NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: Top New Jersey Producer Rejoins Rate from CrossCountry Mortgage

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rate, a leading fintech company, proudly announces that Chad Barris, one of the country’s top-producing mortgage originators, has returned to the company.

    A 20-year industry veteran and Scotsman Guide Top 1% Mortgage Originator, Barris rejoins Rate after a seven-year tenure at CrossCountry Mortgage, reaffirming the company’s unmatched ability to support top-tier loan officers in delivering excellent service to homebuyers.

    Barris brings decades of experience, consistently ranking among the nation’s highest performers thanks to his commitment to client service, market insight, and relationship-first approach. With a proven history of helping individuals and families achieve homeownership, his return signals Rate’s continued draw for elite talent seeking long-term growth and results.

    “After a meaningful seven-year chapter with my previous group, I’m excited to take the next step in my career—one that aligns with my goals for growth and development,” said Barris. “I’m deeply grateful for the experiences and relationships I’ve built along the way. Change is never easy, but it often leads to breakthroughs. I’m ready to grow in new ways and thrilled to begin this next chapter at Rate.”

    “We are thrilled to announce that Chad has rejoined Rate!” said Jeff Nelson, Chief Production Officer, East at Rate. “As a Scotsman Guide Top 1% Originator with over 20 years of mortgage experience, Chad brings unparalleled expertise. His success is rooted in exceptional customer service and helping clients achieve their dreams of homeownership. Welcome back to the Rate family, Chad!”

    Rate continues to attract and retain the industry’s best by offering a platform purpose-built for originator success, combining AI technology, streamlined operations, and an unmatched support system. The company’s national footprint and infrastructure enable loan officers to scale their business and provide borrowers with a modern, efficient lending experience.

    About Rate

    Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans, refinances, and home equity loans. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Recent honors and awards include: a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 by Fortune; Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for First-Time Homebuyers by Forbes; a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for FHA Loans, Home Equity Loans, and Lower Credit Scores by NerdWallet; Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for Digital Experience and Down Payment Assistance by Motley Fool; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years. Visit rate.com for more information.

    Media Contact:
    press@rate.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GraniteShares Announces Forward Split of PTIR

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GraniteShares has announced it will execute a forward share split for the GraniteShares 2x Long PLTR (the “Fund”). The total market value of the shares outstanding will not be affected as a result of these splits.

    After the close of the markets on July 08, 2025 (the “Payable Date”), the Fund will effect a forward split of its issued and outstanding shares as follows:

    As a result of the share split, shareholders of the Fund will receive fifteen shares for each share held as indicated in the table above. Accordingly, the number of the Fund’s issued and outstanding shares will increase by the approximate percentage indicated above.

    The ticker and CUSIP will not be affected by the transaction.

    The share split will apply to shareholders of record as of the close of the NASDAQ Stock Market (the “NASDAQ”) on July 08, 2025 (the “Record Date”), payable after the close of the NASDAQ on the Payable Date. Shares of the Funds will begin trading on the NASDAQ on a split-adjusted basis on July 09, 2025 (the “Ex-Date”). On the Ex-Date, the opening market value of the Fund’s issued and outstanding shares, and thus a shareholder’s investment value, will not be affected by the share split. However, the per share net asset value (“NAV”) and opening market price on the Ex-Date will be approximately one-fifteenth. The table below illustrates the effect of a hypothetical fifteen-for-one split on a shareholder’s investment.

    15-for-1 forward split

    Period # of shares owned Hypothetical NAV Total Market Value
    Pre-Split 10 US$ 300 US$ 3,000
    Post-Split 150 US$ 20 US$ 3,000


    About GraniteShares

    GraniteShares is an independent ETF issuer headquartered in New York City. GraniteShares offers the following leveraged single stock ETFs:

    ETF Name Ticker Underlying Stock Management Fee/Total Expense with fee waiver(1) /Total Expense without fee waiver(3)
    GraniteShares 2x Long AAPL Daily ETF AAPB Apple 0.99%/1.15%/1.65%
    GraniteShares 2x Long AMD Daily ETF AMDL AMD 0.99%/1.15%/6.04%
    GraniteShares 2x Long AMZN Daily ETF AMZZ Amazon.com 0.99%/1.15%/2.28%
    GraniteShares 2x Long BABA Daily ETF BABX Alibaba 0.99%/1.15%/1.52%
    GraniteShares 2x Long COIN Daily ETF CONL Coinbase 0.99%/1.15%/1.12%
    GraniteShares 2x Short COIN Daily ETF CONI Coinbase 0.99%/1.15%/1.12%
    GraniteShares 2x Long CRWD Daily ETF CRWL CrowdStrike 1.30%/1.50%/2.30%
    GraniteShares 2x Long DELL Daily ETF DLLL Dell Technologies 1.30%/1.50%/2.30%
    GraniteShares 2x Long INTC Daily ETF INTW Intel 1.30%/1.50%/2.30%
    GraniteShares 2x Long IONQ Daily ETF IONL IONQ 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long LCID Daily ETF LCDL Lucid 0.99%/1.15%/1.43%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MARA Daily ETF MRAL MARA Holding 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long META Daily ETF FBL Meta Platform 0.99%/1.15%/1.22%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MRVL Daily ETF MVLL Marvell Technology 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MSFT Daily ETF MSFL Microsoft 0.99%/1.15%/3.55%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MSTR Daily ETF MSTP MicroStrategy 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Short MSTR Daily ETF MSDD MicroStrategy 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MU Daily ETF MULL Micron Technology 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long NVDA Daily ETF NVDL NVIDIA 0.99%/1.15%/1.06%
    GraniteShares 2x Short NVDA Daily ETF NVD NVIDIA 0.99%/1.15%/1.73
    GraniteShares 2x Long PLTR Daily ETF PTIR Palantir 0.99%/1.15%/1.18%
    GraniteShares 2x Long QCOM Daily ETF QCML Qualcomm 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long RDDT Daily ETF RDTL Reddit 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long RIVN Daily ETF RVNL Rivian 0.99%/1.15%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long SMCI Daily ETF SMCL Super Micro Computer 1.30%/1.50%/2.30%
    GraniteShares 1.25x Long TSLA Daily ETF TSL Tesla 0.99%/1.15%/1.98%
    GraniteShares 2x Long TSLA Daily ETF TSLR Tesla 0.99%/1.15%/1.63%
    GraniteShares 2x Short TSLA Daily ETF TSDD Tesla 0.99%/1.15%/2.59%
    GraniteShares 2x Long TSM Daily ETF TSML Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing 1.30%/1.50%/2.30%
    GraniteShares 2x Long Uber Daily ETF UBRL Uber 0.99%/1.15%/1.18%
    GraniteShares 2x Long VRT Daily ETF VRTL Vertiv 1.30%/1.50%/1.50%

    In addition, GraniteShares’ ETF suite includes the following ETFs:

    (1)   GraniteShares Advisors LLC has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses (exclusive of any (i) interest, (ii) brokerage fees and commission, (iii) acquired fund fees and expenses, (iv) fees and expenses associated with instruments in other collective investment vehicles or derivative instruments (including for example options and swap fees and expenses), (v) interest and dividend expense on short sales, (vi) taxes, (vii) other fees related to underlying investments (such as option fees and expenses or swap fees and expenses), (viii) expenses incurred in connection with any merger or reorganization or (ix) extraordinary expenses such as litigation) will not exceed 1.15%. This agreement is effective until December 31, 2025, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. GraniteShares Advisors LLC may request recoupment of previously waived fees and paid expenses from the Fund for three years from the date such fees and expenses were waived or paid, if such reimbursement will not cause the Fund’s total expense ratio to exceed the expense limitation in place at the time of the waiver and/or expense payment and the expense limitation in place at the time of the recoupment.

    (2)   Estimated total cost in the absence of fee waiver or reimbursement.

    Contact Information:
    William Rhind, CEO
    GraniteShares Inc
    +1 646 876 5049
    william.rhind@graniteshares.com

    Important Information

    Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the GraniteShares funds (the “Funds”) carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Funds, please call (844) 476 8747, or visit the website at www.graniteshares.com. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

    To obtain a prospectus for BAR, please visit
    https://www.graniteshares.com/Documents/25/Prospectus-GraniteShares-Gold-Trust.pdf

    To obtain a prospectus for PLTM, please visit
    https://graniteshares.com/media/gwrbh3ah/pltm_prospectus.pdf

    To obtain a prospectus for COMB, please visit
    https://graniteshares.com/media/4crf2x4e/graniteshares-etf-trust-comb-summary-prospectus.pdf

    Except as described above regarding the liquidation of the ETFs, shares of the Funds may be sold during trading hours on the exchange through any brokerage account, shares are not individually redeemable, and shares may only be redeemed directly from a Fund by Authorized Participants. There can be no assurance that an active trading market for shares in a Fund will develop or be maintained. Shares may trade above or below NAV. Brokerage commissions will apply.

    Fund Risks

    Multiple funds have a limited operating history of less than a year and risks associated with a new fund. The Leveraged and Daily Inverse Funds are not suitable for all investors. The investment program of the funds is speculative, entails substantial risks and include asset classes and investment techniques not employed by most ETFs and mutual funds. Investments in the ETFs are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) or daily inverse (-1X and -2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day. The funds do not directly invest in the underlying stock.

    The Funds seek daily inverse or leveraged investment results and are intended to be used as short-term trading vehicles. Each Fund with “Long” in its name attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the respective long leveraged multiple of the performance of an underlying stock (each a Leveraged Long Fund). Each Fund with “Short” in its name attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the inverse (or opposite) multiple of the performance of an underlying stock (each an Inverse Fund).

    Investors should note that the Long Leveraged Funds and the Daily Inverse Funds pursue daily leveraged investment objectives and daily inverse investment objectives (respectively), which means that the fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage and inverse strategies because the fund magnifies the performance of their underlying security. The volatility of the underlying security may affect a Funds’ return as much as, or more than, the return of the underlying security.

    For the Leveraged Long Funds because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day.

    For the Daily Inverse Funds because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from -100% and 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance decreases over a period longer than a single day.

    Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the ETF. There can be no guarantee that an active trading market for ETF shares will develop or be maintained, or that their listing will continue or remain unchanged. Buying or selling ETF shares on an exchange may require the payment of brokerage commissions and frequent trading may incur brokerage costs that detract significantly from investment returns.

    An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The Fund is non-diversified and includes risks associated with the Fund concentrating its investments in a particular industry, sector, or geographic region which can result in increased volatility. The use of derivatives such as futures contracts and swaps are subject to market risks that may cause their price to fluctuate over time. Risks of the Fund include Effects of Compounding and Market Volatility Risk, Inverse Risk, Market Risk, Counterparty Risk, Rebalancing Risk, Intra-Day Investment Risk, Daily Index Correlation Risk, Other Investment Companies (including ETFs) Risk, and risks specific to the securities of the Underlying Stock and the sector in which it operates. These and other risks can be found in the prospectus.

    Investing in physical commodities, including through commodity-linked derivative instruments such as Commodity Futures, Commodity Swaps, as well as other commodity-linked instruments, is speculative and can be extremely volatile and may not be suitable for all investors. Market prices of commodities may fluctuate rapidly based on numerous factors, including: changes in supply and demand relationships (whether actual, perceived, anticipated, unanticipated or unrealized); weather; agriculture; trade; domestic and foreign political and economic events and policies; diseases; pestilence; technological developments; currency exchange rate fluctuations; and monetary and other governmental policies, action and inaction.

    A liquid secondary market may not exist for the types of commodity-linked derivative instruments the Fund buys, which may make it difficult for the Fund to sell them at an acceptable price. The Fund is new with no operating history. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Fund will grow to or maintain an economically viable size, in which case it could ultimately liquidate.

    Derivatives may be more sensitive to changes in market conditions and may amplify risks and losses.

    This information is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of any Funds to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Please consult your tax advisor about the tax consequences of an investment in Fund shares, including the possible application of foreign, state, and local tax laws. You could lose money by investing in the ETFs. There can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Funds will be achieved. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program.

    The Fund is distributed by ALPS Distributors, Inc, which is not affiliated with GraniteShares or any of its affiliates ©2025 GraniteShares Inc. All rights reserved. GraniteShares, GraniteShares Trusts, and the GraniteShares logo are registered and unregistered trademarks of GraniteShares Inc., in the United States and elsewhere. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

    Gregory FCA for GraniteShares
    Kathleen Elicker, 484-889-6597
    graniteshares@gregoryfca.com

    Important Information

    Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Funds, please call (844) 476 8747 or visit www.graniteshares.com. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

    The investment program of the funds is speculative, entails substantial risks and include asset classes and investment techniques not employed by more traditional mutual funds.

    PRINCIPAL FUND RISKS (see the Prospectus for more information)

    GraniteShares Leveraged Long and Inverse Daily ETFs are not suitable for all investors. The funds seek daily leveraged investment results and are intended to be used as short-term trading vehicles. The funds pursue daily leveraged investment objectives, which means that the funds are riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage because the fund magnifies the performance of the underlying security. The volatility of the underlying security may affect the fund return as much as, or more than, the return of the underlying security. Investors who do not understand the Funds, or do not intend to actively manage their funds and monitor their investments, should not buy the Funds. The Funds are designed to be utilized only by traders and sophisticated investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily inverse and/or leveraged investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage and/or short sales and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Funds will lose money if the underlying stock’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Funds will lose money even if the underlying stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day. The Funds track the price of a single stock rather than an index, eliminating the benefits of diversification that most mutual funds and exchange-traded funds offer. Although the Funds will be listed and traded on an exchange, an investment in a Fund may not be suitable for every investor. The Funds pose risks that are unique and complex.

    This information is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of any Funds to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction.

    THE FUNDS ARE DISTRIBUTED BY ALPS DISTRIBIUTORS, INC. GRANITESHRES IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ALPS DISTRIBUTORS, INC

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 4th Eurasian Economic Forum has begun its work in Minsk

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    MINSK, June 26 (Xinhua) — The 4th Eurasian Economic Forum opened in Minsk on Thursday. Its participants will discuss issues of Eurasian integration. Key topics include development of industry and agriculture, regional cooperation, digital transformation, the potential of artificial intelligence, integration of labor markets, and customs control.

    The forum is being held during Belarus’s presidency of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and the main topic is “Strategy for Eurasian Economic Integration: Results and Prospects.” The event will last for two days. In addition to the plenary session, there will be 35 sectional sessions. More than 2,700 representatives of business and political circles, international organizations and the media from more than 30 countries are taking part in the forum.

    On the first day, the forum was attended by the presidents of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Russia Vladimir Putin, Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan joined the meeting via video link.

    In his speech, A. Lukashenko outlined the contours of the updated version of the Eurasian Economic Union. “When the treaty on the union was signed, 2025 was defined as a kind of horizon, beyond which a new stage in the activities of the union would begin. And today we have every reason to present individual elements of the union 2.0. In a situation of global turbulence, it is important not to trail behind events, but to influence the global agenda in a positive way, to have well-thought-out models for responding to external challenges,” the Belarusian leader said.

    A. Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that the EAEU GDP is only about 4 percent of the world GDP. “What does this mean? That the potential of our integration association is not fully utilized. And over the next 10 years, we must at least double this figure, giving new impetus to integration,” the Belarusian president emphasized and added that some of the most important indicators in the EAEU’s activities have not been met. In many ways, according to him, the solution to these problems depends on the Eurasian Economic Commission and the heads of the member states of the association.

    The Eurasian Economic Union was created in 2015. The union includes Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia. The EAEU was created for the purpose of comprehensive modernization, cooperation and increasing the competitiveness of national economies and creating conditions for stable development in the interests of raising the standard of living of the population of the member states. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Over 10 years, the EAEU has established itself as one of the key centers of global development — Russian President

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    MINSK, June 26 (Xinhua) — In the 10 years since the formation of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), it has established itself as one of the key centers of global development, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in Minsk on Thursday at the 4th Eurasian Economic Forum.

    “On January 1, the Eurasian Union turned 10 years old. During this time, it has certainly grown stronger and established itself as a successful integration association. The overall economic potential has significantly strengthened, and the EAEU has rightfully established itself as one of the key centers of global development,” V. Putin noted.

    He noted that the combined GDP of the EAEU member states has increased from $1.6 trillion to $2.6 trillion over 10 years. The EAEU’s trade turnover with other countries has increased by 38 percent and amounts to $800 billion. “This is a completely comparable volume of trade between the world’s leading economic powers. And the total volume of mutual trade within the union has doubled to $97 billion. Moreover, 93 percent of settlements between the EAEU states are conducted in national currencies,” the Russian leader said.

    According to V. Putin, the EAEU countries have also achieved significant success in aligning national payment systems and bank cards. The union’s participants are jointly making efforts to integrate the financial infrastructure. The concept of forming a common financial market for the union has been approved. The Eurasian Development Bank and the Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development have been created.

    The Russian President recalled that as of the beginning of this year, the Eurasian Stabilization Fund had accumulated about $9 billion, which, if necessary, could be used to support the budgets of the EAEU countries. The Eurasian Bank has accumulated investment portfolios in the amount of $16.5 billion. It has financed the construction and modernization of power facilities in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, and the creation of agricultural production in Armenia. In Russia, the Eurasian Bank allocated funds for the construction of the Western High-Speed Diameter in St. Petersburg and helped develop Pulkovo Airport. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Paving the Way for States to Ban Planned Parenthood from Seeing Medicaid Patients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement on the Supreme Court ruling that paves the way for states to ban Medicaid recipients from getting health care at a Planned Parenthood clinic.
    “Women in Nevada and across the nation rely on Planned Parenthood for lifesaving health care – including cancer screenings, pregnancy testing, and other reproductive care services,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m outraged that at a time when Congressional Republicans are looking to kick people off of Medicaid, the Supreme Court is opening the floodgates for anti-choice extremists to ban Medicaid recipients from accessing care at Planned Parenthood. This terrible decision will put women at risk, and it’s why I’ll keep fighting to fully restore women’s reproductive freedom.”
    Senator Rosen has been a fighter for women’s reproductive rights, taking action to safeguard access to essential health care for women. This week, she helped introduce the Women’s Health Protection Act to enshrine Roe protections in federal law and restore women’s reproductive freedom. Earlier this year, Senator Rosen joined Senate colleagues in introducing the Right to Contraception Act, aimed at federally guaranteeing the right to obtain and use contraceptives and shielding providers who prescribe and offer them.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Frost Introduce Legislation to Decriminalize Homelessness

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Maxwell Frost (FL-10) are introducing legislation on the one-year anniversary of the disastrous City of Grants Pass v. Johnson decision, which allows cities to criminalize homelessness. The Housing Not Handcuffs Act aims to prohibit the criminalization of homeless persons on public lands when there is nowhere else to go. 

    “Every single person in the richest country in the world should be able to have a roof over their head and a safe place to sleep, it’s that simple,” said Jayapal. “There is nowhere in this country where you can pay rent on a minimum wage salary. By criminalizing aspects of homelessness, cities and states across this country are only creating greater barriers for people to access housing — something that is already far too scarce. Fining people who already can’t afford to live makes no sense and will only result in longer-term homelessness.”

    “Since the Grants Pass decision, cities across the country have passed nearly 220 bills to criminalize homelessness, including in my own district. These policies don’t solve homelessness instead they dehumanize our unhoused, saddle them with criminal records, and make it even harder for them to find stable housing. It’s a vicious cycle that the Housing Not Handcuffs Act seeks to end,” said Rep. Maxwell Frost. “At a time when the cost of living is at an all-time high and Trump’s Big Ugly Bill will only help the rich get richer and the working poor get poorer— we’re fighting to make sure everyone has access to safe, decent, and affordable housing, not handcuffs.”

    In 2024, homelessness increased by 18 percent nationwide, with a record high of 771,480 people experiencing homelessness. At the same time, there is a nationwide shortage of 200,000 shelter beds and a shortage of 7.1 million affordable and available rental homes. 

    Since the Grants Pass ruling, over 260 anti-homeless laws have been passed by cities and states. Criminalizing homelessness creates greater barriers to accessing housing. Typically, these punishments come with fines, which create further financial strain on people who can already not afford the basics, and may create a criminal record, making it more difficult to get a job or apply for housing. 

    The Housing Not Handcuffs Act will ensure that people who are homeless cannot be criminally or civilly punished for:

    • Living on federal lands unless safe, decent, accessible shelter is available;
    • Asking for or sharing food, water, money, or other donations in public places;
    • Praying, meditating, or practicing religion in public spaces;
    • Occupying a lawfully parked motor vehicle;
    • Storing their possessions and enjoying privacy in their personal property to the same degree as property in a private dwelling.

    The legislation is sponsored by Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Jr (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07).

    It is also endorsed by A Way Home America; American Civil Liberties Union; Catalyst Montana; Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund; Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO); Equal Justice Under Law ; Fines & Fees Justice Center; Fund for Empowerment; Funders Together to End Homelessness; Health Students Taking Action Together (H-STAT); Homeless Action Center; Homeless and Housing Coalition of Kentucky; Homeless Rights Advocacy Project; Hygiene4All; Invisible People; Justice in Aging; Juvenile Law Center; Kairos Center for Religions, Rights and Social Justice; Law Enforcement Action Partnership; Legal Action Center; Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency; Miriam’s Kitchen; Mountain State Justice, Inc.; National Alliance to End Homelessness; National Coalition for the Homeless; National Harm Reduction Coalition; National Health Care for the Homeless Council; National HIV/AIDS Housing Coalition; National Homelessness Law Center, National Housing Law Project; National Low Income Housing Coalition; National Network to End Domestic Violence; National Vehicle Residency Collective ; One Love World ; Open Table Nashville ; People’s Action; Prison Policy Initiative; RESULTS Educational Fund; Sexual Violence Law Center; Southern Poverty Law Center; Street Books; Street Democracy; University of Miami School of Law Human Rights Clinic; VOCAL-TX; Voice of the Experienced; Voters Organized to Educate; Western Regional Advocacy Project.

    Issues: Housing, Transportation, & Infrastructure, Public Safety & Criminal Justice

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Semaglutide (Wegovy) for weight loss

    Source: PHARMAC

    New GLP-1 agonist (Wegovy) approved for use in New Zealand.

    Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) approved for use

    In June 2025, Medsafe approved semaglutide (Wegovy) for use in New Zealand for weight loss. Semaglutide has been approved to treat type 2 diabetes, under the name Ozempic, since 2023. 

    Datasheet for Wegovy | Medsafe [PDF](external link)

    Consumer information sheet for Wegovy | Medsafe [PDF](external link)

    Semaglutide is not funded

    Semaglutide is not funded by Pharmac for either type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) or weightloss (Wegovy). Pharmac has not received an application to fund semaglutide for either weightloss or type 2 diabetes. If we do receive an application, you can find it in our application tracker.

    Semaglutide applications in the application tracker(external link)

    Any application would need to go through our standard process. It would need to be prioritised against all other applications to fund medicines. 

    Pharmac’s funding process

    How much will semaglutide cost me?

    If a health care professional prescribes Wegovy for you, you will need to pay for it. Pharmac does not control this price. You would need to discuss with your pharmacy how much that might be. 

    Medicines funded to treat type 2 diabetes

    Both dulaglutide (Trulicity) and liraglutide (Victoza) are funded for people with type 2 diabetes, who meet the funding criteria. These medicines are also GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide.

    Funding had been restricted to help manage a supply issue, but supply has returned to normal so people can be started on these medicines to treat their diabetes. 

    If you have type 2 diabetes, talk to a health care professional whether one of these medicines might be right for you.

    Who to contact

    Your health care team are in the best place to discuss whether any of these medicines are right for you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Uleybury

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Uleybury.

    Just after 6.30am today (Friday 27 June), police and emergency services were called to Medlow Road after reports of a crash involving a truck and ute.

    The road is closed in both directions near Craigmore Road.

    Please avoid the area if possible.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Recommit Efforts to Protect Elder Americans From Fraud and Other Abuse

    Source: US FBI

    LAS VEGAS – The month of June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada and the FBI Las Vegas Division are reinvigorating its efforts to protect older citizens from fraudulent and other criminal schemes that cost the United States billions of dollars and threaten to victimize over 100,000 elder Americans each year. 

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protect our seniors from fraudulent schemes targeting their hearts and bank accounts,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We will continue to work with our partners at the FBI and other partner agencies to investigate and prosecute financial exploitation crimes and bring criminals to justice.”

    “It is essential that we educate the public, specifically our seniors, about the devastating effects of elder fraud schemes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafik Mattar for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “These schemes are critical to protecting them and their hard-earned money. The far-reaching consequences of these elaborate schemes can decimate the life savings of elderly individuals. The FBI works with our local and federal partners to ensure that our seniors, their caregivers, families, and friends know the signs to look for to keep Americans safe from falling victim to these deceitful criminals.”

    Romance Fraud

    United States v. Aurora Phelps. A 21-count superseding indictment charged Aurora Phelps, who has residences in Las Vegas and Guadalajara, Mexico, for allegedly luring older men she met through online dating services and stealing their monies for her personal benefit. In September 2023, a grand jury indicted Phelps with seven counts of wire fraud; three counts of mail fraud; six counts of bank fraud; three counts of identity theft; one count of kidnapping; and one count of kidnapping resulting in death. Phelps is currently in custody in Mexico.

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

    National Elder Fraud Hotline

    If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.

    More information about the department’s efforts to help older Americans is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage, which can be found at elderjustice.gov. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints can be filed with the FTC at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Justice Department provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, at www.ovc.gov.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Arrested for His Role in a Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    CONCORD – A Dominican Republic national was arrested yesterday, in connection with an enforcement action last week, for his role in a drug trafficking organization operating out of Massachusetts and distributing illegal narcotics in Manchester, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

    Cesar Joel Perez Mejia, age 30, a Dominican Republic national unlawfully residing in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, was arrested on one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. He will appear in federal court today at 4:30pm.

    According to the charging documents and statements made in court, on June 23, 2025, the defendant facilitated a drug sale with an undercover officer. When the defendant arrived at the agreed upon location, law enforcement searched the defendant’s vehicle and found small individually wrapped bags containing approximately 57 grams of suspected fentanyl and 43 grams of suspected crack cocaine.

    Possession with intent to distribute carries a maximum prison term of 20 years, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least three years and up to life.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Major Offender Task Force and the Manchester Police Department led the investigation.  DEA New England, HSI New England, and the Boston, Attleboro, Methuen, Lynn, and Providence Police Departments provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Shannon and Heather Cherniske are prosecuting the case.

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

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

     

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: DRML Miner Launches Cloud-Based XRP Mining Contracts to Empower Global Crypto Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    DRML Miner, the revolutionary digital mining ecosystem has announced the commencing of its XRP cloud mining service which is being offered through DRML Miner. This milestone illustrates a broader trend toward increasing XRP accessibility (in response to growing demand from traders and other users). With those barriers out of the way — no costly miners, no complex setups, and no sky-high power bills — DRML Miner is enabling users around the world to mine XRP far more efficiently and safely.

    A Timely Initiative Amid XRP’s Market Volatility

    As the consistent use case of XRP in blockchain-financial services continues to grow, its value has fluctuated through ups and downs. Investors, more so than ever before, are actively seeking reliable and consistent alternatives to buying XRP without the risk associated with trading volatility.

    DRML Miner answers this call by offering cloud mining contracts that provide consistent earnings over time. Users can generate XRP from anywhere in the world without needing specialized knowledge or physical equipment. The cloud model opens up XRP participation to beginners, long-term holders, and even institutions looking to diversify their crypto strategies.

    How DRML Miner Makes XRP Mining Accessible

    In a nutshell, this is why DRML Miner appeals to people. The process for acquiring XRP through DRML Miner is so simple. After registering, a users selects a mining contract from the available offers and begins earning XRP immediately. Everything is so simple and natural too — for example, even first-time crypto users are already accustomed to interacting with a web-based dashboard that guides their experience without requiring special knowledge.

    Key Features of the DRML Miner Platform:

    Immediate Activation: Start mining within minutes of selecting a contract.

    Real-Time Dashboard; Easy access to track crypto earnings, mining performance and contracts.

    No Maintenance; Everything is run with efficiency in the cloud, so no hardware is managed by the user.

    Global Access; Open to anyone in a region free from restrictions, almost anyone across continents.

    24/7 Operations: Cloud servers operate continuously for consistent performance.

    This no-fuss approach helps make crypto mining more inclusive, particularly for users in areas where mining equipment is scarce or prohibitively expensive.

    Sustainable and Scalable Mining Infrastructure

    DRML Miner’s back-end system is a modern cloud architecture that is hosted in secure, energy-efficient data centers. The modern cloud architecture supports scaling operations while remaining perpetual in uptime, efficiency, and sustainability.

    The company is also committed to eco-conscious mining by using energy sources created to minimize environmental impact—one of the ongoing considerations around the carbon footprint of crypto operations. This blend of technology and responsibility puts DRML Miner ahead of many mining services still reliant on outdated, energy-intensive systems.

    The Rise of Alternative Crypto Strategies

    Many crypto investors today are shifting away from active trading and speculation toward passive income strategies. Cloud mining is one such method that offers predictable rewards without market timing or emotional decision-making.

    With DRML Miner’s XRP contracts, users can grow their portfolios gradually and securely. They don’t need to monitor price charts, execute trades, or understand blockchain coding. The system runs automatically, and XRP is credited consistently based on the mining contract.

    This makes DRML Miner a compelling option for those who want to gain exposure to XRP with minimal involvement or risk.

    Global Reception and Early Adoption

    Since its public launch, DRML Miner has reported a steady increase in registrations and mining contract activations. Crypto users from North America, Asia, Europe, and Africa have shown keen interest, especially due to the platform’s ease of use and transparent structure.

    While most cloud mining platforms continue to focus on Bitcoin or Ethereum, DRML Miner’s focus on XRP is a bold but strategic move. XRP’s speed, low transaction costs, and practical applications in global finance make it an ideal candidate for accessible cloud mining.

    Looking Ahead: Continuous Development at DRML Miner

    The team behind DRML Miner has shared that additional features are in development. These include enhancements to the user dashboard, flexible contract upgrades, and support for mining additional cryptocurrencies in future platform updates.

    This ongoing innovation shows that DRML Miner is not only launching a timely solution, but also planning for long-term relevance in the rapidly changing digital asset landscape.

    About DRML Miner

    DRML Miner is a cryptocurrency cloud mining company committed to providing secure, user-friendly, and globally accessible digital asset mining services. The platform focuses on simplifying mining for everyone—regardless of experience level or location. With the launch of its XRP mining contracts, DRML Miner is helping users participate in blockchain-based income generation without traditional limitations.

    For more information, visit: https://drmlminers.com

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

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Healthcare Technology Leader Selects Kneat

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LIMERICK, Ireland, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — kneat.com, inc. (TSX: KSI) (OTCQC: KSIOF), a leader in digitizing and automating validation and quality processes, is pleased to announce that a leading healthcare technology and diagnostics company (“the Company”) has signed a multi-year Master Services Agreement with Kneat.

    The Company, which is headquartered in the United States, employs over 50,000 people and manufactures in more than a dozen countries worldwide. This manufacturer of medical technology, including medical devices and pharmaceutical diagnostics, will use the Kneat Gx platform initially to digitize its Commissioning, Qualification and Validation workflows for facilities, equipment and computer systems at several lead manufacturing sites.

    “After an extensive evaluation process this global leader selected Kneat to drive efficiency, quality and compliance through greater digitalization of their Validation processes,” said Eddie Ryan, Kneat CEO. “I’m happy that Kneat will be supporting both new builds and ongoing operations where we are proven to deliver significant business value.”

    The steady pace of Kneat’s strategic customer wins indicates that digital validation is progressively becoming the norm for life sciences companies. The State of Validation 2025 study also supports this trend. The total percentage of organizations surveyed that are either using or planning to use digital validation is now 93 percent, versus 86 percent in the 2024 study. The shift is unsurprising. Done right, digital validation delivers speed to market; trustworthy, scalable compliance; and a foundation to leverage integrated automation and AI-driven innovations in the future.

    About Kneat

    Kneat Solutions provides leading companies in highly regulated industries with unparalleled efficiency in validation and compliance through its digital validation platform Kneat Gx. As an industry leader in customer satisfaction, Kneat boasts an excellent record for implementation, powered by our user-friendly design, expert support, and on-demand training academy. Kneat Gx is an industry-leading digital validation platform that enables highly regulated companies to manage any validation discipline from end-to-end. Kneat Gx is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified, fully validated, and 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 compliant. Multiple independent customer studies show up to 40% reduction in documentation cycle times, up to 20% faster speed to market, and a higher compliance standard.

    Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

    Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, certain information presented constitutes “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the relationship between Kneat and the customer, Kneat’s business development activities, the use and implementation timelines of Kneat’s software within the customer’s validation processes, the ability and intent of the customer to scale the use of Kneat’s software within the customer’s organization, and the compliance of Kneat’s platform under regulatory audit and inspection. While such forward-looking statements are expressed by Kneat, as stated in this release, in good faith and believed by Kneat to have a reasonable basis, they are subject to important risks and uncertainties. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, given that they involve risks and uncertainties.

    Kneat does not undertake any obligation to release publicly revisions to any forward-looking statement, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued forward-looking statement constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Continued reliance on forward-looking statements is at an investor’s own risk.

    For more information visit www.kneat.com.

    Contact:

    Katie Keita, Kneat Investor Relations
    P: + 1 902-450-2660
    E: investors@kneat.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New mental health centre to transform care in the Wellington region

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown and Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey have today marked the beginning of construction on the new Sir Mark Dunajtschik Mental Health Centre in Lower Hutt. 
    Joined by Hutt South MP Chris Bishop, the Ministers took part in a sod-turning ceremony to celebrate the start of a project that will transform mental health services across the Wellington region. 
    “Today, I’m proud to announce the Government is investing $38 million in the construction of this world-class facility – alongside an extraordinary $50 million donation from Sir Mark Dunajtschik, who also generously donated $50 million towards the new Wellington Children’s Hospital in 2017,” Mr Brown says.
    “This marks an important milestone for Lower Hutt and the wider region. The new centre will provide 34 adult acute inpatient beds – ten more than the existing facility – and will be purpose-built to support modern models of care, helping to deliver better outcomes for patients and their families. 
    “It will also enhance the region’s mental health infrastructure, offering safer, more therapeutic spaces for those in urgent need.” 
    Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey said the purpose-built centre would help ensure New Zealanders in distress receive timely, appropriate care. 
    “People experiencing severe distress deserve care in the right environment, at the right time – it’s not only better for them, but it also helps take pressure off our busy emergency departments. 
    “That’s why mental health care must be underpinned by high-quality infrastructure that enables clinicians and support staff to deliver the safe, effective, compassionate care Kiwis deserve. 
    “Sir Mark’s generosity is a powerful act of leadership. It reflects deep compassion, civic spirit, and an enduring commitment to the wellbeing of our communities. 
    “His $50 million contribution will leave a legacy of hope and care that will benefit generations to come. 
    “This project is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about improving lives and delivering the mental health outcomes New Zealanders deserve.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: LET Mining launches smart cloud mining to easily earn passive income

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the rapid development of digital assets, more and more people are looking for ways to participate in the cryptocurrency market without frequent operations, lower risks and more stable returns. To meet this demand, LET Mining officially launched a new generation of smart cloud mining services, allowing users to start a stable and efficient passive income path with just one click.

    What is smart cloud mining?
    Smart cloud mining is a computing power leasing method based on cloud technology and artificial intelligence. Users do not need to buy mining machines, do not need technical experience, and do not need to bear equipment operation and maintenance and high electricity costs. They only need to choose a computing power package, and the system will automatically deploy it to global data centers for mining operations.

    LET Mining‘s “Smart Cloud Mining” system further optimizes the efficiency and experience of traditional cloud mining-introducing AI computing power scheduling, green energy mining and revenue prediction models to make the revenue more stable and controllable, and truly realize “easy participation and automatic revenue”.

    How to start LET Mining?
    1. Log in and quickly register an account to get a free $12 reward
    2. Use $12 to buy a cloud mining contract, or buy a cloud mining contract that suits your investment strategy

    contract Investment Amount Contract duration Total income
    Experience Contract $100 2 days $100 + $8
    BTC Classic Hash Power $500 5 days $500 + $30
    BTC Classic Hash Power $1,400 12 days $1,400 + $216.72
    DOGE Classic Hash Power $3,000 22 days $3,000 + $904.2
    BTC Advanced Hash Power $8,000 37 days $8,000 + $4736

    (Click to view more high-yield cloud mining contracts)
    Get income every day, and you can continue to buy contracts or withdraw funds

    What are the advantages of LET Mining?
    ✅ One-click start, no equipment required
    Users do not need to download software or configure hardware, just select the computing power package on the platform to start the mining process with one click.

    ✅ Support multiple currencies
    The platform supports a variety of mainstream crypto assets, including:
    Bitcoin (BTC): the representative of digital gold;
    Ripple (XRP): extremely fast settlement speed, suitable for quick remote mining;
    Dogecoin (DOGE): active community, large fluctuations but great potential.

    ✅ Stable passive income arrives daily
    The system settles mining income daily and automatically distributes it to the user account, so that daily passive income can be achieved without any operation.

    ✅ AI intelligent computing power scheduling
    Through the background algorithm system, the platform will automatically switch to the optimal mining mode according to the real-time difficulty, computing power market supply and demand and currency market dynamics to improve the overall profit performance.

    ✅ Green and environmentally friendly, low-carbon mines 
    LET Mining is committed to sustainable development. Its mines are located in areas rich in green energy such as Iceland, Canada, and Northern Europe. It fully adopts clean energy such as hydropower and wind power, taking into account both income and environmental protection.

    Passive income is no longer out of reach
    Whether you are a cryptocurrency novice or a long-term holder who hopes to increase the value of your assets, LET Mining provides you with a convenient, safe, and low-threshold mining solution. Especially for those who don’t have time to watch the market, are not good at trading, but want to participate in the blockchain economy, smart cloud mining is undoubtedly an ideal way to passive income.

    Conclusion
    With the launch of LET Mining smart cloud mining, “let your assets work for you” is no longer just a slogan, but a real and feasible path. No matter where you are, you can join the global digital mining network and achieve stable daily income in just a few steps. Sign up for LET Mining now and start a new chapter in your crypto passive income.
    (Click to download the APP)

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    LETMining
    info@letmining.com
    21 Mansell Street, London, U.K.
    https://letmining.com/

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Westport to Issue Q2 2025 Financial Results on August 11, 2025 and Provides an Update on the Divestment of the Light-Duty Segment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (TSX: WPRT / Nasdaq: WPRT) (“Westport” or “The Company”) announces that the Company will release Q2 2025 financial results on Monday, August 11, 2025, after market close. A conference call and webcast to discuss the financial results and other corporate developments will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

    Time: 10:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. PT)
    Call Link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI842f3b76bd5b44c7aee3e609a6cc77b3
    Webcast: https://investors.westport.com

    Participants may register up to 60 minutes before the event by clicking on the call link and completing the online registration form. Upon registration, the user will receive dial-in info and a unique PIN, along with an email confirming the details.

    The webcast will be archived on Westport’s website and a replay will be available at https://investors.westport.com

    Light-Duty Divestment Transaction Update

    Westport today reaffirms its commitment to the pending sale of its Light-Duty Segment to a wholly-owned investment vehicle of Heliaca Investments Coöperatief U.A. (“Heliaca Investments”), a Netherlands based investment firm supported by Ramphastos Investments Management B.V. a prominent Dutch venture capital and private equity firm (the “Transaction”), first announced in March 2025. The closing of the Transaction is now expected to occur in July 2025, slightly later than originally anticipated. The revised timeline reflects an updated regulatory review process. The Company continues to work closely with all parties as the remaining conditions to close are finalized.

    About Westport Fuel Systems

    At Westport Fuel Systems, we are driving innovation to power a cleaner tomorrow. We are a leading supplier of advanced fuel delivery components and systems for clean, low-carbon fuels such as natural gas, renewable natural gas, propane, and hydrogen to the global transportation industry. Our technology delivers the performance and fuel efficiency required by transportation applications and the environmental benefits that address climate change and urban air quality challenges. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with operations in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, we serve our customers in approximately 70 countries with leading global transportation brands. At Westport Fuel Systems, we think ahead. For more information, visit www.westport.com.

    Investor Inquiries:
    Investor Relations
    T: +1 604-718-2046
    E: invest@westport.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AGF Announces Results of Special Meetings of Securityholders and Implementation of Certain Fund Changes Approved by Securityholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following special meetings of securityholders held on June 26, 2025, AGF Investments Inc. (AGF Investments) today announced that securityholders approved the proposed changes to the investment objectives of AGF Short-Term Income Class and AGF Global Sustainable Growth Equity Fund (each a “Fund”, and collectively, the “Funds”), as follows:

    Fund Current Investment Objective Proposed Investment Objective
    AGF Short-Term Income Class The Fund’s objective is to provide maximum income while preserving capital and liquidity. It invests primarily in short-term instruments, government guaranteed securities and corporate paper with a minimum A credit rating. The Fund’s objective is to provide maximum income, while preserving capital and liquidity. It invests primarily in Canadian money market instruments, such as Canadian treasury bills.
    AGF Global Sustainable Growth Equity Fund The Fund’s investment objective is to provide long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in a diversified portfolio of equity securities, globally, which fit the Fund’s concept of sustainable development. The Fund’s investment objective is to provide long-term capital appreciation by investing in companies that are delivering a positive sustainability impact by providing solutions to the key challenges in sustainable development.
         

    The new investment objectives will be implemented by AGF Investments by an amendment to the simplified prospectus of the Funds, on or about July 15, 2025. In connection with the investment objective changes, the following changes will also be made to the Funds on or about July 15:

    • Strategy Changes: The investment strategies of the Funds will be amended to align with the new investment objectives of the Funds, as further detailed in the management information circular referenced below.
    • Name Change: AGF Short-Term Income Class will change its name to AGF Canadian Money Market Class.

    At the meetings, securityholders also approved changes to the capital structure of AGF All World Tax Advantage Group Limited, as per disclosure included in the management information circular.

    Additional information regarding the changes in investment objective, and other associated changes, is provided in the Funds’ management information circular, which is available on www.AGF.com and www.sedarplus.ca.

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual fund securities are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or by any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurances the fund will be able to obtain its net asset value at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in the fund will be returned to you. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    About AGF Management Limited

    Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.

    AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm’s collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and private investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.

    Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $53 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 815,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

    About AGF Investments

    AGF Investments is a group of wholly owned subsidiaries of AGF Management Limited, a Canadian reporting issuer. The subsidiaries included in AGF Investments are AGF Investments Inc. (AGFI), AGF Investments America Inc. (AGFA), AGF Investments LLC (AGFUS) and AGF International Advisors Company Limited (AGFIA). The term AGF Investments may refer to one or more of these subsidiaries or to all of them jointly. This term is used for convenience and does not precisely describe any of the separate companies, each of which manages its own affairs.

    AGF Investments entities only provide investment advisory services or offers investment funds in the jurisdiction where such firm and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

    AGF Investments Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AGF Management Limited and conducts the management and advisory of mutual funds in Canada.

    Media Contact

    Amanda Marchment
    Director, Corporate Communications
    416-865-4160
    amanda.marchment@agf.com  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: One bad rainstorm away from disaster: why proposed changes to forestry rules won’t solve the ‘slash’ problem

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Bloomberg, Adjunct Senior Fellow, Te Kura Ngahere-New Zealand School of Forestry, University of Canterbury

    Murry Cave/Gisborne District Council, CC BY-SA

    The biggest environmental problems for commercial plantation forestry in New Zealand’s steep hill country are discharges of slash (woody debris left behind after logging) and sediment from clear-fell harvests.

    During the past 15 years, there have been 15 convictions of forestry companies for slash and sediment discharges into rivers, on land and along the coastline.

    Such discharges are meant to be controlled by the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry, which set environmental rules for forestry activities such as logging roads and clear-fell harvesting. The standards are part of the Resource Management Act (RMA), which the government is reforming.

    The government revised the standards’ slash-management rules in 2023 after Cyclone Gabrielle. But it it is now consulting on a proposal to further amend the standards because of cost, uncertainty and compliance issues.

    We believe the proposed changes fail to address the core reasons for slash and sediment discharges.

    We recently analysed five convictions of forestry companies under the RMA for illegal discharges. Based on this analysis, which has been accepted for publication in the New Zealand Journal of Forestry, we argue that the standards should set limits to the size and location of clear-felling areas on erosion-susceptible land.

    Why the courts convicted 5 forestry companies

    In the aftermath of destructive storms in the Gisborne district during June 2018, five forestry companies were convicted for breaches of the RMA for discharges of slash and sediment from their clear-fell harvesting operations. These discharges resulted from landslides and collapsed earthworks (including roads).

    There has been a lot of criticism of forestry’s performance during these storms and subsequent events such as Cyclone Gabrielle. However, little attention has been given to why the courts decided to convict the forestry companies for breaches of the RMA.

    The courts’ decisions clearly explain why the sediment and slash discharges happened, why the forestry companies were at fault, and what can be done to prevent these discharges in future on erosion-prone land.

    New Zealand’s plantation forest land is ranked for its susceptibility to erosion using a four-colour scale, from green (low) to red (very high). Because of the high erosion susceptibility, additional RMA permissions (consents) for earthworks and harvesting are required on red-ranked areas.

    This map shows areas with the highest and lowest susceptibility to erosion.
    David Palmer/Te Uru Rākau, CC BY-SA

    New Zealand-wide, only 7% of plantation forests are on red land. A further 17% are on orange (high susceptibility) land. But in the Gisborne district, 55% of commercial forests are on red land. This is why trying to manage erosion is such a problem in Gisborne’s forests.

    Key findings from the forestry cases

    In all five cases, the convicted companies had consents from the Gisborne District Council to build logging roads and clear-fell large areas covering hundreds or even thousands of hectares.

    A significant part of the sediment and slash discharges originated from landslides that were primed to occur after the large-scale clear-fell harvests. But since the harvests were lawful, these landslides were not relevant to the decision to convict.

    Instead, all convictions were for compliance failures where logging roads and log storage areas collapsed or slash was not properly disposed of, even though these only partly contributed to the collective sediment and slash discharges downstream.

    The court concluded that:

    1. Clear-fell harvesting on land highly susceptible to erosion required absolute compliance with resource consent conditions. Failures to correctly build roads or manage slash contributed to slash and sediment discharges downstream.

    2. Even with absolute compliance, clear-felling on such land was still risky. This was because a significant portion of the discharges were due to the lawful activity of cutting down trees and removing them, leaving the land vulnerable to landslides and other erosion.

    The second conclusion is critical. It means that even if forestry companies are fully compliant with the standards and consents, slash and sediment discharges can still happen after clear-felling. And if this happens, councils can require companies to clean up these discharges and prevent them from happening again.

    This is not a hypothetical scenario. Recently, the Gisborne District Council successfully applied to the Environment Court for enforcement orders requiring clean-up of slash deposits and remediation of harvesting sites. If the forestry companies fail to comply, they can be held in contempt of court.

    A typical scale of clear-felling affected by the June 2018 storms.
    Murry Cave/Gisborne District Council, CC BY-SA

    Regulations are not just red tape

    This illustrates a major problem with the standards that applies to erosion-susceptible forest land everywhere in New Zealand, not just in the Gisborne district. Regulations are not just “red tape”. They provide certainty to businesses that as long as they are compliant, their activities should be free from legal prosecution and enforcement.

    The courts’ decisions and council enforcement actions show that forestry companies can face considerable legal risk, even if compliant with regulatory requirements for earthworks and harvesting.

    Clear-felled forests on erosion-prone land are one bad rainstorm away from disaster. But with well planned, careful harvesting of small forest areas, this risk can be kept at a tolerable level.

    However, the standards and the proposed amendments do not require small clear-fell areas on erosion-prone land. If this shortcoming is not fixed, communities and ecosystems will continue to bear the brunt of the discharges from large-scale clear-fell harvests.

    To solve this problem, the standards must proactively limit the size and location of clear-felling areas on erosion-prone land. This will address the main cause of catastrophic slash and sediment discharges from forests, protecting communities and ecosystems. And it will enable forestry companies to plan their harvests with greater confidence that they will not be subject to legal action.

    Mark Bloomberg receives funding from the government’s Envirolink fund and from local authorities and forestry companies. He is a member of the NZ Institute of Forestry and the NZ Society of Soil Science.

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

    – ref. One bad rainstorm away from disaster: why proposed changes to forestry rules won’t solve the ‘slash’ problem – https://theconversation.com/one-bad-rainstorm-away-from-disaster-why-proposed-changes-to-forestry-rules-wont-solve-the-slash-problem-258280

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The drought in southern Australia is not over – it just looks that way

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew B. Watkins, Associate research scientist, School of Earth, Atmopshere & Environment, Monash University

    Andrew Watkins

    How often do you mow your lawn in winter? That may seem like an odd way to start a conversation about drought. But the answer helps explain why our current drought has not broken, despite recent rain – and why spring lamb may be more expensive this year.

    Southern Australia has been short of rain for 16 months. Western Victoria, the agricultural regions of South Australia (including Adelaide) and even parts of western Tasmania are suffering record dry conditions. Those rainfall measurements began in 1900 (126 years ago).

    Large parts of southeastern Australia have experienced the lowest rainfall on record over the past 16 months. Serious deficiency means among the driest 10% of such periods on record, Severe deficiency means among the driest 5%.
    Bureau of Meteorology

    Fewer and less intense rain-bearing weather systems have been crossing the southern coastline since February 2024, compared to normal. Put simply, the land has not received enough big dumps of rain.

    But June has finally brought rain to some drought-affected regions. There’s even an emerald green tinge to the fields in certain agricultural areas. But it’s now too cold for plants to really grow fast, meaning farmers will be carting hay and buying extra feed for livestock until the weather warms in spring.

    Lambs in the Adelaide Hills have little to eat without extra feed.
    Saskia Jones

    Too little, too late

    This month, some areas received good rainfall – including places near Melbourne and, to a lesser degree, Adelaide. City people may be forgiven for thinking the drought has broken and farmers are rejoicing. But drought is not that simple.

    Unfortunately, the rainfall was inconsistent, especially further inland. The coastal deluge in parts of southern Australia in early June didn’t extend far north. Traditionally, the start of the winter crop-growing season is marked by 25mm of rain over three days – a so-called “autumn break”. But many areas didn’t receive the break this year.

    The lack of rain (meteorological drought) compounded the lack of water in the soil for crops and pasture (agricultural drought). Parts of Western Australia, SA, Victoria, Tasmania and southern New South Wales had little moisture left in their soils. So some rain is quickly soaked up as it drains into deeper soils.

    To make matters worse, autumn was the warmest on record for southern Australia, following its second-warmest summer on record. This can increase the “thirst” of the atmosphere, meaning any water on the surface is more likely to evaporate. Recent thirsty droughts, such as the 2017–19 Tinderbox Drought in NSW, were particularly hard-hitting.

    Some areas may have experienced “flash drought”, which is when the landscape and vegetation dry up far quicker than you would expect from the lack of rain alone. By May, areas of significantly elevated evaporative stress were present in southeastern SA, Victoria, southern NSW and northern Tasmania.

    In late May and early June, and again this week, there have been winter dust storms in SA. Such dust storms are a bad sign of how dry the ground has become.

    Some regions no longer have enough water to fill rivers and dams (hydrological drought). Water restrictions have been introduced in parts of southwest Victoria and Tasmania. The bureau’s streamflow forecast does not look promising.

    The landscape near Mortlake in western Victoria was still dry in late May. Typically the autumn break (first post-summer rain event of more than 25 mm) occurs here by early May.
    Andrew Watkins

    A green drought

    Remember that lawn mowing analogy? The winter chill has already set in across the south. This means it’s simply too cold for any vigorous new grass growth, and why you are not mowing your lawn very often at the moment.

    Cool temperatures, rather than just low rainfall, also limit pasture growth. While from a distance the rain has added an emerald sheen to some of the landscape, it’s often just a green tinge. Up close, it’s clear there is very limited new growth.

    Rather than abundant and vigorous new shoots, there’s just a little bit of green returning to surviving grasses. This means there’s very limited feed for livestock. To make matters worse, sometimes the green comes from better-adapted winter weeds.

    There will be a lot of hay carting, regardless of rainfall, until spring when the soils start to warm up once again and new growth returns. This all adds up to fewer stock kept in paddocks or a big extra cost in time and money for farmers – and ultimately, a more expensive spring lamb barbecue.

    Is this climate change?

    Southern Australia (southern WA, SA, Tasmania, Victoria and southern NSW) used to experience almost weekly rain events in autumn and early winter. Cold fronts and deep low-pressure systems rolling in from the west brought the bulk of the rainfall.

    Now there is a far more sporadic pattern in these regions. Rainfall in the April to October crop and pasture growing season has declined by around 10–20% since the middle of last century. The strongest drying trend is evident during the crucial months between April and July.

    Further reductions in southern growing season rainfall are expected by the end of this century, especially in southwestern Australia. Southeastern regions, including southern Victoria, parts of SA and northern Tasmania, also show a consistent drying trend, with a greater time spent in drought every decade.

    Drought is complex. Just because it’s raining doesn’t always mean it has rained enough, or at the right time, or in the right place. To make matters worse, a green drought can even deceive us into thinking everything is fine.

    Breaking the meteorological drought will require consistent rainfall over several months. Breaking the agricultural drought will also require more warmth in the soils. Outlooks suggest we may have to wait for spring.

    This article includes scientific contributions from David Jones and Pandora Hope from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.



    Read more:
    Why is southern Australia in drought – and when will it end?

    Ailie Gallant receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the National Environmental Science Program Climate Systems Hub.

    Pallavi Goswami works at Monash University. She receives funding from the National Environmental Science Program, Climate Systems Hub.

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

    – ref. The drought in southern Australia is not over – it just looks that way – https://theconversation.com/the-drought-in-southern-australia-is-not-over-it-just-looks-that-way-259543

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Lung cancer screening is about to start. What you need to know if you smoke or have quit

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Olver, Adjunct Professsor, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide

    Magic mine/Shutterstock

    From July, eligible Australians will be screened for lung cancer as part of the nation’s first new cancer screening program for almost 20 years.

    The program aims to detect lung cancer early, before symptoms emerge and cancer spreads. This early detection and treatment is predicted to save lives.

    Why lung cancer?

    Lung cancer is Australia’s fifth most diagnosed cancer but causes the greatest number of cancer deaths.

    It’s more common in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, rural and remote Australians, and lower income groups than in the general population.

    Overall, less than one in five patients with lung cancer will survive five years. But for those diagnosed when the cancer is small and has not spread, two-thirds of people survive five years.

    Who is eligible?

    The lung cancer screening program only targets people at higher risk of lung cancer, based on their smoking history and their age. This is different to a population-wide screening program, such as screening for bowel cancer, which is based on age alone.

    The lung cancer program screens people 50-70 years old with no signs or symptoms of lung cancer such as breathlessness, a persisting cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, becoming very tired or losing weight.

    To be eligible, current smokers must also have a history of at least 30 “pack years”. To calculate this you multiply the number of packets (of 20 cigarettes) you smoke a day by the number of years you’ve been smoking them.

    For instance, if you smoke one packet (20 cigarettes) a day for a year that is one pack year. Smoking two packets a day for six months (half a year) is also a pack year.

    People who have quit smoking in the past ten years but have accumulated 30 or more pack years before quitting are also eligible.

    Heavy smokers aged 50-70 may be eligible for screening.
    Gyorgy Barna/Shutterstock

    What does screening involve?

    Ask your GP or health worker if you are eligible. If you are, you will be referred for a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. This uses much lower doses of x-rays than a regular CT but is enough to find nodules in the lung. These are small lumps which could be clumps of cancer cells, inflammatory cells or scarring from old infections.

    Imaging involves lying on a table for 10-15 minutes while the scanner takes images of your chest. So people must also be able to lie flat in a scanner to be part of the program.

    After the scan, the results are sent to you, your GP and the National Cancer Screening Register. You’ll be contacted if the scan is normal and will then be reminded in two years’ time to screen again.

    If your scan has findings that need to be followed, you will be sent back to your GP who may arrange a further scan in three to 12 months.

    If lung cancer is suspected, you will be referred to a lung specialist for further tests.

    What are the benefits and risks?

    International trials show screening people at high risk of lung cancer reduces their chance of dying prematurely from it, and the benefits outweigh any harm.

    The aim is to save lives by increasing the detection of stage 1 disease (a small cancer, 4 centimetres or less, confined to the lung), which has a greater chance of being treated successfully.

    The risks of radiation exposure are minimised by using low-dose CT screening.

    The other greatest risk is a false positive. This is where the imaging suggests cancer, but further tests rule it out. This varies across studies from almost one in ten to one in two of those having their first scan. If imaging suggests cancer, this usually requires a repeat scan. But about one in 100 of those whose imaging suggests cancer but were later found not to have it have invasive biopsies. This involves taking a sample of the nodule to see if it contains cancerous cells.

    Some people will be diagnosed with a cancer that will never cause a problem in their lifetime, for instance because it is slow growing or they are likely to die of other illnesses first. This so-called overdiagnosis varies from none to two-thirds of lung cancers diagnosed, depending on the study.

    Imaging involves a low-dose CT scan.
    Peakstock/Shutterstock

    How much will it cost?

    The Australian government has earmarked A$264 million over four years to screen for lung cancer, and $101 million a year after that.

    The initial GP consultation will be free if your GP bulk bills, or if not you may be charged an out-of-pocket fee for the consultation. This may be a barrier to the uptake of screening. Subsequent investigations and consultations will be billed as usual.

    There will be no cost for the low-dose CT scans.

    What should I do?

    If you are 50-70 and a heavy smoker see your GP about screening for lung cancer. But the greater gain in terms of reducing your risk of lung cancer is to also give up smoking.

    If you’ve already given up smoking, you’ve already reduced your risk of lung cancer. However, since lung cancer can take several years to develop or show on a CT scan, see your GP if you were once a heavy smoker but have quit in the past ten years to see if you are eligible for screening.

    This is the first article in our ‘Finding lung cancer’ series, which explores Australia’s first new cancer screening program in almost 20 years.

    More information about the program is available. If you need support to quit smoking, call Quitline on 13 78 48.

    Ian Olver receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Lung cancer screening is about to start. What you need to know if you smoke or have quit – https://theconversation.com/lung-cancer-screening-is-about-to-start-what-you-need-to-know-if-you-smoke-or-have-quit-253227

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Remarks on Ending the COLA Freeze for Members of Congress During Appropriations Markup

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered remarks in response in support of an amendment to bring an end to the freeze of Cost-Of-Living-Adjustments (COLA) for Members of Congress at the House Appropriations Full Committee Markup of the FY26 Legislative Branch Bill markup. Below is a video and transcript of his remarks:

    Click here to watch a full video of his remarks:

    “I generally try to support righteous amendments, and so I compelled to support this amendment. Mr. Clyde, I’ve always impressed how much research you do – you with me? I’m complimenting you. (laughter erupts across the room) I know, Ms. Wasserman-Schultz is distracting, I understand that (more laughter), but the fact of the matter is, you always do your research and I wish the research would make the difference, but we know it doesn’t.

    “This is about politics. This is about fear of the public thinking that we have our hand in the cookie jar. Let me suggest to you, the more times we – and this will be the 16th time – we stop putting the hand in the cookie jar, the [objective] of the reform in 1989 was to make sure that members weren’t doing that, because you’re absolutely right. I never took payment for speeches. I thought that was a not too well-designed bribe, but I have always supported making sure that at least we stayed even. That’s all this COLA is, this is not a raise. Your purchasing power if you were here as long as the distinguished gentleman, former Chairman, Mr. Rogers and I have been here, has been reduced about 45% since 2009. Now you’ve noticed your grocery prices haven’t been frozen, your rent hasn’t been frozen here or at home – now maybe your mortgage has been frozen because you’ve had it for a long time. 

    “But the fact of the matter is two things are going to occur, first of all, people won’t be able to run for Congress. Now, I want to tell the public, who presumably may be watching this, that I believe a large number of Members on the other side of the aisle from me support this COLA adjustment. Why? Because they’ve told me so. Now I was the number two leader for 20 years, and I have not kept track of the number of Members from across the aisle who came to me and said, ‘You’re going to be able to take care of this this year?’ And very frankly, for a lot of years I did, not unilaterally, however, with Mr. Blunt, Mr. Delay, with Mr. Cantor, with other leaders in your party.

    “We agreed that not having a COLA, making Members lose purchasing power, frankly, was not a good thing for us to do so that Members could stay as the ’89 reform meant them to be: independent and not required to seek other forms of income, legally or illegally. And I am so pleased that Mr. Clyde, I have an amendment to do the same thing.

    “I’m not going to offer it because we’re going to resolve it on this issue. Now, Mr. Valadao, I understand your problem. So we understand one another. I’m going to be honest. I tell people on my side, ‘If you’ve got a tough race, don’t vote for this.’ And the reason we’ve been able to do it, both sides did that. Mr. Cantor, Mr. Blunt, you had 40-30% of your people who didn’t ever vote for this. Why? Because we know it can be demagogued and we know it is demagogued. So, I tell people on my side, do not vote for this, because it will be a big issue in your campaign.

    “But there are a majority on both sides whom that will not affect, not because we don’t stand for election, because I’ve been for this since the day I got here, and I’m here now in my 23rd term so what we’re going to decide is a political question of whether we have the courage and the honesty, the intellectual honesty not to come to Hoyer or any other leader in the House and say, ‘boy, I hope you can get this done. I can’t vote for it, of course, but –’ that’s what this issue is about, and I understand some of you have tough issues.

    “Frankly, both sides go after the moderates every year. It’s why we have become more and more polarized. But this is something that we ought to do if we have self-respect for ourselves, for our institution and respect for our voters who themselves want a COLA. And if they’re retired, you damn well know you better have that COLA for Social Security or you’re in trouble. Why? Because they know if they don’t get that COLA adjustment, they lose standard of living. Why? Because prices go up. But if you are on a fixed income, and I know I’ve run out of time again. Now I will tell you, I hope I take my side. I can support this, but we’re not going to go empty into this dark night if you’re not there with us, I yield back.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HILL, GOTTHEIMER, KEAN JR., LAWLER, AND MOSKOWITZ INTRODUCE BILL TO CRACK DOWN ON COUNTRIES THAT WRONGFULLY DETAIN AMERICANS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hill (AR-02), Rep. Gottheimer (NJ-05), Rep. Kean Jr. (NJ-07), Rep. Lawler (NY-17), and Rep. Moskowitz (FL-23) introduced the Countering Wrongful Detention Act of 2025, which would create a designation for countries or nonstate actors that engage in the unlawful or wrongful detention of U.S. citizens and permanent residents, empowering the Secretary of State and Congress to hold them accountable.

    Rep. Hill said, “When Americans are wrongfully detained abroad, it’s not just a personal tragedy — it’s a direct attack on the United States. Those who wrongfully detain Americans must know that there will be real consequences for using U.S. citizens as political pawns. That’s why our bill gives the State Department the tools it needs to hold bad actors accountable while keeping Congress firmly engaged in the process. This bipartisan bill is a strong step toward protecting Americans by deterring and punishing them.”

    Rep. Gottheimer said, “As the United States faces increasing threats from foreign adversaries, protecting Americans abroad must remain a top priority. I am proud to help introduce the bipartisan Countering Wrongful Detention Act alongside Congressman Hill to ensure the State Department has the tools it needs to hold bad actors accountable.

    “This bipartisan bill will help bring home Americans wrongfully detained around the world and strengthen efforts to prevent future hostage taking. To those being held, and their families, our message is clear: we stand with you and we are fighting every day to bring you home.”

    Rep. Kean Jr. said, “My constituent, Sarah Moriarty, lost her fath

    er, Robert Levinson, after he was taken hostage by Iran in 2007. Her family spent years wondering where he was, not knowing if he was alive or if they would ever see him again. Sadly, far too many American families have lived through that same kind of fear and heartbreak.

    “Hostile regimes like Iran continue to use innocent Americans as bargaining chips, dehumanizing and mistreating them—and in some cases, even taking their lives. The Countering Wrongful Detention Act makes it clear that there will be consequences for this kind of behavior, and the United States will always go to great lengths to protect its citizens.”

    Rep. Lawler said, “As a co-lead on the Countering Wrongful Detention Act, I’m proud to be joining a bipartisan group of colleagues working to protect Americans held hostage by rogue nations as political pawns. This legislation will provide the State Department with the necessary tools to exert pressure while ensuring that Congress maintains accountability. American families deserve nothing less.”

    Rep. Moskowitz said, “For years, my constituent Bob Levinson was illegally, unjustly, and unacceptably held by the Iranian regime. Bad actors like these can’t detain Americans without cause and think they can get away with it. I’m helping lead the Countering Wrongful Detention Act because this bipartisan bill puts real tools in place that’ll crack down on this practice and send a strong, bipartisan signal that our government will hold accountable any state or nonstate actors who threaten Americans in this way.”

    Sarah (Levinson) Moriarty, Co-Founder of R. A. Levinson & Associates and Fellow, New America Future Security Program, said, “Since the introduction of PPD30 ten years ago, and the Robert A. Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage Taking Accountability Act in 2019, we have seen marked improvement in how our government handles the cases of American nationals held hostage by state and nonstate actors.

    “This important bipartisan legislation, coming at such a critical time when Americans continue to be taken on a weekly basis as political bargaining chips, is a giant leap forward in creating tangible deterrence that stops bad actors from continuing this horrific practice. Thank you to Representatives Hill, Gottheimer, Kean Jr., Lawler, and Moskowitz for their leadership on this issue.

    “We hope to see this legislation passed by Congress and swiftly signed into law, as we know it will help prevent so many Americans from falling victim to the suffering that my father, my family, my friends in the hostage community, and far too many others have experienced.”

    “The Foley Foundation supports the bipartisan introduction of this bill in the House of Representatives by Reps. Hill, Kean Jr, Lawler, Gottheimer, and Moskowitz to ensure hostile regimes that take American nationals for political leverage face greater and targeted consequences. We welcome oversight provisions to require public testimony or public reporting that will allow the American people to better understand the threat of international hostage-taking.” 

    Background:

    The bipartisan legislation creates a new authority for the Secretary of State to formally designate countries or nonstate actors as state sponsors of unlawful or wrongful detention, creating a deterrent framework similar to the existing state sponsors of terrorism designation. Once designated, the Secretary may impose a range of penalties on those governments, including diplomatic and economic consequences.

    The bill provides congressional oversight by requiring that all state sponsors of unlawful or wrongful detention designations expire unless Congress passes a joint resolution to approve them within six months. Congress would also have the authority to terminate a designation through a joint resolution, ensuring these decisions reflect the interests of the American people and are subject to public accountability.

    This legislation further directs the Secretary of State to brief Congress on whether the following countries should be designated under this new authority:

    • China
    • Russia
    • Iran
    • Afghanistan
    • Eritrea
    • Nicaragua
    • Syria
    • Venezuela
    • Belarus

    A one-pager on the Countering Wrongful Detention Act of 2025 is available HERE.

    The full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Spotlight on NDC 3.0: Scaling Ambition and Action in Africa at SB62 Side Event

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    As countries gathered in Bonn for the 62nd session of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB62), a high-level side event titled “Making the Investment Case for African NDCs”, co-organized by the African Development Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), brought much-needed focus to the importance of making African Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) more holistic, implementable, and investment-ready.

    The event provided a timely platform to elevate African perspectives and showcase ongoing efforts to align climate ambition with long-term development priorities and financial viability as countries prepare their next generation of NDCs (NDC 3.0).

    Opening the discussion, Margaret Athieno Mwebesa, Commissioner of Uganda’s Climate Change Department, welcomed the Bank’s ongoing technical support in conducting the stock take for Uganda’s current Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) as part of the NDC 3.0 process. She emphasized the critical link between financing and implementation, noting:

    “Without investments, our NDCs are as good as useless. With less than 10% of Uganda’s NDC financing mobilized as of 2024, we must do more to make our climate plans truly bankable.”

    In a compelling keynote, Prof. Anthony Nyong, Director for Climate Change and Green Growth at the African Development Bank, highlighted the urgency of scaling support for climate investment in Africa and the need for strengthened partnerships: “Africa does not lack ambition. What it needs is partnership, investment, and systems-level support,” he stated. “Let us move beyond doom and gloom. Africa is ripe for climate-smart investment—home to 70 percent of its infrastructure yet to be built, rich in renewables, and holding vast reserves of arable land and critical minerals.”

    He also highlighted the Bank’s Climate financing milestones—growing from nine percent to 55 percent climate finance commitment between 2016 – 2023 and outlined tools such as the Africa NDC Hub, Adaptation Benefits Mechanism, and Climate Action Window, all designed to unlock investment-ready, country-driven climate actions.

    Ms. Sung-Ah Kyun, Associate Director of Climate Strategy and Delivery of the EBRD and co-Chair of the MDB Policy and Country/Client Engagement Working Group, added, “MDBs have been collectively working to support countries in developing and implementing their NDCs and LTS, including at sectoral and subnational levels, and are accelerating these efforts through the MDB LTS Program, launched at COP28 and hosted under World Bank’s Climate Support Facility”

    The event featured a moderated country dialogue, exploring the evolving experiences of Botswana, Ghana, and Zimbabwe in developing and implementing their NDCs.

    Representing Ghana, Seidu Issifu, Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, reflected on Ghana’s progress and outlook. He emphasized the country’s financing needs—between $9.3 billion and $15 billion for the 2021–2030 period—and called for increased support in identifying and scaling sectoral investment opportunities, especially in energy, transport, and agriculture.

    From Botswana, Balisi Gopolang, Director of Climate Change, shared lessons learned from their second NDC submission. He noted that while the initial INDC process was new and unfamiliar, Botswana is now better positioned to mobilize partnerships, with a focus on energy investments that span both mitigation and adaptation goals.

    Lovemore Dhoba, Deputy Director for Climate Change in Zimbabwe, presented the country’s recently submitted NDC 3.0, which prioritizes the integration of cross-cutting issues such as gender and youth. He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to aligning climate ambitions with development priorities through effective institutional coordination.

    The panel discussion, moderated by Uzoamaka Nwamarah, Climate Change Advisor, The Commonwealth Secretariat, brought together experts from development partners and UN agencies to reflect on how they are supporting African countries in strengthening NDCs.

    Davinah Milenge Uwella, Chief Programme Coordinator at the African Development Bank, spoke about Africa NDC Hub, hosted by the Bank, which brings together 21 other member partners to coordinate Technical Assistance support to African countries to prepare and implement NDCs, Long-Term Strategies, National Adaptation Plans and Biennial Transparency Report.

    She emphasized the Africa NDC Hub’s ongoing role in providing coordinated technical assistance, with over 10 countries provided with NDC and strategies development support. Paola Ridolfi, Climate Change Adviser at the World Bank, emphasized the importance of evidence-based investment planning and highlighted the role of the World Bank’s Country Climate and Development Reports in unlocking climate finance and aligning investments with development pathways.

    From UNDP, Catherine Diam-Valla, Co-Lead of the UNDP Climate Promise 2025, highlighted the broad footprint of the Climate Promise initiative, supporting countries to embed NDCs into national development frameworks, strengthen climate budgeting and transparency systems, and build access to carbon markets.

    Chiagozie Udeh, Programme Specialist at UNFPA, stressed the need for NDCs to reflect population dynamics, gender equality, and youth empowerment for inclusive, people-centered climate action. “The climate crisis is not just about emissions—it’s about people. We must ensure our NDCs are responsive to social realities.”

    The session also featured a technical presentation by Lucy Naydenova, Adaptation Benefits Mechanism Expert at the African Development Bank, on a practical guide for a holistic approach to NDC 3.0, focusing on how adaptation outcomes can be monetized to crowd in private investment.

    Prof. Nyong concluded by affirming the “Bank’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with partners—governments, MDBs, the private sector, and civil society to ensure that Africa’s climate goals are not only well-articulated, but well-financed and effectively implemented.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: How the Bank’s Africa Circular Economy Facility nurtures the creativity of young entrepreneurs in Rwanda

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    It’s a warm morning in Kigali. Motorbikes weave through early traffic, shopkeepers arrange displays, and entrepreneurs bustle in pursuit of their ideas. Rwanda is home to over 4 million youth aged between 14 and 35 years, or about 39% of the total population.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Top of the South weather and State Highway update

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    UPDATE 8:20 am:
    Bad weather and flooding are causing further state highway closures in the top of the South Island this morning.

    Drivers must stay off weather-affected highways while they remain closed and avoid any unnecessary travel.

    Nelson/Tasman

    Flooding has closed State Highway 6 between Belgrove and Richmond.

    State Highway 60 has also been closed across its entire length from Richmond to Collingwood because of flooding at multiple locations.

    Marlborough

    State Highway 63 now has a full closure from St Arnaud to Anglesea Street in  Renwick

    Update: 6:50am

    With heavy rain affecting the top of the South Island overnight, and continuing to fall this morning, road crews are attending multiple incidents on state highways across the region.

    Wet weather driving conditions apply and road users can experience traffic management at multiple locations due to flooding, rockfalls, and slips.

    Nelson/Tasman

    Rob Service, System Manager, says there are multiple flooding and slips sites in the Nelson/Tasman region

    “State Highway 6 near Wakefield, is under a temporary closure for light vehicles due to flooding.”

    “State Highway 60 at the Riwaka/Kaiteriteri intersection is also affected by flooding and slips have also been reported on the Tākaka Hill,” Mr Service says.

    There is also localised  flooding at the Three Brothers intersection (SH6/SH60), as well as in Brightwater, Belgrove, and Kohatu.

    Mr Service says with heavy rain still falling, the potential for further disruption on local highways remains

    “It is essential drivers take extreme caution on the roads while the bad weather continues. Road crews are  attending multiple incidents and are doing their best to resolve issues as they arise.”

    Marlborough

    Flooding has closed State Highway 63 in Renwick between Anglesea Street and Inkerman Street. Local road detours are available, and drivers can expect delays.

    System Manager  Wayne Oldfield says surface flooding has also been reported at multiple sites.

    “This includes State Highway 6 at Havelock, State Highway 63 in the Wairau Valley, and State Highway 1 near Koromiko.”

    “These sections of highway are currently open, but driving conditions are challenging. While the rain continues to fall, drivers must be prepared for road hazards and the possibility of road closures,” Mr Old field says.

    General advice

    The Metservice has regional weather warnings in place until this afternoon and evening for both Nelson/Tasman and Marlborough. This means the risk of flooding, slips, rockfalls remains ongoing.

    Drivers must check road and weather conditions before they travel and avoid any area where highways are  closed due to bad weather.

    All road closures must be obeyed. They are there to keep the public safe.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: A burning warning following hundreds of kitchen fires 

    Source:

    Between 17 May 2024 and 31 March 2025, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) attended 750 residential fires that started in the kitchen, accounting for nearly half (39.8%) of all residential fires within its jurisdiction during that period.   

    During the same period, CFA responded to 219 structure fires originating in the kitchen, representing 28.3% of all house fires in CFA serviced areas.   

    The combined total equates to an average of just over three kitchen fires per day in Victoria.   

    Among those who’ve been affected by a kitchen fire is Melbourne woman Jen Vuk, who suffered serious burns in September 2024 after her flowing top caught alight while she was making tea on a gas stovetop.  

    “Before I’d even had the chance to realise what was happening, the flames had already devoured my top and was spreading fast across my chest, up my neck and under my arm. It felt like it wanted more with every second,” Jen said.   

    “I tried to put the fire out by sprinkling water from the tap onto myself. It didn’t help. In fact, it only helped to fan the flames.”  

    Jen believes that if it weren’t for the quick actions of her family, including her then 17-year-old son who came to her aid and removed most of her burning clothes, and standing under a cold shower for 20 minutes before being taken to The Alfred, her injuries would have been much worse.  

    She spent two weeks in the Alfred burns unit and underwent multiple surgeries. She’d suffered mid to deep dermal burns to her chest, neck, right arm and back, and superficial burns to her face.   

    Now months into recovery, Jen hopes that by sharing her experience she can help others understand how quickly life changing incidents can unfold.    

    “If this helps even one person remember to stop, drop and roll when their clothes catch fire, then job done,” she said.   

    Unfortunately, stories such as Jen’s are on the rise.   

    Acting Deputy Director, Victorian Adult Burns Service at The Alfred, Dr Tam Quinn said, “we’ve already seen a 21% increase in patients presenting with burns sustained in the home this year, and many of these patients require surgery and skin grafting.”  

    “Any burn injury requiring grafting can be life changing, because while lifesaving, they can leave scarring and result in some functional impairment.   

    “Depending on the severity of the burn, patients may require prolonged stays in the intensive care unit, weeks in hospital and potentially a rehabilitation facility. In the long-term patients may require months to years of scar management, not to mention the psychological impact that such an injury can have.”  

    Victoria’s fire agencies encourage all Victorians to take the following steps to remain safe while in the kitchen:  

    • Pay attention in the kitchen and never leave cooking unattended.    
    • Take extra care around open flames if wearing flowing or loose-fitting clothing.   
    • Always supervise children, keep them away from the stove top and oven.    

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Spare the Trees So Investors Can See the Forest: Remarks before the Executive Compensation Roundtable

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Good afternoon. Thank you to Chairman Atkins for convening today’s roundtable and thank you to the moderators and panelists for joining us to discuss this important topic. On a recent trip to Alaska, one of the most striking sights was the rich forests of Sitka spruces clustering on steep mountainsides climbing up from the sea. I quickly stowed my binoculars in favor of taking in the whole scene. Absent a distinguishing feature—a different tree type, an intriguing root system, a bald eagle perched on its branches, or a bear lurking in its shade—the grandeur of the forest is lost when focusing on any one tree. Trying not to lose sight of the forest for the trees in beautiful Alaska brings me back to the ugly reality of executive compensation disclosure. Over the years, executive compensation disclosure has become increasingly unwieldy and expensive and decreasingly useful. The SEC’s rules focus excessively on random trees rather than giving a realistic view of the forest. They direct readers’ attention to a set of executive compensation items that, largely, entertain the onlooker rather than educate the investor. Preparing the lengthy and complex disclosures eats up lots of resources—management time and attention, attorneys’ and accountants’ billable hours, and even trees as pages of disclosures pile up—and distort corporate decision-making.

    Done right, disclosure rules are one form of investor protection. Material information provided to prospective investors arms them with “a rational basis to evaluate [a company and] its securities.”[1] My primary question for today’s panels is whether our current disclosure rules on executive compensation accomplish that goal.

    Some executive compensation rules seem more responsive to the general public’s curiosity than a genuine investor need for material information. Painstakingly calculated tallies of perks, like rides on the corporate jet, housing allowances for overseas assignments, or car services give us a tiny window into executives’ lives, but do little to fill out an investor’s picture of the company. Lately, our rulemakings have taken a “more is better” approach to executive compensation disclosure. These tack-on rules to the growing alphabet of Item 402 of Reg S-K—we are almost all the way through the alphabet[2]—do not provide new information. Instead, these rules re-package and re-present data that investors mostly already have. Or they add details that are immaterial. Do investors even look at this “new” information? And if they do, are we confident it gives them a rational basis to evaluate a security’s price?

    Consider, for example, pay ratio disclosure and pay-versus-performance disclosure. In his statement of dissent on the pay ratio rule, then Commissioner Dan Gallagher noted that it could have been “marginally less useless” if it were limited to U.S. full-time employees.[3] While not a ringing endorsement of the rule or any of its possible permutations, his comment highlights that even with respect to a rule mandated by Congress as this rule was, the Commission retains some latitude to implement it in the best way possible. More recently, pursuant to another Dodd-Frank mandate, the Commission adopted the pay-versus-performance rule. The overarching feedback I hear on the rule is that it is a regulatory “tax” on public companies without a corresponding benefit for investors. Management, and the high-priced consultants and lawyers they hire, spend hours preparing the various narratives, tables, and graphs that produce nothing but yawns of disinterest from investors.

    More concerning than the direct costs of producing executive compensation disclosures are the costs that arise from the distortion of corporate behavior in response to executive compensation disclosure mandates. Perhaps a company opts for a compensation scheme that is less effective at aligning incentives because of the way such a scheme will be reflected under SEC disclosure rules that do not necessarily represent economic reality. Or perhaps a company opts not to provide security for its executives because it appears in a laundry list of examples of perks in a 2006 Commission release that incidentally declines to define what a perk is.[4] Now may be time for the Commission to return to a more nuanced approach to personal security disclosure that considers the context in which those measures are provided.[5] Some companies have even gone so far as to eliminate perks altogether while offsetting such “cost-saving” measures with increases to base salaries. Executive compensation disclosure, along with other disclosures, should reflect rather than direct corporate actions.

    The age-old philosophical question is whether a falling tree makes a sound when nobody is around to hear it. The more relevant and less philosophical question for today’s discussion is if the disclosures we are mandating do not provide investors a rational basis to assess a company, why mandate them at all? I look forward to hearing from today’s moderators and panelists about how we can improve our executive compensation mandates so that they serve investors.

     

    [1] Alan B. Levenson, The Role of the SEC as a Consumer Protection Agency, 27 Bus. Law. 61, 62  (1971) (“The economic justification for disclosure as the keystone of investor protection lies in the belief that material corporate and financial information disseminated to prospective investors provides a rational basis to evaluate securities and this is a necessary precondition to efficient markets.”).

    [2] Executive compensation disclosure mandates run from Regulation S-K 402(a) to 402(x).

    [5] Disclosure of Management Remuneration, 43 Fed. Reg. 6,060, 6,063 (Feb. 13, 1978) (“The taking of various security measures for the protection of executives may not result in any remuneration to such executive if the individual’s life has been threatened because of his position in the company or if the company reasonably believes that the individual’s safety is in jeopardy.”), https://archives.federalregister.gov/issue_slice/1978/2/13/6057-6065.pdf#page=4.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: TOP Ships Announces Approval of Listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market for Spin-Off of Rubico Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TOP Ships Inc. (the “Company” or “TOP Ships”) (NYSE American: TOPS), an international owner and operator of modern, fuel-efficient “ECO” tanker vessels, announced today that the application of Rubico Inc. (“Rubico”), to list its common shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market has been approved. In addition, the registration statement on Form 20-F filed by Rubico in connection with its spin-off from Top Ships Inc has been declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

    The distribution of Rubico common shares to securityholders of TOP Ships is expected to be made within July 2025. TOP Ships will announce the distribution date via a future press release.

    Rubico common shares are expected to commence trading on a standalone basis on the Nasdaq Capital Market on the first trading day after the date of distribution, under the ticker “RUBI”.

    As previously announced, TOP Ships intends through Rubico to effect a spin-off of two of its vessels, the M/T Eco Malibu and M/T Eco West Coast, each a modern, high specification, scrubber-fitted and fuel-efficient 157,000 dwt Suezmax tanker. As part of the spin-off transaction, TOP Ships intends to distribute 100% of the common shares of Rubico pro rata to its securityholders of record as of June 16, 2025.

    Rubico has filed a registration statement on Form 20-F pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 with the SEC, which includes a more detailed description of the terms of the spin-off. A copy of the registration statement on Form 20-F is available at www.sec.gov.

    About TOP Ships Inc.

    TOP Ships Inc. is an international owner and operator of ocean-going vessels focusing on modern, fuel-efficient eco tanker vessels transporting crude oil, petroleum products (clean and dirty) and bulk liquid chemicals. For more information about TOP Ships Inc., visit its website: www.topships.org.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Matters discussed in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides safe harbor protections for forward-looking statements in order to encourage companies to provide prospective information about their business. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding the proposed spin-off and the prospects and strategies of TOP Ships and Rubico following the spin-off, the valuation of the shares of Rubico and TOP Ships following the spin-off, and the listing of Rubico’s common shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    The Company desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “believe,” “anticipate,” “intends,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “potential,” “may,” “should,” “expect,” “pending,” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including, without limitation, our management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records, and other data available from third parties. Although we believe that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs, or projections. Please see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward‐looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication.

    For further information please contact:
    Alexandros Tsirikos
    Chief Financial Officer
    TOP Ships Inc.
    Tel: +30 210 812 8107
    Email: atsirikos@topships.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Colleagues Slam Republicans Over Gutting Tribal Energy Program and Energy Tax Credits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    June 26, 2025
    More than 100 tribes have signed onto letters calling for the Senate to protect the tribal energy programs and clean energy tax credits
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. and Brian Schatz, D-Hawai’i, today released the following statement on Republicans’ reconciliation bill that harms Tribal communities in Oregon and nationwide:
    “As extreme heat strains the grid and leaves thousands without power, Senate Republicans are pushing a bill that would hike costs and worsen energy shortages. Their plan slashes investments in the new energy sources we need to meet demand and keep prices down.”
    “The bill is particularly harmful to Tribal Nations, pulling the rug out from under projects that would strengthen their energy sovereignty and power local communities. Together, the Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program and our Inflation Reduction Act’s clean energy tax credits have cleared pathways and removed significant barriers for Tribes to finance and build their own resilient energy infrastructure. More than 100 Tribes have advocated to protect these programs, which are already creating high-quality jobs, increasing energy security, and building economic opportunity in Indian Country and across the nation. We are also committed to taking additional steps to level the playing field for Tribal communities and cut the red tape that has limited their access to these energy programs.”
    “The Big, Beautiful Betrayal isn’t about energy dominance or making life affordable for working families. It’s about cutting essential programs that benefit people from all walks of life to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.”
    More than 100 Tribes have signed onto letters to Wyden, Heinrich, and Schatz expressing the importance of the Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program and the clean energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act to continue empoweringTribal energy development.
    The Tribal letters are here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on SCOTUS Ruling Against Planned Parenthood in Medina v. PPSAT

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Murray, Congressional Democrats File Amicus Brief Supporting Planned Parenthood South Atlantic in Medina v. PPSAT
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Statement on Ruling that Republicans Can’t Block Marketplace Plans from Covering Abortion Care in Budget Reconciliation Bill
    In Murray-led forum for Dobbs anniversary this week, Senator Murray laid out how defunding Planned Parenthood is part of Republicans’ strategy for a Backdoor Nationwide Abortion Ban
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s decision in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. The Court found there is no private right of action for people to challenge South Carolina’s decision to end Planned Parenthood’s participation in South Carolina’s Medicaid program:
    “The Supreme Court just gave the green light for Republican-led states to defund Planned Parenthood, which will have disastrous consequences for women across the country who rely on Planned Parenthood centers for basic health care—often in areas where there is no other place to receive care they can afford.
    “This decision is devastating for millions of low-income women whose access to birth control, cancer screenings, and other essential health care they receive at Planned Parenthood is now in jeopardy. It is a tremendous blow to women who rely on Medicaid and their ability to see the health care provider of their choosing.
    “Make no mistake: this attack on Planned Parenthood is happening for no other reason than because Republican anti-abortion extremists are foaming at the mouth to shut down access to abortion care any way they can, no matter the consequences.
    “Republicans are full steam ahead on ripping away women’s health care, whether it’s through the courts or through legislation like their Big Ugly Reconciliation Bill seeking to block Planned Parenthood from receiving federal Medicaid funding. The Republican agenda is to force women to stay pregnant no matter what and to make health care more expensive and less accessible for working people. I’ll keep fighting every way I can to defend Planned Parenthood and the health care women across this country depend on.”
    Senator Murray led Congressional Democrats in an amicus brief in March supporting Planned Parenthood and urging the Supreme Court to affirm the Fourth Circuit’s decision that Medicaid beneficiaries have the right to choose among qualified health care providers, including Planned Parenthood. Senator Murray has been a leading voice raising the alarm over Republicans’ efforts to defund Planned Parenthood as part of their reconciliation bill (the One Big Beautiful Bill Act), organizing press conferences and speaking out repeatedly about the widespread harm the provision would cause. The provision to defund Planned Parenthood in Republicans’ legislation would threaten the closure of 200 health centers across the country and rip away care from 1.1 million patients—and cost an estimated $261 million over the next decade.
    Senator Murray is a longtime leader in the fight to protect and expand access to reproductive health care and abortion rights, and she has led Congressional efforts to fight back after the Supreme Court’s disastrous decision overturning Roe v. Wade. Murray has introduced more than a dozen pieces of legislation to protect reproductive rights from further attacks, protect providers, and help ensure women get the care they need; Murray has led efforts to push for passage of these bills on the floor multiple times. Last January, on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Murray led her colleagues in hosting a “State of Abortion Rights” briefing with women who have suffered firsthand from Republican abortion bans, and last June, she chaired a HELP Committee hearing titled “The Assault on Women’s Freedoms: How Abortion Bans Have Created a Health Care Nightmare Across America.” Recently, Murray helped lead efforts to force Republicans on the record on votes to protect access to contraception and access to IVF (twice), and she led her colleagues in raising the alarm about the threat a second Trump administration poses to reproductive rights and abortion access in every state, as outlined in Project 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Presses Air Force Secretary on Servicemembers’ Access to Child Care, Discrimination Against Women Servicemembers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s exchange with Secretary Meink***
    Washington, D.C. – Today—at a Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing to review the Air Force budget request–Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned Air Force Secretary Troy Meink and Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General David Allvin on the future of tanking missions within the Air Force and at Fairchild Airforce Base in Washington state, the reversal of policies aimed at increasing child care services across the Air Force and the reversal of a policy that allowed women aircrew members to fly during early stages of pregnancy.
    [KC-46As]
    Senator Murray began by asking about the potential of the Fairchild Air Base receiving Boeing KC-46A, the Air Force’s newest aerial refueling tanker produced in Everett, Washington. “Mr. Secretary, as I’m sure you are aware as a former KC-135 navigator yourself, our Air Force currently does not have the refueling capacity it needs to sustain operations in important strategic theaters. Fairchild Air Force Base in my home state of Washington is home to one of the Air Force’s largest air refueling wings, and its proximity to the Arctic and the Indo-Pacific makes it a very key strategic launching point.”
    “Now, the existing KC-46A contract only has a few years remaining. When does the Air Force plan to award the next tanker production contract?” Senator Murray asked.
    “I’ll take for the record and get back to you on the date when we were planning on awarding. But we are, it is definitely a focus of ours. We agree we have to maintain and continue to build out the tanker fleet to maintain the capability, as just demonstrated over the weekend. It’s a critical part of our architecture,” responded Secretary Meink.
    “And you can’t even give me an approximate—within a year, within months, within days?” Senator Murray pressed.
    General Allvin responded, “I would have to yield to the acquisition folks to figure out when that decision is going to be made. We understand that we’re on the cusp of the end of the contract—existing contract 183—for the for the current KC-46. That evaluation is on undergoing. I would say within months, we’ll be able to understand when that date would be—it’s exact date.”
    “All right. And what remains to be done to address the remaining category I deficiencies in the KC-46A contract?” asked Senator Murray.
    “They are working very hard. They’re drawing those down to a few. Obviously, we still have a couple with the remote visualization system. The 2.0 version of that—that should be completed. That’s really the long pole of intent for all of them. That should be done by the fourth quarter of 27’. We also have a crimp drain valve issue that’s being worked. We also have one where they call it the ‘stuck-boom,’ where it can only refuel—there’s one aircraft that can’t refuel, and that’s the A-10. But largely, those are—they keep it from being full capability, but they’re refueling just about everything. Including several of the capabilities that happened last weekend. So, it’s still a capable aircraft, we just need to keep working,” replied General Allvin.
    Senator Murray responded, “Okay, and if you could just stay in touch with my office as you get closer on those details.”
    [CHILD CARE COVERAGE]
    Senator Murray turned her questioning to the Trump Administration’s abrupt changes to policies aimed at recruiting and increasing wages for childcare workers in the Department of Defense’s Child Development Centers (CDC): “Over the past few years, policies to help recruit staff for child development centers on military bases have led to lower wait times, especially in the Air Force. In fact, in 2024, the Air Force wait list dropped below 3,000 children—we worked really hard to get it there, and that was the lowest since the Air Force began tracking it back in 2018. But after Trump’s hiring freeze on civilian employees at DOD, several Air Force Bases have been forced to reduce their child care services, and the child care wait list has now ballooned to over 4,000 kids. That is really unacceptable to me. That would leave our military families—and parents who are putting their lives on the line for our country—really scrambling to find child care. And in many places, CDCs are their only real option for child care.”
    Senator Murray asked, “So, Mr. Secretary, what is the Air Force doing to make up for the CDC staff shortages?”
    “We’re very aware of the issue, Senator. And it is a priority for us to fix, and we are looking at that. Talked about it just yesterday with the team. I think there is a plan to start addressing the shortfall in staffing. General Allvin do you have any more details that?” Secretary Meink turned the question to General Alvin.
    “Thank you, Mr. Secretary. Senator, what I would add to that is—your point is exactly right. We worked very hard, and we got the critical caregivers at the level. During this initial deferred resignation program, we kept all the providers, they were not authorized to go. But some of the back staff, the support staff, was authorized to go. And so, because of that we were we had to close a couple classrooms here and there and reduce that. I believe that is going to be faster to rehire than it would be to get the care provider. So, I think that’s where—” said General Allvin.
    Senator Murray replied, “If you can stay in touch with my office on how you’re progressing, on that—what you’re doing—I would appreciate it.”
    [DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN AIRCREW MEMBERS]
    Senator Murraymoved on to address the reversal of an Air Force policy allowing pregnant aircrew members to fly early in their pregnancy, stripping pregnant aircrew members from moving forward in their careers. “Over the past few months, we’ve seen the Trump administration start to systematically dismantle DOD’s ability to welcome all who wish to serve. And I am particularly concerned about attacks on women servicemembers—from health care to firing senior leadership. And in April, the Air Force suddenly reversed its policy allowing women aircrew members to fly during early stages of pregnancy. That policy aligned with FAA pregnancy guidelines, was widely applauded when it was made in 2022, and then the Trump administration eliminated it without any explanation. That reversal really forces women to choose between advancing their careers and starting their families, and it drastically reduces women’s opportunities to develop expertise in really highly technical roles for our Air Force.” 
    “I want to ask, what data supported the Trump administration’s decision to prohibit women from flying in non-combat environments during early stages?” asked Senator Murray.
    General Allvin responded, “That was an Air Force policy change. So that would be on us in the Air Force. And the difference is that even though you talk about the alignment with FAA, the change was to high-G, high-performance aircraft. That was the change in 2022—to enable them to pursue waivers to fly for those for those high-G and high-performance aircraft. And the idea was to increase readiness. Because increasing readiness, having more opportunities for everyone to fly in those high-performance aircraft. What we did, we looked at the data from 2019 to 2022 and saw how many waivers were being pursued, how many waivers were being granted between that time, and then between 2022 and 2025. So two, three-year periods, and saw no real difference in the amount of time being requested or given for those in high performance aircraft. So, because of that—there was no real increase in waivers from those two periods and the risk was still there. It was an unknown risk that we just reverted to, really closer to what the other services have been.”
    Senator Murray pressed, “Well, that’s not the same as the FAA guidelines. Were there any specific cases or incidences that raised this medical concern?”
    “It was just the lack of increased readiness without the ability to fully understand the risk. And that was not FAA. That was for the high-G, high-performing aircraft. Which the FAA does not really have those guidelines specific to,” General Allvin replied.
    Senator Murray responded, “Well, I just have to say that—what’s a woman supposed to do? Do a pregnancy test before she takes a flight?”
    General Allvin said, “We can give you the full paper. This is not just totally restrictive. It’s more aligned with the other services as well.”
    Senator Murray responded, “Well, I have looked at the policy, and I am concerned. I haven’t seen the data. You have some, give it to me. If there are specific examples, give it to me. But I do not think that we should discriminate against women service members. And I would really ask you to consider reversing this.”
    General Allvin replied, “We’ll provide you all the data behind it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –