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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nuclear Techniques Make Waves at UN Ocean Conference

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi during the high-level event on combatting marine pollution at the United Nations Conference in Nice, France  (Photo: E. McDonald/IAEA)

    The IAEA highlighted the role of nuclear science in protecting our oceans at the 2025 United Nations Oceans Conference held last week in Nice, France.

    Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, the conference convened over 10,000 participants, including scientists, diplomats and politicians, to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. It aimed to accelerate progress towards SDG14, Life Below Water, through innovative technologies and action. The IAEA took center stage at the event to share how nuclear technology is boosting ocean health and tackling critical threats such as marine plastic pollution.

    The IAEA organized and participated in more than a dozen events at the conference, and on research vessels in the Port of Nice. Experts from the IAEA’s Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco highlighted how isotopic tools can help monitor and reduce plastic pollution in the ocean.

    Plastic waste is not only infiltrating our oceans, but also the human body in the form of microplastics. Without urgent action, the amount of plastic entering the ocean each year could reach 37 million metric tons by 2040, according to UN estimates, becoming a threat to marine and human life.

    Plastic pollution featured prominently throughout the conference, with a focus on the ongoing negotiations for the development of an internationally legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. The negotiations for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)-led treaty are expected to conclude later this year in Geneva, following five previous sessions.

    At the conference, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi spoke about the IAEA’s work to combat plastic pollution and emphasized the need to share data data between scientists, policymakers and environmental agencies.

    “Four years ago, at the last UN Ocean Conference, I announced NUTEC Plastics, an initiative that gives countries the tools they need to address the issue of marine microplastic pollution. Today, I am delighted to report that we have made significant progress with 99 countries involved, and we have been equipping more than 100 Member State laboratories all over the world. We are building the capacity that countries need to translate data into policies and action.”

    NUTEC Plastics is an IAEA flagship initiative that supports countries in researching microplastics and using nuclear techniques to improve recycling techniques.

    Director of the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories Florence Descroix-Comanducci (left), highlighted the work of the IAEA’s Marine environment laboratories at the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in France (Photo: E.McDonald/IAEA)

    “Nuclear and isotopic techniques add incredible value to boost ocean health,” said Florence Descroix-Comanducci, Director of the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories. “Our laboratories in Monaco support Member States in the implementation and use of these techniques, and to develop harmonized methods to generate globally comparable data, especially in light of the forthcoming plastics treaty.”

    At events organized by the IAEA, panelists highlighted the need to address the top of the plastic life cycle to prevent further pollution, employing a “source to sea approach” to reduce marine litter and, by extension, marine plastic pollution. “Our metrics on marine litter are moving in the right direction,” said Martin Adams, Head of the Environment Department at the European Environment Agency. “Timely and relevant data are increasingly important, but we don’t need to know everything. We just need to know enough to act.” Other events organized by the IAEA focused on ocean-based carbon dioxide removal, ocean acidification, IAEA support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and nuclear energy and ocean health.

    The IAEA’s unique expertise in nuclear applications is contributing to both mitigations, by using radiation technology for waste recycling, and monitoring, by using isotopic techniques to monitor and assess impacts of microplastic pollution. Through the NUTEC Plastics initiative, 99 countries are participating in marine monitoring of microplastics, and 52 around the world are developing innovative recycling technology.

    The International High-Level Forum on NUTEC Plastics, organized by the IAEA on 25–26 November 2025, in Manila, Philippines, will highlight the progress achieved to date, address current challenges, and chart course to strengthen regional and international cooperation in the sustainable management of plastic waste through innovative nuclear technologies.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: China’s support for Mali’s military carries risks: researcher outlines what they are

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Paa Kwesi Wolseley Prah, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dublin City University

    Mali, a landlocked Sahelian nation of 25 million people, has faced significant instability since 2012, marked by terrorism, state neglect and armed conflicts.

    That year a Tuareg rebellion started in northern Mali and President Amadou Toumani Touré was ousted in a military coup. Constitutional rule was suspended. Rebels in northern Mali went on to seize cities like Timbuktu, Gao and Kidal, declaring an independent Islamic State of Azawad and imposing sharia law.

    They also destroyed cultural heritage sites, including 14 of Timbuktu’s 16 Unesco-listed mausoleums. The crisis prompted international intervention, including a UN authorised mission, which retook northern cities within weeks. Islamist rebels retreated into civilian populations and remote areas.

    Despite these efforts, violence against civilians by extremist groups and community militias has continued. By 2023, 8.8 million Malians needed humanitarian assistance. Over 375,500 were internally displaced, primarily women and children.

    Meanwhile, the former French colony had turned to China for military assistance. Between 2012 and 2013, China provided €5 million (about US$5.8 million) in logistical equipment to improve the Malian army’s mobility.

    Read more: China’s interests in Africa are being shaped by the race for renewable energy

    In August 2013, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army gave the Malian army military supplies totalling 1.6 billion CFA francs (about US$2.8 million). China made similar donations between 2014 and 2023.

    I am an international security and global governance researcher. My recent research explored the impact of China’s security sector assistance on Mali’s fragility.

    China’s assistance to Mali aims to equip the country to address terrorism and insurgency. But I argue that it may have unintended consequences and cause further damage to the country.

    The heavy reliance on Chinese supply exposes Mali to vulnerabilities, including supply disruptions, diminished bargaining power, and limited strategic flexibility. This could destabilise security even more should China face manufacturing issues or supply chain disruptions leading to delays or shortages in the production of weapons.

    It also raises concerns about the potential influence of China on Mali’s defence policies and decision-making processes. In turn this could entrench the Malian military government’s position. China takes a hands-off approach to the governance structures of the countries it engages with. Hopes of democratisation in the country could be affected.

    Read more: US trade wars with China – and how they play out in Africa

    Rich in resources

    Mali has significant natural resources, including 800 tons of gold reserves (it’s Africa’s fourth-largest producer), iron ore, manganese, lithium, and potential uranium and hydrocarbon deposits.

    In 2019, gold production generated US$734 million, or 9.7% of Mali’s GDP, supporting over 10% of the population.

    Chinese firms, such as Ganfeng Lithium and China National Nuclear Corporation, have invested heavily in Mali’s mining sector. They are involved in a US$130 million lithium project and uranium exploration in the Kidal and Falea regions.

    Despite security risks, including attacks on Chinese personnel in 2015 and 2021, China remains committed due to Mali’s resource potential.

    Beyond mining, China has invested in Mali’s infrastructure. A US$2.7 billion railway modernisation project connects Bamako to Dakar, facilitating resource exports like iron ore and bauxite.

    The total of Mali’s external debt to China is not explicitly stated. But the 2014 loan agreement of US$11 billion and the 2016 loan of US$2.7 billion alone suggest Mali’s debt to China could be at least US$13 billion. This is without including loans for projects like the Bamako-Ségou expressway, and bridges in Bamako.

    This has often been criticised as “debt trap diplomacy”, increasing recipient countries’ dependence on Beijing. In Mali, I believe this risks entrenching economic vulnerability and giving China geopolitical leverage.

    Read more: China reaps most of the benefits of its relationship with Africa: what’s behind the imbalance

    China’s security sector assistance to Mali

    Historically, Mali relied on France. More recently, it’s used Russia’s expeditionary corps, formerly known as Wagner Group, for security support.

    In 2011, China provided US$11.4 million in grants, US$8.1 million in zero-interest loans, and a US$100.8 million concessional loan to foster bilateral cooperation.

    China’s participation in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali, starting in 2013 with 395 personnel, marked a shift in its security engagement.

    Chinese peacekeepers, including engineers, medical personnel and security guards, repaired infrastructure, provided medical aid and supported Mali’s 2013 elections.

    Their professionalism earned praise from the UN special envoy Albert Gerard Koenders for helping to ensure a smooth election.

    China’s involvement in Mali challenged traditional European approaches to peacekeeping, particularly France’s military-heavy strategy.

    Read more: China-Africa relations: new priorities have driven major shifts over the last 24 years – 5 essential reads

    How China’s assistance contributes to Mali’s fragility

    In spite of the positives, China’s security sector assistance contributes to Mali’s fragility in several ways.

    First, its no-strings-attached nature allows Mali’s military junta to consolidate power without making democratic or governance reforms.

    This lack of accountability enables corrupt military factions to operate unchecked. Governance weaknesses and authoritarianism can continue.

    Second, the heavy reliance on Chinese supply raises concerns about the potential influence of China on Mali’s defence decisions.

    This over-reliance on military solutions risks escalating conflicts and could lead to human rights abuses by security forces, as seen in increased violence against civilians. It doesn’t address root causes of conflict like social cohesion or local governance.

    Third, Mali’s growing dependence on Chinese aid — both military and economic — makes it vulnerable to disruptions from geopolitical tensions, supply chain issues, or changes in China’s foreign policy. This limits Mali’s ability to diversify its military capabilities or respond to evolving threats.

    Finally, China’s infrastructure investments, such as the US$1.48 billion (750 billion CFA francs) Bamako-Dakar railway loan, creates “debt trap diplomacy”.

    This pattern deepens economic dependence and reduces policy autonomy, further weakening state resilience.

    Read more: Maps showing China’s growing influence in Africa distort reality – but some risks are real

    The way forward

    To mitigate the risks of Chinese security sector assistance and promote sustainable stability, Mali must adopt a multifaceted strategy.

    First, it should collaborate with China to align security sector assistance with civilian-led security approaches.

    Second, Mali should diversify security and economic partnerships with donors like the US, the UK, and the EU.

    Third, transparent guidelines, developed through consultation with stakeholders, should assess the impacts of assistance to avoid deepening dependence.

    Fourth, engaging civil society and publishing regular reports on security sector assistance use and outcomes will foster public trust.

    Finally, promoting regional economic integration and ties with global powers will bolster Mali’s economic resilience.

    – China’s support for Mali’s military carries risks: researcher outlines what they are
    – https://theconversation.com/chinas-support-for-malis-military-carries-risks-researcher-outlines-what-they-are-257738

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Democratic HELP Members Demand Hearings on Impacts of Republican Budget Bill on Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Lawmakers: “Failure to hold hearings and a markup on this reconciliation bill before it is considered on the Senate floor would be an abdication of our duty to the American people.”
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper joined every Democratic member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee to demand Senate hearings to examine the disastrous impact of the Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill on the health and well-being of the American people and markup this legislation before it reaches the Senate floor.
    “We are deeply concerned that if these policies were signed into law they would create a national health care emergency,” the lawmakers wrote. “Not only would millions of Americans lose their health insurance and tens of thousands of our constituents die as a result of the House-passed reconciliation bill, the cost of prescription drugs would go up for seniors, hospitals and community health centers in rural and underserved areas would close or shut down access to services that patients rely on, and nursing homes would be made less safe.”
    The lawmakers continued: “Regardless of your views on the merits of these policies, we hope you agree with us that the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee has a solemn responsibility to hold extensive hearings on the impact these policies would have on the health and well-being of the American people and our entire health care system.” 
    The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office’s estimate of the Republican budget stated the legislation would result in 16 million Americans losing health insurance and increase our national debt by $2.4 trillion.  
    Nearly 80 million Americans are enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) nationally. Medicaid covers the care for over 60% of all nursing home residents.
    The Republican budget proposal calls for extreme Medicaid cuts of more than $700 billion, which would take away people’s health benefits; make it harder for them to see their health care providers; and prevent seniors from getting nursing home care.
    The Senate now must consider the House-passed budget. Hickenlooper has already voted against the Republican budget resolution on the Senate floor twice and offered amendments to prevent cuts to Medicaid. He will vote against the proposal again when it comes to the Senate.
    Read the full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Lays Out Six “Big Beautiful” Options to Save Tens of Billions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) rolled out six proposals for the One Big Beautiful Bill based on her decade of work to make Washington Squeal, reduce reckless spending, and save taxpayers’ money.
    Ernst’s proposals would save tens of billions of dollars by eliminating bogus payments, snapping back SNAP overpayments, ending unemployment for millionaires, defunding welfare for politicians, stopping subsidies for union bosses, and selling vacant buildings.
    Here is some of the coverage of the proposals:
    Fox News | Republican senators roll out DOGE budget proposals for Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’
    “While a $9.4 billion rescissions package, a formal request from the executive branch to codify its DOGE cuts, is in the works, proponents of the Senate DOGE package say their total estimated savings would accentuate that and also surpass it in value.”
    National Review |Ernst Pushes Plan to End Food Stamp Overpayments to Cut Spending in ‘Big, Beautiful’ Bill
    “Senator Joni Ernst (R., Iowa) is rolling out a series of measures to cut spending in the GOP’s ‘big, beautiful,’ bill including a proposal for ending mismanagement in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps.”
    New York Post | Sen. Joni Ernst pushes to ban taxpayer-funded union time in One Big Beautiful Bill Act
    “Sen. Joni Ernst wants to tweak the House-passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act to eliminate the longstanding practice of taxpayer-funded union time. Approximately $160 million of your money went toward fed workers’ union time as of 2019, the last time such data was available, and Ernst (R-Iowa) has been on a quest for more recent information.”
    Breitbart | Sen. Joni Ernst Aims to Stop Fraudulent Payments as Pay-For in Big Beautiful Bill
    “The Hawkeye State senator, as the chair of the Small Business Committee, aims to have her bill, the Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE) in Spending Act, as a pay-for in Trump’s marquee bill to stop fraudulent and improper federal payments. The legislation could have a significant effect, as more than $160 billion in improper payments occurred in fiscal year 2024.”
    The six proposals are:
    Saving billions in bogus payments
    Snapping back overpayments
    Ernst’s Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act strengthens the integrity of the important Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by identifying all errors, clawing back overpayments, and holding states with high payment inaccuracies accountable.
    In 2023, there were approximately $10.73 billion in overpayments. However, the true cost is unknown because errors totaling $56 or less are excluded.
    Ending unemployment for millionaires
    Eliminating welfare for politicians
    The ELECT Act eliminates the Presidential Election Campaign Fund, which utilizes tax dollars to fund presidential campaigns.
    This fund has been dipped into previously to reduce spending. Last year, $320 million was allocated to Secret Service and $25 million was given to the Department of Justice.
    Ending the absurd practice of taxpayer-funded union time
    Ernst’s Protecting Taxpayers’ Wallet Act ends the absurd policy of taxpayer-funded union time which allows federal employees to engage in union activities when they are supposed to be serving the American people.
    It cost taxpayers at least $160 million per year according to the most recent report from 2019.
    Selling vacant buildings
    Ernst has exposed how it costs billions every year to maintain thousands of vacant government buildings and empty offices.
    Selling just a handful of these buildings would generate hundreds of millions of dollars.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tai Software’s Workflow Automation Feature Honored with the Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2025 Top Supply Chain Projects Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tai Software, top provider of Transportation Management System (TMS) technology for freight brokers, has been awarded the 2025 Supply & Demand Chain Executive Top Supply Chain Projects award. The award recognizes Tai’s Workflow Automation. This feature redefines how brokers manage and scale operations.

    “We’re honored to have won this award,” said Walter Mitchell, CEO of Tai Software. “This recognition highlights our dedication to supporting freight brokers. We focus on improving broker efficiency, increasing flexibility, and ensuring sustainable growth, no matter the market conditions.”

    Solving the Manual Work Bottleneck

    Freight brokers operate in a fast-moving, high-pressure environment where every hour counts. Tai recognized a persistent challenge across the industry. Brokers spend too much time on manual and repetitive tasks. These costly tasks include quoting and booking shipments, chasing shipment notifications, updating customers on shipment status, and managing load paperwork.

    To address these challenges, Tai launched Workflow Automation in January 2024. The no-code feature is fully integrated within Tai’s TMS, allowing brokers to automate critical workflows without additional software, licenses, or IT support.

    Built-in, Flexible Broker-Focused Automation

    Tai’s Workflow Automation enables brokers to create rule-based workflows triggered by shipment events or conditions. With flexible filters and a few clicks, brokers can automate tasks like status updates, carrier assignments, customer notifications, and more. Each workflow can be customized to the broker’s unique processes and customer needs.

    “Automation shouldn’t be reserved for enterprise players with IT teams and big budgets,” said Sean McGillicuddy, Chief Revenue Officer. “Tai built Workflow Automation to level the playing field for brokerages of all sizes. It’s fast, accessible, and powerful right out of the box.”

    Adoption and Impact by the Numbers

    Since its launch, Tai’s Workflow Automation has saved freight brokerages thousands of hours of labor. It reduces manual work, minimizes human error, and ensures consistency in operations.

    Today, the platform processes more than 9 million workflow automation steps each month. 61.6% of all shipments processed through Tai’s TMS involve automated workflows. Hundreds of freight brokers report improved productivity due to Tai’s Workflow Automation.

    Proven Results from Brokers in the Field

    Customers have reported dramatic improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery. For example, one brokerage cut dispatching time by 1.5 hours per day. Another reduced missed alerts by 71% in the first month. Mid-sized brokerages, in particular, have leveraged the feature to successfully scale operations without hiring additional staff.

    With flexibility, customization, and speed at its core, Tai’s Workflow Automation enhances freight brokers’ operational performance and enables them to focus on high-value tasks. This includes serving customers, strengthening carrier relationships, and driving growth at a time when market constrictions make that challenging.

    About Tai Software

    Tai Software is a comprehensive Transportation Management System (TMS) for freight management, providing efficiency and growth opportunities. Tai streamlines operations through full-scale automation for Full Truck Load (FTL) and Less than Truckload (LTL), integrating with major carriers and technology partners. Brokers and 3PLs rely on Tai for freight management solutions, focusing on strategic growth by supporting and scaling operations. Tai provides real-time visibility into shipments, automates routine tasks, and offers analytics for informed decision-making. For more information about Tai TMS, visit https://tai-software.com/.

    Please contact Vanessa Galvis, Marketing Director, at vanessa.galvis@tai-software.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tai Software’s Workflow Automation Feature Honored with the Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2025 Top Supply Chain Projects Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tai Software, top provider of Transportation Management System (TMS) technology for freight brokers, has been awarded the 2025 Supply & Demand Chain Executive Top Supply Chain Projects award. The award recognizes Tai’s Workflow Automation. This feature redefines how brokers manage and scale operations.

    “We’re honored to have won this award,” said Walter Mitchell, CEO of Tai Software. “This recognition highlights our dedication to supporting freight brokers. We focus on improving broker efficiency, increasing flexibility, and ensuring sustainable growth, no matter the market conditions.”

    Solving the Manual Work Bottleneck

    Freight brokers operate in a fast-moving, high-pressure environment where every hour counts. Tai recognized a persistent challenge across the industry. Brokers spend too much time on manual and repetitive tasks. These costly tasks include quoting and booking shipments, chasing shipment notifications, updating customers on shipment status, and managing load paperwork.

    To address these challenges, Tai launched Workflow Automation in January 2024. The no-code feature is fully integrated within Tai’s TMS, allowing brokers to automate critical workflows without additional software, licenses, or IT support.

    Built-in, Flexible Broker-Focused Automation

    Tai’s Workflow Automation enables brokers to create rule-based workflows triggered by shipment events or conditions. With flexible filters and a few clicks, brokers can automate tasks like status updates, carrier assignments, customer notifications, and more. Each workflow can be customized to the broker’s unique processes and customer needs.

    “Automation shouldn’t be reserved for enterprise players with IT teams and big budgets,” said Sean McGillicuddy, Chief Revenue Officer. “Tai built Workflow Automation to level the playing field for brokerages of all sizes. It’s fast, accessible, and powerful right out of the box.”

    Adoption and Impact by the Numbers

    Since its launch, Tai’s Workflow Automation has saved freight brokerages thousands of hours of labor. It reduces manual work, minimizes human error, and ensures consistency in operations.

    Today, the platform processes more than 9 million workflow automation steps each month. 61.6% of all shipments processed through Tai’s TMS involve automated workflows. Hundreds of freight brokers report improved productivity due to Tai’s Workflow Automation.

    Proven Results from Brokers in the Field

    Customers have reported dramatic improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery. For example, one brokerage cut dispatching time by 1.5 hours per day. Another reduced missed alerts by 71% in the first month. Mid-sized brokerages, in particular, have leveraged the feature to successfully scale operations without hiring additional staff.

    With flexibility, customization, and speed at its core, Tai’s Workflow Automation enhances freight brokers’ operational performance and enables them to focus on high-value tasks. This includes serving customers, strengthening carrier relationships, and driving growth at a time when market constrictions make that challenging.

    About Tai Software

    Tai Software is a comprehensive Transportation Management System (TMS) for freight management, providing efficiency and growth opportunities. Tai streamlines operations through full-scale automation for Full Truck Load (FTL) and Less than Truckload (LTL), integrating with major carriers and technology partners. Brokers and 3PLs rely on Tai for freight management solutions, focusing on strategic growth by supporting and scaling operations. Tai provides real-time visibility into shipments, automates routine tasks, and offers analytics for informed decision-making. For more information about Tai TMS, visit https://tai-software.com/.

    Please contact Vanessa Galvis, Marketing Director, at vanessa.galvis@tai-software.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tai Software’s Workflow Automation Feature Honored with the Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2025 Top Supply Chain Projects Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tai Software, top provider of Transportation Management System (TMS) technology for freight brokers, has been awarded the 2025 Supply & Demand Chain Executive Top Supply Chain Projects award. The award recognizes Tai’s Workflow Automation. This feature redefines how brokers manage and scale operations.

    “We’re honored to have won this award,” said Walter Mitchell, CEO of Tai Software. “This recognition highlights our dedication to supporting freight brokers. We focus on improving broker efficiency, increasing flexibility, and ensuring sustainable growth, no matter the market conditions.”

    Solving the Manual Work Bottleneck

    Freight brokers operate in a fast-moving, high-pressure environment where every hour counts. Tai recognized a persistent challenge across the industry. Brokers spend too much time on manual and repetitive tasks. These costly tasks include quoting and booking shipments, chasing shipment notifications, updating customers on shipment status, and managing load paperwork.

    To address these challenges, Tai launched Workflow Automation in January 2024. The no-code feature is fully integrated within Tai’s TMS, allowing brokers to automate critical workflows without additional software, licenses, or IT support.

    Built-in, Flexible Broker-Focused Automation

    Tai’s Workflow Automation enables brokers to create rule-based workflows triggered by shipment events or conditions. With flexible filters and a few clicks, brokers can automate tasks like status updates, carrier assignments, customer notifications, and more. Each workflow can be customized to the broker’s unique processes and customer needs.

    “Automation shouldn’t be reserved for enterprise players with IT teams and big budgets,” said Sean McGillicuddy, Chief Revenue Officer. “Tai built Workflow Automation to level the playing field for brokerages of all sizes. It’s fast, accessible, and powerful right out of the box.”

    Adoption and Impact by the Numbers

    Since its launch, Tai’s Workflow Automation has saved freight brokerages thousands of hours of labor. It reduces manual work, minimizes human error, and ensures consistency in operations.

    Today, the platform processes more than 9 million workflow automation steps each month. 61.6% of all shipments processed through Tai’s TMS involve automated workflows. Hundreds of freight brokers report improved productivity due to Tai’s Workflow Automation.

    Proven Results from Brokers in the Field

    Customers have reported dramatic improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery. For example, one brokerage cut dispatching time by 1.5 hours per day. Another reduced missed alerts by 71% in the first month. Mid-sized brokerages, in particular, have leveraged the feature to successfully scale operations without hiring additional staff.

    With flexibility, customization, and speed at its core, Tai’s Workflow Automation enhances freight brokers’ operational performance and enables them to focus on high-value tasks. This includes serving customers, strengthening carrier relationships, and driving growth at a time when market constrictions make that challenging.

    About Tai Software

    Tai Software is a comprehensive Transportation Management System (TMS) for freight management, providing efficiency and growth opportunities. Tai streamlines operations through full-scale automation for Full Truck Load (FTL) and Less than Truckload (LTL), integrating with major carriers and technology partners. Brokers and 3PLs rely on Tai for freight management solutions, focusing on strategic growth by supporting and scaling operations. Tai provides real-time visibility into shipments, automates routine tasks, and offers analytics for informed decision-making. For more information about Tai TMS, visit https://tai-software.com/.

    Please contact Vanessa Galvis, Marketing Director, at vanessa.galvis@tai-software.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 2025 AI Governance Survey Reveals Critical Gaps Between AI Ambition and Operational Readiness

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEWES, Del., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pacific AI, the healthcare AI governance company, today announced the results of the 2025 AI Governance Survey, exploring how organizations are managing the risks and responsibilities of deploying generative AI systems. Conducted in April and May by Gradient Flow, the results highlight the priorities, practices, and concerns of professionals and technology leaders in this space. The results will be presented in an upcoming webinar on the state of AI governance taking place at 2pm ET on June 18.

    As AI becomes foundational for modern business, governance should be top of mind. However, the results indicate that the pressure to innovate is outpacing the ability to scale AI systems safely and responsibly. Despite 75% of respondents reporting the existence of AI usage policies, only 59% have dedicated governance roles, and just 54% maintain incident response playbooks for AI-specific risks. Fewer than half (48%) of organizations are monitoring their AI systems for accuracy, misuse, or drift—numbers that drop drastically in small firms.

    The leading barrier to effective governance is the pressure to move fast. Nearly half (45%) of all respondents—and 56% of technical leaders—cite speed-to-market as the top challenge, often resulting in shortcuts that compromise safety. Technical leaders, who are driving the most aggressive deployment timelines, are simultaneously those most aware of these governance shortcomings.

    Other key findings show:

    • Production Reality Gaps. Only 30% of organizations have deployed generative AI systems to production, with just 13% managing multiple deployments. Large enterprises are five times more likely than small firms to have multiple systems running.
    • Technical Leader Ambition. Technical Leaders drive more aggressive adoption, with 48% targeting 3-5 new use cases versus 25% for other roles.
    • Small Company Vulnerability. Small companies consistently lag in governance maturity: only 36% have governance officers (vs 62-64% for larger firms), and just 41% provide annual AI training (vs 59-79%).
    • Regulatory Awareness Deficits. Familiarity with frameworks like NIST AI RMF remains concentrated in large enterprises. Small companies report only 14% familiarity with most major standards, exposing compliance risk.
    • Immature Incident Response. Many organizations lack protocols for AI-specific failure modes, such as prompt injection attacks or biased outputs, indicating a lack of capabilities beyond traditional IT playbooks.

    “This survey exposes a growing disconnect between AI policy and practice. Organizations that don’t address it are playing with fire and they know it,” said David Talby, CEO, Pacific AI. “Without responsible AI practices baked into the entire AI development lifecycle, developers and thereby the organizations they work for are escalating legal, financial, and reputational risks.”

    To help, Pacific AI provides a free AI Policy Suite available to anyone. Recent updates include an AI Incident Reporting Policy addressing some of the major gaps reported in the survey. Conforming to 110 different laws, regulations, and industry standards, the Policy Suite ensures companies are operating legally anywhere in the US. This can be especially beneficial to smaller organizations with limited resources that still need to track and implement evolving legislation and industry standards.

    Register here for our upcoming webinar,“The State of AI Governance,” detailing the research and outlining the priorities, practices, and concerns of technology leaders using AI. Read the full survey report here. To learn more about Pacific AI, visit https://pacific.ai/.

    About Pacific AI
    Pacific AI is dedicated to helping organizations deliver AI systems that comply with the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape in the USA. Whatever your starting point, Pacific AI can help you reach the next level of AI governance, implement tools and controls for compliance, or audit and certify what you’ve already built. To learn more, visit: https://www.pacific.ai.

    Contact
    Gina Devine
    Head of Communications
    Pacific AI Corp.
    gina@pacific.ai

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    17 June 2025

    Northern Venture Trust PLC
    Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025

    Northern Venture Trust PLC is a Venture Capital Trust (VCT) advised by Mercia Fund Management Limited. The trust was one of the first VCTs launched on the London Stock Exchange in 1995. It invests mainly in unquoted venture capital holdings and aims to provide long-term tax-free returns to shareholders through a combination of dividend yield and capital growth.

    Financial highlights (comparative figures as at 31 March 2024):

      Year ended
    31 March
    2025    		 Year ended
    31 March
    2024
    Net assets £121.3m £114.8m
    Net asset value per share 61.5p 60.3p
    Return per share    
    Revenue 0.4p 0.6p
    Capital 3.8p 1.2p
    Total 4.2p 1.8p
    Dividend per share declared in respect of the period    
    Interim dividend 1.6p 1.6p
    Proposed final dividend 1.5p 1.6p
    Total 3.1p 3.2p
    Return to shareholders since launch    
    Net asset value per share 61.5p 60.3p
    Cumulative dividends paid per share  ^* 195.3p 192.1p
    Cumulative return per share^ 256.8p 252.4p
    Mid-market share price at end of period 57.0p 57.5p
    Share price discount to net asset value 7.3% 4.6%
    Annualised tax-free dividend yield  ^** 5.1% 5.2%

    *        Excluding proposed final dividend payable on 5 September 2025.

    **        Based on net asset value per share at the start of the period.
    ^ Definitions of the terms and alternative performance measures used in this report can be found in the glossary of terms in the annual report.

    Chair’s statement

    Overview
    Over the past 12 months, the UK economy has displayed resilience, with inflation easing and interest rates falling, albeit at slower rates than initially forecasted. Uncertainties posed by geopolitical events and conflicts continue to cause volatility in the financial markets, and notably increased following the end of the financial reporting period.

    It is pleasing to note that the valuation of our unquoted portfolio has increased during the past year. Investment activity remained consistent with the two previous financial years, with £14.3 million invested in six new and 11 existing portfolio companies.

    Despite the macroeconomic environment, our share offer of £15 million was oversubscribed and I would like to thank existing shareholders for their continued support and warmly welcome new investors. Proceeds from the share offer, together with sales proceeds from investments, mean that the Company is well positioned both to pursue new opportunities to support small and medium businesses and to work with existing portfolio companies to realise their growth plans.

    Results and dividend
    In the year ended 31 March 2025 the Company delivered a return on ordinary activities of 4.2 pence per share (year ended 31 March 2024: 1.8 pence), representing a total return of 7.0% on the opening net asset value (NAV) per share. The NAV per share as at 31 March 2025, after deducting dividends paid during the year of 3.2 pence, was 61.5 pence, compared with 60.3 pence at 31 March 2024. The strong result for the year generated a performance fee to our Adviser of £399,000 (year ended 31 March 2024: £nil).

    There were six exits in the year, the most notable being Gentronix, sold for net proceeds of £6.1 million compared to an original cost of £1.4 million, a 4.5 times lifetime return.

    Investment income was higher than the prior period at £2.6 million (year ended 31 March 2024: £2.2 million), which included £0.8 million interest income on realised investments.

    In 2018 we revised our dividend policy in the light of the new VCT rules for investment introduced in 2015 and 2017, which we expected to result in more volatile returns. We introduced an annualised target dividend yield of 5% of opening NAV, which has been exceeded in every period since. Having already declared an interim dividend of 1.6 pence per share which was paid in January 2025, your Directors now propose a final dividend of 1.5 pence per share. The total of 3.1 pence per share is equivalent to 5.1% of the opening net asset value per share of 60.3 pence. The final dividend, if approved, will be paid on 5 September 2025 to shareholders on the register on 8 August 2025.

    Our dividend investment scheme, under which dividends can be re-invested in new ordinary shares free of dealing costs and with the benefit of the tax reliefs available on new VCT share subscriptions, continues to operate with around 16% participation during the year. Instructions on how to join the scheme are included within the dividend section of our website, which can be found here: mercia.co.uk/vcts/nvt/.

    Investment portfolio
    Investment activity has remained strong, with £8.9 million of capital provided to six new venture capital investments and £5.4 million of follow-on capital invested into the existing portfolio. We also made progress in realising the Company’s mature portfolio acquired under the previous VCT rules with the remaining such investments now totalling £9.4 million (31 March 2024: £16.0 million).

    The value of the portfolio increased by £5.6 million (2.8 pence per share) in the year, with several portfolio companies enjoying significant growth: Pure Pet Food and Project Glow Topco (t/a The Beauty Tech Group) both increased in value by over £3 million. Against this there were some significant write-downs in the investments in Adludio and Newcells Biotech.

    Share offers and liquidity
    In April 2024 shares related to the second allotment of the 2023/24 share offer, totalling £20 million, were issued. This allotment saw the issuance of 12,234,307 new ordinary shares, yielding gross subscriptions of £7.8 million.

    As a result of the public share offer launched in January 2025, 24,216,029 new ordinary shares were issued in April 2025, yielding gross proceeds of £15 million.

    The Board continues to monitor liquidity carefully and plans to raise up to £20 million of new capital in the 2025/26 tax year. Further details will be provided in due course.

    Share buy-backs
    We have maintained our policy of being willing to buy back the Company’s shares in the market when necessary, in order to maintain liquidity, at a 5% discount to NAV. During the year ended 31 March 2025 a total of 7,272,999 (year ended 31 March 2024: 5,263,205) shares were repurchased by the Company for cancellation at an average price of 56.6 pence (year ended 31 March 2024: 58.0 pence), representing 3.8% (year ended 31 March 2024: 3.2%) of the opening issued share capital.

    Responsible investment
    The Company is mindful of its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) responsibilities and we have outlined our evolving approach in the annual report.

    VCT legislation and qualifying status
    We have continued to meet the stringent and complex qualifying conditions laid down by HM Revenue & Customs for maintaining our approval as a VCT. The Investment Adviser monitors the position closely and reports regularly to the Board. Philip Hare & Associates LLP has continued to act as independent adviser to the Company on VCT taxation matters.

    In September 2024 we were pleased that the extension of the VCT Sunset Clause until 2035 was confirmed. The ‘Sunset Clause’ is a European state aid requirement which, without extension, would have removed the VCT tax reliefs that investors receive on newly issued VCT shares.

    Whilst no further amendments to VCT legislation have been announced, it is possible that further changes will be made in the future. We will continue to work closely with the Investment Adviser to maintain compliance with the scheme rules at all times.

    Investor communications
    The Board is conscious of its responsibility to communicate transparently and regularly with shareholders. Aside from the recent newsletter, we look forward to welcoming shareholders to our AGM and to our forthcoming investor seminar to be held on 7 October 2025 in London. A copy of the recent newsletter and details of how to register for the October seminar can be found on the Company’s website at www.mercia.co.uk/vcts/nvt/.

    Audit tender process
    Following a formal and rigorous audit tender process, the Board has resolved that it intends to recommend Johnston Carmichael LLP for appointment as the Company’s auditor for the financial year ending 31 March 2026 onwards, subject to shareholder approval at the AGM in 2025. Forvis Mazars will remain the Company’s auditor until the AGM in 2025. The Board would like to thank Forvis Mazars LLP for their diligent service over the past five years.

    Annual General Meeting
    The Company’s AGM will be held at 12:30pm on 5 August 2025. The AGM provides an excellent opportunity for shareholders, the Directors and the Investment Adviser to meet in person, exchange views and comment. We will hold the AGM in person at Fora, 210 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DA. We also intend to offer remote access for shareholders through an online webinar facility for those who would prefer not to travel. Full details and formal notice of the AGM are set out in a separate document. Please note that shareholders attending remotely must register their votes ahead of time, as it will not be possible to count votes from online participants at the AGM.

    Board succession
    John E Milad joined the Board on 21 August 2024. John brings over 25 years’ experience as an executive leader, board member, venture capital investor and investment banker focused on the life sciences and medical technology sectors. He is currently the CEO of ERS Genomics, a licenser of the Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR / Cas9 gene editing technology.

    Further biographical details for all the Directors can be found in the annual report.

    We will mark the retirement from the Board of David Mayes at the AGM. David was appointed in November 2014. Over the past decade, he has served the Company and its shareholders with dedication and commitment. On behalf of the Board and our shareholders, I would like to thank David for his valuable contributions and steadfast support to the Company during his tenure.

    Performance Fee
    I am pleased to report that the Company’s performance over the past financial year has met the threshold required to trigger the payment of a performance fee of £399,000 to the Investment Adviser. This outcome reflects a year of strong execution and value creation within the portfolio, and I would like to extend the Board’s thanks to the Adviser’s team for delivering results that warrant this reward.

    The performance fee has been calculated in line with the revised fee structure agreed with shareholders in 2023. Under this framework, which was designed to provide stronger alignment with long-term shareholder value creation, the performance fee payable is broadly comparable to the level that would have been paid under the legacy arrangement. The performance fee is intended to reward the Adviser for delivering sustained solid performance over time. In addition to the performance fee, the Company’s co-investment scheme continues to play a vital role in aligning the interests of the Adviser’s team with those of our shareholders. Together, these mechanisms provide a well-structured incentive framework that encourages long-term thinking and disciplined capital deployment in the interests of all shareholders.

    Outlook
    We are cautiously optimistic of the UK’s growth prospects, while remaining aware of and vigilant to the volatility generated from both domestic and global sources. We remain positive about the resilience, diversity and growth potential of the portfolio and its ability to generate long term shareholder value.

    Deborah Hudson
    Chair
    17 June 2025

    Income statement
    for the year ended 31 March 2025

        Year ended 31 March 2025   Year ended 31 March 2024
    Revenue
    £000    		 Capital
    £000    		 Total
    £000    		   Revenue
    £000    		 Capital
    £000    		 Total
    £000
    Gain / (loss) on disposal of investments       – 3,555 3,575   – 1,203 1,203
    Unrealised fair value gains / (losses) on investments       – 5,603 5,603   – 2,499 2,499
            – 9,158 9,158   – 3,702 3,702
                         
    Dividend and interest income       2,594 – 2,594   2,220 – 2,220
    Investment management fee       (568) (2,103) (2,671)   (516) (1,549) (2,065)
    Other expenses       (600) – (600)   (641) – (641)
                         
    Return before tax       1,426 7,055 8,481   1,063 2,153 3,216
    Tax on return       (592) 592 –   79 (79) –
                         
    Return after tax       834 7,647 8,481   1,142 2,074 3,216
                         
    Return per share       0.4p 3.8p 4.2p   0.6p 1.2p 1.8p

    Balance sheet
    as at 31 March 2025

        31 March
    2025
    £000    		   31 March
    2024
    £000
    Fixed assets            
    Investments       93,537   82,574
                 
    Current assets            
    Debtors       2,895   951
    Cash and cash equivalents       25,439   31,497
            28,334   32,448
                 
    Creditors (amounts falling due within one year)       (620)   (191)
    Net current assets       27,714   32,257
    Net assets       121,251   114,831
                 
    Capital and reserves            
    Called-up equity share capital       49,302   47,615
    Share premium       35,348   30,418
    Capital redemption reserve       8,476   6,658
    Capital reserve       20,451   28,099
    Revaluation reserve       6,779   882
    Revenue reserve       895   1,159
    Total equity shareholders’ funds       121,251   114,831
    Net asset value per share       61.5p   60.3p

    Statement of changes in equity
    for the year ended 31 March 2025

        Non-distributable reserves   Distributable reserves    
    Called-up share capital
    £000    		 Share premium
    £000    		 Capital redemption
    reserve
    £000    		 Revaluation reserve*
    £000    		   Capital
    reserve
    £000    		 Revenue
    reserve
    £000    		   Total
    £000
    At 31 March 2024       47,615 30,418 6,658 882   28,099 1,159   114,831
    Return after tax       – – – 5,897   1,750 834   8,481
    Dividends paid       – – – –   (5,282) (1,098)   (6,380)
    Net proceeds of share issues       3,505 4,930 – –   – –   8,435
    Shares purchased for cancellation       (1,818) – 1,818 –   (4,116) –   (4,116)
    At 31 March 2025       49,302 35,348 8,476 6,779   20,451 895   121,251

    for the year ended 31 March 2024

        Non-distributable reserves   Distributable reserves    
    Called-up share capital
    £000    		 Share premium
    £000    		 Capital redemption
    reserve
    £000    		 Revaluation reserve*
    £000    		   Capital
    reserve
    £000    		 Revenue
    reserve
    £000    		   Total
    £000
    At 31 March 2023       41,230 19,394 5,342 1,698   34,433 400   102,497
    Return after tax       – – – (816)   2,890 1,142   3,216
    Dividends paid       – – – –   (6,156) (383)   (6,539)
    Net proceeds of share issues       7,701 11,024 – –   – –   18,725
    Shares purchased for cancellation       (1,316) – 1,316 –   (3,068) –   (3,068)
    At 31 March 2024       47,615 30,418 6,658 882   28,099 1,159   114,831

    Statement of cash flows
    for the year ended 31 March 2025

          Year ended
    31 March
    2025
    £000    		   Year ended
    31 March
    2024
    £000
    Cash flows from operating activities              
    Return before tax         8,481   3,216
    Adjustments for:              
    (Gain) / loss on disposal of investments         (3,555)   (1,203)
    Movements in fair value of investments         (5,603)   (2,499)
    (Increase) / decrease in debtors         58   (103)
    Increase / (decrease) in creditors         429   8
    Net cash inflow / (outflow) from operating activities         (190)   (581)
                   
    Cash flows from investing activities              
    Purchase of investments         (14,258)   (15,351)
    Proceeds on disposal of investments         10,451   24,310
    Net cash inflow / (outflow) from investing activities         (3,807)   8,959
    Cash flows from financing activities              
    Issue of ordinary shares         8,801   19,353
    Share issue expenses         (366)   (628)
    Purchase of ordinary shares for cancellation         (4,116)   (3,068)
    Equity dividends paid         (6,380)   (6,539)
    Net cash inflow / (outflow) from financing activities         (2,061)   9,118
    Increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents         (6,058)   17,496
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year         31,497   14,001
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of year         25,439   31,497

    Investment portfolio
    31 March 2025

    Fifteen largest venture capital investments

    		 Cost
    £000    		 Valuation
    £000    		 Like for like valuation
    increase / (decrease)
    over year**
    £000    		 % of net assets
    by value    		  
    1 Project Glow Topco (t/a The Beauty Tech Group) 1,686 7,323 3,766 6.0%  
    2 Pure Pet Food 1,675 6,205 3,301 5.1%  
    3 Rockar 1,877 3,559 393 2.9%  
    4 Pimberly 2,060 3,520 41 2.9%  
    5 Tutora (t/a Tutorful) 3,305 3,305 – 2.7%  
    6 Forensic Analytics 2,717 2,717 – 2.2%  
    7 Netacea 2,631 2,631 – 2.2%  
    8 Biological Preparations Group 2,366 2,620 445 2.2%  
    9 Ridge Pharma 1,497 2,527 359 2.1%  
    10 Enate 1,516 2,176 659 1.8%  
    11 LMC Software 1,950 2,156 207 1.8%  
    12 Broker Insights 2,076 2,152 68 1.8%  
    13 Turbine Simulated Cell Technologies 1,863 2,074 22 1.7%  
    14 Clarilis 1,972 1,972 – 1.6%  
    15 Semble 1,951 1,951 – 1.6%  
    Other venture capital investments          
    16 Naitive Technologies 1,836 1,938 104 1.6%  
    17 Napo 1,933 1,933 – 1.6%  
    18 Risk Ledger 1,412 1,911 500 1.6%  
    19 Social Value Portal 1,888 1,888 – 1.5%  
    20 Administrate 2,906 1,842 (184) 1.5%  
    21 Send Technology Solutions 1,770 1,838 69 1.5%  
    22 Moonshot 1,329 1,805 478 1.5%  
    23 IDOX* 238 1,799 (139) 1.5%  
    24 Newcells Biotech 3,225 1,777 (1,693) 1.5%
    25 Volumatic Holdings 216 1,773 (148) 1.5%
    26 Locate Bio 1,753 1,753 – 1.4%
    27 VoxPopMe 1,660 1,660 – 1.4%
    28 Camena Bioscience 1,594 1,594 – 1.3%
    29 Wonderush Ltd (t/a Hownow) 1,421 1,421 – 1.2%
    30 Ski Zoom (t/a Heidi Ski) 1,404 1,404 – 1.2%
    31 Axis Spine Technologies 1,353 1,357 4 1.1%
    32 Buoyant Upholstery 672 1,349 (719) 1.1%
    33 Culture AI 1,324 1,324 – 1.1%
    34 Duke & Dexter 1,237 1,281 637 1.1%
    35 Promethean 1,281 1,281 – 1.1%
    36 Optellum 1,276 1,276 – 1.1%
    37 Rego Technologies (t/a Upp)(formerly Volo) 2,504 1,104 401 0.9%
    38 Centuro Global 1,038 1,038 – 0.9%
    39 iOpt 941 1,025 84 0.8%
    40 Tozaro (formerly MIP Discovery) 1,025 1,025 – 0.8%
    41 Scalpel 976 976 – 0.8%
    42 Seahawk Bidco 513 971 (21) 0.8%
    43 Wobble Genomics 968 968 – 0.8%
    44 Warwick Acoustics 964 964 – 0.8%
    45 Oddbox 1,093 869 71 0.7%
    46 Synthesized 510 751 240 0.6%
    47 Quotevine 1,311 495 495 0.4%
    48 Thanksbox (t/a Mo) 1,685 402 (13) 0.3%
    49 Atlas Cloud 704 387 (1) 0.3%
    50 RTC Group* 436 345 – 0.3%
    51 Fresh Approach (UK) Holdings 885 313 (127) 0.3%
    52 Sorted 182 241 58 0.2%
    53 Arnlea Holdings 1,305 227 (11) 0.2%
    54 Sen Corporation 681 141 (156) 0.1%
    55 Northrow 1,494 76 (615) 0.1%
    56 Angle* 131 36 (9) 0.0%
    57 Adludio 2,927 33 (2,904) 0.0%
    58 Customs Connect Group 1,525 33 (80) 0.0%
    59 Velocity Composites* 90 25 (6) 0.0%
      Total venture capital investments 86,758 93,537   77.1%
      Net current assets   27,714   22.9%
      Net assets   121,251   100.0%

    *        Listed on AIM.

    **        This change in ‘like for like’ valuations is a comparison of the 31 March 2025 valuations with the 31 March 2024 valuations (or where a new investment has been made in the year, the investment amount), having adjusted for any partial disposals, loan stock repayments or new and follow-on investments in the year.

    Risk management
    The Board carries out a regular and robust assessment of the risk environment in which the Company operates and seeks to identify new risks as they emerge. The principal and emerging risks and uncertainties identified by the Board which might affect the Company’s business model and future performance, and the steps taken with a view to their mitigation, are as follows:

    Risk Mitigation
    Availability of qualifying investments: there can be no guarantee that suitable investment opportunities will be identified in order to meet the Company’s objectives, which could have an adverse effect on Investor returns. Additionally, the Company’s ability to obtain maximum value from its investments may be limited by the requirements of the relevant VCT Rules in order to maintain the VCT status of the Company. The Investment Adviser has a dedicated investment team that identifies and transacts in qualifying investments. The Directors regularly meet with the Investment Adviser to maintain awareness of the pipeline, and factors this into the Company’s fund raising plans.
    Credit risk: the Company holds a number of financial instruments and cash deposits and is dependent on the counterparties discharging their commitment. Such balances my be held with banks or in money market funds as part of the Company’s liquidity management. The Directors review the creditworthiness of the counterparties to these instruments including the rating of money market funds to seek to manage and mitigate exposure to credit risk.
    Economic and geopolitical risk: events such as economic recession or general fluctuation in stock markets, exchange rates and interest rates, notwithstanding recent lower inflation and falling interest rates, may affect the valuation of investee companies and their ability to access adequate financial resources, as well as affecting the Company’s own share price and discount to net asset value. In addition, US trade policy and hostilities in the Middle East and Ukraine (including sanctions on the Russian Federation) may have further economic consequences as a result of market volatility and the restricted access to certain commodities and energy supplies. Such conditions may adversely affect the performance of companies in which the Company has invested (or may invest), which in turn may adversely affect the performance of the Company, and may have an impact on the number or quality of investment opportunities available to the Company and the ability of the Investment Adviser to realise the Company’s investments. Any of these factors could have an adverse effect on Investor returns. The Company invests in a diversified portfolio of investments spanning various industry sectors and which are at different stages of growth. The Company maintains sufficient cash reserves to be able to provide additional funding to investee companies where it is appropriate and in the interests of the Company to do so. The Investment Adviser’s team is structured such that appropriate monitoring and oversight is undertaken by an experienced investment executive. As part of this oversight, the investment executive will guide and support the board of each unquoted investee company. At all times, and particularly during periods of heightened economic uncertainty, the investment team of the Investment Adviser share best practice from across the portfolio with the investee management teams in order to help with addressing economic challenges.
    Financial risk: most of the Company’s investments involve a medium to long-term commitment and many are illiquid. The Directors consider that it is inappropriate to finance the Company’s activities through borrowing except on an occasional short-term basis. Accordingly they seek to maintain a proportion of the Company’s assets in cash or cash equivalents in order to be in a position to pursue new unquoted investment opportunities and to make follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies. The Company has very little direct exposure to foreign currency risk and does not enter into derivative transactions.
    Investment and liquidity risk: the Company invests in early stage companies which may be pre-revenue at the point of investment. Portfolio companies may also require significant funds, through multiple funding rounds to develop their technology or the products being developed may be subject to regulatory approvals before they can be launched into the market. This involves a higher degree of risk and company failure compared to investment in larger companies with established business models. Early stage companies generally have limited product lines, markets and financial resources and may be more dependent on key individuals. The securities of companies in which the Company invests are typically unlisted, making them particularly illiquid and may represent minority stakes, which may cause difficulties in valuing and disposing of the securities. The Company may invest in businesses whose shares are quoted on AIM however this may not mean that they can be readily traded and the spread between the buying and selling prices of such shares may be wide. The Directors aim to limit the investment and liquidity risk through regular monitoring of the investment portfolio and oversight of the Investment Adviser, who is responsible for advising the Board in accordance with the Company’s investment objective. The investment and liquidity risks are mitigated through the careful selection, close monitoring and timely realisation of investments, by carrying out rigorous due diligence procedures and maintaining a wide spread of holdings in terms of financing stage and industry sector within the rules of the VCT scheme. The Board reviews the investment portfolio and liquidity with the Investment Adviser on a regular basis.
    Legislative and regulatory risk: in order to maintain its approval as a VCT, the Company is required to comply with current VCT legislation in the UK. Changes to UK legislation in the future could have an adverse effect on the Company’s ability to achieve satisfactory investment returns whilst retaining its VCT approval. The Company is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) as a small internally managed AIF and is required to comply with a number of reporting and other regulatory requirements. Failure to comply correctly or changes in the regulatory regime could affect the status of the VCT. The Board and the Investment Adviser monitor political developments and where appropriate seek to make representations either directly or through relevant trade bodies. The Board also works closely with the Adviser to ensure that the Company remains compliant with the relevant regulatory requirements.
    Operational risk: the Company does not have any employees and the Board relies on a number of third party providers, including the Investment Adviser, registrar and custodian, sponsor, receiving agent, lawyers and tax advisers, to provide it with the necessary services to operate. Such operations delegated to the Company’s key service providers may not be performed in a timely or accurate manner, resulting in reputational, regulatory, or financial damage. The risk of cyber-attack or failure of the systems and controls at any of the Company’s third party providers may lead to an inability to service shareholder needs adequately, to provide accurate reporting and accounting and to ensure adherence to all VCT legislation rules. The Board has appointed an Audit and Risk Committee, who monitor the effectiveness of the system of internal controls, both financial and non-financial, operated by the Company and the Investment Adviser. These controls are designed to ensure that the Company’s assets are safeguarded and that proper accounting records are maintained. Third party suppliers are required to have in place their own risk and controls framework, business continuity plans and the necessary expertise and resources in place to ensure that a high quality service can be maintained even under stressed scenarios.
    Performance of the Investment Adviser: the successful implementation of the Company’s investment policy is dependent on the expertise of the Investment Adviser and its ability to attract and retain suitable staff. The Company’s ability to achieve its investment objectives is largely dependent on the performance of the Investment Adviser in the acquisition and disposal of assets and the management of such assets. The Board has broad discretion to monitor the performance of the Investment Adviser and the power to appoint a replacement, but the Investment Adviser’s performance or that of any replacement cannot be guaranteed. The Board have both formal reviews by way of the Management Engagement Committee and Board meetings, and informal reviews over the course of the year outside of the formal Board timetable. Performance is closely monitored, including receiving detailed league table information and other market intelligence. Any concerns or suggestions are passed to the Investment Adviser, which are robustly challenged.
    Stock market risk: a small proportion of the Company’s investments are quoted on AIM and will be subject to market fluctuations upwards and downwards. External factors such as terrorist activity, political activity or global health crises, can negatively impact stock markets worldwide. In times of adverse sentiment there may be very little, if any, market demand for shares in smaller companies quoted on AIM. The Company’s small number of holdings of quoted investments are actively managed by the Investment Adviser, and the Board keeps the portfolio and the actions taken under ongoing review.
    VCT qualifying status risk: while it is the intention of the Directors that the Company will be managed so as to continue to qualify as a VCT, there can be no guarantee that this status will be maintained. A failure to continue meeting the qualifying requirements could result in the loss of VCT tax relief, the Company losing its exemption from corporation tax on capital gains, to shareholders being liable to pay income tax on dividends received from the Company and, in certain circumstances, to shareholders being required to repay the initial income tax relief on their investment. The Investment Adviser keeps the Company’s VCT qualifying status under continual review and its reports are reviewed by the Board on a quarterly basis. The Board has also retained Philip Hare & Associates LLP to undertake an independent VCT status monitoring role.

    Other matters

    The above summary of results for the year ended 31 March 2025 does not constitute statutory financial statements within the meaning of Section 435 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. Statutory financial statements will be filed with the Registrar of Companies in due course; the independent auditor’s report on those financial statements under Section 495 of the Companies Act 2006 is unqualified, does not include any reference to matters to which the auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying the report and does not contain a statement under Section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.

    The calculation of the return per share is based on the return after tax for the year of £8,481,000 (2024: £3,216,000) and on 200,018,249 (2024: 179,260,563) shares, being the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period.

    If approved by shareholders, the proposed final dividend of 1.5 pence per share for the year ended 31 March 2025 will be paid on 5 September 2025 to shareholders on the register at the close of business on 8 August 2025.

    The full annual report including financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 is expected to be made available to shareholders on or around 27 June 2025 and will be available to the public at the registered office of the company at Forward House, 17 High Street, Henley-in-Arden B95 5AA and on the Company’s website.

    The contents of the Mercia Asset Management PLC website and the contents of any website accessible from hyperlinks on the Mercia Asset Management PLC website (or any other website) are not incorporated into, nor form part of, this announcement.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TopLine Financial Credit Union Partners With The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines to Award $40,000 to Community Non-Profit Partners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Member Impact Fund Grant Program Supports Affordable Housing and Community Development      

    MAPLE GROVE, Minn., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based member-owned financial services cooperative, in partnership with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), is pleased to announce that four Minnesota community non-profit organizations will each receive a $10,000 grant from the Member Impact Fund, for a total of $40,000 awarded. This matching grant program will result in FHLB Des Moines awarding $20 million in funding to support affordable housing and community development in Minnesota.

    The grant funds will be used to support a variety of funding gaps that are being experienced by four non-profits that TopLine Financial Credit Union is proud to partner with, and together dedicated to improving affordable housing and community development initiatives. Grants will support the following non-profits and initiatives:

    • Avenues for Youth: funds will be used to subsidize food expenses, as they are no longer receiving assistant from a community food shelf, and combined with inflation has led to rising expenses, estimated at $25,000 annually.   Avenues serves 300 youth/families annually (90% of the youth identify as BIPOC and 38% identify as LGBTQI+).
    • Karen Organization of Minnesota: funds will be used for a Summer Youth Chemical Dependency Program, to serve 33 young people. The program promotes experiential learning, and a case management team to assist clients in recovery and treatment.
    • Keystone Community Services: funds will support a Foodmobile program, a mobile food shelf that brings food directly to under-resourced neighborhoods across Ramsey County. It operates over 25 times each month, providing fresh produce, canned goods, and pantry staples at community centers, senior housing, schools, and health clinics.
    • Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities: funds will be used for the Naomi Family Program, which provides transitional shelter and wraparound support for women and children in crisis, to bridge them to stable housing and independence.

    “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines for their invaluable partnership. We deeply appreciate their Member Impact Fund initiative, which tripled the impact of TopLine’s community donations, supporting our local communities,” said Mick Olson, President and CEO of TopLine Financial Credit Union. “This grassroots local community give-back is a powerful testament to partners uniting in their unwavering commitment to support those in need and facing crisis.”

    TopLine was proud to personally present the funds to each non-profit partner, and on behalf of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines).

    “We are thrilled to receive this generous funding initiated by TopLine and triple-matched by FHLB. These funds for the Naomi Family Program will strengthen our ability to serve women and children experiencing homelessness as we walk alongside and equip them for a brighter future with financial stability and secure housing,” says Pam Stegora Axberg, CEO, Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities.

    “Food insecurity is at record levels, and the Keystone Foodmobile is a vital way we meet people where they are,” said Adero Riser Cobb, President and CEO of Keystone Community Services. “This support helps us reach more neighborhoods with healthy, culturally relevant food and break down barriers to access.”

    “The Member Impact Fund continues to be a powerful resource in supporting our members as they expand access to affordable housing and drive community development,” says Kris Williams, president and CEO of FHLB Des Moines. “It’s inspiring to see the partnerships centered around improving local communities in such a variety of ways.”

    Recipient organizations were selected based on the needs for grant funding to support capacity-building or working capital necessary to strengthen their ability to serve affordable housing or community development needs including job training, affordable housing, financial literacy, food banks and youth programs.

    Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines provides funding solutions to more than 1,200 members to support mortgage lending, economic development and affordable housing in the communities, serving 13 states and three U.S Pacific territories as a member-owned cooperative. The Member Impact Fund provides FHLB Des Moines members up to $3 for every $1 in matching grant donations to strengthen the ability of not-for-profits or government entities to support the needs of communities.

    FHLB Des Moines is one of 11 regional Banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Members include community and commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, thrifts and community development financial institutions. FHLB Des Moines is wholly owned by its members and receives no taxpayer funding. For additional information about FHLB Des Moines, please visit www.fhlbdm.com.

    TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based credit union, is Minnesota’s 9th largest credit union, with assets of over $1.1 billion and serves over 70,000 members. Established in 1935, the not-for-profit financial cooperative offers a complete line of financial services from its ten branch locations — in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Circle Pines, Coon Rapids, Forest Lake, Maple Grove, Plymouth, St. Francis and in St. Paul’s Como Park — as well as by phone and online at www.TopLinecu.com. Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or volunteers in Anoka, Benton, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Washington and Wright counties in Minnesota and their immediate family members, as well as employees and retirees of Anoka Hennepin School District #11, Anoka Technical College, Federal Premium Ammunition, Hoffman Enclosures, Inc., GRACO, Inc., and their subsidiaries. Visit us on our Facebook or Instagram. To learn more about the credit union’s foundation, visit www.TopLinecu.com/Foundation.

    CONTACT:
    Vicki Roscoe Erickson
    Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
    TopLine Financial Credit Union
    verickson@toplinecu.com | 763.391.0872

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c0e9c239-4105-42eb-8198-e7644dce7800

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Siili Solutions Plc: Share Repurchase 17.6.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Siili Solutions Plc       Announcement  17.6.2025
         
         
    Siili Solutions Plc: Share Repurchase 17.6.2025  
         
    In the Helsinki Stock Exchange    
         
    Trade date           17.6.2025  
    Bourse trade         Buy  
    Share                  SIILI  
    Amount             1 200 Shares
    Average price/ share    6,2600 EUR
    Total cost            7 512,00 EUR
         
         
    Siili Solutions Plc now holds a total of 13 698 shares
    including the shares repurchased on 17.6.2025  
         
    The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation 
    No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
    and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.
         
    On behalf of Siili Solutions Plc    
         
    Nordea Bank Oyj    
         
    Sami Huttunen Ilari Isomäki  
         
    Further information:    
    CFO Aleksi Kankainen    
    Email: aleksi.kankainen@siili.com    
    Tel. +358 50 584 2029    
         
    www.siili.com    

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Siili Solutions Plc: Share Repurchase 17.6.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Siili Solutions Plc       Announcement  17.6.2025
         
         
    Siili Solutions Plc: Share Repurchase 17.6.2025  
         
    In the Helsinki Stock Exchange    
         
    Trade date           17.6.2025  
    Bourse trade         Buy  
    Share                  SIILI  
    Amount             1 200 Shares
    Average price/ share    6,2600 EUR
    Total cost            7 512,00 EUR
         
         
    Siili Solutions Plc now holds a total of 13 698 shares
    including the shares repurchased on 17.6.2025  
         
    The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation 
    No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
    and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.
         
    On behalf of Siili Solutions Plc    
         
    Nordea Bank Oyj    
         
    Sami Huttunen Ilari Isomäki  
         
    Further information:    
    CFO Aleksi Kankainen    
    Email: aleksi.kankainen@siili.com    
    Tel. +358 50 584 2029    
         
    www.siili.com    

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Siili Solutions Plc: Share Repurchase 17.6.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Siili Solutions Plc       Announcement  17.6.2025
         
         
    Siili Solutions Plc: Share Repurchase 17.6.2025  
         
    In the Helsinki Stock Exchange    
         
    Trade date           17.6.2025  
    Bourse trade         Buy  
    Share                  SIILI  
    Amount             1 200 Shares
    Average price/ share    6,2600 EUR
    Total cost            7 512,00 EUR
         
         
    Siili Solutions Plc now holds a total of 13 698 shares
    including the shares repurchased on 17.6.2025  
         
    The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation 
    No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
    and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.
         
    On behalf of Siili Solutions Plc    
         
    Nordea Bank Oyj    
         
    Sami Huttunen Ilari Isomäki  
         
    Further information:    
    CFO Aleksi Kankainen    
    Email: aleksi.kankainen@siili.com    
    Tel. +358 50 584 2029    
         
    www.siili.com    

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cyber A.I. Group Appoints Irving Bruckstein as Director of Global Technology Integration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, NEW YORK and LONDON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cyber A.I. Group, Inc. (“CyberAI” or the “Company”), an emerging growth Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence and IT services company engaged in the development of next-generation AI-driven Cybersecurity technology, announced today the appointment of Irving Bruckstein as Director of Global Technology Integration. Mr. Bruckstein brings over three decades of transformational IT leadership across higher education, enterprise and international markets.

    Irving Bruckstein will work in coordination with Dr. Peter J. Morales, CyberAI’s Chief Technology Officer. Mr. Bruckstein will advise and support CyberAI’s global integration initiatives focusing on harmonizing advanced technologies across enterprise environments, scaling secure infrastructure and aligning systems integration with the Company’s expanding global footprint. His appointment underscores CyberAI’s commitment to innovation, security and operational excellence as it prepares for the imminent launch of the Company’s next-generation AI-driven cybersecurity IP through its patent pending CyberAI Sentinel 2.0™ initiatives.

    CyberAI Sentinel 2.0™ represents a paradigm shift in Cybersecurity, committed to monetizing proprietary technology and providing clients with a holistic solution to cybersecurity threats by safeguarding digital assets. CyberAI Sentinel 2.0™ is delivering a cost-effective solution providing comprehensive Cybersecurity services for middle market companies on a global basis as part of CyberAI’s objective of achieving $100 million in revenues with an anticipated listing on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

    “Irving is an extraordinary technologist and strategist with a rare ability to commercialize complex architectures into scalable, resilient global systems,” said A.J. Cervantes, Jr., Executive Chairman at CyberAI. “His deep experience leading enterprise-scale IT and Cybersecurity initiatives—particularly across advanced technology, cloud and infrastructure domains—makes him an ideal person to support our highly proactive global launch of our proprietary CyberAI Sentinel 2.0™ AI-driven Cybersecurity advanced technology.”

    Mr. Bruckstein currently serves as the Chief Information Officer and CISO at Washington College where he spearheads the Cybersecurity modernization and compliance with GLBA, FERPA, HIPAA, as well as a member of the Board of Directors at MDREN and the Cybersecurity Intelligence Authority. In past experience, Mr. Bruckstein served as CIO at Salve Regina University and held senior leadership roles at NYU, Columbia University and in private sector ventures. He has led billion-dollar campus buildouts, cloud and data center migrations and Cybersecurity modernization efforts across diverse environments in the US, UAE and beyond.

    “Cyber A.I. Group stands at the intersection of global Cybersecurity, AI innovation and digital infrastructure transformation—and I’m thrilled to join the team during such a pivotal time,” said Mr. Bruckstein. “There’s enormous opportunity to unify systems, scale intelligent architectures and build resilient global frameworks that enable secure and sustainable digital ecosystems. I look forward to working with this proactive technology team driving these initiatives forward.”

    During his time at NYU from 2010 to 2016, Mr. Bruckstein was the Senior Director of Global Technology Services where he oversaw and directed the full-stack technology implementation for a new multi-billion U.S. dollar campus build-out for NYU’s campus in Abu Dhabi. At Columbia University beginning in 2007, Mr. Bruckstein led IT infrastructure modernization across the university, including managing a $45 million technology portfolio and implemented virtualization, VoIP and SAN infrastructure at the university.

    Mr. Bruckstein holds an M.S. and B.S. in Computer Science from Hofstra University and has served on several national and regional technology advisory councils. He will report directly to the CTO and work closely with cross-functional teams as CyberAI builds out its CyberAI Sentinel 2.0 technology. Through AI innovation, CyberAI Sentinel 2.0™ is designed to empower enterprises with intelligent, adaptive and proactive protection while also leveraging CyberAI’s expanding customer base.

    About Cyber A.I. Group

    Cyber A.I. Group, Inc. (“CyberAI”) is a next-generation technology company pioneering the development of advanced, proprietary platforms at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. With a mission to redefine how organizations protect, predict, and respond to digital threats, CyberAI is positioning patent pending technologies that enable autonomous threat detection, adaptive risk mitigation, and intelligent system resilience across enterprise and cloud environments. At the core of CyberAI’s innovation is a team of world-class technologists, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts dedicated to creating breakthrough solutions that are scalable, secure, and globally deployable. The company’s technologies are designed to address the most urgent and complex challenges facing today’s digital infrastructure—from AI-driven security orchestration to autonomous anomaly detection and predictive analytics for critical systems. CyberAI’s commitment to continuous innovation and deep IP development is positioning it at the critical merger between AI and the global cybersecurity landscape. By fusing artificial intelligence with real-world cyber defense expertise, the company aims to set new standards for intelligent infrastructure protection and digital trust. For more information, please visit: cyberaigroup.io

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/abff6299-661a-455a-9f71-4229e4969a39

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland in 2050

    Source: Scottish Government

    Opportunities and challenges for the future.

    First Minister John Swinney has launched new analysis on the trends that could shape the future of Scotland in the next 10 to 20 years, saying that Scotland must “take charge of our own destiny” as an independent country to shape our own future.

    ‘Future Trends for Scotland’ sets out the plausible opportunities and challenges facing Scotland, and could inform Scottish Government policy and the work of our partners in Scotland.

    The reports show Scotland can make the most of opportunities including new energy potential, growing success in space and life sciences and widespread adoption of AI alongside the emergence of quantum technology.

    Challenges facing Scotland resonate with those seen across the world including growing risks to democracy because of mis- and disinformation, more frequent conflicts, increasing inequalities and climate change. 

    Addressing the Scotland 2050 conference in Edinburgh, First Minister John Swinney said:

    “The Scotland of 2050 will be shaped by a series of unpredictable forces, by new technologies we have only half-imagined in the pages of science fiction, by conflicts now only simmering, by people who are only just born but it will also be shaped by us. By the decisions we take, the policy choices we implement, the vision and path forward that we set out.

    “That is a great responsibility, but for me it is also exciting, inspiring, and a privilege to shape it as First Minister. 

    “With the Future Trends horizon scan, we have the best available Scotland specific analysis to inform our decisions, both now and for the future. 

    “It shows both hurdles and new horizons for our society and economy. Warnings where we need to change, or up the pace, but also doors opening, if we have the courage to walk through them with confidence, with boldness and self-belief.

    “And it is by shaping strategy and policy towards achieving long-term outcomes that we will be ready for this new world as it evolves.

    “It is only by taking charge of our own destiny, with our own hand on the tiller, that we are better able to ride the waves of change, that we are better able to shape our own future.

    “That does not mean a Scotland standing alone, but rather a nation that has worked out its place in the world, and the contribution it wants to make to the world.

    “An ongoing deep and rich partnership with the other nations of these isles, absolutely, but ultimately as a nation state in our own right, as a Member State of the world’s largest trading block, the world’s biggest social and economic community, the European Union.”

    Background

    Future Trends for Scotland – Findings from the 2024-25 Horizon Scanning Project – gov.scot

    Young People and the Future of Scotland – A Participatory Horizon Scanning Engagement – gov.scot

    Scotland 2050 Conference: First Minister’s Speech – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth’s 2025 local climate legends revealed

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Residents across Plymouth have been nominating their local climate heroes, and the winners have now been unveiled. 

    Plymouth local climate legends winners

    Ranging from an eco-friendly school on a mission to change their school culture, a dedicated business finding innovative solutions, and youth, community and citizen legends who have been using their voice to empower others to make change.  

    Over 70 nominations were submitted uncovering amazing stories and triumphs showing the breadth of work going on. 

    The winners will be celebrated at The Big Green Trail on Saturday 21 June, a free event full of fun activities to take part in. 

    The winners are:  

    Business Legend 

    Stiltskin Children’s Theatre 

    Stiltskin Theatre have gone above and beyond ‘business as usual’ to reduce the carbon footprint of the theatre and has found endlessly creative insulation solutions to regulate heating and cool the building by 10 degrees! They have installed hot compost bins, created an award-winning community garden and implemented a zero to landfill waste solution, reusing materials at every opportunity. 

    Employee Legend 

    Sarah Lee 

    Sarah is a Senior Associate at Stride Treglown Architects where she advocates for carbon reduction in the built environment promoting opportunities for learning, upskilling and collaboration across the city. Sarah founded Future Plymouth 2030 and works tirelessly with schools; she actively empowers people with the knowledge and tools to make change and take positive climate action. 

    Citizen Legend 

    Ricky Lowes 

    Ricky, an active member of Climate Action Plymouth, has demonstrated her unwavering passion for looking after our world at a local level. From pursuing accessible active travel for all to challenging others to think differently, she is a leader inspiring those around her to take action for our city.  

    Rob Wick 

    Rob opened the social enterprise THINQTANQ over eight years ago and is a pioneer of several climate initiatives. Rob is always looking to find new community solutions and has since been supporting other social enterprises and collaborating with Fab City, all with a passion for making Plymouth a greener place. 

    Young Person Legend 

    Eva Wakeham 

    Eva, aged 10 years old, is a member of the Ocean City influencers group and has been using her voice to champion our ocean and the importance of climate change action in the home of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. As part of the group, she has been involved in beach cleans, online blogging and filming. Eva is an inspiring role model and is always sharing her skillset with others to drive change. 

    School Legend 

    Heles Secondary School 

    Mike and Helen, two colleagues at Heles School have built an extraordinary sustainable school culture. Beyond teaching, they empower students to protect the planet, to think bigger, act bolder and care deeper. They have developed an outdoor classroom, been a part of rewilding projects, champion cycling to work and have joined the Green Schools Revolution. 

    Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “Huge congratulations to our winners, who have been recognised for all their contributions to helping Plymouth on its journey to net zero and the fact they go above and beyond for our planet. 

    “Thanks to the panel of judges for taking the time to select the winners and to all of those who nominated friends, neighbours and colleagues to highlight our worthy unsung heroes. 

    “This really is a huge achievement, and we will all come together to celebrate their awards at the Big Green Trail.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New community health centre opens in Kamloops

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People living in and around Kamloops now have more access to team-based primary care through the new Supporting Team Excellence with Patients Society (STEPS) North Shore Community Health Centre (CHC) at 202B-780 Windsor Ave.

    “The STEPS North Shore Community Health Centre brings us closer to our goal of providing everyone in B.C. the high-quality health care they need, when and where they need it,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “This centre is expected to facilitate more than 30,000 patient visits each year in a culturally safe, trauma-informed environment.”

    Once fully operational, STEPS North Shore CHC will provide comprehensive person-centred primary care that will connect 4,300 people in the area without a family doctor or nurse practitioner with a primary-care provider.

    “STEPS is focused on strengthening long-term relationships between patients and health-care providers,” said Colin O’Leary, president, STEPS. “These relationships have been shown to improve health outcomes, help avoid preventable illness and reduce the cost of health care. The new North Shore Community Health Centre will expand on the network of care we have built in the Thompson region and enhance primary-care services for underserved populations in our community.”

    Since May 15, 2025, when the CHC opened, STEPS has hired 0.2 full-time equivalent (FTE) family physician, one FTE registered nurse, one FTE mental-health therapist, 0.8 FTE community-health worker and one FTE executive director. It is currently interviewing for additional clinical positions.

    Once fully operational, the CHC will have a clinical staffing complement of approximately 13.5 FTE health-care workers, including two FTE family physicians, three FTE nurse practitioners, 2.3 FTE registered nurses, 1.15 FTE licensed practical nurse, 2.8 FTE social workers and community-health workers, and one FTE physiotherapist, and an executive director and support staff. 

    “By working closely with community partners, such as STEPS, we are expanding access to primary care, which includes health promotion and wellness services,” said Susan Brown, president and CEO of Interior Health. “This means more people will be supported in staying healthy through early intervention, personalized care plans and a broad team of health professionals focused on long-term health and well-being.”

    The STEPS North Shore CHC plans to be open six days a week, including some morning and/or evening hours.

    “As we continue to implement a primary-care network across the region, this new centre represents a key step in aligning community-based services with our shared vision for integrated, team-based care,” said Dr. Meghan Macdonald, president of the Thompson Region Division of Family Practice.

    The Province has committed more than $2.6 million in annual operating funding with more than $2 million in additional, one-time start-up funds, which includes more than $1.3 million for tenant improvements for the North Shore CHC.

    The health centre will be operated by STEPS, a non-profit society that has been providing interdisciplinary, team-based primary health care in the Thompson Region since 2017. It is a community driven initiative made possible through the collaboration of STEPS, Interior Health, the Thompson Region Division of Family Practice and the Ministry of Health.

    The STEPS North Shore CHC will be part of the Thompson Region Primary Care Network (PCN), which brings together health-care providers in Kamloops and the Lower Thompson region to improve access and attachment to team-based, comprehensive and culturally safe primary care.

    The investment in the STEPS North Shore CHC aligns with the Province’s primary-care strategy to improve access to team-based, patient-focused care though PCNs, which are geographically based, locally planned and co-ordinated systems of primary care, as well as single-site models of care, such as First Nations Primary Care Initiatives and Urgent and Primary Care Centres.

    Quick Facts:

    • Including the new STEPS North Shore CHC in Kamloops, there are 13 publicly funded CHCs in B.C. that are delivering services, including one publicly funded CHC operating in the Interior Health region.
    • Publicly funded CHCs are required to be integrated into primary-care networks.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Province’s Primary Care Strategy, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2018PREM0034-001010

    To learn about the Province’s Health Human Resources Strategy, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022HLTH0059-001464

    To sign up to be matched with a family doctor or nurse practitioner on the Health Connect Registry, visit: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-connect-registry

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan Invest $3.4 Million to Support Usask’s Integrated Genomics for Sustainable Animal Agriculture and Environmental Stewardship Project

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 17, 2025

    Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison today announced $3.4 million over four years to support the development of two new facilities at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) which includes the Omics Resource Centre at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) and Beef Reprotech facilities at the Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence (LFCE).

    The investment will be delivered through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) as part of the governments’ commitment to support partnerships with strategic agricultural research organizations.

    The new initiative, called IntegrOmes (Integrated Genomics for Sustainable Animal Agriculture and Environmental Stewardship), will advance beef genetics by matching genomic markers with desirable traits and evaluate reproductive efficiencies. This integrated approach will enable producers to make more precise and data-driven breeding decisions that improve livestock productivity in Saskatchewan.

    “Innovation – like what we are seeing through genomics research – is vital to the continued success of Canada’s agriculture sector,” MacDonald said. “This shared investment with Saskatchewan will support the expanded efforts of these facilities and ensure a vibrant future for Saskatchewan’s livestock sector.” 

    “Saskatchewan producers already bring generations of expertise and innovation to our livestock sector, and this investment builds on that legacy – helping ensure Saskatchewan’s ranchers remain global leaders at what they do best,” Harrison said. “The work of USask is recognized globally, and we are proud to support this initiative and the livestock sector it serves.”

    The IntegrOmes project will address issues of beef cattle production and reproductive efficiency, animal health and the environment through the adoption of genomic tools. Saskatchewan producers will benefit from having access to these tools to stay competitive in the domestic and international market.

    “Genomic research is advancing rapidly, and USask is leading the way in this evolving field,” University of Saskatchewan Research Vice-President Baljit Singh said. “Our researchers are applying cutting-edge methods to advance our understanding of beef genetics, which couldn’t be possible without the support of this joint funding from the provincial and federal governments. We thank them for their continued support as we aspire to be the university the world needs.”

    USask, the WCVM and the LFCE are world-class research, teaching and knowledge-transfer facilities that connect innovation across the livestock production chain. USask’s work in feedlot and cow-calf management, veterinary science and forage systems plays a vital role in driving improvements in productivity and sustainability in the sector.

    This investment builds on the long-standing support for agricultural research by the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan. Through shared priorities under Sustainable CAP, over the past five years nearly $170 million has been committed in Saskatchewan toward research to improve productivity, expand markets and ensure our agri-food products remain globally competitive.

    With today’s announcement, USask’s LFCE and the WCVM continue to strengthen Saskatchewan’s reputation as a global leader in high-quality, safe and sustainable food production.

    Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments.

    To strengthen competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Short Line Rail Infrastructure Investment Increases by 88 Per Cent

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 17, 2025

    Today, Highways Minister David Marit announced the provincial government’s allocations of $1 million in short line rail infrastructure investments, an increase of $470,000 or 88 per cent from last year’s budget. This increase recognizes the key role rail transportation plays supporting Saskatchewan’s export-based economy.

    “Short line railways are an integral link that help move our commodities to markets around the world,” Marit said. “They support Saskatchewan’s export-based economy that sustains our quality of life. Short lines are a safe and efficient way to move bulk commodities, which reduces wear and tear on Saskatchewan highways.”

    Ministry of Highways’ Short Line Railway Improvement Program (SRIP) funding will go toward track upgrades and expansion, improved crossing surfaces and sightlines, bridge maintenance, track rehabilitations and other projects. As the SRIP is a 50-50 cost-sharing program between the provincial government ($1 million) and privately-owned short lines ($1 million) for eligible projects, the total short line rail infrastructure investment will be up to $2 million this year under this program.

    Provincial government funding allocations for 2025-26 are:

    • Big Sky Rail (Delisle, Eston, Elrose region) $167,541.
    • Carlton Trail Railway (Saskatoon to Prince Albert area) $71,391.
    • Great Sandhills Railway (Swift Current to Leader area) $82,945.
    • Great Western Railway (Assiniboia, Shaunavon, Coronach area) $250,073.
    • Last Mountain Railway (Regina to Davidson) $56,122.
    • Long Creek Railroad (west of Estevan) $45,000.
    • Northern Lights Rail (west of Melfort) $45,000.
    • Red Coat Road and Rail (Ogema area) $47,456.
    • Southern Rails Cooperative (south of Moose Jaw) $45,000.
    • Stewart Southern Railway (southwest of Regina to Stoughton) $54,471.
    • Thunder Rail (Arborfield area) $45,000.
    • Torch River Rail (Nipawin to Choiceland area) $45,000.
    • Wheatland Rail (Cudworth, Wakaw area) $45,000.

    “The Western Canadian Short Line Railway Association thanks the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways for their support of the short line railway industry,” Western Canadian Short Line Railway Association Director of Communications and Government Relations Rachel Mackenzie said. “Rising material costs over the last three years means that it is now more expensive per mile for railways to maintain their tracks to meet and exceed the safety and performance standards required.

    “The Saskatchewan railway improvement program now provides more funding per mile to support the maintenance and improvement of this valuable trade-enabling infrastructure. This increase of almost 90 per cent to the program will go a long way to further supporting the value that short line railways bring to the supply chain.”

    The provincial grants provide up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs and determined by how much track each short line owns. Short lines with less than 80 kilometres of track receive at least $45,000. Larger networks receive a proportional amount based on how much track they operate.

    Thirteen provincially regulated short line railways operate on 2,123 kilometres of track in Saskatchewan.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grothman and Cruz Introduce Bicameral CREATE JOBS Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)

    Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) joins Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in introducing the CREATE JOBS Act, a bicameral bill which will restore key pro-manufacturing provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), incentivizing domestic production and creating over one million full-time jobs for hardworking Americans.
    The CREATE JOBS Act would reinstate and make permanent two expired TCJA provisions that were vital in driving manufacturing growth and attracting investment back to the U.S. In addition, the bill applies neutral cost recovery for structures, such as factories. Taken together, these provisions will bolster manufacturing, raise wages, and create good-paying jobs.
    “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) delivered major wins for American families and workers, but some of its most powerful tools for growth have already expired, hurting the competitiveness of the manufacturing industry,” said Grothman. “Wisconsin’s Sixth District is the most manufacturing intensive district in the country, so I’ve seen directly how this affects the hardworking men and women at home.
    “The bottom line is we must make these provisions permanent to support our manufacturers, restore what we know works, and expand policies that strengthen our economy and create jobs across the nation. After our workforce has suffered through inflation and economic turmoil over the past four years, I’m proud to join Senator Ted Cruz in introducing the CREATE JOBS Act to invest in American workers and grow our industrial base.”

    “As Congress considers extending immediate deductions for research and equipment, it’s long past time to give structures similar treatment. The 2017 tax cuts were a leap forward for investment, but they left buildings behind. By fixing that omission, the CREATE JOBS Act levels the playing field for all types of investment and unlocks capital for American manufacturing. Updating cost recovery for all investments is the single most pro-manufacturing, pro-growth reform Congress could include in reconciliation,” said Adam Michel, Director of Tax Policy Studies at the Cato Institute.

     

    “WMC thanks Rep. Grothman for his leadership making the Wisconsin and American economies pro-business.  One-hundred percent bonus deprecation and full-expensing of R&D costs were boons for economic growth across Wisconsin and the country following the passage of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.   Making these provisions permanent will provide predictability for business investments, make America more attractive for growth, and ultimately strengthen our economy.  The CREATE JOBS Act is common-sense policy that is positively pro-business and promotes job creation right here in Wisconsin and across America,” said Kurt Bauer, President & CEO at Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC).

     

    Background Information

     

    The CREATE JOBS Act would make permanent two key pro-manufacturing provisions of the TCJA and create further incentives to produce domestically.

    Specifically, the bill would make the bonus-depreciation and full-expensing for research and development (R&D) provisions of the TCJA permanent and apply neutral cost recovery to rental units and commercial structures, like factories.

    According to the Tax Foundation, these provisions would increase long-run GDP by 5.1 percent, increase wages by 4.3 percent, and create over one million full-time jobs for American workers.

    Senator Ted Cruz previously introduced this bill in 2020, 2021, and 2023.

    U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) is serving his fifth term representing Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Postal summit held

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The 6th Mainland-Hong Kong-Macao Postal Summit was held in Hong Kong today where representatives from the three places engaged in business exchanges and in-depth discussions on key topics.

     

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau delivered opening remarks at the summit.

    ​

    State Post Bureau Director General Zhao Chongjiu, China Post Group Co Chairman Liu Aili, Macao Post & Telecommunications Bureau Director Lau Wai Meng, and Postmaster General Leonia Tai gave speeches respectively, and joined Mr Yau in officiating at the summit’s opening ceremony.

     

    Seven important consensus were reached at the meeting, including collaboratively ensuring service support for the 15th National Games and jointly launching special products.

     

    In his opening remarks, Mr Yau said it is highly significant for the postal summit to be held in Hong Kong for the first time. Under the leadership of the State Post Bureau, the summit provides a sustainable and effective platform for the postal services of the three places to deepen communication and co-operation, enhance policy co-ordination and resource sharing, and promote integration and exchange in postal development.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK gains 9 Martin Barnes Awards

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Development Bureau (DEVB) and works departments bagged nine Martin Barnes Awards, including two prestigious winner awards.

     

    An award ceremony was held yesterday in London, the UK, where Hong Kong won nine awards from the 27 awards in eight categories among 80 entries worldwide.

     

    Hong Kong earned two of the prestigious winner awards. While the Water Supplies Department received one for the Climate Change Initiative category for the implementation of Shek Wu Hui Water Reclamation Plant, the other award, for the Distinguished Contribution category, was given to Deputy Secretary for Development (Works) Tony Ho in recognition of his outstanding performance in promoting the application of the New Engineering Contract (NEC) in construction projects over the years.

     

    Apart from the two winner awards, the DEVB, the Civil Engineering & Development, the Drainage Services, the Electrical & Mechanical Services and the Highways departments also received accolades for several notable NEC entries.

     

    While sending her congratulations to the project teams on their impressive achievements, Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn highlighted that the DEVB and works departments have been committed to promoting collaborative partnerships in the delivery of public works projects through the adoption of the NEC form, enhancing mutual trust and co-operation among different industry stakeholders.

     

    “Such collaborative partnerships help accomplish the primary goals of project management and enhance management efficiency and cost-effectiveness of projects. The awards fully demonstrate that their efforts and accomplishments have been recognised internationally.”

     

    Introduced by the DEVB for public works projects in the city in 2009, the NEC form embraces a collaborative partnership between clients and contractors, thereby enhancing project performance.

     

    As of today, more than 760 public works contracts, with a total value of over $510 billion, have adopted the NEC form.

     

    A prestigious honour in the industry, the Martin Barnes Awards are presented by the New Engineering Contract Users’ Group under the UK Institution of Civil Engineers. The awards recognise construction projects, organisations and individuals worldwide that have demonstrated excellence in project delivery through collaborative partnership.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Young Kim, Adam Gray Lead Bipartisan Push for National Wildfire Response Time

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Adam Gray (CA-13) introduced the Wildfire Response and Preparedness (WRAP) Act to create a 30-minute national standard response time to the extent practical to any wildland fire on federal land administered by the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior. 

    Spectrum News 1 SoCal first reported on the bill HERE.  

    “Timely response to a wildfire can make the difference between life and death,” said Congresswoman Kim, who represents the Cleveland National Forest Trabuco Ranger District. “My community knows the devastation of wildfires firsthand as we still recover from last year’s Airport Fire that started in Trabuco Canyon and burned 23,000 acres in Orange and Riverside Counties. The WRAP Act will help equip our communities with the manpower and tools needed to contain wildfires and save lives.” 

    “Californians are far too familiar with wildfires tearing through our communities, threatening lives, public health and property. The only way to counter increasingly dangerous wildfires is by responding to them as quickly as possible. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan, commonsense legislation which would protect our firefighters, save federal lands and prevent catastrophic loss of life and property across the country,” said Congressman Gray. 

    “The Western Fire Chiefs Association is proud to support the core mission of the Wildfire Response and Preparedness Act – ensuring a robust wildland fire response capability to stem the threat of catastrophic wildfires. Through effective partnerships and strategically leveraging local air and ground resources for fire response, we can give our brave first responders the clarity and tools they need to save lives and keep our communities safe,” said Bob Roper, CEO, Western Fire Chiefs Association. 

     “The United Aerial Firefighters Association greatly supports this bill to develop aerial response standards. This will ensure there are aircraft available to respond to incidents and support the firefighters on the ground,” said Paul Petersen, Executive Director, United Aerial Firefighters Association. 

    Sens. Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. 

    Read the bill HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 17, 2025 1300 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 171258

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0758 AM CDT Tue Jun 17 2025

    Valid 171300Z – 181200Z

    …THERE IS A MODERATE RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PARTS OF
    KANSAS AND NORTHERN OKLAHOMA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Severe thunderstorms producing numerous to widespread damaging
    winds, scattered large hail (isolated 2+ inches), and a few
    tornadoes are expected today across parts of the central/southern
    Plains and lower/mid Missouri Valley. The greatest threat for
    destructive gusts up to 70-100 mph is forecast across portions of
    Kansas and northern Oklahoma.

    …Central/Southern Plains into the Lower/Mid Missouri Valley…
    A small but intense bow echo that moved south-southeastward across
    parts of KS overnight should continue to weaken this morning across
    northeast OK. But in the short term, an isolated threat for severe
    winds may continue until the cluster fully dissipates. Across
    eastern CO, occasional severe hail may occur with marginal
    supercells for another hour or two before additional weakening
    occurs. The net effect of this overnight/early morning convection on
    the severe potential across the southern/central Plains remains
    uncertain. But, a trailing outflow boundary from the decaying MCS
    now in northeast OK may prove instrumental in focusing significant
    severe potential this afternoon/evening.

    A subtle mid-level shortwave trough over the eastern Great Basin and
    central Rockies will continue to move eastward over the adjacent
    central/southern High Plains by this evening. At the surface,
    further deepening of a low over southeast CO is anticipated through
    the day, with this low forecast to develop into the TX Panhandle by
    early evening. A lee trough/dryline will extend southward from this
    low, while a convectively reinforced boundary should extend
    somewhere along/near the KS/OK border by mid to late afternoon, and
    potentially northeastward into eastern KS as well. The airmass
    across east-central CO into western KS was generally not
    convectively overturned yesterday into early this morning, with the
    12Z sounding from DDC still showing around 2800 J/kg of MUCAPE
    available.

    Convective development and evolution remain uncertain later today.
    Still, it appears likely that initially high-based thunderstorms
    will develop over the higher terrain of central CO this afternoon,
    and then spread east-southeastward over the adjacent High Plains
    through the evening. Much of eastern CO and vicinity will be in a
    post-frontal regime. But steep mid-level lapse rates and sufficient
    low-level moisture should support the development of moderate
    instability. Strong deep-layer shear should foster supercells
    initially, with associated threat for mainly large to isolated very
    large hail. Some upscale growth may eventually occur with this
    activity as it spreads into western KS this evening, along with an
    increased threat for severe/damaging winds.

    Farther east into central/eastern KS and MO, severe potential
    remains highly uncertain, with a myriad of possible solutions
    offered by various high-resolution guidance. In general, current
    expectations are for an increasing threat for numerous to
    potentially widespread severe/damaging winds across parts of KS into
    northern OK, with one or more intense clusters potentially
    developing in tandem with a strengthening low-level jet this evening
    across the southern/central Plains. Significant severe gusts of 75+
    mph remain possible, along with a few tornadoes with any sustained
    supercells along/near the boundary this evening as low-level shear
    strengthens. Overall, severe probabilities have been expanded
    southward some across the OK/TX Panhandles and northern/central OK,
    in an attempt to account for where the outflow boundary/front may be
    present this afternoon/evening. Additional adjustments to risk areas
    are likely with later outlook updates pending additional
    observational and model data.

    …Mid-Atlantic into the Tennessee Valley/Southeast…
    Diurnal heating of a seasonally moist low-level airmass will occur
    today across the central Appalachians/southern Mid-Atlantic within a
    modestly sheared environment. Thunderstorms are expected to develop
    over higher terrain by early afternoon, and subsequently spread
    eastward through the evening. Some of this activity may form into
    loosely organized clusters. Occasional strong/damaging winds should
    be the main severe threat with this activity, particularly across
    parts of VA/MD where stronger instability is forecast.

    Farther south into the TN Valley/Southeast, a weak mid/upper-level
    trough with multiple embedded perturbations should advance slowly
    eastward through the day. Similar to yesterday, daytime heating of a
    moist airmass should foster moderate to locally strong instability
    this afternoon. Around 25-30 kt of mid-level southwesterly flow and
    similar values of deep-layer shear should support some loose
    convective organization with multiple thunderstorm clusters that can
    develop. Have expanded the Marginal Risk for isolated damaging winds
    southwestward to account for this potential.

    ..Gleason/Kerr.. 06/17/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1630Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Tue Jun 17 15:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Tue Jun 17 15:35:03 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Tue Jun 17 15:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Tue Jun 17 15:35:06 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico Workers and Allies Hold Solidarity Rally Demanding a Fair Contract

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM Union workers at Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico (LTPR), standing shoulder to shoulder with union allies and community supporters, rallied outside the company’s Aguadilla facility this week to demand what they have earned: a fair contract that values their labor, safety, and dignity.

    For nearly three years, the skilled aviation workers at LTPR have been at the bargaining table – yet the company continues to stall, refusing to act in the best interests of its workers. While Lufthansa Technik profits off the professionalism and dedication of these workers, it has failed to offer a contract that reflects their worth or improves the lives of those who make its operations possible.

    “These workers have waited long enough,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “LTPR’s refusal to move on a fair contract is a blatant disregard for the very people who keep this company running. This fight is about respect, safety, and securing a better future for these families in Puerto Rico.”

    The rally brought together union members, community leaders, and allies who echoed the same message: enough is enough. The workers are demanding basic human needs that the company continues to neglect.

    “Lufthansa Technik has a choice: invest in the people who power your success or continue this pattern of delay and disrespect,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Our members in Puerto Rico are standing strong – and the IAM stands with them. We will not back down until justice is delivered at the bargaining table.”

    In May 2022, over 200 aircraft mechanics and related workers at LTPR voted overwhelmingly to join the IAM Union, seeking a voice on the job and a fair deal. Since then, progress at the bargaining table has been stonewalled by the company’s refusal to come forward with meaningful proposals. The IAM requested federal mediation from the National Mediation Board in 2023 in response to the company’s continued inaction.

    This struggle has now drawn international solidarity. Verdi, a major German union representing Lufthansa workers across Europe, has called on Lufthansa AG – LTPR’s parent company – to step in and help end the contract dispute.

    “LTPR can’t hide from its responsibilities – this fight is global now, and the world is watching,” added Martin. “IAM Union members in Puerto Rico are not alone. The entire IAM Union family stands behind them.”

    The IAM Union is urging LTPR leadership to return to the table with real solutions that honor the value and professionalism of its workforce – not more empty promises.

    SEE PHOTOS

    The post Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico Workers and Allies Hold Solidarity Rally Demanding a Fair Contract appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Local 701 Members at Finkl Steel Say Solidarity is Key to Progress in 122-Year Legacy

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Leaders of the IAM Midwest Territory recently visited one of the longest-standing union shops in the IAM Union to meet with members and company management before upcoming negotiations. 

    A. Finkl and Sons Steel Company was founded in 1879, in the aftermath of the great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed 3 square miles of the city. Today, the worldwide company is named Finkl Steel, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of steel dies and tools that make numerous things we take for granted: anything from oil field equipment to molds for automobile manufacturing to the famed 155mm Army Howitzer canon.

    Finkl management remarked that many of the Howitzers sent to Ukraine since the war erupted in 2022 have resulted in new orders for the company’s Howitzer barrels and sustained work for the IAM members.

    Documents show the workers organized with the IAM on May 1, 1903, after previous representation with the Chicago Metal Trades Association.

    “My dad started here in 1955. My Brother started here just before I did,” said current IAM Local 701 member and Finkl employee Tom Buzecky. 

    He has worked at the company for nearly 50 years, starting in August 1977. 

    “I work with a whole group that has family members employed here at the company,” said Buzecky.

    Buzecky recalls the 1984 strike, which lasted nearly four months.

    “The only way to get what you want is to stay together,” said Buzecky. “We were solid, and that helped make our point.”

    “Our IAM sisters and brothers working at Finkl Steel are truly remarkable representing an honorable example of their solidarity,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “They have built and earned the respect of this company’s management over several decades, and we plan to continue that partnership for our members’ benefit for years to come.”

    “Finkl management has talked with us about their need for more workers, and Local 701 has a great apprenticeship program already running on all cylinders,” said IAM Midwest Territory Coordinator Bill LePinske. “So it’s great to partner with a company and fulfill their needs for a highly skilled workforce.”

    One of Finkl Steel’s largest customers is Caterpillar, a maker of many large industrial machines. IAM members build the molds, tools, and dies that make many more jobs run. These workers know that their work is crucial to so many other workers, and they understand that union solidarity needs to be as strong as steel to maintain their long history of providing solid wages and benefits.   

    Generations of families, like the Buzecky family, have thrived through employment at Finkl Steel, and with some mutual respect and solidarity, their next negotiations will keep those families secure for generations to come.

    The post IAM Local 701 Members at Finkl Steel Say Solidarity is Key to Progress in 122-Year Legacy appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Business Owner Sentenced After Receiving More than $1.6 Million in Funds from the CARES Act

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    Click Here to View the Original U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Press Release

    A former Oklahoma man with business ties in Florida was sentenced today after pleading guilty to four counts of bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

    U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Shawn Ray Murnan, 57, of Windemere, Florida, to 33 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. Judge Hill further ordered Murnan to pay $1,641,796.47 in restitution to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

    “In 2020, the CARES Act funding was established to provide emergency financial assistance to help businesses that were disrupted,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Investigators and prosecutors are committed to finding those like Murnan who steal government funding and prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law.”

    From April 2020 through October 2021, Murnan admitted to falsifying several CARES Act applications to the SBA. Murnan was the owner of numerous business ventures in Oklahoma, Florida, and other states. He submitted 14 applications on behalf of his businesses, including Blujett, LLC, which was based in Broken Arrow. He submitted applications claiming to have several employees and falsified his payroll expenses. Murnan requested more than two million and successfully received $1,641,796.47 from seven Paycheck Protection Program loans and two Economic Injury Disaster Loans. After receiving the funds, Murnan applied for the loans to be forgiven.

    Previously released on bond, Murnan was taken into custody following the sentencing today, where he will remain pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

    The Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Office of Inspector General for the Small Business Administration, and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Whipple prosecuted the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at Justice.gov/OPA/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud.

    Related programs: COVID EIDL, Disaster, Pandemic Oversight, PPP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IP Bryant, GVP Bennett Join IAM Local 2471 Members for Grand Opening of New Alstom Rail Manufacturing Facility

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM leadership was on hand to join IAM Local 2471 (District 19) members as Alstom opened its newest operation, Car Body Shell Plant 4, in Hornell, New York. The $75 million manufacturing and testing facility brings railcar body manufacturing from Brazil back to Alstom’s facilities in the southern tier of western New York state. Alstom has pledged to retain union jobs and create more union jobs for IAM Union members working at this Hornell location.

    The funding was made possible in part by up to $7 million being made available through New York State, led by Gov. Kathy Hochul, as well as past state investments totalling up to $30 million.

    “This is telling our members that Alstom is making the investment so that they’re going to be here in Hornell, New York for future generations,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “I was honored to come here today to celebrate the grand opening of this facility, and we look forward to the day that this facility is at full capacity.”

    The first large order for the new facility is to manufacture 200 multilevel rail cars for Chicago’s Metra commuter rail lines. The newer cars will be equipped with modern internet features, greater capacity, and smoother rides.  

    The new plant features state-of-the-art, welding robots along an integrated assembly line. The robots will make tens of thousands of welds on each car shell making its way down the line, but human workers are needed to finish and check the automation process.

    “The company has told us that there is a high demand for welders here in Hornell that is hard to keep up with, and the IAM hopes to secure the wages, benefits, and compensation for these in demand crafts,” said IAM Union Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. 

    Current IAM members at the existing plants in Hornell are completing the order for the newest Amtrak trainsets named the “Aveila Liberty.” These high speed trains will reach speeds of 160 miles per hour on Amtrak’s northeast corridor from Washington, D.C. to Boston. Twenty-eight “tilting” trains provide a smoother ride for customers, with updated modern conveniences, and one third more capacity over the existing Acela trainsets that are over a quarter century old. Aveila Liberty trainsets are expected to be in operation before fall of this year.

    “We make the train bodies in plant 1, plant 2 we build the traction motors, plant 3 is basically our warehouse,” said Alstom IAM Local 2741 Secretary/Treasurer Armin Bishop-Miller.  “Hopefully, when Plant 4 gets up and running the right way, we can get people in here and help this company grow.” 

    Hornell has a long history with the railroad industry, with the Erie Station headend connecting four different rail lines dating back to the 1860’s. Rail carriers have changed names over the years, but the tracks and legacy of this town’s roots in railroading are strong.

    The Hornell plant has delivered over 8,000 new or refurbished rail vehicles to customers across North America, including 1,000 subway cars to New York City Transit. Now with this fully integrated facility in the southern tier of New York State, and the fine craftsmanship of the IAM members, railcars will continue to roll out of the city of Hornell.

    Alstom Plant 4 Video

    The post IP Bryant, GVP Bennett Join IAM Local 2471 Members for Grand Opening of New Alstom Rail Manufacturing Facility appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –