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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Dan Goldman’s Op-Ed in the Daily News: Brooklyn Marine Terminal Reborn – After Years of Decay it’s Time for a Revived Port and Housing

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    New York, NY – Yesterday, the New York Daily News published an op-ed from Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10) on his support for the draft master plan for the Brooklyn Marine Terminal that has been developed by the City, the New York City Economic Development Corporation, and the Brooklyn Marine Terminal Task Force. Text of the op-ed is available online here and below:  

    As New York looks to its future, it must grapple with a dramatically rising cost of living, critical resilience needs for the escalating threat of climate change, crippling congestion in last-mile communities, and the need for innovative economic and workforce development to provide more jobs to communities around the city that are getting left behind. 

    At the 122-acre Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Red Hook, the city, state and federal government are nearing completion of a planning process that presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address all of the above. 

    For the past eight months, a partnership among the city, the state, and 28 Task Force members made up of elected officials, community based organizations, regional planning experts, and local residents has been busy. 

    Read the full op-ed here.  

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim’s Record Ranked Among Most Effective in Congress

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

    Washington, DC – The Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL) announced the release of the Legislative Effectiveness Scores (LES) for the 118th Congress (2023-25). 

    Rep. Young Kim (CA-40)’s record was ranked among the most effective, with her score being 8th highest among House Republicans and 10th highest in the House of Representatives.  

    Her score was the highest of all representatives and senators from California.  

    “Representing my community is not a job I take lightly. I am thrilled my record of effectiveness shows my commitment to getting things done,” said Rep. Young Kim. “I am just getting started and remain willing to work with whoever wants to work with me to deliver results and improve the lives of the American people.” 

    In the 117th Congress, Rep. Kim’s LES was the highest of House Republican freshmen and was one of ten whose was “exceeding expectations.” She has also been named a Common Ground Champion, ranked most bipartisan freshman by the Lugar Center and McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University and according to data by Quorum Analytics, and she received the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Legislative Action Award.    

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Commemorates Transgender Day of Visibility

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following statement commemorating International Transgender Day of Visibility: 
    “International Transgender Day of Visibility is an essential reminder that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, always. No one should ever fear retribution for being their open and authentic selves, but that’s a reality for too many trans and non-binary people across America. The Trump Administration’s Executive Orders and hateful rhetoric are fueling violent attacks and discrimination. We have a responsibility, now more than ever, to uplift the voices and protect the rights of trans and LGBTQ+ people in Vermont and everywhere.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Missouri State Archives Launches New “Show-Me” Genealogy Fellowship

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 28, 2025

    Missouri State Archives Launches New “Show-Me” Genealogy Fellowship

    JEFFERSON CITY, MO — The Friends of the Missouri State Archives proudly announce the launch of the inaugural “Show-Me” Genealogy Fellowship, a new annual award supporting genealogical research using Missouri’s rich public records.

    The fellowship offers a $1,500 award to assist with travel expenses for researchers visiting the Missouri State Archives in Jefferson City and/or its St. Louis branch. Applications are open to any researcher using the Archives’ holdings for genealogical purposes.

    Applicants must submit a research proposal (1,000 words or less), a CV or résumé, and contact information for three references from the genealogy community. Materials should be sent to [email protected] by Friday, May 30, 2025. The recipient will be announced on Monday, June 16, 2025.

    Proposals will be evaluated on their originality, use of specific Missouri State Archives collections, potential community impact, and the role the fellowship will play in the project’s success. Preference will be given to projects requiring in-person research at the Archives.

    For more information, visit: www.sos.mo.gov/archives/education/showmegenealogyfellowship

    Contact:
    Brian Rogers
    Missouri State Archives
    [email protected]
    (573) 526-1981

    Show-Me Genealogy Fellowship Flyer_2025.pdf

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Media Advisory: District Court in Prince George’s County offers Schools in the Court program for high school students

    Source: US State of Maryland

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    March 31, 2025

    Government Relations and Public Affairs
    187 Harry S. Truman Parkway
    Annapolis, Maryland 21401

    Media Advisory:
    District Court in Prince George’s County offers Schools in the Court program for high school students

    UPPER MARLBORO, Md. – In a unique court educational program, students will learn about the benefits and consequences of familiar decisions. The program includes a mock traffic stop where students will see in real-time the legal implications of bad decisions. This interactive program allows the students to meet and interact with key players in the legal process, including police officers, K-9 officers, commissioners, assistant public defenders, assistant state’s attorneys, bailiffs, clerks, and judges. Students will learn about the dangers of fentanyl and the impact of narcotics on the developing juvenile brain. In addition, students will have an opportunity to engage judges and court personnel in a question-and-answer session regarding the Judiciary.

    WHO:

    Administrative Judge Lisa Hall Johnson, Prince George’s County District Court, and Judge Cheri Simpkins, Prince George’s County Circuit Court, presiding judges

    Students from Dr. Henry A. Wise, Jr. and Frederick Douglass High Schools

    WHAT: Schools in the Court Program
    WHEN: Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 9 a.m.
    WHERE: Prince George’s County District Court 
    Courtroom 357, Bourne Wing
    14735 Main Street
    Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-3042

    Please contact the Maryland Judiciary, Government Relations and Public Affairs Division, at [email protected] or 410-260-1488, to attend or for questions. Cameras will be allowed in the courtroom during the program but not during the student-observed court docket portion. If Prince George’s County Public Schools has a delayed opening or school closure, the Schools in the Court program will be cancelled.

    There are 80 metered public spaces in the surface lot in front of the courthouse. There is metered parking available near the courthouse at a rate of $.75 per hour with a two-hour maximum. Additionally, the Equestrian Center has four free satellite parking lots with free shuttle service to the courthouse.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Strengthening Infrastructure in the Bronx and Beyond

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of a $66.4 million project that replaced the bridge carrying the Bronx River Parkway over the Metro-North Railroad in the Wakefield and Woodlawn neighborhoods of the Bronx. The project replaced a 75-year-old structure with a modern, multi-girder steel structure that enhances safety and eases travel along this vital artery for commuters in the New York Metropolitan area. Repairs were also made to a nearby concrete bridge that carries the parkway over the Bronx River and to a section of the Bronx River Greenway that runs underneath the structure; and the northbound exit ramp from the Bronx River Parkway to Bronx Boulevard was extended by approximately 120 feet to reduce congestion and further enhance safety and mobility throughout the corridor.

    “I’m working to strengthen infrastructure in the Bronx and beyond — connecting our communities so they can grow and thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “This bridge replacement will make commuting faster and safer along a critical corridor, and furthers our efforts to create a more resilient state for generations to come.”

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “From the Bronx to Buffalo, New York State continues to modernize our infrastructure to meet the challenges of the 21st Century, enhancing public safety through resilient infrastructure investments and keeping people and goods on the move. This bridge replacement project along the Bronx River Parkway will help provide a smoother, safer ride for the tens of thousands of commuters who travel this busy highway each day, allowing them to get where they need to go more efficiently.”

    The project, which began in the fall of 2021, improved the stretch of the Bronx River Parkway between Nereid Avenue and East 233rd Street. The new bridge over the rail line features a concrete deck and shoulders on either side of the roadway to allow space for disabled vehicles and enhance safety. Other improvements include new bridge abutments, lighting, resurfaced pavement, retaining walls, improved drainage and new overhead signs.

    Repairs were also made to the underside of the nearby concrete arch bridge over the Bronx River and the structure was rehabilitated to add new concrete safety barriers and shoulders. Additionally, improvements were made to the portion of the Bronx River Greenway that runs underneath the bridge, including upgraded handrails and signage.

    To enhance traffic management, signal timings were recalibrated at the exit ramp at East 236 Street and Bronx Boulevard, and at the intersection of Carpenter Street and East 236 Street. The project also made landscape enhancements, including the planting of 23 new trees and 189 shrubs.

    Representative George Latimer said, “I sat in traffic many times on the former bridge, and it was concerning that it was 75 years old. This significant infrastructure investment in the Bronx will enhance safety and ease congestion for Bronx residents and commuters. Thank you to Governor Hochul and her team for getting this project done. This is tremendous news for the thousands of commuters who use this bridge every day.”

    State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, “The new Bronx River Parkway bridge means safer roads, better commutes, and stronger connections between Bronx neighborhoods. It’s a smart investment that puts the needs of everyday New Yorkers first. I thank Governor Hochul and the New York State Department of Transportation for their commitment to our borough.”

    Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “I am very pleased that the Bridge replacement project along the Bronx River Parkway has come to a successful conclusion. This infrastructure modernization will enhance public safety and the additional work done will bring much needed improvements including better lighting, resurfacing, improved drainage, as well as better traffic management. I am also very happy that 23 new trees and 100 new shrubs have been planted. Thank you to Governor Hochul and New York State DOT for a job well done.”

    Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson said, “This $66.4 million investment in our infrastructure represents a significant step forward for the Bronx and the entire New York Metropolitan area. The completion of the new Bronx River Parkway bridge enhances safety, alleviates congestion, and improves mobility for thousands of commuters who rely on this vital artery daily. As we continue to modernize our transportation network, we are ensuring that the Bronx remains a thriving, connected community. I thank Governor Hochul and all the partners involved in making this critical project a reality for the people of the Bronx.”

    New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz said, “The Bronx River Parkway is a critical roadway for our communities, and the replacement of the bridge over the Metro-North Railroad in Wakefield and Woodlawn is a major investment in the safety and reliability of our local infrastructure. Additionally, the improvements to traffic management and landscape improvements will help make commutes safer and more efficient, as well as beautify our neighborhoods. As someone who has consistently fought for infrastructure investments, from securing millions for street and park improvements, to advocating for safer roads and enhanced public spaces, I know how vital these projects are for the well-being of our communities. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your leadership in facilitating this important project. I’m grateful to see these much-needed improvements for my district, benefitting drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike for years to come.”

    About the Department of Transportation
    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment and supports the economic well-being of New York State.
    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!
    Follow New York State DOT on Twitter: @NYSDOT and @NYSDOT_NYC. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/NYSDOT.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa’s data workers are being exploited by foreign tech firms – 4 ways to protect them

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mohammad Amir Anwar, Senior Lecturer in African Studies and International Development, University of Edinburgh

    Data workers in Africa often have a hard time. They face job insecurities – including temporary contracts, low pay, arbitrary dismissal and worker surveillance – and alarming physical and psychological health risks. The consequences of their work can include exhaustion, burnout, mental health strain, chronic stress, vertigo and weakening of eyesight.

    Data work includes text prediction, image and video annotation, speech to text validation and content moderation.

    The world of data work is built on labour arbitrage – exploiting the fact that workers earn less and have less protection in some countries than in others.

    Large technology firms often outsource this work to the global south, including African countries like Kenya, Uganda and Madagascar, and also India and Venezuela. The result is complex production networks that are generally opaque and shrouded in secrecy.

    Workers and researchers have issued many warnings about data workers’ health. Despite numerous court cases in multiple jurisdictions, nothing much has been done to address these issues either by tech companies or by regulators.


    Read more: For workers in Africa, the digital economy isn’t all it’s made out to be


    Still, the news of the death of a Nigerian content moderator, Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, who was found dead in her apartment in Nairobi, Kenya on 7 March 2025, came as a shock. While the circumstances of her death are still unclear, it has renewed calls for wider systemic change. Her death has sparked condemnation from the Kenyan Union of Gig Workers, which demanded an investigation.

    Since 2015, we have been studying the central role of African data workers in building and maintaining artificial intelligence (AI) systems, acting as “data janitors”. Our research found that companies rarely acknowledge the use of human workers in AI value chains, thus they remain “hidden” from the public eye. In other words, the world of AI is built on the toil of human workers most people are unaware of.

    In this article, we outline key steps needed to protect these data workers in Africa. They include business process outsourcing regulations, ensuring quality rather than quantity of jobs, and providing social protection. There is also a need to name and shame companies that maltreat data workers.

    Data work needs tighter regulation.


    Read more: Digital labour platforms subject global South workers to ‘algorithmic insecurity’


    Regulation

    Business process outsourcing is the practice of procuring various processes or operations from external suppliers or vendors. Firms that do this are sometimes trying to evade local regulations (like minimum wages) and responsibility towards workers’ welfare (via sub-contracting and the use of temporary employment agencies).

    This is happening in Africa as some data training firms and digital labour platforms circumvent local labour laws.

    But there is more to the story.

    Data work is also seen by lawmakers and practitioners as a solution to the rampant unemployment and informality across Africa. African governments have actively created regulatory environments that enable these practices to thrive, despite adverse outcomes for workers.

    Nonetheless, new regulations have been proposed lately, like the Kenyan government’s Business Law (Amendment) Bill, 2024 targeting the wider business process outsourcing and IT-enabled services sector. Particularly, it makes business process outsourcing firms responsible for any claim raised by employees. It ensures some accountability for firms bringing data work to Africa.

    Other governments should follow with similar measures ensuring worker rights are enforceable. Some data workers are hired on contracts as short as five days and get paid less than the local minimum wage. Firms found violating labour standards should be penalised.

    In fact, there is an urgent need to create regional or continent-wide regulatory frameworks covering the business process outsourcing sector, limiting the space for firms to exploit workers.

    It’s possible, however, that jobs might be lost as firms relocate to places with favourable laws, an everyday reality in the outsourcing networks.


    Read more: Most call centre jobs are a dead end for South Africa’s youth


    Quality, not quantity

    African governments should prioritise the quality of jobs and not quantity. Policymakers should think about wider national economic development plans, particularly structural diversification and upgrading of their economies.

    Historically, these strategies have resulted in success in some states, addressing social and economic issues such as unemployment, poverty and inequality.

    Another option for African governments is to enhance social protection among data workers. Financing this is a serious issue, so proper taxation and compliance among workers and employers is urgently needed.

    Finally, there is a role for naming and shaming firms that treat their data workers poorly. There is evidence that such efforts improve compliance and firms’ behaviour.


    Read more: Digital trade protocol for Africa: why it matters, what’s in it and what’s still missing


    Worker movements

    African data workers have taken risks in openly speaking about their experiences. But these kinds of approaches work well when combined with collective bargaining.

    Workers have historically won their labour and civil rights after long and hard-fought struggles. There is a long history of African worker movements and trade unions resisting the apartheid and colonial regimes across the continent.

    While the freedom of association is enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and most governments have legislation committed to collective bargaining, it is rarely implemented in the new outsourcing sectors, particularly data work.

    It is also difficult to organise workers in the industry, because of the high churn rate. For instance, data training firms like Sama offer short-term contracts to employees, often as short as five days.

    Some firms are hostile to workers’ organising activities.

    But numerous data worker-led associations have emerged in Africa recently, some led by the co-authors of this article. Techworker Community Africa, African Tech Workers Rising, African Content Moderators Unions and Data Labelers Association are among them.

    These initiatives are crucial to ensure workers have decent remuneration, work-life balance, adequate working hours, protection against arbitrary dismissal, safe working environments, and contributions towards their health and welfare.

    Several high-profile court cases are currently being pursued by African data workers against Meta and Sama. There is precedent. In 2021. Meta was ordered by a Californian court to pay US$85 million to 10,000 content moderators.

    AI-dependent tools such as ChatGPT or driverless cars would not exist without African data workers. They are tired of being “hidden”. They deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

    Mophat Okinyi, Kauna Malgwi, Sonia Kgomo and Richard Mathenge co-authored this article.

    – Africa’s data workers are being exploited by foreign tech firms – 4 ways to protect them
    – https://theconversation.com/africas-data-workers-are-being-exploited-by-foreign-tech-firms-4-ways-to-protect-them-252957

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Africa’s data workers are being exploited by foreign tech firms – 4 ways to protect them

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mohammad Amir Anwar, Senior Lecturer in African Studies and International Development, University of Edinburgh

    Data workers in Africa often have a hard time. They face job insecurities – including temporary contracts, low pay, arbitrary dismissal and worker surveillance – and alarming physical and psychological health risks. The consequences of their work can include exhaustion, burnout, mental health strain, chronic stress, vertigo and weakening of eyesight.

    Data work includes text prediction, image and video annotation, speech to text validation and content moderation.

    The world of data work is built on labour arbitrage – exploiting the fact that workers earn less and have less protection in some countries than in others.

    Large technology firms often outsource this work to the global south, including African countries like Kenya, Uganda and Madagascar, and also India and Venezuela. The result is complex production networks that are generally opaque and shrouded in secrecy.

    Workers and researchers have issued many warnings about data workers’ health. Despite numerous court cases in multiple jurisdictions, nothing much has been done to address these issues either by tech companies or by regulators.




    Read more:
    For workers in Africa, the digital economy isn’t all it’s made out to be


    Still, the news of the death of a Nigerian content moderator, Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, who was found dead in her apartment in Nairobi, Kenya on 7 March 2025, came as a shock. While the circumstances of her death are still unclear, it has renewed calls for wider systemic change. Her death has sparked condemnation from the Kenyan Union of Gig Workers, which demanded an investigation.

    Since 2015, we have been studying the central role of African data workers in building and maintaining artificial intelligence (AI) systems, acting as “data janitors”. Our research found that companies rarely acknowledge the use of human workers in AI value chains, thus they remain “hidden” from the public eye. In other words, the world of AI is built on the toil of human workers most people are unaware of.

    In this article, we outline key steps needed to protect these data workers in Africa. They include business process outsourcing regulations, ensuring quality rather than quantity of jobs, and providing social protection. There is also a need to name and shame companies that maltreat data workers.

    Data work needs tighter regulation.




    Read more:
    Digital labour platforms subject global South workers to ‘algorithmic insecurity’


    Regulation

    Business process outsourcing is the practice of procuring various processes or operations from external suppliers or vendors. Firms that do this are sometimes trying to evade local regulations (like minimum wages) and responsibility towards workers’ welfare (via sub-contracting and the use of temporary employment agencies).

    This is happening in Africa as some data training firms and digital labour platforms circumvent local labour laws.

    But there is more to the story.

    Data work is also seen by lawmakers and practitioners as a solution to the rampant unemployment and informality across Africa. African governments have actively created regulatory environments that enable these practices to thrive, despite adverse outcomes for workers.

    Nonetheless, new regulations have been proposed lately, like the Kenyan government’s Business Law (Amendment) Bill, 2024 targeting the wider business process outsourcing and IT-enabled services sector. Particularly, it makes business process outsourcing firms responsible for any claim raised by employees. It ensures some accountability for firms bringing data work to Africa.

    Other governments should follow with similar measures ensuring worker rights are enforceable. Some data workers are hired on contracts as short as five days and get paid less than the local minimum wage. Firms found violating labour standards should be penalised.

    In fact, there is an urgent need to create regional or continent-wide regulatory frameworks covering the business process outsourcing sector, limiting the space for firms to exploit workers.

    It’s possible, however, that jobs might be lost as firms relocate to places with favourable laws, an everyday reality in the outsourcing networks.




    Read more:
    Most call centre jobs are a dead end for South Africa’s youth


    Quality, not quantity

    African governments should prioritise the quality of jobs and not quantity. Policymakers should think about wider national economic development plans, particularly structural diversification and upgrading of their economies.

    Historically, these strategies have resulted in success in some states, addressing social and economic issues such as unemployment, poverty and inequality.

    Another option for African governments is to enhance social protection among data workers. Financing this is a serious issue, so proper taxation and compliance among workers and employers is urgently needed.

    Finally, there is a role for naming and shaming firms that treat their data workers poorly. There is evidence that such efforts improve compliance and firms’ behaviour.




    Read more:
    Digital trade protocol for Africa: why it matters, what’s in it and what’s still missing


    Worker movements

    African data workers have taken risks in openly speaking about their experiences. But these kinds of approaches work well when combined with collective bargaining.

    Workers have historically won their labour and civil rights after long and hard-fought struggles. There is a long history of African worker movements and trade unions resisting the apartheid and colonial regimes across the continent.

    While the freedom of association is enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and most governments have legislation committed to collective bargaining, it is rarely implemented in the new outsourcing sectors, particularly data work.

    It is also difficult to organise workers in the industry, because of the high churn rate. For instance, data training firms like Sama offer short-term contracts to employees, often as short as five days.

    Some firms are hostile to workers’ organising activities.

    But numerous data worker-led associations have emerged in Africa recently, some led by the co-authors of this article. Techworker Community Africa, African Tech Workers Rising, African Content Moderators Unions and Data Labelers Association are among them.

    These initiatives are crucial to ensure workers have decent remuneration, work-life balance, adequate working hours, protection against arbitrary dismissal, safe working environments, and contributions towards their health and welfare.

    Several high-profile court cases are currently being pursued by African data workers against Meta and Sama. There is precedent. In 2021. Meta was ordered by a Californian court to pay US$85 million to 10,000 content moderators.

    AI-dependent tools such as ChatGPT or driverless cars would not exist without African data workers. They are tired of being “hidden”. They deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

    Mophat Okinyi, Kauna Malgwi, Sonia Kgomo and Richard Mathenge co-authored this article.

    Mohammad Amir Anwar receives funding from United Kingdom Research and Innovation, Royal Society of Edinburgh, and British Academy.

    – ref. Africa’s data workers are being exploited by foreign tech firms – 4 ways to protect them – https://theconversation.com/africas-data-workers-are-being-exploited-by-foreign-tech-firms-4-ways-to-protect-them-252957

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper Statement on Trump’s EO to End Collective Bargaining for Federal Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper released the following statement regarding President Trump’s Executive Order to end collective bargaining with federal labor unions across several federal agencies. The order would impact over one million federal workers, including nurses at the VA who care for veterans and public health researchers working to prevent future pandemics.
    “This executive order strips a million workers of their fundamental right to fight for better working conditions.
    It threatens U.S. national security, public health, and the economy by undermining workers across crucial federal agencies. It jeopardizes critical services that Americans depend on.”
    Hickenlooper is a strong supporter of labor unions and has frequently joined picket lines with striking workers back in Colorado. Last Sunday, Hickenlooper spoke at a National Association of Letter Carriers rally in Denver against Trump’s proposal to privatize the U.S. Postal Service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: New England WSC Products in the First Quarter of 2025

    Source: US Geological Survey

    March 14, 2025

    Model and Data Resources Supporting Water-Quality Modeling of Hydrologic Systems

    This dataset provides detailed information on availability of model resources (including models and datasets) that support the modeling of six key water-quality constituents (or constituent categories) across the hydrologic system. In addition, resources associated with nine “cross-cutting” topics for modeling water quality are included, with “cross-cutting” defined herein as having…

    March 11, 2025

    Lidar-Derived Hydrography of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine, 2023

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the U.S. National Park Service (NPS), has compiled a Geographic Information System (GIS) dataset. The spatial data layer provided in this data release is derived from high-resolution lidar digital elevation models (DEM’s) for the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Penobscot County, Maine. The data provided in this release…

    March 4, 2025

    Geochemical Data for Coal Wastes from Historic Anthracite Coal Mining in Pennsylvania, 2024

    In addition to their potential for energy generation, coal and coal byproducts may be economically important resources if they are enriched in critical minerals such as rare earth elements or if their organic carbon can be converted to gas by stimulated microbial methanogenesis. Samples of coal refuse (culm) from a historic mine site in the anthracite region of Pennsylvania were…

    February 4, 2025

    Water-borne electromagnetic induction, handheld thermal infrared and sediment temperature, chemical, and pressure data collected at Hen Cove, Pocasset, Massachusetts, 2022

    Groundwater discharge points to coastal waters can be identified and quantified using natural electrical and temperature data. In August 2022, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) collected water-borne electromagnetic induction and temperature along selected transects within Hen Cove on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, following a spatial survey of bed sediment temperature. Handheld thermal infrared…

    January 22, 2025

    Vermont Flood of July 2023 Data

    A major rain event caused catastrophic flooding from July 9 through 12, 2023, in various portions of the State of Vermont, resulting in millions of dollars of damage. The high amount of rainfall caused several rivers to peak at record levels, in some cases exceeding records set by Tropical Storm Irene in 2011. President Biden approved an Emergency Declaration for Vermont on July 11, 2023…

    January 16, 2025

    Compilation of surficial geology datasets for southern New England

    The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island Departments of Transportation (DOTs), gathered geospatial data to facilitate the development of a regional Stochastic Empirical Loading and Dilution Model (SELDM) application (Granato and others, 2023). As part of this study, the surficial geology…

    February 20, 2025

    Cancer risk and estimated lithium exposure in drinking groundwater in the US

    Importance Lithium is a naturally occurring element in drinking water and is commonly used as a mood-stabilizing medication. Although clinical studies have reported associations between receiving lithium treatment and reduced cancer risk among patients with bipolar disorder, to our knowledge, the association between environmental lithium exposure and cancer risk has never been studied in…

    Authors

    Jiajun Luo, Liang Zheng, Zhihao Jin, Yuqing Yang, William I. Krakowka, Eric Hong, Melissa Lombard, Joseph D. Ayotte, Habibul Ahsan, Jayant M. Pinto, Briseis Aschebrook-Kilfoy

    February 4, 2025

    Streamflow, water quality, and constituent loads and yields, Scituate Reservoir drainage area, Rhode Island, water year 2022

    As part of a long-term cooperative program to monitor water quality within the Scituate Reservoir drainage area, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with Providence Water (formerly the Providence Water Supply Board), collected streamflow and water-quality data in tributaries to the Scituate Reservoir, Rhode Island. Streamflow and concentrations of chloride and sodium estimated…

    Authors

    Kirk P. Smith, Alana B. Spaetzel

    January 24, 2025

    Groundwater flowpath characteristics drive variability in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) loading across a stream-wetland system

    Groundwater-dependent ecosystems in areas with industrial land use are at risk of exposure to a PFAS chemicals. We investigated one such system with several known PFAS source areas, where high and low permeability sediments (glacial) coupled with groundwater-lake and groundwater/surface-water interactions created complex ‘source to seep’ dynamics. Using heat-tracing and chemical methods…

    Authors

    David M. Rey, Martin A. Briggs, Andrea K. Tokranov, Hayley Gale Lind, Patrick Thomas Scordato, Ramona Iery, Henry Moore, L. Slater, Denis R. LeBlanc

    January 15, 2025

    Water supply in the conterminous United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, water years 2010–20

    We present an assessment of water supply across the conterminous United States (CONUS), Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico covering water years 2010–20. Our analysis drew on two national hydrologic models, the National Hydrologic Model Precipitation-Runoff Modeling System and the Weather Research and Forecasting model hydrologic modeling system. Both models produced estimates of streamflow…

    Authors

    Galen Gorski, Edward G. Stets, Martha A. Scholl, James R. Degnan, John R. Mullaney, Amy E. Galanter, Anthony J. Martinez, Julie Padilla, Jacob H. LaFontaine, Hayley R. Corson-Dosch, Allen Shapiro

    January 15, 2025

    Status of water-quality conditions in the United States, 2010–20

    Degradation of water quality can make water harmful or unusable for humans and ecosystems. Although many studies have assessed the effect of individual constituents or narrow suites of constituents on freshwater systems, no consistent, comprehensive assessment exists over the wide range of water-quality effects on water availability. Using published studies, data, and models completed at…

    Authors

    Melinda L. Erickson, Olivia L. Miller, Matthew J. Cashman, James R. Degnan, James E. Reddy, Anthony J. Martinez, Elmera Azadpour

    January 15, 2025

    The National integrated water availability assessment, water years 2010–20

    Water availability is fundamentally important to human well-being, economic vitality, and ecosystem health. Because of its central importance, the U.S. Congress tasked the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other Federal agencies with conducting regular, comprehensive assessments of water availability in the United States through the requirements under the SECURE Water Act. In response to…

    Authors

    Edward G. Stets, Althea A. Archer, James R. Degnan, Melinda L. Erickson, Galen Gorski, Laura Medalie, Martha A. Scholl

    January 5, 2025

    Automating physics-based models to estimate thermoelectric-power water use

    Thermoelectric (TE) power plants withdraw more water than any other sector of water use in the United States and consume water at rates that can be significant especially in water-stressed regions. Historical TE water-use data have been inconsistent, incomplete, or discrepant, resulting in an increased research focus on improving the accuracy and availability of TE water-use data using…

    Authors

    Melissa A. Harris, Timothy H. Diehl, Lillian Gorman Sanisaca, Amy E. Galanter, Melissa Lombard, Kenneth Skinner, Catherine A. Chamberlin, Brendan A. McCarthy, Richard G. Niswonger, Jana Stewart, Kristen J. Valseth

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA DEVELOP Spring 2025

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    Last year, NCEI was proud to celebrate a decade of collaboration with the NASA DEVELOP program. NCEI looks forward to continuing the partnership this year, by offering eight early career scientists the unique opportunity to work with the combined data and resources of both organizations. 

    Both NCEI and NASA DEVELOP are proud to partner with NIDIS (National Integrated Drought Information System) since 2018 for assistance and guidance in drought-related projects. 

    NASA DEVELOP welcomed eight young scientists this spring, who worked with NCEI-based scientists and data on two different projects based in North Carolina and Puerto Rico. Since the program’s inception in 2014, each team has contributed to efforts such as monitoring wildfire risk in Vermont, and contributing locally in Asheville, North Carolina through efforts like establishing weather resilience.

    Currently, four individuals are working in-person at the NCEI office in Asheville on a 10-week NASA DEVELOP project titled “Upper Missouri River Basin Water Resources: Enhancing Flood and Drought Monitoring through Fractional Available Water Analysis in the Upper Missouri River Basin.” Additionally, four remote individuals are participating in the 10-week NASA DEVELOP project titled “Puerto Rico Ecological Conservation: Mapping Land Cover to Inform Endangered Frog and Bird Species Distribution and Conservation Planning in Puerto Rico.”

    NCEI is proud to support NASA DEVELOP’s mission of “Cultivating Tomorrow’s Earth Observation Users” and we look forward to continuing to work alongside each other to provide aspiring scientists the chance to engage with real-world data and materials. 

    Spring 2025 Project Collaborations

    Upper Missouri River Basin Water Resources: Enhancing Flood and Drought Monitoring through Fractional Available Water Analysis in the Upper Missouri River Basin

    The Upper Missouri River Basin (UMRB) experiences rapid shifts between wet and dry conditions, with projections indicating increased drought and flooding events.. In partnership with NOAA National Weather Service (NWS) Bismark, Grand Forks, and Rapid City, this project aims to evaluate NASA’s SMAP satellite data to estimate fractional available water (FAW) in the UMRB, and compare SMAP-derived FAW with in-situ North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN) Mesonet data. The team is also analyzing the relationship between FAW, streamflow, drought, and vegetation health in the region. Results from this project will assist partners in flood forecasting, drought monitoring, and support for emergency preparedness, agricultural resilience, and the further development of state hydrological models. 

    Puerto Rico Ecological Conservation: Mapping Land Cover to Inform Endangered Frog and Bird Species Distribution and Conservation Planning in Puerto Rico

    Changes in temperature  and land use are reshaping avian and amphibian ecosystems and biodiversity patterns in Puerto Rico. The project work is in collaboration with non-profits WildMon and Para Naturaleza, the USFWS Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources. The team aims to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating NASA Landsat Earth observations and ancillary datasets to monitor land cover as it relates to biodiversity. The methods will highlight critical areas for frog and bird populations, guiding decisions on land acquisition and management, and species conservation.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dame June Raine: How innovations are transforming regulation and speeding new treatments to healthcare

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Dame June Raine: How innovations are transforming regulation and speeding new treatments to healthcare

    As Dame June Raine gets ready to pass the baton on after nearly 40 years at the agency, the last five of which she has been CEO, she reflects on how new innovations are transforming regulation and how honoured she feels to have worked with such inspiring people through a period she has not just lived through but helped to shape.

    When I entered the world of regulation in the mid-1980s, approvals for new medicines or the trials investigating them were arduous and subjective, requiring the review of juggernauts of paper files with thousands of graphs and tables of data in each file – not to mention a retentive memory, a very big desk and many painstaking hours of review.

    Fast forward to today, and healthcare product regulation is being transformed by technology. Just as Lord Darzi called for a major tilt to technology in the heath service, so MHRA is working to take time out of the development and review process for transformative medicines and MedTech.

    For example, new AI tools can reduce the length of time taken to assess vital aspects of clinical trial applications from 3 hours to as few as 35 seconds, without compromising on safety. By rapidly pinpointing common errors in applications made by companies to the regulator, AI has sped up the overall assessment process and is helping to make it consistent and predictable.

    The intention of this is not to replace the expertise of our experienced and knowledgeable scientific assessors but rather to give them more time to focus on higher risk analyses and more finely balanced judgements. This will see clinical trials being set up more swiftly, saving companies valuable funds and giving patients quicker access to the potentially life-saving medicines being studied.

    Thanks to successful pilots, this AI technology is now coming on stream in regulation, with international approval of the work we are doing at MHRA. It shows how far regulation has come from the days of paper-based assessments, and how exciting regulation is today – and you don’t often hear the words ‘exciting’ and ‘regulation’ in the same sentence.

    We’re in a new era of medicine – one defined by technological advancements like AI and genomics; a focus on meeting the needs of the individual rather than the whole population. A continued challenge for the next decade will be to ensure that regulation doesn’t just keep pace with this innovation but enables it.

    That’s why last week saw the launch of our first Centres of Excellence of Regulatory Science and Innovation, two of which are driving forward AI and health technology and one active in improving safety through pharmacogenomics.

    As I get ready to pass the CEO baton on after nearly 40 years at the MHRA, the last five of which I have been Chief Executive, I have been reflecting on what has been accomplished during my time holding the reins. My leadership was one dominated by two main events that in many ways came to set the pace and direction of change.

    The first of these was EU Exit, which offered new freedom to form novel international partnerships with trusted healthcare agencies both at home and abroad. Our ACCESS consortium of the regulatory agencies of Australia, Canada, Singapore and Switzerland has created an attractive market for innovative industry of close on 160 million people.

    The second event was one that few saw coming. The COVID-19 pandemic brought devastation and hardship to many people’s lives. But in 10 months it ushered in the level of innovative change you would expect to see in 10 years. When we announced our world-first approval of the COVID-19 vaccine made by Pfizer and BioNTech, we didn’t cut any corners. We developed innovative approaches to delivering the same high scientific standards and worked hand in hand with NICE and the NHS.

    These two seismic events have come to define my leadership, and probably rightly so. But advances in AI and the strides we’ve made towards a more personalised regulatory approach are also vitally important and will set the trajectory for regulation in years to come.

    The next few years will be defining ones for medicines regulation. I have absolutely no doubt that the agency I am leaving behind will continue to step up to the job, never losing sight of paramount importance of patient safety. I feel truly honoured to have worked with inspiring people in a period we have not just lived through but helped to shape.

    I look forward to watching – this time from the sidelines with a much warmer cup of tea in hand.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Democratic Doctors Condemn Mass Layoffs at HHS, FDA, and CDC

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raul Ruiz (36th District of California)

    Firings affect divisions that respond to disease outbreaks, approve drugs, and provide health insurance coverage

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the Congressional Doctors Caucus released the following statement condemning RFK Jr.’s proposed mass layoffs at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), warning of devastating consequences for public health and safety.

    “Eliminating 25% of HHS staff, including scientists and researchers, weakens our ability to combat disease outbreaks, ensure food and drug safety, and advance life-saving medical innovations. These cuts come as we are facing active threats to our public health, including a rapidly expanding measles outbreak and a deadly bird flu outbreak. Weakening these agencies at such a critical time threatens public health, slows medical innovation, and puts millions of American lives at risk. The American people deserve a government that protects them, not one that abandons them.”

    Background

    According to an HHS fact sheet, the 20,000 eliminated positions include:

    • 3,500 FDA employees, reducing the agency’s capacity to review and approve life-saving medications, monitor food safety, and regulate medical devices.
    • 2,400 CDC employees, with the agency’s role drastically narrowed to epidemic response, undermining efforts to prevent chronic diseases, track opioid overdoses, and address vaccine hesitancy.

    The Congressional Doctors Caucus is calling for an immediate reversal of these dangerous layoffs and for the Republican leadership in Congress to take action to protect Americans’ public health.

    Members of the caucus include:

    • Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) – Internal Medicine
    • Herb Conaway Jr., M.D. (NJ-03) – Internal Medicine
    • Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03) – Pulmonary & Critical Care
    • Kelly Morrison, M.D. (MN-03) – Obstetrics & Gynecology
    • Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) – Emergency Medicine
    • Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) – Pediatrics

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republican Leadership Urges Bipartisan Support for the SAVE Act

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    House Republican Leadership Urges Bipartisan Support for the SAVE Act

    Washington, March 31, 2025

    WASHINGTON—Speaker Johnson, Leader Scalise, Whip Emmer, and Chairwoman McClain released the following joint statement in advance of this week’s consideration of H.R. 22, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. The SAVE Act is commonsense legislation to uphold and strengthen current law to ensure only American citizens can vote in American elections.

    “American citizens — and only American citizens — should decide American elections. House Republicans are determined to codify this commonsense idea with the SAVE Act which puts in place commonsense safeguards to prevent noncitizens from abusing our democratic process. This legislation cements into law President Trump’s executive action to secure our voter registration process and protect the voices of American voters. We urge all our colleagues in the House to join us in doing what the overwhelming majority of people in this country rightfully demand and deserve.”

    Background:

    • The SAVE Act requires states to obtain proof of citizenship – in person – before registering an individual to vote in an election.

    • Requires states to remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls, while giving them necessary tools to do so.

    • This legislation passed the House in a bipartisan vote (221 – 198) during the 118th Congress before being blocked by Senate Democrats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Vascular Cannula Recall: Medtronic Removes Aortic Root Cannula Due to Unexpected Loose Material in the Male Luer

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves removing certain devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it.
    Affected Product

    Product Names: 

    DLP Aortic Root Cannula 
    MiAR Cannula
    DLP Aortic Root Cannula with Vent Line

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)/Model: 

    DLP Aortic Root Cannula

    20613994495451/11012
    20613994495482/11014 

    MiAR Cannula

    20613994495468/11012L
    20613994495499/11014L

    DLP Aortic Root Cannula with Vent Line

    20613994495390/21012
    20613994495406/21014

    Lot Numbers: See Full List of Affected Devices below

    What to Do  

    Do not use any  unused Aortic Root Cannulas from affected lots.

    On February 5, 2025, Medtronic sent all affected customers an Urgent Medical Device Recall letter recommending the following actions:
    For Health Care Providers

    Monitor patients who were previously supported using this device according to your normal follow-up procedures. There are no additional risks to patients who previously received support using an impacted device. 

    For Health Care Facilities

    Review inventory for affected product lots. 
    Identify and quarantine all unused affected product.
    Contact Medtronic Customer Service Return at 1-800-854-3570, Option 1 then Option 4, to arrange for return of unused affected product and credit.  

    The facility’s Medtronic sales representative can help with the return process as needed. 

    Complete the Customer Confirmation Form and send by email to RS.CFQFCA@medtronic.com, even if there is no affected product at the facility. 
    Share the notification with others at the facility and with other facilities who may have received affected product from your facility. 
    Keep a copy of the letter for facility records. 

    Reason for Recall   
    Medtronic is recalling Aortic Root Cannulas due to the risk for unexpected loose material in the male luer used in the cannula. The loose material has the potential to become dislodged and cause  serious patient adverse health consequences, including injuries caused by delayed therapy, stroke, and death.
    There have been no reported injuries and no reports of death. 
    Device Use 
    Aortic Root Cannulas are used for six hours or less during surgery with the heart-and-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass) . The cannula may also be used to remove air from the major artery (aorta) when a bypass procedure is finished.  
    Contact Information  
    Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact their Medtronic field representative or Customer Service at 1-800-854-3570.
    Full List of Affected Devices 

    2022020438 2022030157 2022030297 2022030478 2022030747 2022040309 2022040902 2022050053 2022050697 2022050698 2022060347 2022061333 2022070054 2022070055 2022081070 2022081428 202209C071 202211C054 2023020719 2023020720 2023030372 2023031531 2023040161 2023040433 2023040806 2023041172 2023050066 202305C067 202307C101 2023100087 2023100234 2023100235 2023100489 2023100490 2023100876 2023111145 2023111146 2023120073 2023120484 2023120485 202312C018 2024011341 2024011342 2024011344 202401C303 202401C3042024020238 202402C163 2024030255 2024030256 2024030692 2024040471 2024040472 2024040473 2024040474 2024040475 2024040476 2024040575 2024051027 2024051028 2024051029 2024060711 2024060712 202406C113 202406C114 202407C087 2024100440 2024100441 

    2022010949 2022020094 2022020439 2022020440 2022031296 2022050367 2022050702 2022060276 202206C093 2022070409 2022070410 2022070411 2022070840 2022070841 2022071072 202207C093 2022080418 2022080815 2022081073 202209C066 2022110377 2022110378 2022110379 202301C158 202301C159 2023020394 2023040163 2023040435 2023040809 2023041174 2023041175 2023050068 2023050394 2023050395 2023050396 2023050790 2023051166 2023051167 202305C077 2023060413 2023060414 2023060416 2023060417 2023061123 2023061124 2023061125 2023061126 2023061327 202306C142 202306C143 202307C098 202307C099 2023080113 2023080115 2023080116 2023080118 2023080720 2023080721 2023080722 2023080724 202308C215 2023111148 2024010350 2024010351 2024010419 2024010566 2024010907 2024010908 202402C164 2024030495 2024030496 2024030693 2024030694 2024030695 2024030696 2024030964 2024030965 2024040576 2024040577 2024040807 2024050923 2024050924 202405C078 202405C088 2024060413 2024060414 2024060415 2024060416 2024071241 202407C089 202407C090 202409C108 202308C214 

    2022010947 2022020079 2022020081 2022020084 2022030745 2022030989 2022031294 2022040135 2022040136 2022040308 2022060274 2022070048 2022070049 2022070050 2022070051 2022070052 2022070053 2022080060 2022080414 2022090111 2022090112 2022090113 2022090114 2022090828 202209C072 202209C083 202211C036 2023021125 2023021126 2023021127 2023021128 2023021129 202304C091 2023070452 2023070455 2023070456 2023070457 2023070458 2023070461 2023070466 2023070954 2023070955 2023070956 2023070957 2023070958 2023070959 2023070960 2023070961 2023070962 2023070963 202308C216 202308C217 202310C187 2023110161 2023111071 2023111072 2023111073 2023111074 2023111075 2023111279 2023111280 2023111644 2023111645 2023111646 2023111647 2023111648 2023111649 2023111650 202312C209 202401C030 202401C031 2024030801 2024030803 2024030978 2024030979 2024030980 2024040008 2024040009 2024040029 2024040040 2024040041 2024040042 2024040043 2024040044 2024050060 202405C075 202405C076 202406C128 2024070439 2024070499 2024070501 2024080674 2024100439 

    2022010948 2022020086 2022020088 2022020091 2022030298 2022030479 2022030748 2022030990 2022031295 2022040310 2022050699 2022050700 2022050701 2022060275 2022061047 2022061048 2022070056 2022070408 202207C105 202207C106 2022080061 2022080415 2022080416 2022080417 2022081071 2022081072 202209C075 2022100740 2022100741 2022100742 2022100743 2022100744 2022100745 2022110052 2022110054 2022110055 2022110057 2022110714 2022110715 2022110716 202211C037 202301C133 202301C164 2023020721 2023020722 2023020723 2023020724 2023021130 2023021131 2023021132 2023030373 2023030374 2023031532 202303C270 202303C272 2023040162 2023040434 2023040807 2023040808 2023041173 2023050067 2023050391 2023050392 2023050393 2023050788 2023051165 202305C076 2023060113 2023060115 2023060116 2023060119 2023060120 2023060233 2023061326 202306C138 202306C140 202307C100 2023101327 2023101328 2023101329 2023101351 2023110217 2023110253 2023110294 2023110302 2023110318 2023110553 2023110554 2023110555 2023110556 2023110557 2023110558 2023110559 2023110560 2023111069 2023111070 2023111651 2023111652 2023111653 2023111654 2023111655 2023111656 2023120163 2023120165 2023121023 202312C210 202312C211 202312C212 202401C028 202401C029 2024020443 2024020444 2024020445 2024020446 2024020447 2024020448 2024020449 2024020450 2024020451 2024020452 2024020799 2024030344 2024030345 2024030346 2024030805 2024030807 2024030981 2024030982 202403C067 202403C068 2024050386 2024050387 2024050388 2024050389 2024050390 2024050391 2024050392 2024050753 202405C077 202406C112 2024070502 2024070503 2024070504 2024070505 2024070746 2024070747 202407C088 2024100985 2024100986 2024100987

    2022011031 2022020476 2022020860 2022030187 2022030188 2022030342 2022030509 2022030796 2022040355 2022040942 2022050019 2022050095 2022050399 2022051040 2022051041 2022060388 2022060389 2022060761 2022060762 2022060763 2022060764 2022061357 2022061358 202206C139 202207C140 2022080099 2022080100 2022081112 2022081113 2022081450 2022081451 2022081452 202209C146 202209C149 202301C214 2023020764 2023020765 2023021173 2023021174 2023030170 2023030171 202303040720230309712023031039 2023031040 2023031041 2023031555 2023031556 2023031557 2023040199 2023040200 2023040201 2023040470 2023040471 2023040851 2023041219 2023041220 202304C103 2023050113 2023050114 202305C119 202305C120 202305C121 202306C184 2023070519 2023100245 2023100246 2023100511 2023100512 2023100896 2023100897 2023110464 2023110465 2023110467 2023110944 2023111164 2023111165 2023120093 2023120094 2023120095 2023120096 2023120097 2023120505 202312C034 202312C03520240113742024011375 2024011377 2024011378 202401C104 202401C136 2024020259 2024020260 2024030275 2024030276 2024030277 2024030278 2024030279 2024030502 2024030503 2024030504 202403C129 202403C130 2024040485 2024040486 2024040596 2024040597 2024051034 2024051035 2024051036 2024051284 2024051285 2024051286 2024051287 202405C115 202405C116 2024060539 2024070226 2024070519 2024080125 2024080390 2024080929 2024080930 202408C046 202408C047 202410C025 202410C026

    2022011033 2022011174 2022020477 2022020861 2022020862 2022030343 2022030973 2022031019 2022031322 2022040356 2022040943 2022050026 2022050096 2022050400 2022051042 202205C067 2022060390 2022061078 2022061079 202206C140 2022070457 2022070458 2022070912 2022070913 2022071098 202207C141 2022080101 2022080102 2022080456 2022080952 202209C168 202209C171 2022110406 2022110425 2022110426 202301C208 202301C209 2023020364 2023020423 2023020424 2023020425 2023031042 202303C309 2023040202 2023040472 2023040852 2023040853 2023041221 2023041222 2023041223 2023050115 2023050116 2023050435 2023050436 2023050861 2023050862 2023050865 202305C122 2023060162 2023060163 2023060465 2023060466 2023061168 2023061169 2023061390 2023061391 2023061392 2023061393 202306C185 202306C186 202306C187 202307C133 202307C135 2023080188 2023080190 2023080723 202309C018 2023111166 2023111167 2024010335 2024010336 2024010435 2024010436 2024010578 2024010579 2024010931 2024010932 2024010933 2024010998 202403C131 202403C132 2024040598 2024040823 2024040824 2024040825 2024050941 2024050942 2024050943 2024051288 2024060291 2024060292 2024060293 2024060541 202406C117 202406C118 2024070994 202408C048 202408C049 2024090331 2024090658 2024090936 2024100069 2024100070 2024100071 2024100072 2024101042 202410C027 

    Additional FDA Resources 

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI) 
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from manufacturing through distribution to patient use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified, and problems potentially corrected more quickly. 

    How do I report a problem? 
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. 

    Content current as of:
    03/31/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – March 31, 2025 – 2:00 PM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Tammy Bruce leads the Department Press Briefing, at the Department of State, on March 31, 2025.
    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6e7-AX_zdg

    MIL OSI Video –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. natural gas consumption set new winter and summer monthly records in 2024

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    March 31, 2025


    In 2024, U.S. natural gas consumption averaged a record 90.3 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) and set new winter and summer monthly records in January and July, according to data in our Natural Gas Monthly. Overall, U.S. consumption last year increased 1% (0.9 Bcf/d) from 2023. In January, natural gas consumption was up 12% (12.5 Bcf/d) compared with January 2023 consumption, and in July, consumption increased by 3% (2.5 Bcf/d) compared with July 2023.

    Weather has a significant effect on natural gas consumption patterns. Natural gas consumption peaks in the United States in both the winter and summer. In winter, the most natural gas is consumed in January or February, when demand for space heating in the residential and commercial sectors peaks. In the summer, electricity generation increases in July and August to meet air-conditioning demand, driving more natural gas consumption.


    Despite the record in January, from February through April 2024, mild weather led to less consumption of natural gas compared with the same months in 2023. In each month from May through September 2024, natural gas consumption surpassed the previous year’s monthly records. Historic low natural gas prices in 2024 meant that natural gas was more competitive in the electric power sector, especially compared with coal, contributing to increased use of natural gas for electricity generation.

    Annual consumption in the combined residential and commercial sectors declined by an average of 2% (0.4 Bcf/d) last year compared with 2023, despite a cold January that resulted in record-high natural gas consumption in these sectors. Natural gas consumed in the industrial sector held steady from the year before, while consumption in the electric power sector, which accounted for 41% of U.S. natural gas consumption in 2024, increased by 4% (1.6 Bcf/d).

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Natural Gas Monthly
    Note: Other=natural gas volumes consumed as transportation fuel, as lease and plant fuel, and in pipeline and distribution use

    The summer of 2024 (June–August) ranked as the fourth-warmest on record in the U.S. Lower 48 states, leading to strong demand for air conditioning and resulting in new daily records for electricity generation in July and August. As a result, natural gas consumption in the electric power sector rose in July and August to be the highest ever recorded for the summer.

    Principal contributors: Jordan Young, Katy Fleury

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Man Sentenced To Three Months’ Imprisonment For Illegal Re-Entry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eustolio Sanchez-Ramirez, age 38, of Chiapas, Mexico, was sentenced on March 27, 2025, by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson, to three months’ imprisonment on the charge of illegal re-entry into the United States, to run consecutive to any sentence that may be imposed at Dauphin County Magisterial Docket No: CR-796-2024. 

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Sanchez-Ramirez was last deported from the United States to Mexico in November 2018.  He re-entered the United States again sometime after November 2018 without first obtaining legal permission to do so. Sanchez-Ramirez was encountered in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, on December 19, 2024. 

    The case was investigated by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Harrisburg Police Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams is prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: DIAGNOS Opens First US Office in Florida

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROSSARD, Quebec, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diagnos Inc. (“DIAGNOS” or the “Corporation”) (TSX Venture: ADK, OTCQB: DGNOF, FWB: 4D4A), a pioneer in early detection of certain ophthalmic health issues using advanced technology based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), is excited to announce the opening of a new office in Fort Lauderdale that will serve to meet potential clients and conduct demos to key stakeholders in the ophthalmic and optometry sectors in Florida.

    As part of its growth strategy, DIAGNOS has identified Florida to establish its first office in the United States due its pro-business climate, talented workforce, global connectivity, demographics and quality of life. “We are thrilled to have established an office in the USA and further extend our reach to new clients,” said André Larente, President and CEO of DIAGNOS. Mr. Larente added “our expansion into Florida aligns with our strategic vision of meeting our clients’ needs wherever they may be located.” DIAGNOS plans on hiring its first US employees in the state of Florida.

    On February 25, 2025, DIAGNOS announced that it is working on the US FDA certification related to major advances of its AI-assisted fundus image analysis platform that should be available later this year. The updated platform has been redesigned to assist healthcare professionals in the assisted analysis of fundus images as it relates to indicators used in the identification and stratification of diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration.

    DIAGNOS also announces the engagement of DS Market Solutions Inc. (“DSMS”) to maintain an orderly market in the Corporation’s tradeable securities.

    As per the agreement signed between DSMS and DIAGNOS, DSMS is entitled to a compensation of CA$5,000 per month, payable in advance in cash, starting April 1, 2025, renewable on a month-to-month basis. DIAGNOS may terminate the agreement upon a 30-day written notice. DIAGNOS will use its own liquidities to pay the monthly compensation of CA$5,000.

    Headquartered in Mississauga, in the province of Ontario, Canada, DSMS will provide market-making services with respect to the Corporation’s tradeable securities with the objective of enhancing market depth and increasing liquidity for the Corporation’s securities. Mr. David Sears is the sole owner of DSMS and will be providing the services on behalf of DSMS. DSMS contact is davidsears@dsmarketsolutions.com.

    DSMS is acting at arm’s length to the Corporation. As of the date of this announcement, DSMS, together with any of its principals and key employees, do not have any interest, directly or indirectly, in the securities of the Corporation.

    The engagement of DSMS remains subject to the acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

    DIAGNOS is also announcing the resignation of Mr. Francis Bellido, effective March 27, 2025, from his position as member of the board of directors (the “Board”) and his role as chairman of the audit committee of DIAGNOS.

    The Board would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Mr. Bellido for his dedication, hard work, and valuable contribution to DIAGNOS. Mr. Bellido remains a shareholder of DIAGNOS and continues to serve as CEO and director of Quantum eMotion. The Board wishes him continued success in his current role and in all future endeavors. 

    About DIAGNOS
    DIAGNOS is a publicly traded Canadian corporation dedicated to early detection of critical eye-related health problems. By leveraging Artificial Intelligence, DIAGNOS aims to provide more information to healthcare clinicians to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline workflows, and improve patient outcomes on a global scale.

    Additional information is available at www.diagnos.com  and www.sedarplus.ca.  

    This news release contains forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these statements. DIAGNOS disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: High Arctic Announces 2024 Fourth Quarter and Year End Financial and Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW

    CALGARY, Alberta, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — High Arctic Energy Services Inc. (TSX: HWO) (the “Corporation” or “High Arctic”) released its’ fourth quarter and year-end results today. The audited consolidated financial statements, management discussion & analysis (“MD&A”), and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024 will be available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on High Arctic’s website at www.haes.ca. All amounts are denominated in Canadian dollars (“CAD”), unless otherwise indicated.

    Mike Maguire, Interim Chief Executive Officer commented:

    “With 2024 complete High Arctic has effectively been reset and is now a Canadian focused platform characterized by minimal debt, investment holdings, and an established and viable high margin rental business.

    Our rental business footprint, while still small in scale, was bolstered by the Delta Acquisition completed in late 2023, an acquisition that is indicative of the type and structure of accretive investments High Arctic looks to pursue going forward.

    The Board of Directors is currently undergoing a process to recruit and appoint a new Chief Executive Officer to augment and lead High Arctic’s vision and strategic plan which is to grow its equipment rentals business and position itself to benefit from upstream energy service activity levels in the western Canadian oil and gas industry.”

    In the following discussion, the three months ended December 31, 2024 may be referred to as the “Quarter” or “Q4 2024”, and similarly the year ended December 31, 2023 may be referred to as “YTD 2023”. The comparative three months ended December 31, 2023 may be referred to as “Q4 2023” and similarly the year ended December 31, 2022 may be referred to as “YTD 2022”. References to other quarters may be presented as “QX 20XX” with X being the quarter/year to which the commentary relates.

    2024 Highlights

    • Successful integration of Delta Rental Services.
    • Completed the reorganization of High Arctic including the return of $37.8 million to shareholders.
    • Maintained operational excellence and safety as evidenced by the continuation of recordable incident free work.
    • Exited Q4 with net positive working capital of $2.7 million, including $3.1 million of cash.

    2025 Strategic Objectives

    With the corporate restructuring and spinoff of the PNG business complete, the Corporation’s 2025 strategic objectives include:

    • Relentless focus on safety excellence and quality service delivery;
    • Grow the core businesses through selective and opportunistic investments;
    • Actively manage direct operating costs and general and administrative costs;
    • Steward capital to preserve balance sheet strength and financial flexibility; and
    • Execute on accretive acquisitions in Canada to drive shareholder value and optimize available tax loss carry-forwards.

    2024 Strategic Objectives

    At the beginning of 2024, High Arctic established a set of strategic priorities. Our priorities and highlights of objectives met include:

    • Continued relentless focus on safety excellence and quality service delivery.
      • High Arctic’s Canadian business completed 2024 without any recordable incidents, contributing to the Corporation’s second calendar year running with a zero Total Recordable Incident Frequency Rate (“TRIF”) rate.
      • High Arctic extended its recordable incident free activity in PNG, with 7 years and 353 days of continuous recordable incident free work conducted to the date of the spin-out, representing over 4 million work hours.
    • The creation of appropriate capital and corporate structures for the current businesses, providing the opportunity to consider transactions which would create value for the Corporation’s shareholders.
      • The Arrangement was overwhelmingly supported by shareholders and resulted in separate public companies each focused upon their area of expertise.
    • A return of significant capital and spin out of the PNG Business to shareholders.
      • The Arrangement resulted in separate public companies while also delivering a tax efficient return of capital totaling $37.8 million to shareholders.
      • The Corporation retained its position on the main TSX (TSX: HWO); with High Arctic Overseas Holdings Corp. being listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: HOH).
    • Grow the core businesses through selective and opportunistic investments.
      • The Corporation focused on the very successful integration and rebranding of its rentals business in 2024, following its acquisition and amalgamation of the Delta Acquisition at the end of 2023.
      • The middle of the year was dedicated to the business of the Arrangement and the resulting transitionary work, however later in the year, the Corporation commenced the examination of selective investment opportunities, with this work continuing into 2025.
    • Capital stewardship that preserves balance sheet strength and financial flexibility.
      • The Delta acquisition has provided incremental free cash flow and operational synergies.
      • The Corporation currently maintains low debt levels and associated leverage ratios.
      • Exited 2024 with a working capital ratio of 1.6:1
    • Building up the Canadian business with acquisitions that allow the Corporation to optimize its available tax loss carry-forwards.
      • The Delta acquisition creates a blueprint for accretive acquisitions that position the Corporation to improve its ability to utilize its significant tax loss carry-forwards.
      • The Corporation, under the stewardship of the Board, continues its strategic review of potential acquisition targets with strong underlying intrinsic value and that will be accretive for shareholders.

    RESULTS OVERVIEW
    The following is a summary of select financial information of the Corporation:

      Three months ended Dec 31,   Year ended Dec 31,  
    (thousands of Canadian Dollars, except per share amounts) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Operating results from continuing operations:        
    Revenue – continuing operations 2,443   1,037   10,470   3,384  
    Net loss – continuing operations (715 ) 219   (2,117 ) (989 )
    Per share (basic & diluted) (0.06 ) 0.02   (0.17 ) (0.08 )
    Oilfield services operating margin – continuing operations 1,143   664   5,207   2,058  
    Oilfield services operating margin as a % of revenue 46.8 % 64.0 % 49.7 % 60.8 %
    EBITDA – continuing operations 178   (918 ) (527 ) (2,311 )
    Adjusted EBITDA – continuing operations 133   (672 ) 795   (2,703 )
    Operating loss – continuing operations (533 ) (1,408 ) (2,965 ) (5,163 )
    Cash flow from continuing operations:        
    Cash flow from (used in) continuing operating activities 226   (874 ) 184   (515 )
    Per share (basic & diluted) 0.02   (0.07 ) 0.01   (0.04 )
    Funds flow from (used in) continuing operating activities 530   (335 ) 484   (1,292 )
    Per share (basic & diluted) 0.04   (0.03 ) 0.04   (0.11 )
    2024 return of capital / 2023 dividends –   –   37,842   2,190  
        As at December 31  
    (thousands of Canadian Dollars, except per share amounts)   2024   2023   2022  
    Financial position:              
    Working capital   2,692   62,985   59,461  
    Cash and cash equivalents   3,123   50,331   19,559  
    Total assets   30,867   123,137   133,957  
    Long-term debt   3,178   3,352   4,028  
    Shareholders’ equity   21,105   99,332   115,231  
    Per share (basic)   1.70   8.09   9.47  
    Common shares outstanding   12,448,166   12,280,568   12,172,958  


    Fourth Quarter 2024 Summary

    • Revenue from continuing operations increased 136% to $2,443 in the quarter compared to $1,037 in Q4 2023. The increase in revenue is primarily attributable to the Delta Acquisition in late Q4 2023.
    • Oilfield services operating margin from continuing operations was $1,143 in the current year quarter compared to $664 in the prior year quarter, an increase of $479 or 72%, driven by the Delta Acquisition as noted above.
    • EBITDA from continuing operations was $178 in the current year quarter compared to EBITDA loss of $918 in the prior year quarter. EBITDA from continuing operations benefitted from the acquisition of Delta Rental Services Ltd. (“Delta”) or (the “Delta Acquisition”) in late 2023.   
    • Operating loss from continuing operations of $553 in the quarter compared to $1,408 in Q4 2023. The decrease in operating loss is attributable to higher oilfield services operating margin and reduced general and administrative costs, offset in part, by an increase in depreciation and amortization expenses. The improvements in operating loss from continuing operations is directly related to the Delta Acquisition.
    • Net loss from continuing operations was $715 in Q4 2024 compared to net income from continuing operations of $219 in Q4 2023. Net loss from continuing operations was impacted by the same items impacting operating loss (as above) with a substantial contribution from the Delta Acquisition combined with reduced interest income, net higher non-cash accretion on contingent payments and notes receivable, fair value related adjustments, reduced income from equity accounted investment in Team Snubbing, and the positive change in foreign exchanges loss in Q4 2023 to gain in Q4 2024.

    Annual 2024 Summary:

    • Revenue from continuing operations increased 209% to $10,470 compared to revenue of $3,384 achieved in 2023. Consistent with the summary of the fourth quarter results, the increase in revenue is primarily attributable to the Delta Acquisition in late Q4 2023.
    • Oilfield services operating margin from continuing operations was $5,207 in the current year quarter compared to $2,058 in the prior year quarter, an increase of $3,149 or 153%, driven by the Delta Acquisition as noted above.
    • EBITDA loss from continuing operations was $527 in the current year compared to EBITDA loss of $2,311 in the prior year. EBITDA from continuing operations benefitted from the Delta Acquisition.
    • Operating loss from continuing operations improved to $2,965 in the year compared to $5,163 in 2023. The decrease in operating loss is attributable to higher oilfield services operating margin, offset in part, by an increase in depreciation and amortization expenses. The improvements in operating loss from continuing operations was directly related to the Delta Acquisition.
    • Net loss from continuing operations was $2,117 compared to $989 in FY 2023. The net loss, despite an improvement of $2,198 in operating income, is primarily due to the 2023 $615 gain on sale of the nitrogen business, a 2023 $915 deferred income tax recovery, $729 lower interest income from cash on guaranteed investment certificates (“GICs”) and term deposits in 2024 with the July 2024 distributed return of capital to shareholders, $1,493 lower equity investment income from Team Snubbing, and the net impact of higher non-cash accretion related expenses.
    • Production Service’s 42% equity investment share of Team Snubbing Services Inc. net loss was $690 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to net income of $803 in the comparative period in 2023. Weak international operating results in 2024 combined with costs incurred to restructure the international business in Alaska dragged down Team Snubbing’s results while the Canadian business performed in line with 2023.
    • Cash from operating activities from continuing operations was $184 for the year, an improvement of $699 as compared to the prior year use of $515, driven by strong operational performance from the Delta Acquisition, partially offset by the significant additional general and administrative expenses incurred in 2024 due to the Arrangement.

    Rental services segment

      Three months ended Dec 31,   Years ended Dec 31,  
    (thousands of Canadian Dollars, unless otherwise noted) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Revenue – continuing operations 2,443   1,037   10,470   3,384  
    Oilfield services expense – continuing operations (1,300 ) (373 ) (5,263 ) (1,326 )
    Oilfield services operating margin(1) 1,143   664   5,207   2,508  
    Operating margin (%) 46.8 % 64.0 % 49.7 % 60.8 %

    The Rental Services segment consists of High Arctic’s oilfield rental equipment in Canada, centred upon pressure control equipment and equipment supporting the high-pressure stimulation of oil and gas wells in the WCSB.

    The increase in revenue for the three and twelve month periods ended December 31, 2024, versus the comparable periods in 2023 is a direct result of the contribution from the Delta business that was acquired in late 2023. Specifically, Q4 2024 revenues increased by $1,406 or 136% compared to Q3 2023, with annual 2024 revenues increasing by $7,086 or 209% when compared to annual 2023. Operating margins of 46.8% and 49.7% for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024, respectively, are approximately 17 percent and 11 percent lower (on a gross basis) than the comparable periods in 2023, respectively. The reduction in operating margins is primarily a result of the Delta Acquisition, as Delta utilizes a combination of owned and third-party rental equipment in its operations, with third-party rental equipment resulting in higher operating expenses.

    Production Services segment
    The Production Services segment operations consist of High Arctic’s idled snubbing units in Colorado, U.S., and its equity investments in the Seh’ Chene Partnership and Team Snubbing Services Inc. in Canada. Though the Seh’ Chene Partnership has experienced limited business activity since the 2022 Canadian sales transactions, the partnership is still active and the Corporation together with its partner will look to reposition its customer offerings and explore other avenues for business activity.

    Team Snubbing Services Inc.
    High Arctic accounts for the results of its 42% equity interest in Team Snubbing using the equity method of accounting, with Team Snubbing’s net earnings recorded as income from equity investments in the respective reporting period. As reported in the Corporation’s 2024 Financial Statements (Note 12), Team Snubbing achieved gross revenues of $26,064 for 2024 versus gross revenues of $21,252 for the comparative period in 2023. This increase in revenues is primarily a result of the consolidation of the results of Team Snubbing International Inc. (“Team International”) for the first time following Team Snubbing’s April 1, 2024, acquisition of control of Team International.

    Team International’s operations experienced lower than anticipated activity levels in the Alaskan market in both Q4 2024, and for the year 2024. In addition, during Q2 2024, Team International incurred additional costs for restructuring management and operational teams. The restructuring initiative consolidated Team International’s workforce, “right sizing” it to the needs of the overall customer base and aligning the service delivery with Team Snubbing’s successful Canadian model. Team Snubbing’s domestic Canadian operations experienced similar activity levels in both Q4 2024 and year-to-date 2024, when compared to the same periods of 2023.

    High Arctic’s proportionate share of Team Snubbing’s net loss for 2024 was $690 compared to an income inclusion of $803 for the comparable period in 2023, representing a decrease in income from equity investment of $1,493. This year-over-year decline in income from equity investment realized in 2024 was primarily due to the results of Team International.

    Liquidity and capital resources

      Three months ended Dec 31,   Years ended Dec 31,  
    (thousands of Canadian Dollars) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Cash provided by (used in) continued operations:        
    Operating activities 226   (874 ) 184   (515 )
    Investing activities (310 ) (3,160 ) (997 ) 25,638  
    Financing activities (430 ) 45   (38,659 ) (2,967 )
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (469 ) (745 ) 717   (720 )
    Increase (decrease) in cash from continuing operations (983 ) (4,734 ) (38,755 ) 21,436  
    (thousands of Canadian Dollars, unless otherwise noted)     As at
    Dec 31, 2024
      As at
    Dec 31, 2023
     
    Current assets     7,221   79,438  
    Working capital(1)     2,692   62,985  
    Working capital ratio(1)     1.6:1   4.8:1  
    Cash and cash equivalents     3,123   50,331  
    Net cash(1)     (230 ) 46,804  


    Operating Activities
    In Q4 2024, cash from operating activities from continuing operations was $226, as compared with an outflow of $874 from operating activities from continuing operations in Q4 2023. Funds from operating activities from continuing operations totaled $530 in the quarter versus funds used of $335 for Q4 2023 (see “Non-IFRS Measures”). In Q4 2024, changes in non-cash operating working capital from continuing operations totaled an outflow of $304 compared to an outflow of $539 in Q4 2023.

    For the year ended 2024, cash from operating activities from continuing operations was $184 as compared to a use of cash of $515 of cash from operating activities from continuing operations in 2023. Funds from operating activities from continuing operations totaled $484 for the year ended 2024, versus a use of funds of $1,292 for 2023.

    Changes in cash from operating activities from continuing operations and funds from operating activities from continuing operations for both the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024, when compared to the same periods in 2023, were largely the result of the positive impact on the business from the Delta Acquisition. In addition, operating related cash flows in the fourth quarter of 2024 benefitted from reduced G&A costs associated with the Arrangement transaction which was completed in the third quarter of 2024.

    Investing Activities
    During the fourth quarter, the Corporation’s net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations totaled $310 compared to $3,160 for the prior year comparative quarter. For the year ended 2024, net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations totaled $997 compared to an inflow of $25,638 in the prior year. For the fourth quarter of 2024 and YTD 2024, the majority of expenditures incurred related to sustaining and growth capital for the Rental Services Segment combined with investments in information technology and systems required to support the Corporation upon completion of the Arrangement transaction. YTD 2023 investing activities were impacted by proceeds received on the sale of assets (net of costs) of $29,569, offset in part by the Delta Acquisition in Q4 2023 for $3,430.

    Financing Activities
    During the fourth quarter, the Corporation’s net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations was $430 compared to an inflow of $45 in the prior year comparative quarter. For the year ended 2024, net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations was $38,659 compared to $2,967 in the prior year. Cash flow from financing activities for the year ended 2024 was impacted by a one-time $37,842 distribution to shareholders in accordance with the completion of the Arrangement transaction. Excluding the impact of the one-time distribution, cash flows related to finance activities were impacted by the normal course receipts and payments on the Corporation’s existing note receivables, lease liabilities and long-term debt.

    Working Capital
    As at December 31, 2024, the Corporation’s working capital balance was $2,692 compared to $62,985 as at December 31, 2023. The change in working capital is largely due to the spinout of the Corporation’s PNG business combined with the $37,842 return of capital distribution paid during 2024, both of which were completed in connection with the Arrangement transaction.

    Long-term Debt

    (thousands of Canadian Dollars)     As at
    Dec 31, 2024
      As at
    Dec 31, 2023
     
    Current     175   175  
    Non current     3,178   3,352  
    Total     3,353   3,527  

    The Corporation has mortgage financing secured by lands and buildings owned by High Arctic located within Alberta, Canada. The mortgage has a remaining initial term of under two years with a fixed interest rate of 4.30% with payments occurring monthly. The mortgage financing contains certain non-financial covenants requiring lenders’ consent including changes to the underlying business. As at December 31, 2024, the Corporation was compliant with all covenants associated with the mortgage financing.

    2025 Earn-Out Shares issued pursuant to the 2023 share purchase agreement with Delta Rental Services Ltd.
    Subsequent to December 31, 2024, the Corporation issued 248,793 shares as part of the settlement of the first-year contingent consideration payable pursuant to the Acquisition of Delta Rental Services Ltd.

    Outlook
    As a result of the successful execution of the Arrangement and corporate reorganization during 2024, High Arctic has transformed itself. After a decade of significant cash flow generation and cash dividends and distribution to shareholders in excess of $105 million, bold measures were taken to adjust for the decade ahead. The 2024 Arrangement provided shareholders with a separate investment holding and future flexibility through a new publicly traded entity containing the former PNG business (TSXV: HOH) plus a tax efficient cash distribution in the form of a $37.8 million return of capital. It also provided shareholders with a continuing investment in a refined, Canadian focused, and reset High Arctic publicly traded entity.

    High Arctic’s Canadian platform is characterized by minimal debt and its continuing operations now consist of:

    • A western Canadian high-margin equipment rental business – centred on pressure ‎control and well stimulation;
    • A minority 42% interest in Canada’s largest oilfield snubbing services business, Team Snubbing; and
    • Two industrial properties, located in Clairmont and Whitecourt, Alberta.

    High Arctic anticipates that its Rental Services segment will continue to generate funds flow from operations commensurate with oil and gas well completion fundamentals in western Canada. The rental business footprint, while still small in scale, was bolstered by the 2023 Delta Acquisition. This acquisition is indicative of the type and structure of accretive investment High Arctic will look to pursue going forward. For 2025, the Rental Services segment is expected to be at a stage whereby operating cash flow covers Corporate segment costs and yields modest funds for organic growth.

    High Arctic is at the early stages of a new chapter in its corporate history. The 2024 transformational developments provide a clean platform to enable a new strategic direction. The Board of Directors is currently undergoing a process to recruit and appoint a new Chief Executive Officer to augment and lead High Arctic’s vision and strategic plan. High Arctic’s current intent is to grow its equipment rentals business and position itself to benefit from upstream energy service activity levels in the western Canadian oil and gas industry. Complementary new service lines with high margin, low headcount and low fixed costs, are also being considered.

    In summary for 2025, the Corporation expects to continue to execute on the initial phases of its strategic business plan, with progress to date being evidenced by selective capital expenditure investments in its rental business throughout 2024. High Arctic continues to assess acquisition targets that are both complimentary and new to existing customer offerings. Potential benefits of an acquisition for High Arctic include enhancing the scope and scale of its operations; the ability to provide a broader customer service offering; and formalizing/augmenting the leadership team for the Corporation.

    Execution of the strategic plan remains opportunistic and is ongoing. The timing and ability to execute on certain underlying objectives, however, has become challenging due to recent divisive global geopolitical developments and resulting global economic uncertainties. These developments include changes and potential changes in global trade policies and tariffs, threats of additional or retaliatory tariffs, and policy shifts as a result of new government leadership in many jurisdictions around the world. The federal election in Canada, set for April 28, 2025, may have a significant impact on long term investment in Canada’s energy industry.

    Western Canadian oil and gas activity levels, despite volatility in underlying commodity prices, have benefited from resurgent Canadian upstream activity to meet, and then sustain, growing oil and natural gas export infrastructure capacity. This includes tidewater access off the west coast of Canada through the 2024 Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, expected 2025 LNG Canada pipeline commencement, and land pipeline expansion to the United States through completed projects such as the Line 3 expansion.

    NON – IFRS MEASURES
    This press release contains references to certain financial measures that do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and may not be comparable to the same or similar measures used by other companies High Arctic uses these financial measures to assess performance and believes these measures provide useful supplemental information to shareholders and investors. These financial measures are computed on a consistent basis for each reporting period and include Oilfield services operating margin, EBITDA (Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization), Adjusted EBITDA, Operating loss, Funds flow from operating activities, Working capital and Long-term financial liabilities. These do not have standardized meanings.

    These financial measures should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net income (loss), cash from operating activities, current assets or current liabilities, cash and/or other measures of financial performance as determined in accordance with IFRS.

    For additional information regarding non-IFRS measures, including their use to management and investors and reconciliations to measures recognized by IFRS, please refer to the Corporation’s MD&A, which is available online at www.sedar.com and through High Arctic’s website at www.haes.ca.   

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “seek”, “propose”, “estimate”, “expect”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the Corporation’s current views with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Many factors could cause the Corporation’s actual results, performance, or achievements to vary from those described in this press release.

    Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this press release as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Specific forward-looking statements in this press release include, among others, statements pertaining to the following: general economic and business conditions, which will include, among other things, the outlook for the energy industry inclusive of commodity prices, producer activity levels and general energy supply and demand fundamentals that may impact the energy industry as a whole; the impact (if any) of geo-political events, changes in government, changes to tariff’s or related trade policies and the potential impact on the Corporation’s ability to execute its 2025 strategic objectives; fluctuations in interest rates and commodity prices; expectations regarding the Corporation’s ability to manage its liquidity risk; raise capital and manage its debt finance agreements; projections of market prices and costs; factors upon which the Corporation will decide whether or not to undertake a specific course of operational action or expansion; the Corporation’s ongoing relationship with its major customers; the Corporation’s ability to seek and execute accretive acquisitions including the timing thereof and the potential operational and financial benefits; the ability to recruit and retain executive officers and other key personnel; management of general and administrative costs; the maintenance of a strong balance sheet and related financial flexibility; the performance of the Corporation’s investment in Team Snubbing; operational and financial performance of the Corporation’s Canadian rental equipment in 2025; scaling the Canadian business, execution on one or more corporate transactions; and estimated credit risks.

    With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this press release, the Corporation has made assumptions regarding, among other things, its ability to: maintain its ongoing relationship with major customers; successfully market its services to current and new customers; devise methods for, and achieve its primary objectives; source and obtain equipment from suppliers; successfully manage, operate, and thrive in an environment which is facing much uncertainty; remain competitive in all its operations; attract and retain skilled employees; obtain equity and debt financing on satisfactory terms and manage its liquidity risk.

    The Corporation’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the risk factors set forth above and elsewhere in this press release, along with the risk factors set out in the most recent Annual Information Form filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. These statements are given only as of the date of this press release. The Corporation does not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About High Arctic Energy Services
    High Arctic is an energy services provider. High Arctic provides pressure control equipment and equipment supporting the high-pressure stimulation of oil and gas wells and other oilfield equipment ‎on a rental basis to exploration and production companies, from its bases in Whitecourt and Red Deer, Alberta‎.

    For further information contact:

    Lonn Bate
    Chief Financial Officer 
    P: 587-318-2218
    P: +1 (800) 688 7143 

    High Arctic Energy Services Inc.
    Suite 2350, 330 – 5th Ave SW
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 0L4
    website: www.haes.ca
    Email: info@haes.ca

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Achieves Sustaining Partner Status with Black Hat

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the data security leader, is proud to announce its new status as a Sustaining Partner with Black Hat and share its full event schedule for Black Hat Asia 2025, taking place April 1 – 4 in Singapore.

    As a new Sustaining Partner, Varonis joins an elite group of security leaders that includes CrowdStrike and Wiz. The partnership underscores Varonis’ commitment to advancing cybersecurity knowledge and innovation through its ongoing presence at Black Hat’s global events, including Black Hat Asia, Black Hat USA, SecTor, and others.

    Varonis is pleased to announce its return to Black Hat Asia this week and invites attendees to visit our booth and engage with our team:

    Visit Varonis: Stop by booth #509 in the Business Hall to learn how Varonis’ cloud-native Data Security Platform enables organizations to protect data and reduce risk in the AI age. Hear how Varonis helps customers identify, remediate, and alert to threats on data across IaaS and SaaS with game-changing automation.

    Expert Session – Safely Enabling AI Copilots with Varonis: During this session, Varonis Cloud and Security Architecture Director Mike Thompson will demonstrate how easily your company’s sensitive data can be exposed using simple prompts with Microsoft 365 Copilot. Hear practical steps and strategies to help you roll out AI safely and prevent data exposure.

    Date: Thursday, April 3, at 10:15 a.m.
    Location: Business Hall Theater A

    Additional Resources:

    About Varonis
    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com 

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Veterans Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence mark 15th anniversary of the end of Operation Hestia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Ottawa, ON – Today, Veterans Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence, issued the following statement:

    “Fifteen years ago, one of the deadliest earthquakes in history struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti. The need for urgent, international aid was clear, and Canada answered the call.

    “The earthquake left more than 200,000 people dead and destroyed or damaged most of the buildings in the capital of Port-au-Prince. More than a million Haitians became instantly homeless, and one-third of the population was affected by the quake as water, power and other basic services collapsed and healthcare facilities became swamped.

    “Within less than a week, the Canadian Armed Forces deployed Joint Task Force Haiti (JTFH) to bring critical aid to the country. The frigate His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Halifax and the destroyer HMCS Athabaskan, carrying a CH-124 Sea King helicopter detachment, brought emergency medical services, engineering expertise, mobility by sea, land and air, and security and defence support. The JTFH also included Search and Rescue technicians and firefighters, a field hospital, the Disaster Assistance Response Team, and security and defence personnel.

    “At its peak, JTFH included some 2,050 personnel from many branches of our military.

    “For two months, the Canadian contingent delivered food, clean water, and medical and security services. They set up a military clinic on the beach in Jacmel and food distribution points in Léogâne. Airport operations personnel and others worked to restore critical airport infrastructure so they could be operated safely.

    “While their mission ended 15 years ago today, their contributions demonstrate Canada’s enduring commitment of being a good neighbour.

    In 2025, Veterans Affairs Canada will focus on commemorating the efforts of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Americas. In addition to Haiti, our troops have helped provide aid in the United States after Hurricane Katrina, and in places like Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala.

    “Today, we pause to remember and thank Veterans and the brave members of the Canadian Armed Forces for their dedication and professionalism toward others in need.”

    Associated Links

    Haiti – Veterans Affairs Canada

    Operation HESTIA – Canada.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada highlights International Transgender Day of Visibility 2025

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 31, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario — Women and Gender Equality Canada    

    Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Culture and Identity, Parks Canada and Quebec Lieutenant, who is responsible for the Department for Women and Gender Equality, issued the following statement on the International Transgender Day of Visibility:

    “On this International Transgender Day of Visibility, the Government of Canada pays tribute to the resilience of transgender people and celebrates the diversity they bring to our society, as well as their important contributions.

    The actions of the Government of Canada, guided by the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, aim to build a more just and equitable society for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, for both current and future generations, in Canada and around the world.

    Last fall, Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate was launched to better enable 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including transgender people, to thrive. It includes a series of initiatives to help community organizations. Recognizing the courage of transgender people and supporting them means helping to put an end to hateful rhetoric.

    Everyone deserves to live an authentic life, free from discrimination and harassment, whatever their gender identity or expression. Yet transgender people continue to face this mistreatment and to suffer significant repercussions, especially on their mental health. In fact, a national study found that young transgender people aged 15 and 17 are 7.6 times more likely to attempt suicide than cisgender and heterosexual youth.

    Let’s offer transgender people our support, today and throughout the year, so that they can feel free to be themselves, in welcoming and respectful environments. Let’s show our pride in living in an inclusive and diverse country. Let’s be empathetic. Let’s stand together.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: An Interview with Foreign Law Intern at the Law Library of Congress, Yuri Rattanaboonsen

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    Today’s blog post is an interview with a foreign law intern at the Law Library of Congress, Panicha Rattanaboonsen. She works with foreign law specialist Sayuri Umeda in the Global Legal Research Directorate. 

    Describe your background.

    My name is Panicha Rattanaboonsen, also known as Yuri. I am originally from Thailand and come from an overseas Chinese family. I moved to Bangkok during high school, where I attended Triam Udom Suksa School. I am fluent in Thai and English and have basic proficiency in Mandarin and Lao.

    What is your academic/professional history?

    Currently, I am an LL.M. candidate in the Environmental and Energy Law program at Georgetown University Law Center. Before pursuing my graduate studies, I had experience in the public sector at the national level in Thailand, contributing to policies and measures addressing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy innovation. I also worked as a legal analyst and adviser, focusing on renewable energy projects and energy policy.

    My professional background includes my role as a business tax associate, where I provided strategic tax advisory services to international clients, and my internship in the legal department of a big consulting firm, as well as my experience in arbitration and mediation at the Thai Arbitration Center, where I gained expertise in resolving complex domestic and international disputes.

    How do you describe your job to other people?

    I am a foreign law intern at the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress. I conduct legal research and analysis on Thailand’s legal framework, including monitoring global legal articles and assessing Thai laws and regulations updates. Additionally, I have contributed to legal reports that will be published by the Law Library, such as Thailand: Civic Space Legal Framework, which examines legal policies affecting civic engagement and is set to be published at a later date.

    Why did you want to work at the Library of Congress?

    The Library of Congress houses one of the world’s most extensive and valuable collections of legal resources. Contributing to the development of reports and articles that serve organizations, scholars, and policymakers is a unique and meaningful opportunity. Moreover, working on the legislative research for Congress provides me with invaluable life experience.

    What is the most interesting fact that you’ve learned about the Library?

    I was fascinated to learn that the Law Library of Congress holds one of the world’s largest collections of legal materials. I was particularly intrigued to discover that Thai legal books and collections are also preserved there.

    What’s something that most of your co-workers don’t know about you?

    Beyond my work in law and policy, I am also interested in finance and investment. I am currently pursuing a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification.


    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Dismisses Biden-Era Lawsuit Against Commonsense Georgia Election Law, Advancing President Trump’s Mandate to End Weaponization

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi directed the Department of Justice to dismiss its claims in In Re Georgia Senate Bill 202, a Biden-era lawsuit that falsely accused Georgia of intentionally suppressing Black voters’ votes.

    “Contrary to the Biden Administration’s false claims of suppression, Black voter turnout actually increased under SB 202,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Georgians deserve secure elections, not fabricated claims of false voter suppression meant to divide us. Americans can be confident that this Department of Justice will protect their vote and never play politics with election integrity.” 

    The Biden administration fabricated an untrue narrative following the passage of Senate Bill 202 and sued the state of Georgia, claiming without evidence that SB 202 was an intentional scheme to “depress the Black vote” and referring to the basic election legislation as “Jim Crow 2.0.”Some mainstream media outlets and corporate allies of the Biden Administration fueled this falsehood, demonizing Georgians for political gain and triggering boycotts—including Major League Baseball’s relocation of the 2021 All-Star Game from Atlanta—that, by some estimates, cost the state over $100 million in economic losses.

    In reality, SB 202’s commonsense reforms—photo ID for all voting, strengthened absentee ballot procedures, and rapid reporting of results—spurred record voter turnout, including among Black Georgians.

    “The Department of Justice is done with this disgrace,” said Acting Associate Attorney General and Department of Justice Chief of Staff Chad Mizelle. “There is nothing racist about protecting elections—baseless claims of Jim Crow-style discrimination are the real insult.” 

    President Trump and Attorney General Bondi are committed to dismantling weaponized litigation and ensuring fair, lawful elections for all Americans. Instead of wasting time on false, divisive lawsuits, the Department of Justice will continue to root out real discrimination, promote common-sense election safeguards, and ensure equality for every American. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General visits the United States of America

    Source: NATO

    On Thursday 13 and Friday 14 March [2025] NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Washington DC to meet the President of the United States of America Donald J. Trump.

    Discussions throughout the trip centred on the urgent need to increase defence spending and production, bring a lasting end to the war against Ukraine, and on other priorities for the forthcoming NATO Summit in The Hague.
     
    On Thursday, the Secretary General participated in a bilateral meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office of the White House. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, Counselor of the State Department Michael Needham, US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Lieutenant General (ret.) Keith Kellogg, and Ambassador-Nominee Matthew Whitaker, were in attendance. Mr Rutte praised the President for his pivotal role in accelerating Allied defence investment and breaking the deadlock on the war in Ukraine. The conversation continued over a working lunch.
     
    While in Washington, Mr Rutte also met with Senate Majority Leader, John Thune, and a number of other Senators, both Republican and Democrat, and took part in a working lunch hosted by the Atlantic Council.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Hampton Financial Corporation Announces The Completion of A Non-Brokered Private Placement of Debentures

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    TORONTO, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton Financial Corporation (“Hampton” or the “Company”, TSXV:HFC) is pleased to announce the closing of a non-brokered private placement of debentures (the “Debentures”) in the principal amount of $1,267,000.

    The Debentures will mature five (5) years and one day after the issue date (the “Maturity Date”) and will bear interest at the rate of 10.5% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of March, June, September and December in each year until the Maturity Date. The first interest payment will be made at the end of the first calendar quarter following the closing date (the “Initial Interest Payment Date”) and will consist of interest accrued from and including the closing date to the Initial Interest Payment Date. Interest will be payable in cash only and will cease to accrue on the Maturity Date.

    Proceeds of the offering will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    About Hampton Financial Corporation

    Hampton is a unique private equity firm that seeks to build shareholder value through long-term strategic investments.

    Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hampton Securities Limited (“HSL”), Hampton is actively engaged in family office, wealth management, institutional services and capital markets activities. HSL is a full-service investment dealer, regulated by CIRO and registered in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Ontario, and Quebec. In addition, the Company, through HSL, provides investment banking services, which include assisting companies with raising capital, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and aiding issuers in obtaining a listing on recognized securities exchanges in Canada and abroad and HSL’s Corporate Finance Group provides early stage, growing companies the capital, they need to create value for investors. HSL continues to develop its Wealth Management, Advisory Team and Principal-Agent programs which offers to the industry’s most experienced wealth managers a unique and flexible operating platform that provides additional freedom, financial support, and tax effectiveness as they build and manage their professional practice.

    Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Oxygen Working Capital (“OWC”) the company offers factoring and other commercial financing services to clients across Canada.

    For more information, please contact:

    Olga Juravlev
    Chief Financial Officer
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8701

    Or

    Peter M. Deeb
    Executive Chairman & CEO
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8651

    The TSXV has in no way approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. This press release does not constitute or form a part of any offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction outside of Canada. The securities being offered have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to a U.S. person absent registration or pursuant to an available exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. There will be no public offering of securities in the United States.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements“) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “should”, “hopeful”, “recovery”, “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project” or similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes.

    Forward-looking statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements herein. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results may vary, and vary materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements herein. Accordingly, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements herein and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Cash-Rich Ultra Luxury Travelers Boost Spend, Seek Wellness in 2025, Flywire Survey Reveals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    80% of those surveyed are planning to spend more on trips next year; almost half of those who spend $25K per vacation plan to spend much more than before

    97% ultra luxury travelers say they are likely to take a trip to reduce stress, reduce anxiety and/or fully unplug in the next year

    Discerning travelers continue to prioritize simplicity and security for high-value payments

    BOSTON, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Elite travelers are seeking highly-personalized, exclusive and high-end travel experiences that will enhance their own wellbeing, according to a new report from Flywire Corporation (Nasdaq: FLYW), a global payments enablement and software company. And on a quest to feel recharged and enriched, these ultra luxury travelers are prepared to pay what it takes to have unique access to experiences. Among those who spend more than $25,000 per vacation, almost half say they are prepared to spend much more than before for once in a lifetime travel experiences.

    Flywire’s new report, Unlocking ultra luxury travel in 2025, based on a survey of more than 500 ultra luxury travelers from the U.S., details the preferences of this elite class of travelers and the implications for the travel providers who cater to this market. Exploring topics from accommodation preferences and high-end advisors to payment security and choice, the findings suggest that to meet travelers’ demands, providers will need to offer seamless customer experiences and exclusive experiences that are personalized, high-touch and frictionless from start to finish.

    “Our research shows us that ultra luxury travelers are as motivated by the ability to unplug from the world in their travels as they are to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences. More so, many of them are planning to spend more in pursuit of these experiences than before, reflecting luxury travel’s resilience and expanding global appeal,” said Colin Smyth, SVP and GM of Travel at Flywire.

    Ultra luxury travelers value tailor made experiences and highly personalized service interaction, relying on advisors for true luxury experience

    Luxury travel is about more than just exclusive accommodations, according to 92% of respondents it’s more the access to people, places and experiences that represent all that is authentic about a destination. Moreover, half of respondents said that, for them, luxury travel is defined by once in a lifetime and personalized experiences.

    Key to curating these experiences, according to 96% of ultra luxury travelers, are travel agents or advisors. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 working with travel experts believe it is the only way to have a truly luxury travel experience. Among the reasons respondents gave for using a travel agent/advisor is their expert advice on destinations, activities or operators, and the deep understanding of personal travel preferences travel agents have.

    Wellness, “Joy of Missing Out” and the ability to unplug are important to ultra luxury travel

    Ultra luxury travelers are prioritizing their mental and physical wellbeing through travel. Nearly all respondents say they are likely to take a trip to reduce stress, reduce anxiety and/or fully unplug in the next year, and 9 in 10 said they are interested in taking a wellness vacation, including self-discovery, spa and nature-based retreats.

    Ultra luxury travelers are also embracing slow travel, to really immerse themselves in the experience of their vacation. 93% say they have taken at least one slow travel trip in the past year, and 95% say they are likely to take the same number or more slow travel trips in the coming year. Furthermore, they are focused on doing the things that are important to them, with 84% saying vacations are all about JOMO or the Joy of Missing Out, rather than worrying about what others might be doing.

    Payment experience is loyalty driver, simplicity and security are top concerns

    Almost all luxury travelers who responded (95%) say that how easy it is for them to pay for all parts of their trip is important to them. Critically, around 9 in 10 say they expect a positive payment experience, and, when booking travel, almost all say they choose who they work with based on a positive payment experience.

    Additionally, travelers look to avoid certain pain points when paying for their experiences, such as unexpected fees and exchange rates (34%), the inability to pay in their local currency (24%) or to use their preferred credit card (23%). And security remains top of mind, with 72% of those surveyed concerned about the security of their payments.

    To experience the full report with additional data points and key takeaways, please visit here.

    About Flywire

    Flywire is a global payments enablement and software company. We combine our proprietary global payments network, next-gen payments platform and vertical-specific software to deliver the most important and complex payments for our clients and their customers. Flywire leverages its vertical-specific software and payments technology to deeply embed within the existing A/R workflows for its clients across the education, healthcare and travel vertical markets, as well as in key B2B industries. Flywire also integrates with leading ERP systems, such as NetSuite, so organizations can optimize the payment experience for their customers while eliminating operational challenges.

    Flywire supports more than 4,500 clients with diverse payment methods in more than 140 currencies across more than 240 countries and territories around the world. The company is headquartered in Boston, MA, USA with global offices. For more information, visit www.flywire.com. Follow Flywire on X , LinkedIn and Facebook.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements regarding Flywire’s expectations regarding the benefits of its travel clients and business, Flywire’s business strategy and plans, market growth and trends. Flywire intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as, but not limited to, “believe,” “may,” “will,” “potentially,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “could,” “would,” “project,” “target,” “plan,” “expect,” or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations that involve risks, changes in circumstances, assumptions, and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in Flywire’s forward-looking statements include, among others, the factors that are described in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of Flywire’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, which is on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and available on the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov/. The information in this release is provided only as of the date of this release, and Flywire undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release on account of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contacts

    Media:
    Sarah King
    Media@Flywire.com

    Investor Relations:
    Masha Kahn
    IR@Flywire.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: “California-Mexico border, once overwhelmed, now nearly empty”

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    In the latest indication of success from President Donald J. Trump’s unprecedented effort to secure the homeland, the Los Angeles Times writes that “migrant crossings have slowed to near a halt” along the California-Mexico border following years of unchecked illegal immigration.
    From the article:
    “But migrant crossings have slowed to a near halt, bringing a striking change to the landscape along the southernmost stretch of California.
    Shelters that once received migrants have closed, makeshift camps where migrants waited for processing are barren, and nonprofits have begun shifting their services to established immigrants in the U.S. who are facing deportation, or migrants stuck in southern Mexico.
    […]
    Border Patrol agents in the San Diego sector are now making about 30 to 40 arrests per day, according to the agency. That’s down from more than 1,200 per day during the height of migrant arrivals to the region in April.”
    Click here to read the full story.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Explosive Investigative Thriller Bribe, Inc. to Make U.S. Premiere Amid Global Reckoning Over Corruption

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Groundbreaking Documentary to Make Its U.S. Debut in Los Angeles April 3, Followed by New York Screening at IFC Center April 15–16

    New York Premiere to Feature Post-Screening Q&As with Three-Time Emmy Award-Winning Director Peter Klein, Moderated by MSNBC’s Ali Velshi and Investigative Reporter Simon Ostrovsky

    LOS ANGELES, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bribe, Inc., the jaw-dropping true story of global corruption, secret codes, whistleblowers and million-dollar bribes, will make its highly anticipated U.S. premiere on Thursday, April 3 at the legendary TCL Chinese 6 Theatres in Hollywood as part of the 25th Annual Beverly Hills Film Festival. The film will also have its New York debut on April 15–16 at the IFC Center in Manhattan.

    Described by The Guardian as “filled with the kind of cloak-and-dagger developments one associates with potboilers and airport novels,” the film plunges viewers deep into the hidden world of global business, where bribery has become a trillion-dollar industry propping up authoritarian regimes, enabling human rights abuses and undermining democracy itself.

    Writer, investigative journalist and the film’s producer Calyn Shaw will attend the screening at the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres. Shaw’s journalism has spanned the globe, from exposing targeted killings in Brazil (The New York Times) to uncovering supply chain breakdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic (PBS Frontline).

    “Bribe, Inc. is more than a film—it’s a reckoning,” said Shaw. “This isn’t just about a single scandal. It’s about a global system built on secrets, where power and profit are protected at any cost. The question is: what are we going to do about it?

    In New York, Bribe, Inc. will screen at the IFC Center on April 15 and 16, followed by post-screening Q&As featuring director Peter Klein and director of photography Claire Ward. The discussions will be moderated by Emmy and DuPont-winning reporter Simon Ostrovsky and Ali Velshi, longtime business journalist and MSNBC host. Klein, a three-time Emmy Award-winning producer and director, brings three decades of hard-hitting documentary experience to the film, having created dozens of investigative programs that shine a light on global injustice.

    “This film takes viewers inside a world most people never see—and many in power would prefer stay hidden,” said Klein. “As journalists and filmmakers, we have a duty to shine a light on corruption, not just for shock value, but to ignite change. Bribe, Inc. is our call to action to understand the true cost of corruption.”

    As global enforcement of anti-bribery laws weakens and trust in institutions collapses, Bribe, Inc. emerges as a cinematic gut-punch—an urgent demand for accountability in a world where corruption is routine.

    The film doesn’t shy away from political complicity. It explores Donald Trump’s controversial views on bribery as a tool of global commerce and examines the politicians who have excused corruption as a cost of doing business. On February 10, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order suspending enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)—a law enacted in 1977 to prevent U.S. companies from bribing foreign officials. The administration claimed the law’s “overexpansion and unpredictable enforcement” hurt U.S. competitiveness. Critics argue the move may undercut global anti-corruption efforts and signal retreat from ethical business standards.

    Variety praised the film’s revelations as “explosive,” especially for exposing a covert effort by the U.S. Department of Justice to seize jurisdiction and protect blue-chip corporations from scrutiny. From war-torn Iraq to backroom deals in Monaco, Bribe, Inc. forces audiences to follow the money—and confront the consequences. Bribe, Inc. is a real-life political thriller that dares viewers to ask: what kind of world are we really living in—and who’s getting rich off the silence?

    About Bribe, Inc.
    Bribe, Inc. is a real-life political thriller that exposes one of the largest corporate bribery scandals in modern history. Told through the lens of whistleblowers, investigators and journalists, the film uncovers a trillion-dollar corruption network stretching from oil fields in Iraq to boardrooms in Monaco—and all the way to the halls of power in Washington. Directed by Emmy Award-winner Peter Klein and co-produced by investigative journalist Calyn Shaw, Bribe, Inc. reveals how corporations, politicians and regulators conspire to protect a global system built on secrecy and profit. Described by The Guardian as “cloak-and-dagger,” and praised by Variety for its “explosive” revelations, the film challenges audiences to follow the money—and confront the cost of complicity. For more information, visit https://bribeinc.com/.

    Media Contact:
    Ellen Mellody
    570-209-2947
    EMellody@kcsa.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
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