NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ready, Set, Ski

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    The Ski Trooper Cup was a multifaceted competition designed to test the strength, endurance, and tactical skills of #USArmy soldiers in winter warfare and alpine environments.

    Members of the #10thMountainDivision tested a range of skills including pushups, slope climbing, rappelling, skiing between gates, pullups, and glissading at the sixth annual Ski Trooper Cup in Vail, Colo.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1s9elnQsGRY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Amid ‘Hellscape’, Uptick in Violence in North Darfur, Senior Humanitarian Official Urges Security Council to Take Immediate Action to Protect Civilians in Sudan

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    12 Million People Displaced, 24.6 Million Face Acute Hunger Nationwide, Yet Aid Groups Forced to Suspend Operations in Zamzam Displacement Camp Due to Insecurity

    The “already catastrophic” situation in Sudan has worsened in recent weeks, a senior United Nations humanitarian official warned today, as she outlined alarming developments in North Darfur, and urged the Security Council to take immediate action to ensure all actors abide by international humanitarian law and protect civilians in Zamzam camp and beyond. 

    “Nearly two years of relentless conflict in Sudan have inflicted immense suffering and turned parts of the country into a hellscape,” said Edem Wosornu, Director, Operations and Advocacy Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.  Ms. Wosornu briefed the 15-member body on behalf of Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. 

    More than 12 million people in Sudan have been displaced while 24.6 million people are experiencing acute hunger, she told the Council.  In North Darfur, violence in and around the Zamzam displacement camp — which hosts hundreds of thousands of civilians — has further intensified.  Satellite imagery confirms the use of heavy weaponry there in recent weeks.  Many have been killed, including at least two humanitarian workers, she said. 

    Earlier this week, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the main provider of health and nutrition services in Zamzam, announced that it has been forced to halt its operations in the camp due to the deteriorating security situation.  The World Food Programme (WFP) has also confirmed the suspension of voucher-based food assistance due to insecurity and the destruction of the market at Zamzam. 

    Moreover, the UN Human Rights Office has verified reports of summary executions of civilians in areas that have changed hands, she went on to say.  In the south of the country, fighting has spread into new areas in North Kordofan and South Kordofan.  “We have also seen shocking reports of further atrocities in While Nile state, including a wave of attacks earlier this month reported to have killed scores of civilians,” she said, welcoming the decision by the Sudanese authorities to extend the authorization of the use of the Adre crossing for humanitarian aid. 

    United Nations 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan Requires $6 Billion

    She said that the UN’s 2025 response plan for Sudan and the region requires $6 billion to support close to 21 million people in Sudan and up to 5 million others in neighbouring countries.  “The international community — in particular members of the Council — must spare no effort in trying to mitigate this,” she stressed. 

    In the ensuing discussion, Council members expressed alarm over the increasing attacks on civilians, underscoring the harrowing plight of the Sudanese people, particularly children, and urging all parties to the conflict to put down their weapons. 

    World’s Greatest Crisis of Displaced Children 

    “Sudan is experiencing one of the most devastating conflicts of our times,” said Panama’s delegate, noting that the country is home to the world’s greatest crisis of displaced children.  Slovenia’s delegate echoed a similar sentiment, saying that Sudanese children are left with the deepest scars of this war.  “These young lives plead for an end to the massacre, for the guns that keep them awake to be silenced, and they ask for food,” he added. 

    ‘Unspeakable Violence’ against Women and Girls Must Stop 

    “This conflict has unleashed a wave of unspeakable violence against women and girls,” Denmark’s delegate also added, underscoring that survivors need urgent access to healthcare and post-rape support.  The “entrenched impunity” has become one of the main drivers of conflict, she said.  Greece’s representative said that addressing the crimes against women and girls requires gender-sensitive interventions such as specialized healthcare, psychosocial support, and legal assistance. 

    Delegates Condemn Rapid Support Forces’ Attacks in Internally Displaced Persons Camps 

    Pakistan’s representative condemned the Rapid Support Forces’ attack on the only functioning hospital in the besieged El Fasher — the Saudi Teaching Maternal Hospital — which killed over 70 people.  “RSF must immediately stop its killing campaigns in Zamzam and Abu Shouk IDP camps,” he asserted, calling on the Council to ensure the implementation of resolution 2736 (2024). 

    “It does not need to be this way”, said the delegate from the United Kingdom, urging the parties to end their military ambitions and focus on creating the conditions for peace.  While welcoming the Sudanese Armed Forces’ decision to keep the Adré border crossing open, she underscored that — with over 30 million people in humanitarian need — “it is simply not enough”. 

    The representative of the Russian Federation said that the “shortest way to settle” the humanitarian situation is via “very close cooperation” with the Sudanese Government and its related parties.  “We cannot recall a single instance where the authorities refuse to cooperate with the humanitarians,” he said.  Sudanese authorities are working on simplifying logistical chains and streamlining document processing for humanitarian cargo.  No one will provide more support to the peaceful civilians in Sudan than their Government and the army. 

    “Both belligerents have committed atrocities,” emphasized the representative of the United States, expressing concern over attacks on the Zamzam refugee camp by the Rapid Support Forces and the use of civilians as human shields by militias allied with the Sudanese Armed Forces.  “We cannot let Sudan again become a permissive environment for terrorists and transnational criminal organizations,” he added.

    The humanitarian crisis is the direct result of the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, France’s delegate echoed, adding that it is vital to respect the territorial integrity of Sudan.  All actors must engage in good faith in an intra-Sudanese political dialogue, facilitated by the African Union and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

    Speakers Urge Ceasefire during Holy Month of Ramadan 

    Several speakers highlighted the upcoming holy month of Ramadan as an opportunity for all parties to lay down their arms, with the representative of the Republic of Korea urging all parties to immediately seize hostilities.  “If both parties to the conflict in Sudan continue to rely on a military solution and persist in the belief that political victory can be achieved on the battlefield the fragmentation of Sudan may soon become a reality,” he warned. 

    African Solutions, African-Owned Initiatives Key to Resolving Conflict 

    Algeria’s delegate also speaking for Guyana, Somalia and Sierra Leone, echoed the call for a ceasefire during Ramadan, and welcomed the transition road map announced by the Government, which includes “the formation of a civilian Government to be led by a civilian technocratic personality”. Expressing concern over the announcement by the leaders of the Rapid Support Forces to establish a parallel authority, he stressed the need to coordinate diplomatic initiatives, while preserving the central role of the African Union and the United Nations. “Foreign interferences” remain a persistent challenge in the search for a lasting solution to the conflict in Sudan, he said. 

    African solutions and African-owned initiatives must continue to play a leading role, added Angola’s delegate.  “While the root cause of this conflict is reportedly linked to the internal ethnic tensions, we must recognize that it has been exacerbated by a few external factors,” he added.  The Jeddah Process, facilitated by Saudi Arabia and United States, and the African Union’s Peace and Security Council Ad Hoc Presidential Committee on Sudan remain hopeful prospects.  

    International Community Must Do More to Alleviate Suffering 

    Several Council members called on the international community to do more to alleviate the suffering in Sudan and warned that the conflict could spill over.  China’s delegate stressed the need to fund the 2025 Humanitarian Needs Response Plan in order for Sudan to meet the challenges of food insecurity, refugee displacement and conflict spillover. 

    “We all share the responsibility of supporting the Sudan so that its crisis does not turn from a regional crisis with repercussions limited to neighbouring countries in Africa to a crisis that threatens international peace and security,” said Egypt’s delegate.  The crisis in Sudan could threaten the safety of navigation in the Red Sea, increase illegal migration to Europe, and turn Sudan into a haven for criminal groups or armed militias. 

    Kenya’s delegate said that his country has received and engaged “official delegations” from Sudan, “who reaffirm their commitment to end the war and restore Sudan to civilian administration”.  Spotlighting the recent signing of a peace charter in Nairobi — which “must be viewed in that context” — he noted that a collective of 24 groups, drawn from an inclusive cross-section of civilian, political and military actors, associated themselves with that instrument.  He emphasized, however:  “Neither President William Ruto nor the Government of Kenya has recognized any independent entity in the Sudan or elsewhere.”

    Sudan’s Speaker Cites Cooperation with UN Special Envoy, Urges Militias to End Attacks on El Fasher 

    Sudan’s representative said that on his Government’s cooperation with the Special Envoy, Sudanese authorities have facilitated meetings with the leadership in the political, civilian and diplomatic spheres without interference.  “We have facilitated a briefing for him on the dynamics of the conflict […] and presented our readiness to reach a peaceful settlement,” he said, emphasizing the neutrality and centrality of the UN.

    However, “certain elements behind the scenes” sabotaged his Government’s efforts with the aim “to achieve their demonic aims”, he cautioned, noting that the main reason for the continuation of the war is the United Arab Emirates’ support for the Rapid Support Forces. For its part, Khartoum presented a national plan to protect civilians and implement the Jeddah Agreement and resolutions 1591 (2005) and 2736 (2024).  It has also designated airports in several areas for air transport of humanitarian assistance.  Calling on the militias to end their attacks on the Sudanese capital of El Fasher — which target civilians, health facilities and basic infrastructure — he stated:  “We welcome any practical and implementable humanitarian pause.”  Nevertheless, “any ceasefire is rejected if El Fasher’s siege is not lifted”, he asserted, urging the rebels to withdraw from the areas they occupy.

    Sudan’s Government is exerting great efforts to fulfil refugee and internally displaced persons’ needs through coordination with organizations active in Sudan as well as the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. To that end, he spotlighted several projects, including rehabilitating schools, higher education and rural hospitals, providing health services, repairing water networks and restoring police stations.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Appointments to National Gallery of Australia Council

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Australian Government has appointed Mrs Penny Fowler AM and Mr Jay Weatherill AO and reappointed Ms Ilana Atlas AO as members of the Council of the National Gallery of Australia for three-year terms.

    The Council is responsible for overseeing the Gallery’s strategic and organisational goals and positioning it for the future so it can continue to deliver on its aim to inspire all Australians through art.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, congratulated the new and returning appointees.

    “Ilana has been serving on the Council since 2022 and was appointed as Deputy Chair by the Council in November 2023 and we’re thankful she’s agreed to continuing lending her talents. 

    “I’d also like to welcome Jay and Penny. As former Premier of South Australia and Minister for the Arts, Jay was a strong advocate for the sector and will be an excellent addition to the board. 

    “Penny has been the Chair of the National Portrait Gallery Board and understands the important role institutions have in preserving and showcasing some of our nation’s greatest treasures.”

    The National Gallery is dedicated to collecting, sharing and celebrating art from Australia and the world. It is home to the country’s most valuable collection of art, with 155,000 works worth around $7 billion. This includes the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

    Ms Ilana Atlas AO has served on the National Gallery of Australia Council since March 2022 and was elected Deputy Chair by Council members in November 2023. She is Chair of Jarwun Limited and Scentre Group Limited and is a non-executive director of Origin Energy Limited, the Paul Ramsay Foundation and is also a Panel Member of Adara Partners and a director of Adara Development. Her previous non-executive director roles include Chairman of the Bell Shakespeare Company and Coca-Cola Amatil Limited and Director of ANZ Banking Group and the Human Rights Law Centre. Prior to serving on these Boards, Ms Atlas had a 10 year career at Westpac. Ms Atlas was also a partner in law firm Mallesons Stephen Jaques (now known as King & Wood Mallesons). In 2020 she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the financial and manufacturing sectors, to education, and to the arts.

    Mr Jay Weatherill AO is the former Premier of South Australia from 2011 to 2018. He currently leads the Thrive by Five campaign within the Minderoo Foundation and is an Ambassador for Reggio Children. He will soon join the Susan McKinnon Foundation pursuing their democracy reform agenda. Previously Mr Weatherill worked as a lawyer between 1987 to 1995 becoming the founder and principal  of his own firm between 1995 and 2002. In 2002 he became a member for the Parliament of South Australia and later Premier where he oversaw various portfolios including Minister for the Arts. Following his term Mr Weatherill became an Industry Professor at the University of South Australia from 2019 to 2024. He serves on several government and industry and philanthropic boards. In 2021 Mr Weatherill was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the people and Parliament of South Australia, particularly as Premier, and to early childhood and tertiary education.

    Mrs Penny Fowler AM is Chairman of the Herald & Weekly Times and is News Corp Australia’s Community Ambassador. Mrs Fowler has been a member of the National Portrait Gallery Board since March 2016 and served as Chair since January 2022 (her term will end on 8 March 2025). She chairs the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and the Tourism Australia Board. She is also on the Advisory Board of Visy/Pratt USA and is a board member of Tech Mahindra & the Bank of Melbourne (St. George) Foundation. Mrs Fowler is a member of Chief Executive Women and an Ambassador for the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation and SecondBite. In 2024 Mrs Fowler was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the community through a range of organisations.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo arrests illegal alien from Mexico convicted of felony rape

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Mexican national convicted of rape in the first degree when officers arrested Alejandro Salazar, 44, upon release from Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, New York, Feb. 21.

    Salazar illegally entered the United States in January 1995 without inspection by an immigration official. New York County Supreme Court convicted Salazar of rape in the first-degree Nov. 14, 2012, and sentenced him to 15 years in prison. ICE lodged an immigration detainer with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, March 19, 2013. An immigration judge ordered Salazar removed from the U.S. to Mexico Oct. 17, 2013. The Clinton Correctional Facility honored the detainer and transferred Salazar to ICE custody.

    Salazar remains in custody at Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, New York awaiting a removal flight.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-347-2423 or completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO New York’s mission to preserve public safety on X, formerly known as Twitter, @EROBuffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE New York City arrests previously removed illegal Guatemalan alien with convictions for assault and act in manner to injure a child

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan national previously removed from the United States when officers arrested Yoni Wilfredo Gregorio Ortiz, 44, in the village of Airmont, Feb. 23.

    “Not only does Gregorio have contempt for our nation’s immigration laws as proven by his illegal return after being previously removed, but he has also shown a complete disregard for our criminal laws as well,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations New York City acting Field Office Director William P. Joyce. “ICE New York City will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our communities.”

    The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Gregorio after he illegally entered the U.S. Dec. 10, 2012, and processed him for expedited removal the next day. Gregorio was removed to Guatemala Jan. 10, 2013, and illegally reentered the U.S. without inspection by an immigration official. The Spring Valley Village Court convicted Gregorio of third-degree assault on Sept. 1, 2022, and Rockland County Court convicted him of act in manner to injure a child and criminal mischief on June 3, 2024.

    At the time of his ICE arrest Gregorio had an outstanding warrant for DWI. He is currently in ICE custody at Orange County Jail in Goshen, New York.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-347-2423 or completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO New York’s mission to preserve public safety on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ERONewYork.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Unlocking Career Potential: Nursing Roles in Connecticut’s Executive Branch

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Nursing’s leadership capstone course (NURS 4282), led by Laura Eiss, RN, MSN, NPD, CNE, explores alternative career options for nursing students outside of the traditional hospital trajectory. 

    The second presentation in this series allowed the graduating seniors to engage with health care agency representatives about opportunities for nurses within the State of Connecticut. 

    Health care services are provided across various public health facilities, correctional institutions, schools, and state-run hospitals. Nurses working for the state have the opportunity to serve a diverse population while contributing to the overall well-being of Connecticut residents.  

    The state offers positions for registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), nurse educators, and other roles in various settings, including the Department of Public Health, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and the Department of Correction. 

    David Schmardel, Chief Nursing Officer at the Department of Children and Families speaking to students in breakout session (contributed photo)

    Nurses in these positions may provide care in state hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and correctional facilities. They also contribute to public health initiatives and educational outreach programs. Agencies such as the Departments of Developmental Services, Social Services, and Veterans Affairs employ nurses to work with specific populations, including veterans, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, offering specialized care and support.  

    Nurses within the Department of Children and Families play a crucial role in ensuring the wellness of children and families in high-risk situations. They work closely with social workers, counselors, and medical professionals to coordinate care and provide therapeutic interventions.  

    Moreover, nurses at the state level may receive industry-leading benefits, including comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a pension plan, paid time off, professional growth opportunities, and a strong work-life balance. 

    You are leading as soon as you touch the floor – Lakisha Hyatt ’97 (NUR)

    The School of Nursing assistant clinical professor Amisha Parekh de Campos, Ph.D., MPH, RN, CHPN, teaches clinical groups at MacDougall Prison with the Department of Corrections (DOC). MacDougall is an all-male maximum security prison. She and her students work with the nursing staff in the infirmary, outpatient treatment center, and expansion locations. Here, students are exposed to a unique patient population and feel safe working and learning in a supportive setting. 

    Lakisha Hyatt, CEO, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services speaking to nursing leadership capstone course (contributed photo)

    “Taking students out of the hospital setting opens their eyes to all the different types of nursing positions, the roles of different nurse leaders, and populations that have specific needs,” says Parekh de Campos.   

    She goes on, “I also think this exposure could lead to interest in pursuing a career in corrections nursing because they are able to see what the real job is instead of the fictional, dramatic portrayals that may be in film and television. Also, the benefits are great. The DOC encourages further education, and I find that there is a special camaraderie among the staff.” 

    The nurse leaders who spoke to the capstone class are Gloria Jones, MSN, MDIV, CPE, CJML, RN, Director of Health and Clinical Services; Lakisha Hyatt, MSN, RN, Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services; David Schmardel, MSN, RN, CHEP, Chief Nursing Officer at the Department of Children and Families; Jessica Teker, BSN, RN, CCHP, Nurse Consultant in Education at the Department of Correction; and Jazmin Johnson, APRN, MSN-Ed, PMHNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner at the Department of Social Services. 

    Hyatt ’97 (NUR), a UConn alumna said, “My career has widely been in state government. What I wish I knew when I first started is that you are leading as soon as you touch the floor.”  

    She said, “I want you to understand that your leadership has to have intentionality and advocacy – always say something for the person who can’t say it. Most importantly, be your most authentic self as you show up as a leader in health care.” 

    Gloria Jones, Director of Health and Clinical Services, speaking to students in breakout session (contributed photo)

    Johnson shared, “Nursing is so diverse, and there are so many things you can do. I encourage you to empower each other and continue to challenge the process. Never stop asking: is there a better way?”

    During the breakout sessions, seniors in the capstone class rotated between stations to engage with each leader and learn more about their respective agencies.  

    “Inspire a Shared Vision” was the leadership practice discussed in student group sessions before the nursing executives arrived; the prompt was for students to connect what they are learning with practices implemented by the state leaders and their institutions.  In this course, the focus is on the Transformational Leadership theory by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner.   

    To learn more about the capstone leadership course, please email Laura Eiss at laura.eiss@uconn.edu. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace USA supports the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act in California

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    WASHINGTON, DC (February 26, 2025)— In response the introduction of the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act in California’s State Assembly and Senate, a common sense law that would require fossil fuel corporations to pay for the climate devastation they have fueled, Zachary Norris, Greenpeace USA’s California Climate Campaign Director said: 

    “California must seize this opportunity to protect workers and communities from the devastating impacts of the climate crisis. For decades, the oil and gas industry has polluted without consequence, raking in massive profits while leaving our communities to suffer — it’s time to make polluters pay for the damage they’ve caused. This landmark law will safeguard vulnerable communities and ensure Californians are not left alone to pay for climate disasters.”

    This Act was introduced after the devastating January firestorm in Los Angeles County that damaged or destroyed over 7,800 structures in the Palisades Fire, almost 10,500 structures in the Eaton Fire, and claimed the lives of 29 Californians. The Polluter Pay Superfund Act of 2025, SB 684 and AB 1243, was introduced by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D- San Fernando Valley) and Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D- Morro Bay).

    “We applaud the authors of this bill and hope that every other legislator will seriously consider and support this common sense law. True leaders not only know the climate crisis is real and caused by polluters, but they take action to end the financial injustice imposed on California families by climate disasters.”

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Ossoff Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Curb Prison Contraband

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) today introduced bipartisan legislation to stem the flow of contraband in federal prisons. The Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act would enhance safety and accountability measures in federal prisons by upgrading the penalty for smuggling or possessing a contraband cellphone in federal prison from a misdemeanor to a felony.
    “Contraband cellphones are a deadly and pervasive problem in many of our nation’s federal prisons. Stiffening penalties for cellphone smuggling will go a long way to improve our prison system and keep inmates, prison staff, and the general public safe,” Grassley said.
    “My bipartisan investigations of corruption, abuse, and misconduct in the federal prison system have revealed systemic challenges that allow for the dangerous flow of contraband, which is a threat to safety and security,” Ossoff said. “Senator Grassley and I are introducing this bipartisan bill to strengthen penalties for smuggling contraband into federal prisons.”
    “[I] offer my strong support for the Lt. Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act, which you are planning to introduce into the 119th Congress. The fact that this bill now makes it a felony instead of a misdemeanor is something that is not only providing some justice for my husband’s sacrifice, but also provides just and proper consequences for a crime that clearly rises to the level of a felony,” said Helen Andujar Albarati, wife of fallen Lietenant Osvaldo Albarati.
    “Congress must act now and pass the Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act before another staff member is killed in the line of duty because of contraband cellphones. The safety of our corrections officers and the security of our prisons depend on it,” said Jon Zumkehr, President of the American Federation of Government Employees 4070.
    “A cell phone in a prison is a deadly weapon. Lieutenant Albarati was a true hero, selflessly dedicated to making MDC Guaynabo and his community safer by preventing criminal activity inside the facility. I commend Senators Grassley and Ossoff for honoring his memory by sponsoring this public safety reform and for recognizing the severity of this problem,” said Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz said. 
    The legislation is cosponsored by Senate Judiciary Committee member Cory Booker (D-N.J.).
    Download bill text HERE.
    Background:
    The Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act builds on the 2010 Grassley-Feinstein Cell Phone Contraband Act, which originally designated cellphones as contraband in federal prison.
    Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati was a Bureau of Prisons (BOP) correctional officer who was murdered 12 years ago today, on February 26, 2013, after completing his shift at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Five men who later pleaded guilty to the crime admitted they targeted Albarati in retaliation for seizing their contraband, including cellphones. The inmate who placed the hit on Albarati did so using a contraband cellphone.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New report flags severity of US funding cuts to global AIDS response

    Source: United Nations 2

    Health

    Shuttered clinics and health workers laid off around the world reflect the widespread, negative toll the United States funding freeze is taking on the global AIDS response, according to a new situation report released on Wednesday by the UN agency charged with responding to the disease.

    UNAIDS said that at least one status report on the impact of cuts has been received from 55 different countries up to the start of this week.

    That includes 42 projects that are supported by the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and 13 that receive some US support.

    Two days after President Trump’s executive order in late January declared a 90-day pause to all foreign assistance, the Secretary of State issued an emergency waiver to resume “life-saving” humanitarian assistance, including HIV treatment.

    UNAIDS reported just over a week later that there was widespread “confusion” over how the waiver was being implemented on the ground.

    The 16 reports received from UNAIDS country offices around the world during the week of 17 to 21 February show that these waivers have led to the resumption of some clinical services, such as HIV treatment and prevention of vertical transmission, in many countries that are highly dependent on US funding.

    © UNICEF/Rindra Ramasomanana

    A mother-to-be is tested for HIV in the Analanjirofo region of Madagascar.

    Many projects ineligible

    However, it’s unclear how long funding will last amid multiple reports that key US government systems and staff responsible for paying implementing partners are either offline or working at greatly reduced capacity, the UN agency said.

    In addition, critical layers of national AIDS responses are ineligible for these waivers, including many HIV prevention and community-led services for key populations and adolescent girls and young women, according to the UN agency.

    At the same time, data collection and analysis services have been disrupted in numerous countries, according to reports received last week, which note that the overall quantity and quality of HIV prevention, testing and treatment services has been eroded.

    © UNICEF/Olivier Asselin

    In Côte d’Ivoire, a woman living with HIV holds three pills she takes daily as part of antiretroviral therapy.

    Waiting times increase

    Staff working in health facilities are facing increased workloads, and patients are experiencing increased wait times to receive lifesaving services, UNAIDS said.

    Other concerns persist, from hobbled health systems to addressing gender-related priorities.

    “US Government statements to UN system organizations suggest US-funded programmes focused on gender equality and transgender populations may not resume,” according to the UNAIDS situation report.

    Fresh data analysis

    The situation report covers more granular analysis on the global AIDS response’s heavy reliance on US foreign assistance, extracted from the datasets managed by UNAIDS.

    For example, more than half of HIV medicines purchased for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Haiti, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia are purchased by the US.

    Before the freeze, the US Government provided two thirds of international financing for HIV prevention in low and middle-income countries, according to estimates from the Global HIV Prevention Coalition.

    The report also named the 20 countries that rely most heavily on funding from Washington: DRC, Haiti, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, Uganda, Nigeria, Rwanda, Angola, Kenya, Ukraine, Burkina Faso, Burundi, El Salvador, Zimbabwe, Togo, Nepal, Côte d’Ivoire, Eswatini and Benin.

    Services at a standstill

    Civil society and community-led interventions are central to ending AIDS and to sustaining the gains into the future, according to UN agency.

    People living with HIV and key populations at higher risk of infection, play a crucial role in maintaining the local services needed to stay healthy, UNAIDS said.

    Yet, many critical services have ground to a halt. Here are some examples:

    • Mozambique: Community workers and test counsellors supported by PEPFAR funding are not being paid. As a result, HIV testing is unavailable in most parts of the country, enrolment of new patients is on hold and efforts to support people living with HIV to adhere to their treatment have been compromised
    • Tanzania: Young people working as peer educators, community health workers or lay counsellors funded by PEPFAR have been issued temporary job termination notices
    • Rwanda: Community-level and facility-based HIV-prevention services targeting populations at high risk of HIV infection, including adolescent girls and young women, gay men and sex workers were not covered by waivers received from the US Government
    • South Africa: US-funded facilities that support gay men, such as Engage Men’s Health, remain closed
    • Ghana: All civil society organizations funded by PEPFAR have halted services to people living with HIV and key populations

    Learn more about UNAIDS here.

    On the ground in Côte d’Ivoire

    Here is an emblematic snapshot of how the UN funding freeze has already affected this West African nation of 27 million, where Washington has supported more than half the total response to assist more than 400,000 adults and children living with AIDS.

    © UNICEF/Frank Dejong

    A mother, holding her two-year-old in southwest Côte d’Ivoire, discovered she was seropositive during her pregnancy. (file)

    • The stop-work order triggered a complete shutdown of services funded by the PEPFAR programme, which covers 516 health facilities in 70 per cent of the country’s health districts and 85 per cent of people living with HIV on treatment (about 265,000 people)
    • More than 8,600 staff were affected, including 597 clinical workers (doctors, nurses and midwives) and 3,591 community workers
    • Distribution of medicines and transport of diagnostic samples ground to halt
    • US-funded services partially resumed on 12 February following receipt of waivers, but the majority of US-funded HIV-prevention services for people at high risk of infection, remain shut
    • Other national health programmes and systems are affected by the freeze, including the malaria and tuberculosis control programmes and another serving mother and child health alongside the supply chain system for medicines and diagnostics

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Appointments to National Gallery of Australia Council

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    The Australian Government has appointed Mrs Penny Fowler AM and Mr Jay Weatherill AO and reappointed Ms Ilana Atlas AO as members of the Council of the National Gallery of Australia for three-year terms.

    The Council is responsible for overseeing the Gallery’s strategic and organisational goals and positioning it for the future so it can continue to deliver on its aim to inspire all Australians through art.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, congratulated the new and returning appointees.

    “Ilana has been serving on the Council since 2022 and was appointed as Deputy Chair by the Council in November 2023 and we’re thankful she’s agreed to continuing lending her talents. 

    “I’d also like to welcome Jay and Penny. As former Premier of South Australia and Minister for the Arts, Jay was a strong advocate for the sector and will be an excellent addition to the board. 

    “Penny has been the Chair of the National Portrait Gallery Board and understands the important role institutions have in preserving and showcasing some of our nation’s greatest treasures.”

    The National Gallery is dedicated to collecting, sharing and celebrating art from Australia and the world. It is home to the country’s most valuable collection of art, with 155,000 works worth around $7 billion. This includes the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

    Ms Ilana Atlas AO has served on the National Gallery of Australia Council since March 2022 and was elected Deputy Chair by Council members in November 2023. She is Chair of Jarwun Limited and Scentre Group Limited and is a non-executive director of Origin Energy Limited, the Paul Ramsay Foundation and is also a Panel Member of Adara Partners and a director of Adara Development. Her previous non-executive director roles include Chairman of the Bell Shakespeare Company and Coca-Cola Amatil Limited and Director of ANZ Banking Group and the Human Rights Law Centre. Prior to serving on these Boards, Ms Atlas had a 10 year career at Westpac. Ms Atlas was also a partner in law firm Mallesons Stephen Jaques (now known as King & Wood Mallesons). In 2020 she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the financial and manufacturing sectors, to education, and to the arts.

    Mr Jay Weatherill AO is the former Premier of South Australia from 2011 to 2018. He currently leads the Thrive by Five campaign within the Minderoo Foundation and is an Ambassador for Reggio Children. He will soon join the Susan McKinnon Foundation pursuing their democracy reform agenda. Previously Mr Weatherill worked as a lawyer between 1987 to 1995 becoming the founder and principal  of his own firm between 1995 and 2002. In 2002 he became a member for the Parliament of South Australia and later Premier where he oversaw various portfolios including Minister for the Arts. Following his term Mr Weatherill became an Industry Professor at the University of South Australia from 2019 to 2024. He serves on several government and industry and philanthropic boards. In 2021 Mr Weatherill was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the people and Parliament of South Australia, particularly as Premier, and to early childhood and tertiary education.

    Mrs Penny Fowler AM is Chairman of the Herald & Weekly Times and is News Corp Australia’s Community Ambassador. Mrs Fowler has been a member of the National Portrait Gallery Board since March 2016 and served as Chair since January 2022 (her term will end on 8 March 2025). She chairs the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and the Tourism Australia Board. She is also on the Advisory Board of Visy/Pratt USA and is a board member of Tech Mahindra & the Bank of Melbourne (St. George) Foundation. Mrs Fowler is a member of Chief Executive Women and an Ambassador for the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation and SecondBite. In 2024 Mrs Fowler was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the community through a range of organisations.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Florida Financial Advisor Pleads Guilty to Promoting Illegal Tax Shelter and Stealing Client Funds

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Defendant Helped Clients in Mississippi and Elsewhere File False Tax Returns That Caused Nearly $40M in Tax Loss to the IRS

    A Florida man pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a nearly decade-long scheme to promote an illegal tax shelter and commit wire fraud. He also pleaded guilty to assisting in the preparation of false tax returns for tax shelter clients.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Stephen T. Mellinger III, of Delray Beach, was a financial advisor, insurance salesman, and securities broker operating in Florida, Michigan, Mississippi, and elsewhere. Beginning in late 2013, Mellinger conspired with others to promote an illegal tax shelter whereby clients would claim false tax deductions for so-called “royalty payments” to fraudulently reduce their taxes.

    In reality, as Mellinger knew, the “royalty payments” were merely a circular flow of money designed to give the appearance of genuine business expenses. Typically, a client would send money to bank accounts controlled by Mellinger and other co-conspirators, who then sent the money — less a fee — right back to a different bank account that the client controlled. In this way, tax shelter participants retained control of the money they transferred, while falsely deducting the transfers as business expenses on their tax returns.

    In total, Mellinger and his co-conspirators helped clients prepare tax returns that claimed over $106 million in false tax deductions, which caused a tax loss to the IRS of approximately $37 million.

    Mellinger and a co-conspirator who was a relative, collectively earned approximately $3 million in fees from promoting the scheme.

    In January 2016, Mellinger learned that several of his clients were being investigated and that the United States had started seizing their funds. Mellinger and a relative subsequently stole more than $2.1 million of funds from some of those clients, some of which he used to buy a home in Delray Beach.

    Mellinger is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 16, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for conspiring to defraud the IRS and commit wire fraud, and three years in prison for aiding in the preparation of false tax returns. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard J. Hagerman, William Montague, and Matthew Hicks of the Tax Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi, and Trial Attorneys Emily Cohen and Jasmin Salehi Fashami of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SEACOR Marine Announces Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEACOR Marine Holdings Inc. (NYSE: SMHI) (the “Company” or “SEACOR Marine”), a leading provider of marine and support transportation services to offshore energy facilities worldwide, today announced results for its fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    SEACOR Marine’s consolidated operating revenues for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $69.8 million, operating income was $10.6 million, and direct vessel profit (“DVP”)(1) was $23.1 million. This compares to consolidated operating revenues of $73.1 million, operating income of $22.6 million, and DVP of $29.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, and consolidated operating revenues of $68.9 million, operating loss of $6.5 million, and DVP of $16.0 million in the third quarter of 2024.

    Notable fourth quarter items include:

    • 4.5% decrease in revenues from the fourth quarter of 2023 and a 1.3% increase from the third quarter of 2024.
    • Average day rates of $18,901, a 4.8% increase from the fourth quarter of 2023, and flat from the third quarter of 2024.
    • 72% utilization, an increase from 71% in the fourth quarter of 2023 and from 67% in the third quarter of 2024.
    • DVP margin of 33.1%, a decrease from 40.8% in the fourth quarter of 2023 and an increase from 23.2% in the third quarter of 2024, due in part to $3.5 million of drydocking and major repairs during the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $1.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 and $8.3 million in the third quarter of 2024, all of which are expensed as incurred.
    • Refinancing of $328.7 million of principal indebtedness under multiple debt facilities, including $125.0 million previously due in 2026, into a single new credit facility due in the fourth quarter of 2029.
    • In connection with the refinancing, recognized a one-time loss of $31.9 million on debt extinguishment, of which $28.3 million was non-cash and primarily comprised of extinguishment of unamortized debt discounts.
    • Completed the sale of two anchor handling towing supply vessels (“AHTS”) for total proceeds of $22.5 million and a gain of $15.6 million, the proceeds of which will be used to partially fund the construction payments for two new PSVs.

    For the fourth quarter of 2024, net loss was $26.2 million ($0.94 loss per basic and diluted share). This compares to a net income for the fourth quarter of 2023 of $5.7 million ($0.21 earnings per basic share and $0.20 earnings per diluted share). Sequentially, the fourth quarter 2024 results compare to a net loss of $16.3 million ($0.59 loss per basic and diluted share) in the third quarter of 2024.

    Chief Executive Officer John Gellert commented:

    “The fourth quarter results reflect a substantial improvement in operating performance compared with the prior quarters of 2024. This performance improvement was due mostly to fewer out-of-service days for repairs and drydockings which translated into improved utilization across most segments. We also benefited from having all our premium liftboats available and employed most of the quarter and currently plan to commence the permanent repairs of one of our U.S. flag premium liftboats at the end of the third quarter of 2025, which should provide us the opportunity to maximize utilization on these liftboats as seasonal activity improves in the Gulf of America. During the quarter, we did see soft market conditions in the North Sea as well as customer delays in programmed activities in Mexico and the U.S.

    Looking at the rest of 2025, we continue to see a healthy level of inquiries across most of our international markets with the notable exception of the North Sea and Mexico, where regulatory or financial hurdles are subduing demand for oil and gas services. In the U.S., we see significant challenges for offshore wind in the near term, but the backlog of mandatory maintenance and decommissioning activity in the Gulf of America should ultimately lead to increased levels of activity on the shelf. Although we are not immune to the mid-cycle lull in offshore drilling activity worldwide, I remain optimistic that our fleet mix is well positioned to meet current demand expectations.

    As previously announced, during the fourth quarter we entered into a new senior secured term loan of up to $391.0 million with an affiliate of EnTrust Global, which significantly simplified our debt capital structure into a single credit facility maturing in 2029. Importantly, this new credit facility addressed $125.0 million of near-term maturities previously due in 2026 to The Carlyle Group, inclusive of $35.0 million of convertible debt, eliminating approximately 10% of dilution overhang on the Company’s common stock. It also provided us with up to $41.0 million of borrowing capacity to finance the construction of two new PSVs, which we ordered during the fourth quarter of 2024. We had to fully amortize all debt discounts and issuance costs on the refinanced debt, including the shipyard financing with affiliates of COSCO, generating a $31.9 million one-time loss, of which $28.3 million was non-cash, but, in my view, the benefits of the refinancing and its support for the Company’s order for two new PSVs far outweigh the one-time loss.

    I am particularly excited about this PSV order as we expand and complement our fleet of modern and fuel efficient PSVs. This is a continuation of our asset rotation strategy aimed at renewing our fleet with high-specification, environmentally efficient assets. The vessels are scheduled to deliver in the fourth quarter of 2026 and first quarter of 2027, respectively. We will partly fund this new construction program with the $22.5 million of proceeds from the sale of our last remaining AHTS vessels, marking our exit from the AHTS asset class effective January 2025.”
    _______________

    (1) Direct vessel profit (defined as operating revenues less operating costs and expenses, “DVP”) is the Company’s measure of segment profitability. DVP is a critical financial measure used by the Company to analyze and compare the operating performance of its regions, without regard to financing decisions (depreciation and interest expense for owned vessels vs. lease expense for lease vessels). DVP is also useful when comparing the Company’s global fleet performance against those of our competitors who may have differing fleet financing structures. DVP has material limitations as an analytical tool in that it does not reflect all of the costs associated with the ownership and operation of our fleet, and it should not be considered in isolation or used as a substitute for our results as reported under GAAP. See page 4 for reconciliation of DVP to GAAP Operating Income (Loss), its most comparable GAAP measure.
       

    SEACOR Marine provides global marine and support transportation services to offshore energy facilities worldwide. SEACOR Marine operates and manages a diverse fleet of offshore support vessels that deliver cargo and personnel to offshore installations, including offshore wind farms; assist offshore operations for production and storage facilities; provide construction, well work-over, offshore wind farm installation and decommissioning support; and carry and launch equipment used underwater in drilling and well installation, maintenance, inspection and repair. Additionally, SEACOR Marine’s vessels provide emergency response services and accommodations for technicians and specialists.

    Certain statements discussed in this release as well as in other reports, materials and oral statements that the Company releases from time to time to the public constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “plan,” “target,” “forecast” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements concern management’s expectations, strategic objectives, business prospects, anticipated economic performance and financial condition and other similar matters. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or expected by the management of the Company. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual events or results may differ significantly from these statements. Actual events or results are subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control and are described in the Company’s filings with the SEC. It should be understood that it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors. Given these risk factors, investors and analysts should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to provide any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. It is advisable, however, to consult any further disclosures the Company makes on related subjects in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K (if any). These statements constitute the Company’s cautionary statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Please visit SEACOR Marine’s website at www.seacormarine.com for additional information.
    For all other requests, contact InvestorRelations@seacormarine.com

     
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)
    (in thousands, except share data)
     
        Three Months Ended December 31,     Year ended December 31,  
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Operating Revenues   $ 69,808     $ 73,083     $ 271,361     $ 279,511  
    Costs and Expenses:                        
    Operating     46,726       43,269       197,252       159,650  
    Administrative and general     10,888       11,547       44,713       49,183  
    Lease expense     347       679       1,678       2,748  
    Depreciation and amortization     12,879       13,022       51,628       53,821  
          70,840       68,517       295,271       265,402  
    Gains on Asset Dispositions and Impairments, Net     11,624       18,057       13,481       21,409  
    Operating Income (Loss)     10,592       22,623       (10,429 )     35,518  
    Other Income (Expense):                        
    Interest income     372       222       1,768       1,444  
    Interest expense     (10,001 )     (10,444 )     (40,627 )     (37,504 )
    Loss on debt extinguishment     (31,923 )     —       (31,923 )     (2,004 )
    Derivative (losses) gains, net     (536 )     608       (908 )     608  
    Foreign currency gains (losses), net     1,308       (1,276 )     (1,049 )     (2,133 )
    Other, net     187       —       121       —  
          (40,593 )     (10,890 )     (72,618 )     (39,589 )
    (Loss) Income Before Income Tax (Benefit) Expense and Equity in Earnings of 50% or Less Owned Companies     (30,001 )     11,733       (83,047 )     (4,071 )
    Income Tax (Benefit) Expense     (2,345 )     6,378       (2,615 )     8,799  
    (Loss) Income Before Equity in Earnings of 50% or Less Owned Companies     (27,656 )     5,355       (80,432 )     (12,870 )
    Equity in Earnings of 50% or Less Owned Companies     1,430       374       2,308       3,556  
    Net (Loss) Income   $ (26,226 )   $ 5,729     $ (78,124 )   $ (9,314 )
                             
    Net (Loss) Earnings Per Share:                        
    Basic   $ (0.94 )   $ 0.21     $ (2.82 )   $ (0.34 )
    Diluted   $ (0.94 )   $ 0.20     $ (2.82 )   $ (0.34 )
    Weighted Average Common Stock and Warrants Outstanding:                        
    Basic     27,773,200       27,182,496       27,655,289       27,082,391  
    Diluted     27,773,200       28,400,684       27,655,289       27,082,391  
                                     
               
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)
     (in thousands, except statistics and per share data)
               
              Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average Rates Per Day   $ 18,901     $ 18,879     $ 19,141     $ 19,042     $ 18,031    
    Fleet Utilization     72 %     67 %     69 %     62 %     71 %  
    Fleet Available Days (2)     4,870       5,026       4,994       5,005       5,170    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 66,095     $ 63,313     $ 65,649     $ 59,263     $ 66,498    
    Bareboat charter     364       372       364       364       368    
    Other marine services     3,349       5,231       3,854       3,143       6,217    
          69,808       68,916       69,867       62,770       73,083    
    Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel     20,365       21,940       21,566       21,670       22,080    
    Repairs and maintenance     10,433       9,945       10,244       9,763       7,604    
    Drydocking     2,467       6,068       6,210       6,706       2,561    
    Insurance and loss reserves     2,473       2,584       3,099       1,738       2,944    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     4,884       6,574       3,966       4,523       3,683    
    Other     6,104       5,796       4,435       3,699       4,397    
          46,726       52,907       49,520       48,099       43,269    
    Direct Vessel Profit (1)     23,082       16,009       20,347       14,671       29,814    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Lease expense     347       364       486       481       679    
    Administrative and general     10,888       11,019       10,889       11,917       11,547    
    Depreciation and amortization     12,879       12,928       12,939       12,882       13,022    
          24,114       24,311       24,314       25,280       25,248    
    Gains (Losses) on Asset Dispositions and Impairments, Net     11,624       1,821       37       (1 )     18,057    
    Operating Income (Loss)     10,592       (6,481 )     (3,930 )     (10,610 )     22,623    
    Other Income (Expense):                                
    Interest income     372       358       445       593       222    
    Interest expense     (10,001 )     (10,127 )     (10,190 )     (10,309 )     (10,444 )  
    Derivative (losses) gains, net     (536 )     67       104       (543 )     608    
    Loss on debt extinguishment     (31,923 )     —       —       —       —    
    Foreign currency gains (losses), net     1,308       (1,717 )     (560 )     (80 )     (1,276 )  
    Other, net     187       29       —       (95 )     —    
          (40,593 )     (11,390 )     (10,201 )     (10,434 )     (10,890 )  
    (Loss) Income Before Income Tax (Benefit) Expense and Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies     (30,001 )     (17,871 )     (14,131 )     (21,044 )     11,733    
    Income Tax (Benefit) Expense     (2,345 )     (513 )     (682 )     925       6,378    
    (Loss) Income Before Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies     (27,656 )     (17,358 )     (13,449 )     (21,969 )     5,355    
    Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies     1,430       1,012       966       (1,100 )     374    
    Net (Loss) Income   $ (26,226 )   $ (16,346 )   $ (12,483 )   $ (23,069 )   $ 5,729    
                                     
    Net (Loss) Earnings Per Share:                                
    Basic   $ (0.94 )   $ (0.59 )   $ (0.45 )   $ (0.84 )   $ 0.21    
    Diluted   $ (0.94 )   $ (0.59 )   $ (0.45 )   $ (0.84 )   $ 0.20    
    Weighted Average Common Stock and Warrants Outstanding:                                
    Basic     27,773       27,773       27,729       27,344       27,182    
    Diluted     27,773       27,773       27,729       27,344       28,401    
    Common Shares and Warrants Outstanding at Period End     28,950       28,950       28,941       28,906       28,489    

     _______________

    (1) See full description of footnote above.
    (2) Includes available days for a bareboat charter for one PSV, which has been excluded from days worked and average day rates.
       
         
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED DIRECT VESSEL PROFIT (“DVP”) BY SEGMENT
    (in thousands, except statistics)
         
        Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    United States, primarily Gulf of America                                
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average rates per day worked   $ 26,116     $ 17,188     $ 22,356     $ 28,156     $ 22,584    
    Fleet utilization     45 %     42 %     37 %     27 %     50 %  
    Fleet available days     920       920       921       927       1,152    
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     75       116       179       137       61    
    Out-of-service days for cold-stacked status (2)     184       175       127       182       254    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 10,744     $ 6,593     $ 7,697     $ 6,957     $ 12,929    
    Other marine services     1,114       1,188       480       1,026       5,346    
          11,858       7,781       8,177       7,983       18,275    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel     6,097       6,297       6,284       5,781       6,906    
    Repairs and maintenance     1,680       1,655       1,879       1,404       819    
    Drydocking     1,451       2,615       2,570       1,968       303    
    Insurance and loss reserves     854       799       943       396       1,297    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     854       964       866       667       1,032    
    Other     229       225       226       (171 )     475    
          11,165       12,555       12,768       10,045       10,832    
    Direct Vessel Profit (Loss) (1)   $ 693     $ (4,774 )   $ (4,591 )   $ (2,062 )   $ 7,443    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Lease expense   $ 136     $ 140     $ 141     $ 138     $ 141    
    Depreciation and amortization     3,196       3,194       3,194       2,750       3,479    
                                     
    Africa and Europe                                
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average rates per day worked   $ 16,895     $ 18,875     $ 18,580     $ 15,197     $ 15,233    
    Fleet utilization     73 %     77 %     74 %     76 %     82 %  
    Fleet available days     1,856       1,990       1,969       1,775       1,748    
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     180       203       203       238       124    
    Out-of-service days for cold-stacked status     —       58       91       91       92    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 22,999     $ 28,809     $ 27,047     $ 20,555     $ 21,791    
    Other marine services     1,027       3,048       1,028       169       189    
          24,026       31,857       28,075       20,724       21,980    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel     5,654       6,083       4,969       5,181       6,007    
    Repairs and maintenance     3,712       3,455       3,161       3,209       2,807    
    Drydocking     835       681       1,226       2,032       1,298    
    Insurance and loss reserves     577       599       819       334       416    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     2,226       2,514       1,170       1,287       623    
    Other     3,748       3,975       2,801       2,199       2,267    
          16,752       17,307       14,146       14,242       13,418    
    Direct Vessel Profit (1)   $ 7,274     $ 14,550     $ 13,929     $ 6,482     $ 8,562    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Lease expense   $ 82     $ 75     $ 172     $ 178     $ 289    
    Depreciation and amortization     4,477       4,540       4,565       3,915       3,747    

     _______________

    (1) See full description of footnote above.
    (2) Includes one liftboat and one FSV cold-stacked in this region as of December 31, 2024.
       
           
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
     UNAUDITED DIRECT VESSEL PROFIT (“DVP”) BY SEGMENT (continued)
    (in thousands, except statistics)
           
        Three Months Ended  
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023  
    Middle East and Asia                              
    Time Charter Statistics:                              
    Average rates per day worked   $ 17,337     $ 17,825     $ 17,083     $ 16,934     $ 17,590  
    Fleet utilization     88 %     71 %     82 %     71 %     69 %
    Fleet available days     1,266       1,288       1,296       1,365       1,461  
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     30       229       168       224       360  
    Operating Revenues:                              
    Time charter   $ 19,385     $ 16,411     $ 18,073     $ 16,477     $ 17,729  
    Other marine services     635       375       619       350       539  
          20,020       16,786       18,692       16,827       18,268  
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                              
    Operating:                              
    Personnel     5,470       5,769       6,930       5,963       5,522  
    Repairs and maintenance     3,574       3,318       3,443       2,712       2,590  
    Drydocking     (226 )     832       707       1,483       624  
    Insurance and loss reserves     804       927       798       618       1,022  
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     840       1,043       1,103       1,198       1,242  
    Other     1,305       1,131       989       1,000       1,133  
          11,767       13,020       13,970       12,974       12,133  
    Direct Vessel Profit (1)   $ 8,253     $ 3,766     $ 4,722     $ 3,853     $ 6,135  
    Other Costs and Expenses:                              
    Lease expense   $ 72     $ 73     $ 71     $ 85     $ 158  
    Depreciation and amortization     3,272       3,261       3,247       3,496       3,643  
                                   
    Latin America                              
    Time Charter Statistics:                              
    Average rates per day worked   $ 21,390     $ 21,984     $ 22,437     $ 28,308     $ 20,745  
    Fleet utilization     73 %     63 %     71 %     58 %     84 %
    Fleet available days (2)     828       828       808       938       809  
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     20       94       41       1       —  
    Operating Revenues:                              
    Time charter   $ 12,967     $ 11,500     $ 12,832     $ 15,274     $ 14,049  
    Bareboat charter     364       372       364       364       368  
    Other marine services     573       620       1,727       1,598       143  
          13,904       12,492       14,923       17,236       14,560  
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                              
    Operating:                              
    Personnel     3,144       3,791       3,383       4,745       3,645  
    Repairs and maintenance     1,467       1,517       1,761       2,438       1,388  
    Drydocking     407       1,940       1,707       1,223       336  
    Insurance and loss reserves     238       259       539       390       209  
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     964       2,053       827       1,371       786  
    Other     822       465       419       671       522  
          7,042       10,025       8,636       10,838       6,886  
    Direct Vessel Profit (1)   $ 6,862     $ 2,467     $ 6,287     $ 6,398     $ 7,674  
    Other Costs and Expenses:                              
    Lease expense   $ 57     $ 76     $ 102     $ 80     $ 91  
    Depreciation and amortization     1,934       1,933       1,933       2,721       2,153  

     _______________

    (1) See full description of footnote above.
    (2) Includes available days for a bareboat charter for one PSV, which has been excluded from days worked and average day rates.
       
         
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED PERFORMANCE BY VESSEL CLASS
    (in thousands, except statistics)
         
        Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    AHTS                                
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average rates per day worked   $ 10,410     $ 10,316     $ 8,125     $ 8,538     $ 8,937    
    Fleet utilization     79 %     46 %     49 %     75 %     64 %  
    Fleet available days     178       334       364       364       368    
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     28       87       29       —       41    
    Out-of-service days for cold-stacked status     —       58       91       91       92    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 1,465     $ 1,576     $ 1,459     $ 2,331     $ 2,102    
    Other marine services     —       13       219       —       6    
          1,465       1,589       1,678       2,331       2,108    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel   $ 595     $ 981     $ 1,045     $ 1,064     $ 944    
    Repairs and maintenance     128       239       465       220       612    
    Drydocking     5       436       280       68       58    
    Insurance and loss reserves     49       66       97       43       73    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     25       90       69       616       375    
    Other     210       263       230       287       295    
          1,012       2,075       2,186       2,298       2,357    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Lease expense   $ 7     $ 4     $ 164     $ 171     $ 253    
    Depreciation and amortization     122       175       175       175       175    
                                     
    FSV                                
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average rates per day worked   $ 13,643     $ 13,102     $ 12,978     $ 11,834     $ 11,841    
    Fleet utilization     72 %     81 %     80 %     72 %     74 %  
    Fleet available days     2,024       2,024       2,002       2,002       2,105    
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     118       96       128       216       337    
    Out-of-service days for cold-stacked status     92       83       36       91       92    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 19,992     $ 21,606     $ 20,698     $ 17,081     $ 18,502    
    Other marine services     416       1,012       516       126       163    
          20,408       22,618       21,214       17,207       18,665    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel   $ 5,078     $ 5,637     $ 5,829     $ 5,649     $ 5,320    
    Repairs and maintenance     4,480       4,378       4,572       3,093       2,691    
    Drydocking     426       448       457       1,869       1,710    
    Insurance and loss reserves     422       532       546       277       507    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     1,586       1,962       993       1,051       1,441    
    Other     2,456       2,238       1,850       1,649       1,632    
          14,448       15,195       14,247       13,588       13,301    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Depreciation and amortization   $ 4,746     $ 4,744     $ 4,746     $ 4,744     $ 4,879    
                                               
         
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED PERFORMANCE BY VESSEL CLASS (continued)
    (in thousands, except statistics)
         
        Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    PSV                                
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average rates per day worked   $ 17,912     $ 21,819     $ 20,952     $ 19,133     $ 19,778    
    Fleet utilization     72 %     58 %     66 %     53 %     77 %  
    Fleet available days (1)     1,932       1,932       1,900       1,911       1,902    
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     117       349       291       307       109    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 24,865     $ 24,488     $ 26,390     $ 19,390     $ 29,140    
    Bareboat charter     364       372       364       364       368    
    Other marine services     1,561       2,855       2,266       416       595    
          26,790       27,715       29,020       20,170       30,103    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel   $ 8,999     $ 9,360     $ 8,979     $ 8,850     $ 9,017    
    Repairs and maintenance     4,101       3,798       3,151       4,393       3,520    
    Drydocking     1,046       2,629       2,616       3,386       472    
    Insurance and loss reserves     618       636       1,037       395       690    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     2,379       3,594       1,575       1,889       1,027    
    Other     2,566       2,821       1,850       1,395       1,922    
          19,709       22,838       19,208       20,308       16,648    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Lease expense   $ —     $ (3 )   $ 3     $ —     $ —    
    Depreciation and amortization     4,122       4,117       4,128       4,073       4,073    

     _______________

    (1) Includes available days for a bareboat charter for one PSV, which has been excluded from days worked and average day rates.
       
         
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED PERFORMANCE BY VESSEL CLASS (continued)
    (in thousands, except statistics)
         
        Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    Liftboats                                
    Time Charter Statistics:                                
    Average rates per day worked   $ 39,326     $ 36,423     $ 43,204     $ 53,506     $ 40,181    
    Fleet utilization     68 %     58 %     54 %     53 %     52 %  
    Fleet available days     736       736       728       728       795    
    Out-of-service days for repairs, maintenance and drydockings     41       109       143       78       60    
    Out-of-service days for cold-stacked status     92       92       91       91       162    
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Time charter   $ 19,773     $ 15,643     $ 17,102     $ 20,461     $ 16,754    
    Other marine services     1,177       1,142       666       1,772       4,666    
          20,950       16,785       17,768       22,233       21,420    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel   $ 5,678     $ 5,926     $ 6,842     $ 6,140     $ 5,316    
    Repairs and maintenance     1,722       1,531       2,054       2,035       769    
    Drydocking     990       2,555       2,857       1,383       321    
    Insurance and loss reserves     1,384       1,334       1,482       1,282       1,554    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     894       928       1,329       967       838    
    Other     860       473       519       343       531    
          11,528       12,747       15,083       12,150       9,329    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Depreciation and amortization     3,866       3,866       3,865       3,866       3,867    
                                     
    Other Activity                                
    Operating Revenues:                                
    Other marine services   $ 195     $ 209     $ 187     $ 829     $ 787    
          195       209       187       829       787    
    Direct Costs and Expenses:                                
    Operating:                                
    Personnel   $ 15     $ 36     $ (1,129 )   $ (33 )   $ 1,483    
    Repairs and maintenance     2       (1 )     2       22       12    
    Insurance and loss reserves     —       16       (63 )     (259 )     120    
    Fuel, lubes and supplies     —       —       —       —       2    
    Other     12       1       (14 )     25       17    
          29       52       (1,204 )     (245 )     1,634    
    Other Costs and Expenses:                                
    Lease expense   $ 340     $ 363     $ 319     $ 310     $ 426    
    Depreciation and amortization     23       26       25       24       28    
                                               
     
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (in thousands)
     
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    ASSETS                                
    Current Assets:                                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 59,491     $ 35,601     $ 40,605     $ 59,593     $ 67,455    
    Restricted cash     16,649       2,263       2,255       2,566       16,676    
    Receivables:                                
    Trade, net of allowance for credit loss     69,888       76,497       70,770       58,272       63,728    
    Other     7,913       7,841       6,210       12,210       11,049    
    Tax receivable     1,601       983       983       983       983    
    Inventories     2,760       3,139       3,117       2,516       1,609    
    Prepaid expenses and other     4,406       4,840       5,659       3,425       2,686    
    Assets held for sale     10,943       —       500       500       500    
    Total current assets     173,651       131,164       130,099       140,065       164,686    
    Property and Equipment:                                
    Historical cost     900,414       921,445       921,443       919,139       918,823    
    Accumulated depreciation     (367,448 )     (362,604 )     (349,799 )     (337,001 )     (324,141 )  
          532,966       558,841       571,644       582,138       594,682    
    Construction in progress     11,904       11,935       11,518       13,410       10,362    
    Net property and equipment     544,870       570,776       583,162       595,548       605,044    
    Right-of-use asset – operating leases     3,436       3,575       3,683       3,988       4,291    
    Right-of-use asset – finance leases     36       19       28       29       37    
    Investments, at equity, and advances to 50% or less owned companies     3,541       2,046       2,641       3,122       4,125    
    Other assets     1,577       1,864       1,953       2,094       2,153    
    Total assets   $ 727,111     $ 709,444     $ 721,566     $ 744,846     $ 780,336    
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY                                
    Current Liabilities:                                
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities   $ 606     $ 494     $ 861     $ 1,285     $ 1,591    
    Current portion of finance lease liabilities     17       17       26       33       35    
    Current portion of long-term debt     27,500       28,605       28,605       28,605       28,365    
    Accounts payable     29,236       22,744       17,790       23,453       27,562    
    Other current liabilities     27,683       28,808       23,795       21,067       19,533    
    Total current liabilities     85,042       80,668       71,077       74,443       77,086    
    Long-term operating lease liabilities     2,982       3,221       3,276       3,390       3,529    
    Long-term finance lease liabilities     20       4       5       —       6    
    Long-term debt     317,339       272,325       277,740       281,989       287,544    
    Deferred income taxes     22,037       26,802       30,083       33,873       35,718    
    Deferred gains and other liabilities     1,369       1,416       1,447       2,285       2,229    
    Total liabilities     428,789       384,436       383,628       395,980       406,112    
    Equity:                                
    SEACOR Marine Holdings Inc. stockholders’ equity:                                
    Common stock     287       287       286       286       280    
    Additional paid-in capital     479,283       477,661       476,020       474,433       472,692    
    Accumulated deficit     (180,600 )     (154,374 )     (138,028 )     (125,609 )     (102,425 )  
    Shares held in treasury     (8,110 )     (8,110 )     (8,110 )     (8,071 )     (4,221 )  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax     7,141       9,223       7,449       7,506       7,577    
          298,001       324,687       337,617       348,545       373,903    
    Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries     321       321       321       321       321    
    Total equity     298,322       325,008       337,938       348,866       374,224    
    Total liabilities and equity   $ 727,111     $ 709,444     $ 721,566     $ 744,846     $ 780,336    
     
               
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (in thousands)
               
              Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024     Mar. 31, 2024     Dec. 31, 2023    
    Cash Flows from Operating Activities:                                
    Net (Loss) Income   $ (26,226 )   $ (16,346 )   $ (12,483 )   $ (23,069 )   $ 5,729    
    Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:                                
    Depreciation and amortization     12,879       12,928       12,939       12,882       13,022    
    Deferred financing costs amortization     254       298       297       295       279    
    Stock-based compensation expense     1,622       1,604       1,587       1,645       1,510    
    Debt discount amortization     1,799       2,061       1,993       1,926       1,862    
    Allowance for credit losses     59       101       39       3       266    
    (Gains) losses from equipment sales, retirements or impairments     (11,624 )     (1,821 )     (37 )     1       (18,057 )  
    Losses on debt extinguishment     28,252       —       —       —       —    
    Derivative losses (gains)     536       (67 )     (104 )     543       (608 )  
    Interest on finance lease     2       —       1       —       1    
    Settlements on derivative transactions, net     —       —       —       164       —    
    Currency (gains) losses     (1,308 )     1,717       560       80       1,276    
    Deferred income taxes     (4,766 )     (3,281 )     (3,790 )     (1,845 )     2,640    
    Equity (earnings) losses     (1,430 )     (1,012 )     (966 )     1,100       (374 )  
    Dividends received from equity investees     —       1,498       1,418       —       166    
    Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities:                                
    Accounts receivables     5,448       (7,411 )     (6,928 )     4,291       (3,472 )  
    Other assets     1,338       1,032       (2,395 )     (1,290 )     733    
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     1,693       9,325       (4,378 )     (3,895 )     (6,456 )  
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     8,528       626       (12,247 )     (7,169 )     (1,483 )  
    Cash Flows from Investing Activities:                                
    Purchases of property and equipment     (3,010 )     (210 )     (658 )     (3,416 )     (3,644 )  
    Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment     22,441       2,331       86       —       36,692    
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     19,431       2,121       (572 )     (3,416 )     33,048    
    Cash Flows from Financing Activities:                                
    Payments on long-term debt     (2,479 )     (7,770 )     (6,533 )     (7,530 )     (6,173 )  
    Payments on debt extinguishment     (328,712 )     —       —       —       —    
    Payments on debt extinguishment cost     (3,671 )     —       —       —       —    
    Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of debt discount and issue costs     345,192       —       —       —       87    
    Payments on finance leases     (13 )     (10 )     (9 )     (9 )     (9 )  
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issue costs     —       —       —       —       24    
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants     —       38       102       —       —    
    Tax withholdings on restricted stock vesting     —       —       (39 )     (3,850 )     —    
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     10,317       (7,742 )     (6,479 )     (11,389 )     (6,071 )  
    Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents     —       (1 )     (1 )     2       1    
    Net Change in Cash, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents     38,276       (4,996 )     (19,299 )     (21,972 )     25,495    
    Cash, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period     37,864       42,860       62,159       84,131       58,636    
    Cash, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period   $ 76,140     $ 37,864     $ 42,860     $ 62,159     $ 84,131    
     
     
    SEACOR MARINE HOLDINGS INC.
    UNAUDITED FLEET COUNTS
     
        Owned     Leased-in     Managed     Total  
    December 31, 2024                        
    AHTS     —       —       2       2  
    FSV     22       —       1       23  
    PSV     21       —       —       21  
    Liftboats     8       —       —       8  
          51       —       3       54  
    December 31, 2023                        
    AHTS     3       1       —       4  
    FSV     22       —       3       25  
    PSV     21       —       —       21  
    Liftboats     8       —       —       8  
          54       1       3       58  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Xbox reveals agenda for developers at GDC 2025 March 17-21

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Xbox reveals agenda for developers at GDC 2025 March 17-21

    As we gear up for the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025, we couldn’t be more excited to meet up with our friends and colleagues in the industry and explore the many incredible new opportunities that await. This year, GDC takes place from March 17-21 at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, California. We’ll host partner meetings, participate in conference sessions, and sponsor events like the IGF Awards and the ESA Foundation’s Nite to Unite. Attendees that come by the Xbox Lounge in Moscone South will have a chance to see the latest Xbox experience on PC, join a Q&A with an Xbox development expert, and learn about the opportunities and benefits of building with Xbox across PC, Cloud and Console.

    Xbox is expanding to any screen on any device, making it easier for anyone to play with the friends they want – whether they choose to play with Xbox console, PC, Smart TV or mobile. At GDC, we’re inviting game developers to go behind the scenes to better understand what it means for Xbox to be playable on any screen. We’re committed to empowering game developers to tap into that opportunity by building cross-capable games that take advantage of Xbox across devices. Our presence will reveal the many ways game developers can reach more players with Xbox and showcase success stories of developers who are maximizing the opportunity.

    Whether you’re an indie developer or a seasoned professional, Xbox speakers will be presenting insights for every stage of your development journey. Check out the full schedule below. If you will be engaging remotely, you can learn more by visiting our Game Development Resource Hub here and to learn more about AI for Gaming, check out our Gaming AI Resource Hub here.

    For us, GDC 2025 is as much about showcasing the Xbox developer experience as it is about fostering collaboration with partners and driving our gaming future, together. See you there!

    Monday, March 17

    UX Summit: UX Writing: A New(ish) Craft in Mobile Games
    Speaker: Patricia Gomez (King)
    Date: Monday, March 17
    Time: 9:30am – 10:30am
    Location: Room 2010, West Hall

    Community Management Summit: Social Media Microtalks: Authenticity from You and the Business “We”
    Speaker: Cindy Tran (Obsidian Entertainment), Antonio Cara (DeNA Corp.), Harper Jay MacIntyre (Double Fine Productions Inc), Livvy Hall (Xbox Game Studios Publishing), Megan Spurr (Microsoft)
    Date: Monday, March 17
    Time: 10:50am – 11:50am
    Location: Room 2014, West Hall

    Live Service Games Summit: Reinventing ‘Candy Crush Soda’ for the Next 10 years
    Speaker: Abigail Rindo (King), Paul Hellier (King)
    Date: Monday, March 17
    Time: 10:50am – 11:50am
    Location: Room 2006, West Hall

    Animation Summit: ‘Diablo 4’: Bringing to Life the Priestess of Hatred
     Speaker: Chad Waldschmidt (Blizzard Entertainment)
    Date: Monday, March 17
    Time: 3:50 pm – 4:20 pm
    Location: Room 2018, West Hall

    UX Summit: Making the World Playful: The Importance of Accessible Mobile Games
    Speaker:     Emilio Jeldrez (King)
    Date: Monday, March 17
    Time: 5:30pm – 6:00pm
    Location: Room 2010, West Hall

    Tuesday, March 18

    Live Service Games Summit: Mass Engagement Winning Strategies: The 15M Player Tournament of ‘Candy Crush Saga’
    Speaker: Margaux Diaz (King), Roberto Kusabbi (King)
    Date: Tuesday, March 18
    Time: 9:30am – 10:30am
    Location: Room 2006, West Hall

    Thriving Players Summit: Prosocial Design Workshop
    Speaker:     Natasha Miller (Blizzard Entertainment), Weszt Hart (Riot Games)
    Date: Tuesday, March 18
    Time: 9:30am – 11;50am
    Location: Room 3005, West Hall

    The Climate Crisis Workshop
    Speaker: Grant Shonkwiler (Shonkventures LLC), Trevin York (Dire Lark), Paula Angela Escuadra (Microsoft / Xbox), Jennifer Estaris (ustwo games), Arnaud Fayolle (Ubisoft)
    Date: Tuesday, March 18
    Time: 10:00am – 6:00pm
    Location: Room 204, South Hall

    Gaming Reimagined: Mobile’s Impact on Play Today (Presented by King)
    Speaker: Todd Green (King), Paula Ingvar (King), Peiwen Yao (Blizzard Entertainment)
    Date: Tuesday, March 18
    Time: 10:50am – 11:50am
    Location: Room 2000, West Hall

    Unpacking Anti-Toxicity Strategy in “Call of Duty” (Presented by Community Clubhouse)
    Speaker: Mark Frumkin (Modulate), Grant Cahill (Activision)
    Date: Tuesday, March 18
    Time: 2:40pm – 3:40pm
    Location: Esplanade 158, South Hall

    Live Service Games Summit: Game Designer’s Notebook
    Speakers: Marta Cortiñas (King), Kenny Dinkin (King)
    Time: 2:40pm – 3:40pm
    Location: Room 2006, West Hall

    Wednesday, March 19

    Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Leo Olebe (Microsoft), Chris Charla (Microsoft)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm
    Location: Room 3022, West Hall

    Accelerating Your Inner Loop with Visual Studio and GitHub Copilot AI (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: David Li (Microsoft), Michael Price (Microsoft)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm
    Location: GDC Industry Stage, Expo Floor, South Hall

    Grow Your Audience with the Updated Xbox Experience on PC (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker:     Tila Nguyen (Microsoft), Jose Rady (Microsoft)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: GDC Industry Stage, Expo Floor, South Hall

    Make your Game Available ANYWHERE with Xbox Cloud Gaming (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Harrison Hoffman (Microsoft), Jordan Cohen (Microsoft)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: Room 2000, West Hall

    Masterworking Systems: Lessons Learned from the Engineering of Season of Loot Reborn in ‘Diablo IV’
     Speaker: Patrick Ferland (Blizzard Entertainment)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: Room 2006, West Hall

    Ask Game Lawyers Anything Roundtable Day 1
    Speaker: Ryan Black (DLA Piper (Canada) LLP), Brandon Huffman (Odin Law and Media), Angelo Alcid (Microsoft Corp.), Yan Perng (Netflix)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
    Location: Room 308, South Hall

    Xbox Game Studios Panel: Scaling Cross-Platform Development Across Xbox and PC (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Kate Rayner (Microsoft), Soren Hannibal Nielsen (Microsoft, Chuck Rozhon (Obsidion Entertainment), Chad Dawson (Double Fine Productions) Phil Cousins (Microsoft), Magnus Auvinen (Machine Games)
    Date: Wednesday, March 19
    Time: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
    Location: Room 2000, West Hall

    Thursday, March 20

    DirectX State of the Union: Raytracing and PIX Workflows (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Claire Andrews (Microsoft), Austin Kinross (Microsoft)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 9:30am – 10:30am
    Location: Room 2009, West Hall

    VFX Storytelling: How “Hearthstone” Breathes Life Into Hundreds of Cards
    Speaker: Alex Cortes (Blizzard Entertainment)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm
    Location: Room 2006, West Hall

    Strategies for Indie Devs: How to Succeed with Xbox (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: James Lewis (Microsoft)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 11:30am – 12:30pm
    Location: GDC Industry Stage, Expo Floor, South Hall

    G.A.N.G. Demo Derby: Sound Design
    Speaker: Nick Hartman (Sound Lab), Scott Gershin (Sound Lab), Charles Deenen (Source Sound Inc), Gary Miranda (Injected Senses Audio), Brian Farr (Blizzard Entertainment)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 12:15pm – 1:45pm
    Location: Room 3018, West Hall

    From Idea to Action: Lessons from a New Accessibility Initiative (Presented by The Entertainment Software Association)
    Speaker: Aubrey Quinn  (Entertainment Software Association), Paul Amadeus Lane  (Amadeus 4th Corp), Amy Lazarus  (Electronic Arts), Dara Monasch  (Google), Anna Waismeyer  (Microsoft/Xbox), Steven Evans  (Nintendo of America), David Tisserand  (Ubisoft)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 12:15pm – 1:15pm
    Location: GDC Main Stage, West Hall, Street Level

    Windows Productivity Tools for Game Developers (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Demitrius Nelon (Microsoft), Kayla Cinnamon (Microsoft)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 12:15pm – 1:15pm
    Location: Room 2024, West Hall

    Securing the Joy of Gaming: Xbox’s Commitment to Gaming Security and Innovation (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Temi Adebambo (Microsoft)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: GDC Industry Stage, Expo Floor, South Hall

    Xbox Play Anywhere Developer Roundtable (Presented by Microsoft)
    Speaker: Chris Charla (Microsoft)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: Room 2004, West Hall

    King: Enhancing Mobile Audio with Accessibility and Inclusion
    Speaker: Eduardo Broseta  (King)
    Date: Thursday, March 20
    Time: 2:30pm – 3:00pm
    Location: Room 3024, West Hall

    Friday, March 21

    Game Career Seminar: STR, DEX and INT: A Genre-Spanning Way to Think About Gameplay
    Speaker: Joseph Shely  (Blizzard Entertainment)
    Date: Friday, March 21
    Time: 11:50am – 12:20pm
    Location: Room 3005, West Hall

    Game Career Seminar: Killer Portfolio or Portfolio Killer Part 2: Portfolio Reviews
    Speakers:     Greg Foertsch  (Bit Reactor), Sarah LeBlanc  (Bit Reactor), Rembert Montald  (Lightspeed LA), David Yee  (Unannounced), Jeffrey Johnson  (inXile Entertainment), Jade Law  (Wardog Studios), Gaurav Mathur  (E-Line Media), Jessica Kutrakun  (Hypixel Studios), Inmar Salvatier  (Maxis), Jeff Parrott  (Blizzard), Daanish Syed  (Bit Reactor), David Johnson  (UndertoneFX), Jeff Skalski  (Yellow Brick Games)
    Date:     Friday, March 21
    Time:     2:00pm – 5:00pm
    Location:     Room 3000, West Hall

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: APPLICATIONS OPEN: Senator Collins Forms Federal Appointments Advisory Committee to Evaluate Maine Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: February 26, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins is accepting applications for several federal appointments. She today announced the establishment of her “Federal Appointments Advisory Committee” to evaluate candidates for Senate-confirmed positions in Maine. As the senior Republican member of Maine’s congressional delegation, Senator Collins will advise the Trump Administration as it selects candidates for federal positions in the state. The Committee’s recommendations will be an integral part of that process.
    The Committee will assess the qualifications of dozens of interested applicants for U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal for Maine, and for U.S. Circuit Judge for the First Circuit. It will also consider nominations for other current and future vacancies, including, but not limited to, U.S. District Judge for the District of Maine, USDA Farm Service Agency State Director, USDA Rural Development State Director, and Federal Co-Chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission.  
    Interested applicants for the listed vacancies should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to Adminapps@collins.senate.gov
    The Committee, chaired by Ann Robinson, is comprised of seven community leaders and experienced attorneys from across the state.
    The members of the Federal Appointments Advisory Committee are:
    Ann Robinson (Portland), Attorney, Pierce Atwood LLP
    Stephanie Anderson (Cape Elizabeth), Former Cumberland County DA
    Hon. Josh Tardy (Palmyra), Attorney, Rudman Winchell; Former Minority Leader of the Maine House of Representatives
    Sarah Newell (Winterport), Attorney, Eaton Peabody
    Rick Solman (Caribou), Attorney, Solman and Hunter
    Chris Gardner (Edmunds Township), Executive Director, Eastport Port Authority; Former County Commissioner, Washington County
    Mark Brooks (Hartland), Chief Security Officer at Cianbro and Director of the Cianbro Institute, Retired Colonel from U.S. Army Reserve and Retired Lieutenant and Troop Commander of the Maine State Police

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Demands Trump’s USDA Restart Payments Guaranteed to 88 Wisconsin Dairy Farmers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) demanded the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) restart payments already committed to Wisconsin Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiative recipients. Baldwin’s call comes as bipartisan federal funding that was approved by Congress, signed into law, and already awarded to farmers has been halted at the direction of the Trump Administration – leaving 88 dairy businesses in Wisconsin waiting on a collective $6.5 million for reimbursement.
    “The uncertainty surrounding DBI funding is incredibly alarming because it threatens the future of many dairy businesses that were promised this support to grow and remain competitive,” wrote Senator Baldwin in a letter to Secretary Rollins. “Many of the farmers and processors operate with limited resources and cannot afford disruptions in funding. Therefore, this unnecessary and ill-advised disruption could have widespread economic consequences, particularly, for small dairy operations in Wisconsin that drive our rural economies”
    In addition to the 88 dairy businesses in Wisconsin waiting on a collective $6.5 million in reimbursements for funds appropriated in Fiscal Year 2023, the Wisconsin Initiative has been told they may not receive funding they were guaranteed for Fiscal Year 2024 – despite having already expended nearly $500,000.
    “Given the importance of this program to dairy businesses across the country, I urge you to provide immediate clarification on the status of DBI Initiatives funding to the program’s stakeholders, as well as ensure that funds are reimbursed expeditiously,” Baldwin concluded.
    Senator Baldwin successfully created the DBI program in the 2018 Farm Bill. To date, the Baldwin-backed program has supported over 250 dairy farmers and processors in the Midwest, including 109 in Wisconsin. Earlier this month, Senators Baldwin and Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the Dairy Business Innovation Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that builds on the support for regional dairy research and innovation centers across the country by raising the program’s annual authorization from $20 million to $36 million.
    A full version of Baldwin’s letter is available here and below.
    Dear Secretary Rollins,
    I am writing to express my deep concern that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has halted payments promised to farmers and processors through the Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives. This federal funding commitment to dairy businesses has been approved by Congress and signed into law. The program has bipartisan support because of the critical role it plays in supporting small- to medium-sized dairy processors and family farm operations in the development, production, marketing, and distribution of dairy products. I urge you to restart these payments without delay, as farmers in my state wait to be repaid for investments they have already made in line with the active grant awards.
     The Dairy Business Innovation Act has become, and remains, a success story for the dairy industry since its enactment into law in the 2018 Farm bill. I have been proud to lead a bipartisan coalition to secure annual appropriations dedicated to the four DBI Initiatives that provide services across the country, including in Wisconsin. To date, the program has supported over 100 dairy farmers and processors in Wisconsin and over 250 across the Midwest.
     I understand that funding appropriated in Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 for Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives has not been reimbursed to the Wisconsin Initiative at the direction of the Trump Administration. This means that 88 dairy businesses in Wisconsin are waiting on a collective $6.5 million for reimbursement. The Wisconsin Initiative has now been told they may not be reimbursed for FY2024 at all after expending nearly $500,000, even after USDA’s earlier directive for the Centers to move forward with selecting awards with those appropriated funds. This federal funding has been promised to dairy farmers who anticipated using the funds to help grow their businesses, and many have already made financial commitments based on this expected support. It is imperative that these commitments are honored to avoid undue financial hardship for these farmers and their family-owned small businesses.
     At a time when it is needed most, the DBI Initiatives have been a vital lifeline to farmers and processors because they are designed to strengthen the dairy industry by:
    Diversifying dairy product markets to reduce risk and create higher-value uses for dairy products.
    Promoting business development strategies that increase farmer income through processing and marketing innovations.
    Encouraging the use of regional milk production to strengthen local economies.
    These initiatives support dairy farmers and processors through direct farm technical assistance, business consulting, strategic planning, marketing, product development, and distribution. Additionally, a significant portion of DBI funds are dedicated as small dollar grants to small- and medium-sized, family-owned businesses.
    The uncertainty surrounding DBI funding is incredibly alarming because it threatens the future of many dairy businesses that were promised this support to grow and remain competitive. Many of the farmers and processors operate with limited resources and cannot afford disruptions in funding. Therefore, this unnecessary and ill-advised disruption could have widespread economic consequences, particularly, for small dairy operations in Wisconsin that drive our rural economies.
    Given the importance of this program to dairy businesses across the country, I urge you to provide immediate clarification on the status of DBI Initiatives funding to the program’s stakeholders, as well as ensure that funds are reimbursed expeditiously. I appreciate your urgent attention on this matter.
    Sincerely,
    An online version of this release is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Emphasizes Importance of AI Leadership, Nuclear Modernization in Visit to Los Alamos and Sandia

    Source: US Department of Energy

    ALBUQUERQUE, NM – U.S. Secretary of Energy released the following statement after visiting Los Alamos National Laboratory yesterday and Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico earlier today.

    “It was an honor to visit Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories, two institutions with rich histories in the development of American nuclear deterrence and essential roles in our future energy innovation,” said Secretary Wright. “I look forward to working closely with the scientists and engineers of Sandia and Los Alamos to modernize our nuclear weapons systems, unleash American nuclear energy, and ensure America continues to lead the world in scientific and technical innovation.

    “More than 70 years ago, these labs played an important role in the greatest scientific and engineering concerted effort in history: the Manhattan Project. Today, we are again calling on the brilliant minds of our great nation to win the next race: AI. This rapidly evolving technology will have enormous impacts on our national security, and President Trump and I remain committed to leveraging our nation’s unparalleled research and development infrastructure to win this great power competition.”

    IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

    Albuquerque Journal: New Mexico’s National Labs Will Play an Essential Role in Unleashing American Energy

    By U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright

    February 25, 2025

    “One of our country’s greatest assets and an envy of the world is the Department of Energy’s network of 17 National Laboratories. For over half a century, these labs have delivered groundbreaking advancements in technology and science, ensuring our nation’s security, preventing and ending wars, and playing a pivotal role in making America the most prosperous nation on earth.

    “As the nation’s Secretary of Energy and the leader of the department responsible for overseeing these labs, I am incredibly excited to be in New Mexico to visit Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque – two institutions with rich histories in the development of American nuclear deterrence and essential roles in our future energy innovation.

    “President Trump and I are united by a shared passion for energy and a simple, yet powerful vision: American energy is essential to our country’s security, the well-being of our citizens, and lives of people around the world. We want to unleash American Energy.

    “My passion for energy began with a youthful fascination with astronomy, and a curiosity as to what powers stars? Energy from nuclear fusion was the answer. Can nuclear forces only be unleashed in the center of stars, or can they be harnessed right here on earth? That question was answered right here in New Mexico.

    “As World War II raged, nuclear physics continued to rapidly advance, raising concerns that Nazi Germany might be the first to harness nuclear energy in the form of a highly destructive bomb. That was a threat too great to fathom. The answer was the greatest scientific and engineering concerted effort in history: the Manhattan Project.

    “That historic effort involved bringing the world’s greatest scientists and engineers together in Los Alamos for a frantic, secret, patriotic effort to develop, build, test and deploy nuclear weapons to win the war and the subsequent peace. This stunning effort was led by General Leslie Groves and scientific lead, physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer.

    “The development of nuclear technology and the weapons at Los Alamos, along with the work of our other laboratories around the country, changed the world. The United States secured the ultimate guarantor of our nation’s sovereignty, ensuring victory in World War II, maintaining peace for decades afterward, and ultimately triumphing in the Cold War.

    . . .

    “The responsible stewardship and modernization of the nation’s nuclear weapons systems is a top priority for the Department of Energy and this administration – alongside unleashing an American renaissance in affordable, abundant commercial nuclear energy.

    “President Trump and I are committed to leveraging our nation’s unparalleled research and development infrastructure to reduce costs for American families, strengthen the reliability of our energy system, and bolster U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and supply chain security. Our efforts will focus on advancing affordable, reliable, and secure energy technologies, which includes nuclear.

    “Just as the patriotic collaborations helped shape history over 70 years ago, the United States is once again calling on its brightest minds to drive this mission.

    “The golden era of American energy dominance is upon us. I look forward to working alongside your communities to seize this moment and secure our nation’s future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor appoints Randel Johnson as Administrative Review Board Chair

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the appointment of Randel Johnson as the Chair of the Administrative Review Board. The board issues agency decisions in cases arising from worker protection laws, including whistleblower and public contract laws.

    From August 2020 to 2022, Johnson served as an ARB judge and later as an academic fellow at Cornell Law School and as a distinguished lecturer at Syracuse College of Law. He was formerly partner with the law firm of Seyfarth Shaw LLP and was based in Washington, D.C.

    In addition to his time with the department’s ARB, Johnson has also served as labor counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives’ Education and Workforce Committee and worked as senior vice president for Labor Immigration & Employee Benefits at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.  

    “Returning to the U.S. Department of Labor is truly an honor,” Johnson said. “As chair of its Administrative Review Board, I am committed to ensuring justice is done by rendering legally correct and well-reasoned appellate decisions and treating those who come before the board fairly and impartially while concurrently managing resources as efficiently as possible.”

    A graduate of the University of Maryland Law School, Judge Johnson holds a Master of Laws from the Georgetown University Law Center and a Graduate Certificate from Harvard University’s Senior Managers in Government Program. He is a member of the Maryland, District of Columbia, and various federal bars, and a member of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. 

    Johnson cites his work supporting the enactments of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Congressional Accountability Act which, for the first time, extended private sector employment laws to the Congress, as bookend achievements of his time on Capitol Hill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Angola Country Analysis Brief

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    Petroleum & Other Liquids

    Crude oil, gasoline, heating oil, diesel, propane, and other liquids including biofuels and natural gas liquids.

    Natural Gas

    Exploration and reserves, storage, imports and exports, production, prices, sales.

    Electricity

    Sales, revenue and prices, power plants, fuel use, stocks, generation, trade, demand & emissions.

    Coal

    Reserves, production, prices, employment and productivity, distribution, stocks, imports and exports.

    Total Energy

    Comprehensive data summaries, comparisons, analysis, and projections integrated across all energy sources.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 15 Years After Agents Seize Over 15 Kilograms of Fentanyl and Six Firearms from Phoenix Residence

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Jefferson Alejandro Lopez Alcaraz, 45, of Phoenix, was sentenced on February 13, 2025, by United States District Judge John T. Tuchi to 180 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, to run consecutive to the 60-month sentence Lopez Alcaraz is currently serving in CR-21-00451-TUC-JCH. Co-defendant, Jaime Solorio-Torres, was sentenced to 57 months in prison on March 20, 2023. 

    According to court documents, on February 1, 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration was surveilling a residence in Phoenix when agents observed a Toyota Prius arrive and park on the street. Agents then observed Solorio-Torres exit the Prius carrying a white and blue cooler. He then met with Lopez Alcazar inside the residence before exiting with the cooler and placing it back inside the Prius. After Solorio-Torres drove away, agents stopped the Prius and found 6.5 kilograms of fentanyl pills inside the cooler.

    Agents obtained a search warrant for the residence and seized approximately 9 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 248 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 239 grams of Xanax pills, 6.6 grams of cocaine, and $26,532 in U.S. currency, along with a drug ledger and cache of six firearms. Two of the firearms had been reported stolen at the time they were seized.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, Phoenix East Valley Drug Enforcement Task Force conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart J. Zander, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-22-00103-PHX-JJT
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-023_Lopez Alcaraz

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Element Reports Fourth Quarter and Record 2024 Financial Results; Reaffirms Full-Year 2025 Guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Amounts in US$ unless otherwise noted
     
    • Record 2024 net revenue of $1.1 billion driving record adjusted operating income, adjusted earnings per share and adjusted free cash flow per share
    • Record performance in 2024 underpinned by an 18% year-over-year increase in services revenue, and a 9% year-over-year increase in net financing revenue associated with higher net earning assets
       
    • Strong performance allowed for acceleration of strategic investments to position us for future success while delivering full-year adjusted operating margins within guidance range
       
    • Robust client demand, strong and growing pipeline, and a high-recurring-revenue business model, combined with the benefits of investments made in 2024, to drive continued growth across key financial metrics
       
    • Reaffirming 2025 guidance for net revenue growth of 6.5 to 8.5%, positive adjusted operating leverage, and high single- to low double-digit growth in each of adjusted operating income, adjusted EPS, and adjusted free cash flow per share

    TORONTO, Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX:EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, today announced financial and operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and record results for full-year 2024.  The following table presents Element’s selected financial results.

      Q4 20241 Q3 20241 Q4 20231 QoQ YoY 2024   2023   YoY
    In US$ millions, except percentages and per share amount       % %     %
    Selected results – as reported                
    Net revenue 270.9   279.6   245.1   (3)% 11% 1,087.6   959.1   13%
    Pre-tax income 121.4   134.0   103.4   (9)% 17% 513.6   448.9   14%
    Pre-tax income margin 44.8 % 47.9 % 42.2 % (310) bps 260  bps 47.2 % 46.8 % 40  bps
    Earnings per share (EPS) [basic] 0.23   0.24   0.20   (1)% 3% 0.96   0.84   12%
    EPS [basic] [$CAD] 0.32   0.33   0.27   (3)% 19% 1.31   1.13   16%
    Adjusted results (excludes one-time strategic project costs in  2024)1                
    Adjusted net revenue2 270.9   279.6   245.1   (3)% 11% 1,087.6   959.1   13%
    Adjusted operating income (AOI)2 143.3   161.4   134.9   (11)% 6% 601.2   530.5   13%
    Adjusted operating margin2 52.9 % 57.7 % 55.0 % (480) bps (210) bps 55.3 % 55.3 % — bps
    Adjusted EPS2 [basic] 0.27   0.29   0.25   (7)% 8% 1.12   0.98   14%
    Adjusted EPS2[basic] [$CAD] 0.37   0.40   0.33   (8)% 12% 1.53   1.32   16%
    Other highlights:                
    Adjusted free cash flow per share2(FCF/sh) 0.30   0.36   0.29   (17)% 3% 1.38   1.24   11%
    Adjusted2 (FCF/sh) [$CAD] 0.41   0.49   0.40   (16)% 2% 1.89   1.67   13%
    Originations 1,498   1,716   1,490   (13)% 1% 6,732   6,340   6%
                               
    1. Strategic project costs totaled $20 million, of which $14 million was incurred in 2023 and $6 million in 2024, These costs were, attributable to leasing initiatives in Ireland, and were $2 million below planned investment as previously communicated. These costs for the quarterly periods in the above table were as follows: Q4 2023 ($11 million), Q3 2024 ($2 million), and Nil in Q4 2024. Additionally, Q3 2024 also included $7 million in acquisition-related costs, including severance, in connection with the Autofleet transaction.
    2. Adjusted results are non-GAAP or supplemental financial measures, which do not have any standard meaning prescribed by GAAP  under IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information, please see the “IFRS to Non-GAAP Reconciliations” section in this earnings release. The Company uses “Adjusted Results” because it believes that they provide useful information to investors regarding its performance and results of operations.

    “In 2024, we continued to execute our global growth strategy that builds on our considerable business momentum, delivering record results and value to clients, team members, and our shareholders. At the core of our efforts is a digital-first mindset and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence and prioritizing client success,” said Laura Dottori-Attanasio, Chief Executive Officer of Element. “Our robust performance relative to our plan allowed us to accelerate strategic investments aimed at enhancing our client experience, modernizing operations through digitization and automation, and strengthening our teams and culture. We achieved this while delivering within our full-year adjusted operating margin guidance and exceeding other key financial metrics. With these investments, we are building a stronger, more agile, and more innovative foundation to lead in defining the future of mobility. 

    Dottori-Attanasio continued, “We expect expense growth to moderate considerably in 2025 as the acceleration and benefits of this year’s investments begin to materialize. By optimizing costs and driving operational efficiencies through digital innovation, our disciplined approach to strategic investing in the areas that are critical to client success positions us well to both deliver on our financial targets and sustain success well into the future.”

    Net revenue growth

    Element grew 2024 net revenue 13% over 2023 (“year-over-year”) to $1.1 billion led largely by double-digit services revenue growth and higher net financing revenue.

    Q4 2024 net revenue increased $26 million or 11% on a year-over-year basis led largely by robust services revenue growth.  Q4 2024 net revenue decreased $9 million or 3% from a record Q3 2024 led largely by lower net financing revenue, lower syndication revenue and seasonal factors impacting Gains on Sale (“GOS”). This was partly offset by higher services revenue quarter-over-quarter.

    Service revenue

    Element’s largely unlevered services revenue is the key pillar of its capital-light business model, which also improves the Company’s return on equity profile.

    2024 services revenue increased a strong 18% year-over-year to $596 million driven primarily by higher penetration and utilization rates of our service offerings from new and existing clients and higher origination volumes.

    Q4 2024 services revenue grew a robust 25% year-over-year and  10% quarter-over-quarter driven primarily by higher penetration and utilization rates.

    Net financing revenue

    2024 net financing revenue grew $38 million or 9% year-over-year led largely by higher net earning assets resulting from higher originations across all geographies. This increase was partly offset by higher funding costs, including higher interest expense largely associated with financing the redemptions of our preferred shares (previously recorded below the AOI line). GOS was largely unchanged year-over-year, as increased volumes of vehicles for sale continue to mitigate used vehicle price normalization.

    Q4 2024 net financing revenue increased $1 million or 1% year-over-year led largely by the same reasons cited in the full-year 2024 explanation above. This increase was partly offset by a year-over-year decrease in GOS, and higher funding costs. A higher volume of vehicles for sale was more than offset by a decrease in used vehicle pricing in Mexico and ANZ.

    Q4 2024 net financing revenue decreased $13 million or 11% from Q3 2024. This quarter-over-quarter decrease was materially led by seasonal factors affecting GOS and for the same reasons cited directly above. Lower net earning assets and higher interest expense associated with financing the redemption of our preferred shares on September 30, 2024, and the impact of incremental debt due to the acquisition of Autofleet also contributed to the decrease.

    Syndication volume

    The Company syndicated a record $3.5 billion of assets in 2024, an increase of $984 million or 40% from 2023, and $1.0 billion in Q4 2024 – $330 million or 47% higher than Q4 2023. This growth was largely associated with higher origination volume, the Company’s ongoing focus on its capital lighter model, and management of its tangible leverage.  Overall, investor demand remains robust.

    2024 syndication revenue decreased $3 million or 6% year-over-year led largely by the bulk syndication of a Canadian lease portfolio in December 2024 (the “Bulk Sale”) in the amount of $346 million (CAD$474 million). This Bulk Sale further diversified our funding sources. Initial sale and setup costs impacted yields. Yields were further impacted by the Company’s syndication mix and scheduled reduction in bonus depreciation driving lower net yields. Gross yield, which is a measure of the value and demand for our core syndication product, was relatively unchanged from 2023. For further information on the Bulk Sale, please refer to the Element announces new strategic funding relationship section in this press release.

    Q4 2024 syndication revenue decreased $7 million or 55% year-over-year for the same reasons cited above for the full year 2024, and $11 million or 64% quarter-over-quarter largely due to lower net yields and setup costs associated with the sale of the Canadian portfolio. 

    Adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margins

    AOI was a record $601 million in 2024, an increase of $71 million or 13% year-over-year. This resulted in adjusted EPS of $1.12 in 2024, which is a 14% increase year-over-year. 2024 adjusted operating margin was 55.3%, unchanged from last year and at the mid-point of the Company’s revised 2024 guidance range between 55.0 to 55.5%. Excluding Autofleet, adjusted operating margins would have expanded 30 basis points year-over-year to 55.6%.

    Q4 2024 AOI was $143 million, an increase of $8 million or 6% year-over-year. Q4 2024 adjusted operating margin was 52.9% influenced by accelerated strategic investments, seasonal factors impacting GOS, $3 million in Autofleet operating costs, and the impact of the bulk sale of a portfolio of Canadian leases, which the Company believes will benefit 2025 and beyond. Excluding Autofleet, Q4 2024 adjusted operating margin was 54.1%.  

    Q4 2024 AOI decreased $18 million or 11% quarter-over-quarter led largely by the same reasons cited in the preceding paragraph. 

    Originations

    Element originated $6.7 billion of assets in 2024, which is a $392 million or 6% increase year-over-year led by growth across all regions. 

    Q4 2024 originations of $1.5 billion increased $8 million or 1% year-over-year; however, originations decreased $218 million or 13% quarter-over-quarter led largely by seasonal factors including historically slower client order volume during the summer months.

    Order volumes increased significantly in the last four months of 2024, reaching a record monthly high in December. This momentum, bolstered by improvements made through our U.S. & Canada Leasing strategic initiative based in Ireland, is expected to drive solid origination volumes in the first half of 2025.

    The table below sets out the geographic distribution of Element’s originations for 2024 and 2023:

    (in US$000’s for stated values) December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023
      $ % $ %
    United States and Canada 5,206,339 77.34 % 4,850,411 76.50  %
    Mexico 1,035,249 15.38 % 1,028,165 16.22 %
    Australia and New Zealand 489,960 7.28 % 461,451 7.28 %
    Total 6,731,548 100.00 % 6,340,027 100.00 %
                 

    Adjusted free cash flow per share and returns to shareholders

    On an adjusted basis, Element generated $1.38 of adjusted free cash flow (“FCF”) per share in 2024; up 11% year-over-year driven by growth in net revenues and higher originations, while investing approximately $77 million in total capital investments during the year. In Q4 2024, Element accelerated approximately $47 million of tax payments to the Australian Tax Office relating to the 2025 to 2027 taxation years. The tax payments relate to cash tax timing benefits received due to temporary accelerated depreciation available during the pandemic, effectively providing the Company with a tax deferral. The accelerated payment allows for future adjusted free cash flow to better represent the cash taxes that would be paid in the normal course of operations during those future years. This acceleration of Australian cash taxes is excluded from adjusted free cash flow per share.

    Element returned $336 million of cash to shareholders through common share dividends, common share buybacks and preferred share redemptions in 2024.

    Common dividend and share repurchases

    On February 26, 2025, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) authorized and declared a quarterly cash dividend of CAD$0.13 per common share of Element for the first quarter of 2025. The dividend will be payable on April 15, 2025 to shareholders of record as at the close of business on March 31, 2025.

    The Company’s common dividends are designated to be eligible dividends for purposes of section 89(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    In furtherance of the Company’s return of capital plan, Element renewed its normal course issuer bid (the “NCIB”) for its common shares. Under the NCIB, the Company has approval from the TSX to purchase up to 40,386,699 common shares during the period from November 20, 2024, to November 19, 2025. The Company intends to be more active under its NCIB in 2025. The actual number of the Company’s common shares, if any, that may be purchased under the NCIB, and the timing of any such purchases, will be determined by the Company, subject to applicable terms and limitations of the NCIB (including any automatic share purchase plan adopted in connection therewith). There cannot be any assurance as to how many common shares, if any, will ultimately be purchased pursuant to the NCIB. Any subsequent renewals of the NCIB will be in the discretion of the Company and subject to further TSX approval.

    During 2024, the Company purchased 630,657 Common Shares for cancellation under its normal course issuer bids, for an aggregate amount of approximately $11 million at a volume weighted average price of CAD$23.77 per Common Share. During Q4 2024, the Company purchased 175,357 Common Shares under its NCIB, for cancellation, for an aggregate amount of approximately $4 million at a volume weighted average price of CAD$28.51 per Common Share.  During January and February 2025, the Company purchased 1.1 million Common Shares under its latest NCIB, for cancellation, for an aggregate amount of approximately $22 million at a volume weighted average price of CAD $28.75 per Common Share.

    Element applies trade date accounting in determining the date on which the share repurchase is reflected in the consolidated financial statements. Trade date accounting is the date on which the Company commits itself to purchase the shares.

    Preparing Element for the future

    In 2024, Element was purposeful in accelerating strategic investments in support of future growth.  The Company prioritized initiatives that elevate the client experience, modernize operations through digitization and automation, strengthen its teams and culture, and emphasized these efforts through the acquisition of Autofleet. While pursuing these strategic advancements, the Company exercised operational discipline to ensure that financial targets were achieved, maintaining operating margins within its 2024 guidance range of 55.0 to 55.5%. The Company expects expense growth to moderate considerably in 2025 as the benefits of these investments begin to materialize.

    Notable achievements include:

    • Centralizing accountability for its U.S. and Canadian leasing operations in Ireland and establishing a strategic sourcing presence in Singapore, with these initiatives expected to generate between $30 – $45 million of run-rate net revenue, and between $22 – $37 million of run-rate adjusted operating income (“AOI”), by full-year 2028. Both units are fully operational with an expected payback period from the Company’s investments at less than 2.5 years. 
       
    • Acquiring Autofleet’s robust and highly scalable fleet optimization technology platform to substantially accelerate its digitization and automation initiatives, enhance the client experience and accelerate operational scalability, unlocking new growth and value creation potential.  The integration of Autofleet will enhance the Company’s position in the evolving mobility and vehicle connectivity landscape. Priorities include developing a Digital Driver Experience app, building a digital client reporting portal, and gradually migrating Element’s applications to Autofleet’s cloud and AI-based platform.
       
    • Launching an Acceleration Office, to fast-track and prioritize strategic initiatives like our holistic digital and data analytics transformation, and our expansion into both Insurance and the Small-to Medium-Sized Fleets space.
       
    • In January 2025, the Company expanded beyond its core by announcing a new Insurance Risk solution – a fully integrated insurance and risk management offering. This new service, launched in a strategic partnership with Hub International Limited (“HUB”), a leading global insurance brokerage and financial services firm servicing commercial fleets, is designed to transform how clients insure and manage commercial fleets. The new service bundles insurance coverage solutions, including accident management, subrogation, driver safety programs, and telematics, to deliver a seamless, vehicle life-cycle experience for clients.

    Guidance

    Full-year 2024 Guidance

    Element delivered full-year 2024 results within or above the high end of its previously provided guidance ranges on key metrics, with the exception of originations. The following table highlights our full-year 2024 guidance (as was updated alongside its Q2 2024 results release) compared to the full-year 2024 results.

    In US$, except per share amounts Full-year 2024 Guidance Full-year 2024 Actuals
    Net revenue $1.060 – $1.080 billion $1.088 billion
    YoY Growth 11-13 % 13%
    Adjusted operating margin1 55.0% – 55.5% 55.3%
    Adjusted operating income $575 – 595 million $601 million
    YoY Growth 8-12 % 13%
    Adjusted EPS [basic] $1.07 – $1.11 $1.12
    YoY Growth 9-13 % 14%
    Adjusted free cash flow per share $1.32 – 1.36 1.38
    YoY Growth 6-10 % 11%
    Originations $7.0 – 7.4 billion $6.7 billion
    YoY Growth 11-17 % 6%

     1. Excluding Autofleet, adjusted operating margin was 55.6% in 2024; representing adjusting operating margin expansion of 30 basis points year-over-year.     

    Certain year-over-year growth amounts shown in this table may not calculate exactly due to rounding.

    Full-year 2025 Guidance

    The Company expects to see continued growth in its client base and net revenue, driven by the ongoing transition to self-managed fleets and robust demand for its services and solutions. Strong order volumes over the last four months of 2024, bolstered by enhancements made through our U.S. and Canada leasing initiative in Ireland, is expected to drive solid originations volume in the first half of 2025. Originations are preceded by vehicle orders, which are binding commitments by clients to lease or purchase vehicles from Element.

    Element is committed to generating positive operating leverage in 2025, and expects to begin realizing the benefits of the investments undertaken in 2024.

    In US$, except per share amounts Full-year 2025 Initial  Guidance Full-year 2025 Guidance
    Net revenue 6.5 – 8.5% $1.160 – $1.185 billion
    Adjusted operating income High-single to low-double digit $645 – $670 million
    Adjusted operating margins   55.5 – 56.5%
    Adjusted EPS [basic] High-single to low-double digit $1.20 – $1.25
    Adjusted free cash flow per share High-single to low-double digit $1.48- $1.53
    Originations Low- to mid-single digit $6.9 – $7.1 billion

    The Company’s guidance for 2025 incorporates the effects of several anticipated revenue headwinds, including the depreciation of the Mexican Peso (the Company has assumed an MXN-to-USD exchange rate of 20.5:1), higher interest expenses due to increased local Peso funding in 2025, and financing the redemption of the preferred shares. In addition, the scheduled reduction in bonus depreciation in the U.S. is likely to impact syndication yields. We also anticipate that our 2025 effective tax rate will average between 24.5% to 26.5%.

    The above ranges are prior to any further material foreign exchange fluctuations, and any adverse impact related to changes in the trade agreements between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

    Simplified capital structure

    To further optimize the Company’s balance sheet and simplify its capital structure, the Company redeemed the following during 2024: (1) all of its 5,126,400 issued and outstanding 6.21% Cumulative 5-Year Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series C (the “Series C Shares”) on June 20, 2024, at a price of CAD$25.00 per Series C Share for an aggregate total amount of approximately US$91.2 million; (2) all of its 5,321,900 issued and outstanding 5.903% Cumulative 5-Year Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series E (the “Series E Shares”) on September 30, 2024, at a price of CAD$25.00 per Series E Share for an aggregate amount of US$95 million approximately; and (3) all of its remaining outstanding 4.25% Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures due June 30, 2024 for consideration of approximately 14.6 million Common Shares, issued from Treasury and delivered to beneficial holders.

    Following the redemption of its Series E preferred shares, the Company no longer has any preferred shares outstanding.

    As at December 31, 2024, total Common Shares issued and outstanding were 404.5 million.

    Element announces new strategic funding relationship

    In December 2024, Element established a new strategic funding relationship with affiliates of Blackstone’s Infrastructure & Asset-Based Credit Group (“Blackstone”) involving a portfolio of Canadian fleet lease receivables valued at approximately $346 million (CAD$474 million). This initial transaction, which took place on December 20, 2024, has characteristics similar to that of a bulk syndication. Through this arrangement Element benefits from substantial derecognition of these finance lease receivables, diversifying and optimizing its funding profile, validating the high-quality of its asset origination platform, and supporting the Company’s continued growth. 

    This transaction further assists in diversifying the Company’s funding sources, reducing leverage and driving our capital lighter model. However, due to the initial sale, overall yield was negatively impacted by setup costs. These costs are not expected to recur in future transactions. Consequently, the Company expects higher syndication yields in 2025, while also benefiting from the derecognition of finance lease receivables that similar transactions would offer.

    Transitioning to debt-to-capital vs. tangible leverage ratio (“TLR”)

    In Q4 2024, in collaboration with its partners, the Company changed its banking covenants from TLR to debt-to-capital, which the Company believes is a more meaningful measure of its leverage. Commencing in Q4 2024, the Company will prioritize the reporting and management of debt-to-capital metrics, though TLR will be still disclosed this quarter for consistency. The bank covenants are set at 80% of debt-to-capital, and the Company targets a range between 73% to 77%. The Company remains committed to maintaining a strong investment grade balance sheet and will continue to monitor TLR as a key internal metric, but it will be of reduced importance as an operating constraint.

    At December 31, 2024, the Company’s debt-to-capital ratio was 74.1% (December 31, 2023 72%) and its TLR was 7.56:1 (December 31, 2023 5.99:1).

    Conference call and webcast

    A conference call to discuss these results will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

    The conference call and webcast can be accessed as follows:

    A taped recording of the conference call may be accessed through March 27, 2025 by dialing 1-855-669-9658 (Canada/U.S. Toll Free) or 1-412-317-0088 (International Toll) and entering the access code 3917835.

    IFRS to Non-GAAP Reconciliations, Non-GAAP Measures and Supplemental Information

    The Company’s audited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB and the accounting policies we adopted in accordance with IFRS. These audited consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present fairly our financial position as at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows for the three- and 12-month periods-ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

    Non-GAAP and IFRS key annualized operating ratios and per share information of the operations of the Company:

        As at and for the three-month
     period ended    		 For the year ended
    (in US$000’s except ratios and per share amounts or unless otherwise noted)   December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
                 
    Key annualized operating ratios            
                 
    Leverage ratios            
    Financial leverage ratio P/(P+R)   74.1 %   74.3 %   72.4 %   74.1 %   72.4 %
    Tangible leverage ratio P/
    (R-K)    		   7.56     7.00     5.98     7.56     5.99  
    Average financial leverage ratio Q/(Q+V)   75.0 %   75.1 %   72.6 %   74.7 %   71.6 %
    Average tangible leverage ratio Q/(V-L)   7.60     6.80     5.75     6.72     5.53  
                 
    Other key operating ratios            
    Allowance for credit losses as a % of total finance receivables before allowance F/E   0.08 %   0.08 %   0.08 %   0.08 %   0.08 %
    Adjusted operating income on average net earning assets B/J   7.31 %   8.01 %   7.20 %   7.53 %   7.57 %
    Adjusted operating income on average tangible total equity of Element D/(V-L)   39.34 %   37.91 %   29.34 %   35.76 %   30.08 %
                 
    Per share information            
    Number of shares outstanding W   404,502     403,609     389,169     404,502     389,169  
    Weighted average number of shares outstanding [basic] X   404,578     403,609     389,115     396,880     390,297  
    Pro forma diluted average number of shares outstanding Y   404,726     403,768     404,068     404,164     405,242  
    Cumulative preferred share dividends during the period Z   —     1,434     4,418     7,222     17,625  
    Other effects of dilution on an adjusted operating income basis AA $ —   $ 0   $ 1,184   $ 2,412   $ 4,859  
    Net income per share [basic] (A-Z)/X $ 0.23   $ 0.24   $ 0.20   $ 0.96   $ 0.84  
    Net income per share [diluted]   $ 0.23   $ 0.24   $ 0.19   $ 0.95   $ 0.82  
                 
    Adjusted EPS [basic] (D1)/X $ 0.27   $ 0.29   $ 0.25   $ 1.12   $ 0.99  
    Adjusted EPS [diluted] (D1+AA)/Y $ 0.27   $ 0.29   $ 0.24   $ 1.10   $ 0.96  
                                     

    Management also uses a variety of both IFRS and non-GAAP and Supplemental Measures, and non-GAAP ratios to monitor and assess their operating performance. The Company uses these non-GAAP and Supplemental Financial Measures because they believe that they may provide useful information to investors regarding their performance and results of operations.

    The following table provides a reconciliation of certain IFRS to non-GAAP measures related to the operations of the Company and other supplemental information.

                                For the three-month period ended For the year ended
    (in US$000’s  except per share amounts or unless otherwise noted)   December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
    Reported results   US$ US$ US$ US$ US$
    Services income, net     161,461     146,903     129,657     595,540     502,659  
    Net financing revenue     103,453     116,090     102,211     449,130     410,853  
    Syndication revenue, net     5,976     16,643     13,261     42,890     45,587  
    Net revenue     270,890     279,636     245,129     1,087,560     959,099  
    Operating expenses     141,234     139,367     134,085     544,681     481,749  
    Operating income     129,656     140,269     111,044     542,879     477,350  
    Operating margin     47.9 %   50.2 %   45.3 %   49.9 %   49.8 %
    Total expenses     149,463     145,669     141,716     574,003     510,153  
    Income before income taxes     121,427     133,967     103,413     513,557     448,946  
    Net income     92,057     98,565     81,567     387,137     345,599  
    EPS [basic]   $ 0.23   $ 0.24   $ 0.20   $ 0.96   $ 0.84  
    EPS [diluted]   $ 0.23   $ 0.24   $ 0.19   $ 0.95   $ 0.82  
    Adjusting items            
    Impact of adjusting items on operating expenses:            
    Strategic initiatives costs – Salaries, wages, and benefits     —     4,633     5,329     5,593     5,329  
    Strategic initiatives costs – General and administrative expenses     —     4,283     5,437     7,806     8,342  
       Share-based compensation     13,687     12,242     12,346     43,435     36,429  
       Amortization of convertible debenture discount     —     —     772     1,517     3,038  
    Total impact of adjusting items on operating expenses     13,687     21,158     23,884     58,351     53,138  
    Total pre-tax impact of adjusting items     13,687     21,158     23,884     58,351     53,138  
    Total after-tax impact of adjusting items     10,265     15,667     17,667     43,763     27,478  
    Total impact of adjusting items on EPS [basic]     0.03     0.04     0.05     0.11     0.07  
    Total impact of adjusting items on EPS [diluted]     0.03     0.04     0.04     0.11     0.06  
                                     
                                For the three-month period ended For the year ended
    (in US$000’s  except per share amounts or unless otherwise noted)   December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
    Adjusted results   US$ US$ US$ US$ US$
    Adjusted net revenue     270,890     279,636     245,129     1,087,560     959,099  
    Adjusted operating expenses     127,547     118,209     110,201     486,330     428,611  
    Adjusted operating income     143,343     161,427     134,928     601,230     530,488  
    Adjusted operating margin     52.9 %   57.7 %   55.0 %   55.3 %   55.3 %
    Provision for income taxes     29,370     35,402     21,846     126,420     103,347  
    Adjustments:            
    Pre-tax income     5,481     6,213     8,184     22,465     21,153  
    Foreign tax rate differential and other     985     275     5,092     1,474     5,607  
    Provision for taxes applicable to adjusted results     35,836     41,890     35,122     150,359     130,107  
    Adjusted net income     107,507     119,537     99,806     450,871     400,381  
    Adjusted EPS [basic]   $ 0.27   $ 0.29   $ 0.25   $ 1.12   $ 0.98  
    Adjusted EPS [diluted]   $ 0.27   $ 0.29   $ 0.24   $ 1.10   $ 0.96  
                                     

    The following table summarizes key statement of financial position amounts for the periods presented.

    Selected statement of financial position amounts                           For the three-month period ended For the year ended
    (in US$000’s unless otherwise noted)   December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
        US$ US$ US$ US$ US$
    Total Finance receivables, before allowance for credit losses E 7,576,386   7,612,881   7,225,093   7,576,386   7,225,093  
    Allowance for credit losses F 6,168   6,069   5,539   6,168   5,539  
    Net investment in finance receivable G 4,968,294   5,251,679   4,964,175   4,968,294   4,964,175  
    Equipment under operating leases H 2,435,430   2,537,369   2,646,158   2,435,430   2,646,158  
    Net earning assets I=G+H 7,403,724   7,789,048   7,610,333   7,403,724   7,610,333  
    Average net earning assets J 7,848,023   8,059,992   7,494,361   7,980,144   7,008,655  
    Goodwill and intangible assets K 1,672,701   1,581,560   1,596,323   1,672,701   1,596,323  
    Average goodwill and intangible assets L 1,675,336   1,581,776   1,589,182   1,607,766   1,590,290  
    Borrowings M 8,463,789   8,472,130   8,018,132   8,463,789   8,018,132  
    Unsecured convertible debentures N —   —   127,816   —   127,816  
    Less: continuing involvement liability O (132,683 ) (125,225 ) (81,851 ) (132,683 ) (81,851 )
    Total debt P=M+N-O 8,331,106   8,346,905   8,064,097   8,331,106   8,064,097  
    Cash and restricted funds P1 408,621   337,247   350,637   408,621   350,637  
    Total net debt P2 = P-P1 7,922,485   8,009,658   7,713,460   7,922,485   7,713,460  
    Average debt Q 8,313,527   8,582,383   7,829,218   8,473,105   7,361,960  
    Total shareholders’ equity R 2,774,315   2,774,502   2,943,828   2,774,315   2,943,828  
    Preferred shares S —   —   181,077   —   181,077  
    Common shareholders’ equity T=R-S 2,774,315   2,774,502   2,762,751   2,774,315   2,762,751  
    Average common shareholders’ equity U 2,768,504   2,781,421   2,713,843   2,770,044   2,664,760  
    Average total shareholders’ equity V 2,768,504   2,843,024   2,949,789   2,868,593   2,921,281  
                           

    Throughout this press release, management uses the following terms and ratios which do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other organizations. Non-GAAP measures are reported in addition to, and should not be considered alternatives to, measures of performance according to IFRS.

    Adjusted operating expenses

    Adjusted operating expenses are equal to salaries, wages and benefits, general and administrative expenses, and depreciation and amortization less adjusting items impacting operating expenses. The following table reconciles the Company’s reported expenses to adjusted operating expenses.

                              For the three-month period ended For the year ended
    (in US$000’s except per share amounts or unless otherwise noted) December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
      US$ US$ US$ US$ US$
    Reported Expenses 149,463 145,669   141,716 574,003 510,153
    Less:          
    Amortization of intangible assets from acquisitions 7,819 6,970   6,971 28,734 27,912
    Loss (gain) on investments 410 (668 ) 660 588 492
    Operating expenses 141,234 139,367   134,085 544,681 481,749
    Less:          
      Amortization of convertible debenture discount — —   772 1,517 3,038
      Share-based compensation 13,687 12,242   12,346 43,435 36,429
      Strategic initiatives costs – Salaries, wages and benefits — 4,633   5,329 5,593 5,329
      Strategic initiatives costs – General and administrative expenses — 4,283   5,437 7,806 8,342
    Total adjustments 13,687 21,158   23,884 58,351 53,138
    Adjusted operating expenses 127,547 118,209   110,201 486,330 428,611
                 

    Adjusted operating income or Pre-tax adjusted operating income

    Adjusted operating income reflects net income or loss for the period adjusted for the amortization of debenture discount, share-based compensation, amortization of intangible assets from acquisitions, provision for or recovery of income taxes, loss or income on investments, and adjusting items from the table below.

    The following tables reconciles income before taxes to adjusted operating income.

                              For the three-month period ended For the year ended
    (in US$000’s except per share amounts or unless otherwise noted) December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
      US$ US$ US$ US$ US$
    Income before income taxes 121,427 133,967   103,413 513,557 448,946
    Adjustments:          
    Amortization of convertible debenture discount — —   772 1,517 3,038
    Share-based compensation 13,687 12,242   12,346 43,435 36,429
    Amortization of intangible assets from acquisition 7,819 6,970   6,971 28,734 27,912
    Loss (gain) on investments 410 (668 ) 660 588 492
    Adjusting Items:          
    Strategic initiatives costs – Salaries, wages and benefits — 4,633   5,329 5,593 5,329
    Strategic initiatives costs – General and administrative expenses — 4,283   5,437 7,806 8,342
    Total pre-tax impact of adjusting items — 8,916   10,766 13,399 13,671
    Adjusted operating income 143,343 161,427   134,928 601,230 530,488
                 

    Adjusted operating margin

    Adjusted operating margin is the adjusted operating income before taxes for the period divided by the net revenue for the period.

    After-tax adjusted operating income

    After-tax adjusted operating income reflects the adjusted operating income after the application of the Company’s effective tax rates.

    Adjusted net income

    Adjusted net income reflects reported net income less the after-tax impacts of adjusting items. The following table reconciles reported net income to adjusted net income.

                              For the three-month period ended For the year ended
    (in US$000’s except per share amounts or unless otherwise noted) December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		 December 31,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023
      US$ US$ US$ US$ US$
    Net income 92,057   98,565   81,567   387,137   345,599  
    Amortization of convertible debenture discount —   —   772   1,517   3,038  
    Share-based compensation 13,687   12,242   12,346   43,435   36,429  
    Amortization of intangible assets from acquisition 7,819   6,970   6,971   28,734   27,912  
    Loss (gain) on investments 410   (668 ) 660   588   492  
    Strategic initiatives costs – Salaries, wages and benefits —   4,633   5,329   5,593   5,329  
    Strategic initiatives costs – General and administrative expenses —   4,283   5,437   7,806   8,342  
    Provision for income taxes 29,370   35,402   21,846   126,420   103,347  
    Provision for taxes applicable to adjusted results (35,836 ) (41,890 ) (35,122 ) (150,359 ) (130,107 )
    Adjusted net income 107,507   119,537   99,806   450,871   400,381  
                         

    After-tax adjusted operating income attributable to common shareholders

    After-tax adjusted operating income attributable to common shareholders is computed as after-tax adjusted operating income less the cumulative preferred share dividends for the period.

    About Element Fleet Management

    Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world. As a Purpose-driven company, we provide a full range of sustainable and intelligent mobility solutions to optimize and enhance fleet performance for our clients across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Our services address every aspect of our clients’ fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, route optimization, risk management, and remarketing, to advising on decarbonization efforts, integration of electric vehicles and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element’s expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce operating costs and enhance efficiency and performance. At Element, we maximize our clients’ fleet so they can focus on growing their business. For more information, please visit: https://www.elementfleet.com

    This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding Element and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations and views of future events. In some cases the forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “potential”, “estimate”, “believe” or the negative of these terms, or other similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements, including, among others, statements regarding Element’s financial performance, enhancements to clients’ service experience and service levels; expectations regarding client and revenue retention trends; management of operating expenses; increases in efficiency; Element’s ability to achieve its sustainability objectives; Element achieving its digital platform ambitions; the Autofleet acquisition enabling the Company to scale its business more quickly, achieve operational efficiencies, increase client and shareholder value and unlock new revenues streams; EV strategy and capabilities; global EV adoption rates; dividend policy and the payment of future dividends; the costs and benefits of strategic initiatives; creation of value for all stakeholders; expectations regarding syndication; growth prospects and expected revenue growth; level of workforce engagement; improvements to magnitude and quality of earnings; executive hiring and retention; focus and discipline in investing; balance sheet management and plans and expectations with respect to leverage ratios;  and Element’s proposed share purchases, including the number of common shares to be repurchased, the timing thereof and TSX acceptance of the NCIB and any renewal thereof. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements and information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause Element’s actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statement or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information. Such risks and uncertainties include those regarding the fleet management and finance industries, economic factors, regulatory landscape and many other factors beyond the control of Element. A discussion of the material risks and assumptions associated with this outlook can be found in Element’s annual MD&A, and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, each of which has been filed on SEDAR+ and can be accessed at www.sedarplus.ca. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Element undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Minnesota Private Nonprofits Affected by Severe Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Minnesota of the March 28, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the severe storms and flooding occurring June 16 through July 4, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Carver, Cass, Cook, Cottonwood, Dodge, Faribault, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Itasca, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Martin, McLeod, Mower, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Renville, Rice, Rock, Sibley, St. Louis, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, Watonwan and Winona. 

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature who suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. Example of eligible non-critical PNP organizations include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools, and colleges.  

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. 

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.” 

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.  

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 28, 2025. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Highlights Surface Transportation Successes in IIJA, Areas in Need of Improvement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    To watch Chairman Capito’s questions, click here.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led a hearing examining the implementation of surface transportation policies and funding included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). During the hearing, Chairman Capito questioned surface transportation stakeholders about their perspective on IIJA implementation.

    HIGHLIGHTS:

    SUCCESSES AND SHORTFALLS:

    Chairman Capito: 

    “You’ve touched on this, all of you have in your statements, but just concisely, what part of the IIJA had the greatest benefit for your experience, and which one has presented the greatest challenge?”

    Russell McMurry, Commissioner, Georgia Department of Transportation on behalf of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO):

    “The greatest benefit comes from what we consider the core formula programs, that being National Highway Priority Program, the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program, which is truly the most flexible to use for the states and MPOs.”

    “Some of those challenges out of the IIJA in Georgia have been some of the new programs, again, to Mr. Carroll’s testimony, things are happening and we need to be able to be responsive.”

    Gary Johnson, Vice President, Granite Construction on behalf of the Transportation Construction Coalition:

    “Chairman, I think obviously the greatest benefit is the amount of money coming down the formula funding. It took a while to get started. It was delayed a little bit from authorization to appropriation in ‘21 and ‘22 but since then, we’ve seen a lot of money coming into the states that we work in.”

    NEVI PROGRAM EFFICIENCY: “A quick comment about the NEVI program…$1.8 billion had been released for that program. But I want to point out that $1.8 billion has resulted in 58 chargers being built in three and a half years, and in 15 states…so, I mean, if we’re – efficiencies and moving things quicker, I’m not sure that that program is a good example of the best way the federal government.”

    Click HERE to watch Chairman Capito’s opening statement.

    Click HERE to watch Chairman Capito’s questions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Murray Unveil Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Support for Disabled Veterans and Their Families, Including Young Caregivers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Patty Murray (D-WA), senior members of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the Helping Heroes Act, legislation to support the families and children of disabled veterans who take on caregiving roles.

    The Helping Heroes Act seeks to improve the assistance provided to children under the age of 18 that offer invaluable support to the veteran family members they live with. Because these dependents face unique challenges and take on responsibilities that their peers do not carry, this bill aims to bolster the accessibility and quality of mental health care and peer support services they can receive through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

    “Investing in the families of our veterans is part of the commitment we have made to those who have served,” said Boozman. “By expanding the VA’s capabilities and resources to better support the needs of caregivers, including the children of disabled veterans, they will benefit in their own lives as well as enjoy more access to comprehensive tools and networks. Better grasping and responding to the impact of caring for their loved ones is an important step to raise their quality of life.”

    “I’m proud to reintroduce my bipartisan legislation to help VA better support the families of disabled veterans—especially children who frequently take on caregiving roles in their families and could benefit from additional supportive services,” said Murray, daughter of a WWII veteran and Purple Heart recipient who was later diagnosed with multiple sclerosis during her childhood. “Veterans and their families have sacrificed so much for our country, and we have a responsibility to make sure the federal government is there for them and that we’re constantly working to improve the services they get through VA.”

    Specifically, the Helping Heroes Act would:

    • Establish a permanent Family Support Program to provide supportive services to eligible family members of disabled veterans;
    • Require a coordinator at each Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) to assess the needs of veteran families in their catchment area and refer them to available local, state and federal resources; and
    • Require VA to collect data on the experiences of disabled veteran families to better identify and understand their needs.

    The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Peter Welch (D-VT).

    The Helping Heroes Act is supported by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Disabled American Veterans, The American Legion, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, American Veterans and the Association of the United States Army.

    More information on supporting the healthy development of children from military and veteran caregiving homes can be found in this report commissioned by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. 

    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Pro Tempore Sen. John F. Kennedy Commends Absenteeism Legislation Passing Senate

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (February 26, 2025)—Today, the Georgia Senate passed Senate Bill (SB) 123, a measure aimed at addressing chronic absenteeism in schools across the state. Sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy (R–Macon), SB 123 would establish a localized approach, working with families, administrators and those identified as chronically absent when reviewing individual cases. Additionally, the bill would require local boards of education to implement policies for identifying and intervening with chronically absent students, ensuring a focus on the root causes of their absences.

    “I’m proud to see SB 123 earn the Senate’s support, as tackling chronic absenteeism is a top priority for me this session,” said Sen. Kennedy. “Students who frequently miss school risk falling behind, jeopardizing their ability to build a strong educational foundation. With this legislation, we are taking a crucial step toward strengthening our schools and securing a brighter future for Georgia’s students.”

    Georgia’s school attendance laws have not been updated since 2007, leaving gaps in how chronic absenteeism is handled at the individual level. In 2024, 21.3% of Georgia students—nearly 360,000 young people—were chronically absent, missing 10% or more of their school days. If signed into law, SB 123 would require school climate committees to develop a comprehensive framework for improving student attendance. This legislation would also establish localized attendance review teams to determine the most effective strategies for reducing absenteeism. Additionally, they would be responsible for reporting their progress to the General Assembly.

    For more information about the legislation, click here.

    # # # #

    Sen. John F. Kennedy serves as the President Pro Tempore of the Georgia State Senate. He represents the 18th Senate District, which includes Crawford, Monroe, Peach and Upson counties, as well as portions of Bibb and Houston counties. He may be reached at (404) 656-6578 or by email at John.Kennedy@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Implementing the President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Cost Efficiency Initiative

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>     By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
         Section 1.  Purpose.  This order commences a transformation in Federal spending on contracts, grants, and loans to ensure Government spending is transparent and Government employees are accountable to the American public.
         Sec. 2.  Definitions.  As used in this order:(a)  “Administrator” means the Administrator of the United States DOGE Service, as defined in Executive Order 14158 of January 20, 2025 (Establishing and Implementing the President’s “Department of Government Efficiency”).(b)  “Agency” has the meaning given to that term in section 3502 of title 44, United States Code, except that such term does not include the Executive Office of the President or any components thereof.(c)  “Agency Head” means the highest-ranking official of an agency, such as the Secretary, Administrator, Chairman, or Director.  Agency Heads may select designees within their agencies to carry out the responsibilities specified in this order.(d)  “Covered contracts and grants” means discretionary spending through Federal contracts, grants, loans, and related instruments, but excludes direct assistance to individuals; expenditures related to immigration enforcement, law enforcement, the military, public safety, and the intelligence community; and other critical, acute, or emergency spending, as determined by the relevant Agency Head.  Notification shall be made to the agency’s DOGE Team Lead.(e)  “DOGE Team Lead” means the leader of the DOGE Team at each agency, as defined in Executive Order 14158.Sec. 3.  Cutting Costs to Save Taxpayers Money.  each Agency Head shall, with assistance as requested from the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, build a centralized technological system within the agency to seamlessly record every payment issued by the agency pursuant to each of the agency’s covered contracts and grants, along with a brief, written justification for each payment submitted by the agency employee who approved the payment.  This system shall include a mechanism for the Agency Head to pause and rapidly review any payment for which the approving employee has not submitted a brief, written justification within the technological system. (i)   Once the system described in subsection (a) of this section is in place, the Agency Head shall issue guidance, in consultation with the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, to require that the relevant agency employee promptly submit a brief, written justification prior to that employee’s approval of a payment under covered contracts and grants, subject to any exceptions the Agency Head deems appropriate.(ii)  To the maximum extent permitted by law, and to the maximum extent deemed practicable by the Agency Head, the payment justifications described in subsection (a)(i) of this section shall be posted publicly.(b)  Review of Covered Contracts and Grants.  Each Agency Head, in consultation with the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, shall review all existing covered contracts and grants and, where appropriate and consistent with applicable law, terminate or modify (including through renegotiation) such covered contracts and grants to reduce overall Federal spending or reallocate spending to promote efficiency and advance the policies of my Administration.  This process shall commence immediately and shall prioritize the review of funds disbursed under covered contracts and grants to educational institutions and foreign entities for waste, fraud, and abuse.  Each Agency Head shall complete this review within 30 days of the date of this order.(c)  Contract and Grant Process Review.  Each Agency Head, in consultation with the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, shall conduct a comprehensive review of each agency’s contracting policies, procedures, and personnel.  Each Agency Head shall complete this process within 30 days of the date of this order and shall not issue or approve new contracting officer warrants during the review period, unless the Agency Head determines such approval is necessary. (d)  CoveredContract and Grant Approval.  (i)   Following the review specified in subsection (c) of this section, and prior to entering into new contracts, each Agency Head shall, in consultation with the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, issue guidance on signing new contracts or modifying existing contracts to promote Government efficiency and the policies of my Administration.  The Agency Head may approve new contracts prior to the issuance of such guidance on a case-by-case basis. (ii)  Each DOGE Team Lead shall provide the Administrator with a monthly informational report on contracting activities.  As soon as an agency’s contract and grant justification process described in subsection (a) of this section is established, this report shall include all payment justifications provided pursuant to that process, to the extent consistent with law.(e)  Non-Essential Travel Justification.  Each Agency Head shall, with assistance from the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, build a technological system within each agency that centrally records approval for federally funded travel for conferences and other non-essential purposes.  Once an agency’s system is in place, the Agency Head shall prohibit agency employees from engaging in federally funded travel for conferences or other non-essential purposes unless the travel-approving official has submitted a brief, written justification for the federally funded travel within such system.  Each DOGE Team Lead shall, to the extent consistent with law, provide the Administrator with a monthly informational report listing each agency’s justifications for non-essential travel.  Such justifications shall be posted publicly unless prohibited by law or unless the Agency Head grants an exemption from this requirement.(f)  Credit Card Freeze.  To the maximum extent permitted by law, all credit cards held by agency employees shall be treated as frozen for 30 days from the date of this order, except for any credit cards held by employees engaged in, or charges related to employees utilizing such credit cards for, disaster relief or natural disaster response benefits or operations or other critical services as determined by the Agency Head, and subject to such additional individualized or categorical exceptions as the Agency Head, in consultation with the agency’s DOGE Team Lead, deems appropriate.(g)  Real Property Disposition.  Agencies shall take the following actions:(i)    Real Property Report.  Within 7 days of the date of this order, each Agency Head shall confirm to the Administrator of General Services or his designee that the Agency Head has submitted updates to the Federal Real Property Profile Management System to ensure the system reflects a complete and accurate inventory of real property subject to the agency’s administration.(ii)   Real Property Leases.  Within 30 days of the date of this order, each Agency Head shall promptly identify all termination rights the Agency Head may have under existing leases of Government-owned real property and, in consultation with agency’s DOGE Team Lead and the Administrator of General Services or his designee, determine whether to exercise such rights.(iii)  Real Property Disposition.  Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Administrator of General Services shall submit a plan to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for the disposition of Government-owned real property which has been deemed by the agency as no longer needed.
         Sec. 4.  General Exclusions.  This order does not apply to:(a)  Law enforcement officers, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 5541(3) and 5 C.F.R. 550.103, or covered contracts and grants directly related to the enforcement of Federal criminal or immigration law;(b)  U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the Department of Homeland Security;(c)  the Uniformed Services, as defined in 20 C.F.R. 404.1330;(d)  any other covered grant or contract, agency component, or real property that the relevant Agency Head exempts in writing from all or part of this order, in consultation with the agency’s DOGE Team Lead and the Director of OMB; or(e)  classified information or classified information systems.
         Sec. 5.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.(b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.(c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    THE WHITE HOUSE,    February 26, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Praises Trump’s Solicitor General Pick, Urges DOJ to Correct Course on Religious Liberty

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Wednesday, February 26, 2025

    In a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing this morning, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley introduced fellow Missourian, John Sauer—a former colleague of the Senator—whom President Donald Trump has tapped to be the next U.S. Solicitor General, the nation’s top appellate attorney.

    Senator Hawley also questioned Harmeet Dhillon, President Trump’s choice for U.S. Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division, on the need to protect Americans’ expression of faith after four years of disregard for religious liberties during the Biden Administration.

    [embedded content]

    Watch the full video here, or click on the image above.

    Senator Hawley spoke of Sauer’s Missouri roots and described their work together at the Missouri Attorney General’s office beginning in 2017.

    “I was elected Attorney General of the state of Missouri, and the Missouri Attorney General’s office, at that time, did not have an office of the Solicitor General, and I thought it was important to create one . . . I couldn’t think of anybody better—of all the attorneys that I’d had the privilege of working with—than John,” said Senator Hawley.

    Senator Hawley went on to question Dhillon, citing the unprecedented attacks on American Catholics and pregnancy care centers under the Biden Administration.

    “Will you commit to stopping the disparate treatment of Americans on the basis of religious faith that we have seen in the last four years?” he asked.

    Dhillon assured the Senator that fighting for people of faith would be a priority for her as Assistant Attorney General, as it has been in her past litigation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Proud to Confirm Greer as U.S. Trade Representative

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today regarding the confirmation of Jamieson Greer as the U.S. Trade Representative: 

    “Millions of American jobs – including the many thousands tied to auto manufacturing and bourbon production in Kentucky – depend on policies that preserve free and fair trade. I’m glad our nation’s Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, recognizes, as I do, the central role trade with our allies plays in America’s security and prosperity. The Senate has a constitutional prerogative over international trade policy, and I look forward to working closely with Jamieson to put American workers in the best possible position as he executes the President’s trade agenda.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy renews calls to protect Diego Garcia military base ahead of UK PM Starmer’s visit to Washington

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments here.

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) urged United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer not to move forward with his plan to hand over the Chagos Islands, including the U.S.-U.K. military base on Diego Garcia, to Mauritius in a speech on the Senate floor. Starmer will travel to Washington this week to meet with President Trump.  

    Key excerpts of the speech are below:

    “Now, there is one other thing you need to know. Mauritius is very close to China. Mauritius has a very lucrative trade agreement with China, and you’ll not be surprised to learn that, after all of this has been developing, China all of a sudden is Mauritius’s best friend. Do you know why? Because if Prime Minister Starmer does this, Mauritius is going to own the base. They are going to own the base.”

    . . .

    “I don’t care what Prime Minister Starmer promises you. The only reason he is doing this is because he feels guilty because the United Nations has said that the United Kingdom should be ashamed of its history and ashamed that it at one time owned colonies. 

    “People of the United Kingdom can feel what they want. That is none of my business. But we have got an American military base there, and it is very important to defend the Indian Ocean against China. . . . I am sorry he feels guilty. He needs to go buy an emotional support pony, but he doesn’t need to give away an American military base.”

    Background

    • The U.K. had previously announced on Oct. 3, 2024, that it had reached a deal with Mauritius to cede the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. This deal between the U.K. and Mauritius would jeopardize the security of a key U.S.-U.K. military base on Deigo Garcia by potentially exposing the island to Chinese espionage efforts, according to a report from the Policy Exchange.
    • Negotiations between the U.K. and Mauritius followed a years-long pressure campaign from the United Nations to get England out of the Chagos Islands. The Biden administration also reportedly pressured the U.K. to enter the deal with Mauritius before the American and Mauritian elections took place—an idea Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially endorsed. 
    • On Oct. 23, 2024, Kennedy wrote to then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken seeking answers about the Biden administration’s involvement in the deal between the U.K. and Mauritius.
    • Kennedy also penned this op-ed in Oct. 2024 arguing that the Biden administration owes the American people an explanation for its decision to allow this deal between the U.K. and Mauritius to move forward.
    • On Jan. 15, 2025, Starmer announced that he wanted President Trump and his administration to weigh in on any deal struck between the U.K. and Mauritius regarding the transfer of the Chagos Islands, including the transfer of the U.S.-U.K. shared military base on the island of Diego Garcia. 
    • Kennedy published this op-ed in Jan. 2025 welcoming the U.K.’s change of heart after Starmer announced that he would include the Trump administration in the ongoing negotiations with Mauritius.
    • As a congressman, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has criticized the Oct. 2024 deal, saying, “Should the U.K. cede control of the Chagos to Mauritius, I have no doubt that China will take advantage of the resulting vacuum.” 
    • As a senator, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has similarly condemned the deal and said it “poses a serious threat to our national security interests in the Indian Ocean and threatens critical U.S. military posture in the region.”

    Watch Kennedy’s full speech here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy condemns Biden admin for doling out $2B to Abrams-backed climate change organization

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments here.

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), in a speech on the Senate floor, questioned how a six-month-old nonprofit with $100 in the bank and ties to former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams was able to secure a $2 billion climate change grant from President Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

    Key excerpts of the speech are below:

    “I try to see the world from other people’s bell towers as much as I can, but I cannot come up, not for the life of me, with a single rational justification as to why the EPA under the Biden administration thought it was appropriate to give Power Forward and Rewiring America—two brand new nonprofits with no business experience, no accomplishments according to the IRS forms, and only 100 bucks in the bank—to give them $2 billion of taxpayer money, especially to the exclusion of every other qualified applicant for that money, if there were any other qualified applicants.”

    . . .

    “The average Louisianian, because of President Biden’s inflation, had to spend an extra $890 a month—extra—for food and clothing and car notes, and they didn’t get an $890-a-month raise.

    “President Biden and my Democratic colleagues told us that the Inflation Reduction Act—I remember when it was passed. They said: ‘If you spend $1.2 trillion on the Inflation Reduction Act, it will be a lifeline to every family in America.’ That is not what it looks like to me. It is starting to look like to me that it was really a slush fund—a slush fund for Washington insiders.”

    . . .

    “Now, this is just the beginning of the type of spending porn that President Trump and Mr. [Elon] Musk are uncovering that people are screaming about. I am going to repeat what I started with: There is nothing wrong with wanting to know what they do and did with our money, and that is all President Trump and Mr. Musk are doing.”

    Background

    • In April 2024, President Biden’s EPA announced the award of a $2 billion federal grant to Power Forward Communities through the Inflation Reduction Act’s Green House Gas Reduction Fund. The grant was to help homes transition from gas appliances to electric.
    • Power Forward Communities formed in Oct. 2023 as a coalition of nonprofits, including Habitat for Humanity International, United Way Worldwide, and Rewiring America. According to its tax filings, Power Forward Communities had just $100 in revenues in 2023.
    • Rewiring America similarly formed in 2023. Abrams joined the nonprofit in March 2023 as senior counsel. The organization stated in its tax filings that 2023 was a “startup year for the organization.” Rewiring America’s only listed accomplishment was that it had “joined a coalition of other national organizations to apply for a grant from the Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.”
    • EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has pledged to claw back more than $20 billion in improper Inflation Reduction Act grants, including the $2 billion to Power Forward Communities.

    Watch Kennedy’s full speech here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Scott Moves to Reauthorize Sickle Cell Treatment Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced legislation to reauthorize the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program, which was last reauthorized in 2018. 

    Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder predominantly affecting African Americans, Latinos, and other minority groups. Individuals with SCD have a significantly lower life expectancy than the overall population. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sickle cell affects 100,000 individuals in the United States.

    “Reauthorizing this program will allow us to expand access to research and treatment for rare blood diseases and reduce the number of people in already overwhelmed emergency rooms. I am glad to play a small role in easing the burden that SCD has on too many individuals and their families,” said Senator Scott. “This legislation will help ensure continued innovation and advancement of life-changing SCD care.” 

    “Since 2018, the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program has expanded access to care for people suffering from SCD and saved lives,” said Senator Booker. “Reauthorizing this crucial program will allow us to continue allocating resources for research and treatment of sickle cell disease. I’m proud of the progress we have made and urge my colleagues in Congress to reauthorize this program so we can continue to make advancements and improve care for SCD patients across the nation.”

    The Sickle Cell Disease Treatment and Demonstration Program:

    • Increases the number of clinicians knowledgeable about SCD care; 
    • Improves the quality of care provided to individuals with SCD; 
    • Develops best practices for coordination of services during the pediatric to adult care transition; and
    • Improves care coordination with other providers. 

    The full text of the legislation can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –