising figure of George Galloway.
The fledgling party will also need a lasting structure that determines how candidates are selected and policy is formed. This risks dragging it into dreaded constitutional debates. It is already reportedly divided over the existence of co-leaders.
Intra-party democracy is off-putting to outsiders. But as constitutional scholar Meg Russell argues, it speaks to fundamental questions about the extent, and limits, of democracy. Such disputes have frequently wracked the left (and the radical right, as Reform’s recent constitutional changes show).
To what extent should policy be “democratically” decided? Should a new party limit who can join, and if so, on what criteria? How will leaders be selected? From the CPGB to the SLP, these questions have proven divisive in the past. They could easily prove so again.
The new party faces severe challenges, but it would be unwise to write it off completely. In a volatile context, it has a chance to make its mark if it is clear in its strategic electoral purpose, cultivates an institutional and activist base and times its interventions astutely. But the obstacles to success are enormous – and with Reform currently polling top, the risks are high.
Colm Murphy is currently a member of the Labour Party, but he is writing purely in an academic capacity.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.
Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.
The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:
STARR COUNTY
WILLACY COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Starr County Courthouse Annex 100 N. FM 3167 Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Sebastian Community Center 434 W. Eighth St. Sebastian, TX 78594
Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:
CAMERON COUNTY
HIDALGO COUNTY
Business Recovery Center Harlingen Chamber of Commerce 311 E. Tyler Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550
Business Recovery Center Valley Metro Transit Center Boardroom 510 S. Pleasantview Dr. Weslaco, TX 78596
Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.
Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.
The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:
STARR COUNTY
WILLACY COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Starr County Courthouse Annex 100 N. FM 3167 Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Sebastian Community Center 434 W. Eighth St. Sebastian, TX 78594
Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:
CAMERON COUNTY
HIDALGO COUNTY
Business Recovery Center Harlingen Chamber of Commerce 311 E. Tyler Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550
Business Recovery Center Valley Metro Transit Center Boardroom 510 S. Pleasantview Dr. Weslaco, TX 78596
Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.
Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.
The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:
STARR COUNTY
WILLACY COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Starr County Courthouse Annex 100 N. FM 3167 Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Sebastian Community Center 434 W. Eighth St. Sebastian, TX 78594
Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:
CAMERON COUNTY
HIDALGO COUNTY
Business Recovery Center Harlingen Chamber of Commerce 311 E. Tyler Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550
Business Recovery Center Valley Metro Transit Center Boardroom 510 S. Pleasantview Dr. Weslaco, TX 78596
Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.
Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.
The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:
STARR COUNTY
WILLACY COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Starr County Courthouse Annex 100 N. FM 3167 Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center Sebastian Community Center 434 W. Eighth St. Sebastian, TX 78594
Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14 Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:
CAMERON COUNTY
HIDALGO COUNTY
Business Recovery Center Harlingen Chamber of Commerce 311 E. Tyler Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550
Business Recovery Center Valley Metro Transit Center Boardroom 510 S. Pleasantview Dr. Weslaco, TX 78596
Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
RADNOR, Pa., July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CME Outfitters (CMEO), a leading accredited provider of continuing medical education and a division of KnowFully Learning Group, announced it has been honored with the 2025 Fierce DEI Award in the category of Innovative Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Training and Education.
The award recognizes CMEO’s initiative, “Enhancing Health Equity Through HCP Education: Educational Strategies for Addressing Barriers for Underserved Populations in Multiple Disease States.” To date, CMEO has developed more than 150 educational activities focused on implicit bias, healthcare disparities, access, and equity. These programs address the root causes of disparities while equipping clinicians with concrete, actionable steps they can implement immediately. Outcomes data demonstrate measurable improvements in clinician knowledge and patient outcomes.
“We are proud and honored to be recognized with this award as it underscores our commitment to embedding the principles of health equity and access into the very fabric of all our educational activities,” said Executive Vice President Shari Tordoff. “With measurable outcomes, rigorous design, and a focus on real-world change, these initiatives empower clinicians to dismantle systemic disparities across multiple disease states and practice settings.”
Building on this recognition, CME Outfitters will expand its health access-focused trainings into additional therapeutic areas and care settings, with an emphasis on rural and community-based populations. “These upcoming initiatives reflect our belief that equitable care is not a privilege—it’s a right,” said Tordoff. “Through education that informs, engages, and inspires, we are proud to help shape a healthcare system where every patient has the opportunity to achieve their best possible outcome.”
CME Outfitters develops, distributes, and certifies continuing education activities that focus on the integration of the interprofessional care team around the globe to ensure the best care for patients. In addition, CMEO offers education to patients. CME Outfitters’ educational interventions include interactive webcasts, live symposia, clinical case series, point-of-care education, and other innovative, reinforcing formats that leverage the latest in technology to optimize the learning environment and promote clinician and patient behavior changes. CME Outfitters also offers expert accreditation, outcomes, and logistics services for non-accredited organizations. For more information, visit www.cmeoutfitters.com.
About The Fierce Award
Presented by Fierce Healthcare, the award celebrates and recognizes outstanding achievements in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the healthcare industry. The awards program recognizes organizations, initiatives, and individuals who are making significant strides in creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare environment.
Q2 2025 Interim Report and Investor Conference Call Announcement
Welltec® will disclose its Q2 2025 Interim Report and will discuss the results during an investor conference call to be held Thursday, August 14th, 2025, at 5 pm CEST.
The conference call will be available only to current and prospective bond holders, broker dealers, and securities analysts, and can be accessed by dialling in a few minutes before the start and informing the operator that you would like to participate in Welltec’s investor conference call.
Relevant dial-in details and conference ID can be obtained by contacting Kris Petrov krpetrov@welltec.com and registering for the call. Registration will not be possible once the investor conference has started.
For further information, please contact: Kris Petrov, Finance Director Cell: +45 48 14 35 14 E-mail: krpetrov@welltec.com
Company Profile: Welltec® is a global technology company that develops and provides efficient, hi-tech solutions for the energy industry. The company was founded in 1994 and grew rapidly by supplying innovative robotic technology to oil and gas operators. In 2010, Welltec introduced a new business segment focused on the development of Completion products. Commercialization of these products began in 2014, and the company is now a global leader in the field of metal expandable packer technology. Welltec’s cutting-edge products and services are designed to optimize the performance and integrity of a well, in any environment. Through advanced engineering and lightweight design, Welltec’s solutions have helped clients increase operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprints in a safe and sustainable way for more than 30 years. Today, Welltec continues to evolve and invest in its technology portfolio with products and services adapted to take on the challenges of New Energy and Climate Technology, including Geothermal and Carbon Capture & Storage projects.
July 11, 2025 – Rome, Italy – Department of Finance Canada
In an increasingly dangerous and divided world, co-operation with reliable partners is more important than ever. Canada is building a new era of collaboration – one rooted in mutual support and resilient partnerships.
The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue, today concluded a productive visit to Rome, Italy, where he took part in the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference and bilateral Canada-Italy discussions.
The Conference unites world leaders behind the Ukrainian cause, and the shared imperative of guaranteeing a lasting support and reconstruction of Ukraine. To that end, Minister Champagne participated in the Ukraine Donor Platform ministerial meeting and met with several international partners to discuss Ukraine’s financing and recovery needs. The Minister chaired a major, high-level panel of global experts on ways to privately finance Ukraine’s reconstruction, in which he seized the occasion to announce the disbursement of a $200 million contribution to support Ukraine through the World Bank’s Facilitation of Resources to Invest in Strengthening (F.O.R.T.I.S.) Ukraine Financial Intermediary Fund. This disbursement fulfills Canada’s $5 billion total contribution under the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Allocation (ERA) loans mechanism.
The forum was also an opportunity to advance shared priorities with international partners, particularly in energy production and security partnerships. Minister Champagne met with leading partners, namely the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the Italian and Ukrainian ministers of Finance, the President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Governor of the Bank of Italy, and Chief Executive Officers of major Italian and Canadian financial and energy firms.
The Minister and his Italian counterpart, Giancarlo Giorgetti, together visited Italy’s preeminent financial crime unit to learn best practices, in support of the G7 Financial Crime Call to Action agreed at the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Banff, Alberta.
Finally, the Minister will be meeting with the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, His Excellency Archbishop Paul Gallagher, on Saturday.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Keri K. Stephens, Professor & Co-Director, Technology & Information Policy Institute, The University of Texas at Austin
Flash floods like the one that swept down the Guadalupe River in Texas on July 4, 2025, can be highly unpredictable. While there are sophisticated flood prediction models and different types of warning systems in some places, effective flood protection requires extensive preparedness and awareness.
It also requires an understanding of how people receive, interpret and act on risk information and warnings. Technology can be part of the solution, but ultimately people are the critical element in any response.
As researchers who studyemergency communications, we have found that simply providing people with technical information and data is often not enough to effectively communicate the danger and prompt them to act.
The human element
One of us, Keri Stephens, has led teams studying flood risk communication. They found that people who have experienced a flood are more aware of the risks. Conversely, groups that have not lived through floods typically don’t understanding various flood risks such as storm surges and flash floods. And while first responders often engage in table-top exercises and drills – very important for their readiness to respond – there are only a few examples of entire communities actively participating in warning drills.
Messages used to communicate flood risk also matter, but people need to receive them. To that end, Keri’s teams have worked with the Texas Water Development Board to develop resources that help local flood officials sort through and prioritize information about a flood hazard so they can share what is most valuable with their local communities.
The commonly used “Turn Around Don’t Drown” message, while valuable, may not resonate equally with all groups. Newly developed and tested messages such as “Keep Your Car High and Dry” appeal specifically to young adults who typically feel invincible but don’t want their prized vehicles damaged. While more research is needed, this is an example of progress in understanding an important aspect of flood communication: how recipients of the information make decisions.
Interviews conducted by researchers often include responses along these lines: “Another flash flood warning. We get these all the time. It’s never about flooding where I am.” This common refrain reveals a fundamental challenge in flood communication. When people hear “flood warning,” they often think of different things, and interpretations can vary depending on a person’s proximity to the flooding event.
Beyond technologies and digital communication, warnings still come through informal networks in many communities. Emergency managers directly coordinate with and share information with major businesses and organizations, saying, “Hey, John, be sure you have somebody up tonight watching the National Weather Service alerts and rivers.”
This human-centered approach, similar to neighborhood-level systems we have studied in Japan, can provide direct confirmation that warnings have been received. This is something mass media and mobile systems cannot guarantee, especially during infrastructure failures such as power and cell tower outages.
Effective messages
Research shows that effective warning messages need to include five critical components: a clear hazard description, location-specific information, actionable guidance, timing cues and a credible source. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s integrated public alert and warning system message design dashboard assists authorities in rapidly drafting effective messages.
This warning system, known as IPAWS, provides nationwide infrastructure for wireless emergency alerts and Emergency Alert System messages. While powerful, IPAWS has limitations − not all emergency managers are trained to use it, and messages may extend beyond intended geographic areas. Also, many older mobile devices lack the latest capabilities, so they may not receive the most complete messages when they are sent.
Hyperlocal community opt-in systems can complement IPAWS by allowing residents to register for targeted notifications. These systems, which can be run by communities or local agencies, face their own challenges. People must know they exist, be willing to share phone numbers, and remember to update their information. Social media platforms add another communication channel, with emergency managers increasingly using social media to share updates, though these primarily reach only certain demographics, and not everyone checks social media regularly.
The key is redundancy through multiple communication channels. Research has found that multiple warnings are needed for people to develop a sense of urgency, and the most effective strategy is simple: Tell another person what’s going on. Interpersonal networks help ensure the message is delivered and can prompt actions. As former Natural Hazards Center Director Dennis Mileti observed: The wireless emergency alerts system “is fast. Mama is faster.”
A Colorado news report explains why emergency alerts have to be tailored for local needs and conditions and use multiple communication channels.
Warning fatigue
Professionals from the National Weather Service, FEMA and the Federal Communications Commission, along with researchers, are increasingly concerned about warning fatigue – when people tune out warnings because they receive too many of them.
However, there is limited empirical data about how and when people experience warning fatigue – or about its impact.
This creates a double bind: Officials have an obligation to warn people at risk, yet frequent warnings can desensitize recipients. More research is needed to determine the behavioral implications of and differences between warnings that people perceive as irrelevant to their immediate geographic area versus those that genuinely don’t apply to them. This distinction becomes especially critical when people might drive into flooded areas outside their immediate vicinity.
The key to effective emergency communication is to develop messages that resonate with specific audiences and build community networks that complement technological systems. We are now studying how to do this effectively in the United States and internationally. It’s also important to apply behavioral insights to the design of every level of communication warning systems. And it’s important to remember to test not just the technology but the entire end-to-end system, from threat identification to community response.
Finally, maintaining true redundancy across multiple communication channels is an important strategy when trying to reach as many people as possible. Technology supports human decision-making, but it doesn’t replace it.
Keri K. Stephens’ research reported here has been externally funded by the Texas Water Development Board, Texas General Land Office, and the National Science Foundation. Results published are peer-reviewed, and opinions reflect those of the author, not the funder.
Hamilton Bean has earned research funding from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Results published are peer-reviewed, and opinions reflect those of the author, not the funder.
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany underscored their long-term commitment to build healthcare capacity and break infertility stigma in Maldives during their high-level meeting with H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, held at the Official Residence of the President. The discussion led by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It was an honor to meet my dear sister H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and officially appointing her to be the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During our meeting we discussed our joint programs and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local doctors. We also discussed about addressing critical social and health issues in the country including breaking the infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence, women empowerment, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.”
H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. We discussed our joint programs. I am happy to share that we have already started providing scholarships for our local doctors in Fertility and Embryology training. These are two very critical specialties for our country. We also plan to enroll our doctors in other specialties, further underscoring our partnership with the Merck Foundation to enhance healthcare capacity in the Maldives.”
Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT shared, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program. Till today, we have provided more than 2270 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties.”
During their visit to the Maldives, the Chairman and CEO of Merck Foundation also met with Hon. Mr. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, Minister of Health, where they discussed scaling up the scholarship programs in alignment with the country’s healthcare needs.
Through their Community Awareness Programs, Merck Foundation is also closely working with The First Lady of Maldives to address a wide range of critical social issues like breaking infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence and women empowerment, and important health issues including promoting the importance of healthy lifestyle, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.
Merck Foundation will be soon conducting their Health Media Training together with The First Lady of Maldives for the Maldivian journalists, to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift and be the voice of the voiceless. The training program will be addressed by prominent Medical and Media experts.
Moreover, Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives has also launched their 8 important Merck Foundation Awards for Maldivian Media, Musicians & Singers, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, and students & new potential talents in these fields.
“I invite the young talents from the Maldives to share their entries with us,” added Senator Dr. Kelej.
Details of the Awards:
Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
Merck Foundation Film Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
Merck Foundation Song Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension”2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at: submit@merck-foundation.com
For information on the awards, please visit our website:www.Merck-Foundation.com
– on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669 mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
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About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4lH9762), X (https://apo-opa.co/4kuBVNZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3Imd8hQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/466FO8w), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4nOfvu8) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/44MJeel).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today announced resources and flexibilities to support individuals and health care providers affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding in Texas.
Following a Major Disaster Declaration by President Donald J. Trump on July 6 and a Public Health Emergency (PHE) declaration by Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on July 8, CMS is working with Texas and federal partners to ensure continued access to care.
Four members of an organised crime network, which stole more than one million pounds worth of jewellery from London’s South Asian community, have been jailed for a total of 17 years and one month.
Three of the four men were caught red-handed by the Met as a result of a one-year, intelligence-led operation that spanned London and the Home Counties.
Jerry O’Donnell, 33, Barney Maloney, Quey Adger, 23 and Patrick Ward, 43, were sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 11 July. They previously pleaded guilty to burglary.
In July 2024, O’Donnell, Maloney, Adger were detained while carrying stolen jewellery.
CCTV enquiries identified their car as being involved in multiple burglaries. Specialist officers acted quickly and pursued the vehicle while on the move, leading to a forced stop. The trio were arrested after officers found hundreds of items inside, including a gold wedding ring, gold necklaces and a solid gold hair pin.
Ward was arrested separately at his home address shortly after. Intelligence obtained during the investigation identified him as a member of the organised crime network with close links to the three men previously arrested.
Detective Sergeant Lee Davison, who led the Met’s proactive investigation, said: “This comprehensive operation enabled us to disrupt a key part of an organised crime network. As a result of the work conducted by specialist officers, a handful of serial criminals will now spend a substantial amount of time behind bars.
“While the monetary value of this crime is staggering, its sentimental worth is priceless. I hope these men spend a lot of time reflecting on the impact their actions have had on the community.”
Over the course of the investigation, Met officers also carried out a warrant at a jewellery shop in Hatton Garden where they believed stolen gold was being melted down and sold. There they recovered £50,000 in cash and eight kilos of jewellery.
The jewellery included items such as a World War One officer’s Rolex, a gold locket containing old pictures, an engraved gold ring, and a gold pocket watch from Harlow Bros Ltd.
While the most identifiable items were reunited with their rightful owners, after dozens of people came forward following a media appeal in March, detectives are still looking to identify the owners of the remaining jewellery and urge anyone who may have been a victim to contact police.
The items were stolen between December 2023 and July 2024 from properties across south London, including Croydon, Sutton and Wandsworth – as well as counties including Surrey, Sussex and Essex. These burglaries largely targeted the South Asian community throughout the capital.
Anyone who may have been a victim can contact the Met on 101, quoting 01/1113701/24.
Jerry O’Donnell, 33 (01.11.1991) of Old Maidstone Road, Sidcup was jailed for five years and three months.
Barney Maloney, 19 (13.10.2005) of Hovefields Avenue, Wickford was imprisoned for five years and three months.
Quey Adger, 23 (01.03.2001) of Hovefields Avenue, Wickford was jailed for five years and seven months.
Patrick Ward, 43 (10.06.1981) of Balham Grove, Balham was imprisoned for two years and five months.
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02)sent a letter to the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) urging the administration to release $6.9 billion in congressionally approved federal education funds currently being unlawfully withheld from states and local school districts.
The freeze, announced by the Department of Education on June 30, 2025, will hit low-income students, English learners, and rural communities hardest. New Mexico’s public schools are projected to lose more than $44 million in total withheld funding, with New Mexico’s second Congressional district expected to lose over $21.6 million alone.Albuquerque Public Schools, the largest school district in the state, could lose up to $12 million in critical federal funding.
“This funding was already approved by Congress, period. There’s no excuse for it to be sitting on the sidelines,” said Vasquez. “Every day of delay means fewer teachers, fewer resources, and more stress on students, particularly those who need the most support: our rural kids, English language learners, and children from low-income families. As someone who got a lot of help learning English at public school as a kid, I know firsthand that New Mexican students and schools will suffer from this kind of funding uncertainty.”
The letter calls on the Administration to comply with the law and disburse the funding allocated for:
Supporting Effective Instruction: These funds help schools recruit, train, and retain strong teachers and principals, especially in low-income and underserved areas. It also supports smaller class sizes and teacher mentorship — tools proven to boost student achievement.
English Language Acquisition:These funds help schools teach English to students who are still learning the language, while supporting their success in all subjects. It also helps schools expand evidence-based language instruction.
Student Support and Academic Enrichment Program:These funds provide programs that give students access to a well-rounded education, safe and healthy learning environments, and technology that boosts academic achievement and digital skills.
Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers: These funds support after-school and summer programs that help students in high-poverty, low-performing schools catch up in reading and math, explore hands-on learning activities, and access support outside the classroom.
Migrant Education: These funds support migratory children in reaching challenging academic standards and graduating from high school.
Adult Basic and Literacy Education State Grants: This funding helps adults earn a diploma, improve workplace skills, and prepare for high-demand careers.
“This affects Albuquerque Public Schools and the services we can provide to our students who need it most. APS receives close to $11.8 million in Title II, Title III and Title IV funding and uses that money for everything from providing services to English language learners and newcomer students to paying for a number of positions, including resource teachers and some counselors and nurses. The decision to withhold that funding is forcing us to put a hold on all expenditures and notify employees while we look for reserves to help us as we plan for the upcoming school year,” said Daniel Manzano, Executive Director of Board Services and Government Affairs for Albuquerque Public Schools.
“We also use these funds to provide high-quality, standards-aligned training that strengthens instructional practices in literacy, mathematics, and other core content areas,” he added, “… all of which is vital as we work to improve academic outcomes for all our students.”
Vasquez is committed to holding the administration accountable and ensuring New Mexico schools receive the investments they are owed. He recently cosponsored the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act, which would restore over $9 million in funding for schools near federal forests that do not have access to the same amount of property tax revenue to support education that urban schools do. He also previously joined a letter opposing efforts to dismantle the Department of Education — all moves that would disproportionately harm students in rural, Tribal and underserved areas.
You can find the full text of the letter below or at the link here:
Secretary McMahon and Director Vought,
We write to request more information about your decision to illegally withhold nearly $7 billion dollars of funding for K-12 schools and adult education from states and local school districts around the country and to insist that this funding be immediately released. Without these funds, schools are facing difficult and unnecessary decisions on programs for students and teachers.
On June 30, 2025, just one day before these funds become available for obligation, the Department notified states that they would not receive these funds by July 1 and that “[g]iventhe change in Administrations, the Department is reviewing the FY 2025 funding … and decisions have not yet been made concerning submissions and awards for this upcoming academic year.” This late-breaking decision, which provided no timeline for which states can expect a final decision, is leaving states financially vulnerable and forcing many to make last minute decisions about how to proceed with K12 education in this upcoming school year. The education funding withheld by the Administration reflects resources provided by Congress that are designed to help schools with a variety of issues, including student learning and achievement, after-school programs, and teacher training. Additionally, education funding provided by Congress to help with adult education and literacy is also being withheld.
This unnecessary delay of education funding, which accounts for at least 10 percent of federal K-12 funding in every state, is alarming parents, local elected officials, and education agencies. It is disrupting school and district planning, jeopardizing the education of millions of students, and is already resulting in layoffs as well as program delays and cancellations. Further, it is causing concern to adult education programs that are faced with similar decisions without immediate access to expected funding.
Accordingly, please provide responses to the following questions no later than July 15, 2025.
When will the Administration finish its review and release the funding provided by Congress to states to use for the school year beginning next month?
Has the Administration done any outreach or offered any sort of support for state and local education agencies to assist them and their partners in navigating this period of uncertainty?
If the Administration knew it wanted to review these funds, why didn’t this review start earlier in the year? Was the review or the timely release of funds affected by the lack of staff at the Department, which is a direct result of the reductions in force (RIFs) executed by the Administration?
There is no legitimate reason why any review of these programs should prevent the Administration from fulfilling its responsibility to the American people on time. No more excuses – follow the law and release the funding meant for our schools, teachers, and families.
We look forward to hearing from you and seeing these dollars allocated immediately.
The Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) hunt for GST fraudsters continues as four more individuals are sentenced following action of Operation Protego.
These recent sentencings reinforce the ATO’s unwavering commitment in investigating and holding all offenders to account.
ATO Deputy Commissioner and Serious Financial Crime Taskforce (SFCT) Chief John Ford said the ATO’s ability to detect and halt GST fraud is unwavering.
‘Our fraud detection and prevention capabilities are advanced thanks to partnerships, technologies, and risk models all working together to stay ahead of fraudsters and criminals,’ Mr Ford said.
Included in these sentencings are individuals who, at the time of offending, were current employees and contractors at the ATO. Once their involvement was identified, their employment ceased.
‘We expect all staff to act with the highest levels of integrity and these individuals violated the trust placed in them by the community.’
‘The community rightly expects all ATO staff to act with the highest levels of integrity. Those who do not meet our values have no place at the ATO,’ Mr Ford said.
Latest sentencing outcomes
Kim Orense was sentenced in Penrith District Court to 18 months’ imprisonment, to be released on recognizance after serving 10 months subject to conditions to be of good behaviour for 2 years and to accept the supervision and guidance of Community Corrections, for dealing in money or property that was and which Mr Orense believe to be the proceeds of indictable crime, contrary to subsection 400.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). Between October 2021 and April 2022, 14 false business activity statements (BAS) were lodged in Mr Orense’s name, which resulted in him receiving $214,011 in fraudulent GST refunds. He transferred these funds to other bank accounts or associates, including Abigail Ussher, his former partner, who has also been sentenced. A search warrant conducted in June 2022 at Mr Orense’s residence found no business records, invoices, tools or equipment, that would suggest he was carrying out a house repair business that he claimed.
Abigail Ussher was sentenced in the Penrith District Court to 12 months’ imprisonment, to be released on recognisance after serving 5 months subject to conditions to be of good behaviour for 2 years and to accept the supervision and guidance of Community Corrections, for dealing in money or property that was and which Ms Ussher believed to be the proceeds of indictable crime, contrary to subsection 400.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). In 2022, Ms Ussher lodged 3 original and 4 revised BAS and received $117,297 in refunds through an ABN she claimed was for a business that provided crime scene cleaning services. Upon receiving the funds, Ms Ussher transferred them to personal accounts, or other third parties. She transferred funds to Kim Orense, her former partner, who has also been sentenced. An investigation into Ms Ussher’s bank activity and a search warrant on her home concluded that she was not carrying out a business and therefore not entitled to the refunds she had claimed.
Former ATO employee Menuwarage Ranasinghe was sentenced at Adelaide Magistrates Court to 4 months’ imprisonment with an order that she be released immediately upon giving security by recognizance of $500 to comply with a condition that she must be of good behaviour for 18 months for three counts of the offence of obtaining a financial advantage by deception. Ms Ranasinghe lodged three BAS which misrepresented the creditable expenses incurred by her business and, as a result, obtained $16,056.00 in GST refunds.
Former ATO contractor Baby Dee Zearwie was sentenced at Melbourne County Court to 8 months’ imprisonment, and immediately released on a two-year recognizance release order for 1 count of obtaining a financial advantage by deception by joint commission and 1 count of obtaining financial advantage by deception. Ms Zearwie obtained $87,649.60 in fraudulent GST refunds. She was also ordered to make reparations of $23,709.43.
These matters were prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Cth)(CDPP) following a referral from the ATO.
You can confidentially report suspected tax crime or fraud to us by making a tip-off online or calling 1800 060 062.
For more information about Operation Protego including recent sentencings, visit ato.gov.au/protego.
Notes to journalists
As part of Operation Protego, the ATO has applied treatment against more than 57,000 alleged offenders. Those involved in this fraud have already been handed in the order of $300 million in penalties and interest.
As at 30 June 2025, 122 people have been convicted with a range of sentencing outcomes, including jail terms of up to 7 years and 6 months and with orders made to restrain real property.
The ATO has finalised 64 investigations and referred 54 briefs of evidence to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. The figures do not include investigations into former ATO staff.
The country’s gold reserves grew by $342 million during the week, reaching $84.846 billion, according to the latest weekly data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday.
Along with gold, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) increased by $39 million to $18.868 billion.
Additionally, India’s reserve position with the IMF rose by $107 million to $4.735 billion, the data showed.
This uptick in reserves comes at a time when both domestic and global bullion markets are witnessing a sharp rally.
India’s forex reserves stood at $699.736 billion for the week ended July 4, the RBI said. In the previous reporting week, overall reserves had jumped by $4.849 billion to $702.784 billion. The reserves had touched an all-time high of $704.885 billion at the end of September 2024.
Expressed in dollar terms, the foreign currency assets include the effect of appreciation or depreciation of non-US units like the euro, pound, and yen held in the foreign exchange reserves.
On Friday, gold and silver prices in India rose significantly, with silver prices hitting a new all-time high.
According to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), the price of 24-carat gold climbed by Rs 465 to Rs 97,511 per 10 grams, up from Rs 97,046 a day earlier.
The price of 22-carat gold rose to Rs 89,320 per 10 grams, while 18-carat gold reached Rs 73,133 per 10 grams.
Meanwhile, silver prices surged by Rs 2,356 in the last 24 hours, setting a new record of Rs 1,10,290 per kilogram, breaking the previous all-time high of Rs 1,09,550 recorded on June 18.
Globally, precious metals were also trading higher. Gold rose 1.01 per cent to $3,358 per ounce, while silver jumped 2.92 per cent to $38.40 per ounce.
Analysts point to global economic uncertainty and fresh concerns over trade tariffs as the main reasons for the shift toward safe-haven assets like gold.
The country’s gold reserves grew by $342 million during the week, reaching $84.846 billion, according to the latest weekly data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday.
Along with gold, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) increased by $39 million to $18.868 billion.
Additionally, India’s reserve position with the IMF rose by $107 million to $4.735 billion, the data showed.
This uptick in reserves comes at a time when both domestic and global bullion markets are witnessing a sharp rally.
India’s forex reserves stood at $699.736 billion for the week ended July 4, the RBI said. In the previous reporting week, overall reserves had jumped by $4.849 billion to $702.784 billion. The reserves had touched an all-time high of $704.885 billion at the end of September 2024.
Expressed in dollar terms, the foreign currency assets include the effect of appreciation or depreciation of non-US units like the euro, pound, and yen held in the foreign exchange reserves.
On Friday, gold and silver prices in India rose significantly, with silver prices hitting a new all-time high.
According to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), the price of 24-carat gold climbed by Rs 465 to Rs 97,511 per 10 grams, up from Rs 97,046 a day earlier.
The price of 22-carat gold rose to Rs 89,320 per 10 grams, while 18-carat gold reached Rs 73,133 per 10 grams.
Meanwhile, silver prices surged by Rs 2,356 in the last 24 hours, setting a new record of Rs 1,10,290 per kilogram, breaking the previous all-time high of Rs 1,09,550 recorded on June 18.
Globally, precious metals were also trading higher. Gold rose 1.01 per cent to $3,358 per ounce, while silver jumped 2.92 per cent to $38.40 per ounce.
Analysts point to global economic uncertainty and fresh concerns over trade tariffs as the main reasons for the shift toward safe-haven assets like gold.
The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is alerting the public that a stray cat found in the area of Newell Court in Coventry tested positive for rabies on July 10. The cat was tested after scratching a person in that area on July 7.
Rabies is a fatal disease if it is not treated before the onset of symptoms. Anyone who may have had direct contact with the cat should immediately call RIDOH’s Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 401-222-2577 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.) or 401-276-8046 after hours so a nurse can assess your exposure and determine if you should receive treatment. If you think your pet may have come in contact with this cat, call RIDOH, your local Animal Control Officer, and your pet’s veterinarian.
The person who was initially scratched by the cat and a second person who had contact with the cat have started treatment with post-exposure prophylaxis.
The rabies virus infects the central nervous system. If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies treatment must be started as soon as possible after exposure and before symptoms appear.
All dogs, cats, and ferrets are required by State law to have current vaccination against rabies. Vaccinating pets prevents them from getting rabies and prevents people from becoming exposed to rabies through their pets.
RIDOH makes the following recommendations to prevent rabies:
– Make sure all dogs, cats, and ferrets are up to date on rabies vaccination.
– Avoid all contact with and do not feed stray or free-roaming domestic animals.
– Avoid all contact with and do not feed wild animals.
– Do not feed your animals outdoors, as this will attract other animals. This is especially dangerous when feeding large numbers of free-roaming cats.
– Protect your pets by always maintaining control; walk dogs on a leash or let them play in a fenced yard, and do not let pets wander unsupervised.
– Report all animal bites to your city/town’s animal control officer.
– Securely cover all garbage cans so wild animals cannot scavenge for food.
