Category: Americas

MIL-OSI Security: Two National MS-13 Gang Leaders and Other MS-13 Members and Associates Indicted for Murders in Queens and Long Island
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

Superseding Indictment Adds Charges Relating to Three Murders, Including Charges Against National Gang Leaders Edenilson Velasquez Larin and Hugo Diaz Amaya
A 49-count superseding indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn that includes new charges relating to murders allegedly ordered and committed by national leaders, members and associates of the violent transnational criminal organization La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13. To date, multiple MS-13 members and associates have been charged in the case for numerous crimes including the murders of Andy Peralta in 2018, Victor Alvarenga in 2018, Abel Mosso in 2019 and Eric Monge in 2020. The superseding indictment filed today includes new charges against the following MS-13 members and associates:
- Edenilson Velasquez Larin, also known as “Agresor,” “Saturno,” “Tiny,” “Erick” and “Paco,” allegedly a national leader of MS-13 and the Fulton Locos Salvatruchas (Fulton) clique, who is charged with the 2016 murder of Kenney Reyes and for ordering the murders of Monge in 2020 and Oswaldo Gutierrez Medrano in 2022.
- Hugo Diaz Amaya, also known as “21” and “Splinter,” allegedly another national leader of MS-13 and the Park View Locos Salvatruchas clique, who is charged with racketeering conspiracy and the murder of Gutierrez Medrano in 2022.
- Numerous other members of the Fulton clique, all of whom were previously charged in the case, have also now been charged with the murders of Reyes, Monge and Gutierrez Medrano.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York, Thomas G. Donlon, Interim Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), and Patrick Ryder, Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department (NCPD), announced the arrests and charges.

“My Office and our law enforcement partners have worked tirelessly to hold MS-13 accountable for the unspeakable harm it has done to its victims and our communities. As these charges make clear, our pursuit of those responsible will not be deterred by the passage of time or by the leaders of MS-13’s futile attempts to hide in the shadows,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “This indictment strikes yet another blow at MS-13’s leadership and demonstrates our work to dismantle MS-13 from top to bottom.”

Mr. Peace also thanked the FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Cross Border Task Force, the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office for their valuable coordination with the investigation.

“Edenilson Velasquez Larin and Hugo Diaz Amaya, national MS-13 leaders, allegedly assumed the role of executioner by ordering and participating with the other charged defendants in a series of brutal murders to achieve status and revenge. These alleged conspiracies highlight the fearmongering and callousness in which MS-13 leaders and members operate. May today’s charges reflect the FBI’s commitment to continue its close collaboration with our law enforcement partners to rigorously dismantle the MS-13 hierarchy and disrupt all gang violence terrorizing our communities,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.

“The defendants’ ruthless violence, in furtherance of the MS-13 gang, has no place in society and our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker. “Everyday, HSI New York and our law enforcement partners are utilizing every tool at our disposal to dismantle transnational gangs that jeopardize the safety of New Yorkers, as demonstrated with today’s announcement. No stone will be left unturned in our pursuit of justice on behalf of the victims slain by MS-13 gang members.”

“These new charges highlight the NYPD’s relentless pursuit of individuals terrorizing our communities,” stated NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “We and our law enforcement partners must continue to find and dismantle the gangs that fuel crime on our streets, and we must hold their members accountable for their senseless acts of violence. I express my gratitude to all of our federal, state, and local partners for their steadfast dedication to our shared public safety goal.”

“We want to thank our partners in federal law enforcement, particularly the United States Attorney’s Office, for this collaborative effort to bring these violent and destructive criminals to justice,” stated Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder. “From our patrol officers on the street to the dedicated investigators in our Detective Division, the Nassau County Police Department is committed to fighting gang violence and rooting out those who bring destruction to our communities.”

The U.S. Program

As alleged in court filings, MS-13 is an extraordinarily violent street gang operating through “cliques” or chapters in Queens, Long Island and communities across the United States, as well as El Salvador, Honduras and other countries in the Americas and Europe. The gang primarily makes money through drug trafficking and extortion, and is known for its gruesome murders of perceived gang rivals and gang members and associates who have violated the gang’s rules. MS-13 has been responsible for dozens of murders in the Eastern District of New York alone.

Since approximately 2021, virtually all MS-13 cliques in the United States have been united under a single hierarchy known as the “U.S. Program.” The U.S. Program is led by a group of senior gang leaders, most of whom are incarcerated, known as “La Mesa” or “The Table.” La Mesa, among other roles, allegedly authorizes and directs murders throughout the country, including in New York. Prior to their arrests, Velasquez Larin and Diaz Amaya were allegedly two of the few members of La Mesa outside of prison — Velasquez Larin was living in Colorado and Diaz Amaya was living in Kansas — and were among the top leaders responsible for the gang’s operations on the East Coast.

Murder of Kenny Reyes

The superseding indictment adds charges for the 2016 murder in Uniondale, New York, of 18-year-old Kenny Reyes, who had recently come to the United States from Honduras. As alleged in court filings, Fulton clique member Jose Espinoza Sanchez befriended Reyes and learned that he had been associated with the 18th Street gang, rivals of MS-13. Velasquez Larin and Espinoza Sanchez plotted with other members of MS-13 in Nassau County to murder Reyes to increase their positions in the gang. On May 23, 2016, Velasquez Larin, Espinoza Sanchez and two others lured Reyes to a wooded area to smoke marijuana, where they killed him with machetes and buried his body. For years after the murder, Velasquez Larin bragged about their roles in the killing to other MS-13 members.

Murder of Eric Monge

The superseding indictment charges Velasquez Larin and Espinoza Sanchez for their roles in ordering the murder of Eric Monge, and Jose Guevara Aguilar, Jose Arevalo Iraheta and Erick Zavala Hernandez for their participation in the murder. As alleged, in the early morning hours of September 6, 2020, Guevara Aguilar and fellow Fulton clique member Oscar Hernandez Baires shot and killed Monge while he was seated in the front passenger seat of his parked car near his home in Queens. Monge’s wife had just returned to the car after bringing their young children inside their residence when Hernandez Baires and Guevara Aguilar began shooting. After the shooting, Guevara Aguilar and Hernandez Baires ran back to a car where Arevalo Iraheta and Zavala Hernandez were waiting to help them escape. As they fled to the car, Guevara Aguilar dropped his hat, which was later found to have his DNA on it.

Murder of Oswaldo Gutierrez Medrano

The superseding indictment also adds charges relating to the 2022 murder in Nassau County of 20-year-old Oswaldo Gutierrez Medrano, a member of the Sailors clique of MS-13. As alleged, Velasquez Larin and Diaz Amaya ordered the murder of Gutierrez Medrano, and Diaz Amaya coordinated luring Gutierrez Medrano to meet other MS-13 members under the false pretense that he would be receiving a promotion within MS-13. In Nassau County, on February 13, 2022, Gutierrez Medrano allegedly met with those other members of MS-13, including defendants Arevalo Iraheta, Carlos Alvarado, Erick Galdamez Leon and Jose Mejia Hernandez, who allegedly killed him with machetes and knives, dismembered his body and buried him in a wooded area.

The charges in the superseding indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

This case was investigated as part of the ongoing efforts by the OCDETF, a partnership that brings together the combined expertise of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.

Today’s charges are the latest in a series of federal prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York targeting members of the MS-13. Since 2003, hundreds of MS-13 members, including dozens of clique leaders, have been convicted on federal felony charges in the Eastern District of New York. A majority of those MS-13 members have been convicted on federal racketeering charges for participating in murders, attempted murders and assaults. Since 2009, this Office has obtained indictments charging MS-13 members with carrying out more than 70 murders in the district and has convicted dozens of MS-13 leaders and members in connection with those murders. These prosecutions are the product of investigations led by our law enforcement partners.

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan Siegel, Michael W. Gibaldi, Anna L. Karamigios and Sophia M. Suarez are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Eleanor Jaffe-Pachuilo.

New Defendant:

HUGO DIAZ AMAYA (also known as “21” and “Splinter”)
Age: 36
Kansas City, Kansas

Defendants Previously Indicted:

RAMIRO GUTIERREZ (also known as “Cara de Malo”)
Age: 31
Flushing, New York

VICTOR LOPEZ (also known as “Curioso”)
Age: 26
Flushing, New York

TITO MARTINEZ-ALVARENGA (also known as “Imprudente”)
Age: 24
Flushing, New York

ISMAEL SANTOS-NOVOA (also known as “Profe” and “Travieso”)
Age: 36
Flushing, New York

EDENILSON VELASQUEZ LARIN (also known as “Agresor,” “Saturno,” “Tiny,” “Erick” and “Paco”)
Age: 35
Thornton, Colorado

CHRISTIAN ALAS LEON (also known as “Pata de Chucho”)
Age: 26
Westbury, New York

CARLOS ALVARADO (also known as “Brayle” and “Danny”)
Age: 21
Westbury, New York

JOSE AREVALO IRAHETA (also known as “Splinter,” “Inesperado” and “Daniel”)
Age: 27
Queens, New York

JOSE ESPINOZA SANCHEZ (also known as “Cable,” “Bleca,” “Clave,” “Fantasma” and “Victor”)
Age: 25
Carrboro, North Carolina

ERICK GALDAMEZ LEON (also known as “Truco,” “Burro,” and “Chicle”)
Age: 24
Westbury, New York

JOSE GUEVARA AGUILAR (also known as “Tranquilo,” “Malhechor,” and “Angel”
Age: 25
Queens, New York

KEILA HERNANDEZ MAY
Age: 37
Carrboro, North Carolina

YONATHAN HERNANDEZ
Age: 25
Hempstead, New York

JOSE MEJIA HERNANDEZ (also known as “Mismo” and “Timbre”)
Age: 22
Westbury, New York

JOSE PEREZ OVANDO (also known as “Domino” and “Incompleto”)
Age: 24
Westbury, New York

ERICK ZAVALA HERNANDEZ (also known as “Berry,” “Berro,” and “Alex”)
Age: 26
Queens, New York

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-228 (S-3) (LDH)
MIL Security OSI –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Leader of International Stock Manipulation Ring Pleads Guilty

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that RONALD BAUER pled guilty to conspiring to commit securities fraud in connection with his role in a long-running “pump-and-dump” stock manipulation scheme. BAUER pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 20, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “For years, Ronald Bauer orchestrated a sprawling ‘pump-and-dump’ scheme involving the shares of numerous U.S.-based issuers that preyed on ordinary, retail investors. While Bauer and his co-conspirators lived outside of the United States, they took advantage of the U.S. markets to perpetrate their fraud and reaped millions upon millions in profits at the expense of the victims. Today’s guilty plea should send a clear message that this Office is committed to holding market manipulators accountable no matter how hard they try to conceal their crimes.”

According to allegations in the Indictment, public filings, and statements made in court:

BAUER, a/k/a “Patek,” a citizen of Canada and the United Kingdom who resided in the United Kingdom, orchestrated numerous “pump-and-dump” schemes, controlling various aspects of the plans. The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) had previously filed securities fraud claims against BAUER in 2005 for engaging in an alleged market manipulation scheme that was alleged to have issued false and misleading press releases while secretly dumping tens of millions of shares into the inflated market that BAUER and his associates had created. In 2006, without admitting or denying the allegations, BAUER consented to the entry of a judgment against him providing for injunctive relief, barring BAUER from serving as an officer or director of a public company or participating in an offering of penny stock for a period of five years, and payment of disgorgement of $840,000.

As he admitted in connection with his guilty plea, BAUER and his co-conspirators participated in a conspiracy to commit securities fraud with respect to seven issuers: Cantabio Pharmaceuticals Inc. (CTBO) (previously Lion Consulting Group (LIOC)); Virtus Oil and Gas Corp. (VOIL) (previously Curry Gold Corp. (CURGD)); Steampunk Wizards (SPWZ) (previously Freedom Petroleum (FPET)); Black Stallion Oil and Gas Inc. (BLKG) (previously Secure IT Corp.); PetroTerra Corp. (previously Loran Connection Corp (LRNC)); Black River Petroleum (BRPC) (previously American Copper Corp. (AMCU)); and Cyberfort Software Inc. (CYBF) (previously Patriot Berry Farms (PBFI)) (collectively, the “Issuers”).

To perpetrate the “pump-and-dump” scheme, BAUER and his co-conspirators obtained ownership and control of all or the vast majority of the unrestricted (i.e., free trading) stock of the Issuers. BAUER and his co-conspirators sought to conceal their beneficial ownership of these controlling interests in the shares of the Issuers by causing their shares to be distributed to and divided amongst nominee entities that had been established by a Swiss corporation called Blacklight, S.A. These entities were nominally owned by unrelated third parties but were, in fact, controlled by BAUER or his co-conspirators. Thereafter, BAUER and his co-conspirators retained trading authority over the blocks of shares of the Issuers held by the Blacklight nominee entities and BAUER regularly provided trading instructions with respect to these shares to executives or employees at Blacklight. In addition, BAUER and his co-conspirators effectively controlled or otherwise maintained significant influence over the management of the Issuers during the “pump-and-dump” scheme.

At times, BAUER and his co-conspirators caused nominees to engage in “match trades”—i.e., place both buy and sell orders in the same stock on the same day—for no legitimate economic purpose. Furthermore, BAUER and his co-conspirators financed and coordinated promotional campaigns touting the Issuers to stoke trading interest in the Issuers’ stock, though without publicly disclosing their relationship to the promotional campaigns, their controlling interest, or their intent to sell a significant percentage of their holdings into the buying interest that they intended the promotional campaigns would generate. BAUER and his co-conspirators took steps to conceal the fact that the nominee entities they controlled were the true funding source for the promotional campaigns.

During or shortly after the promotional campaigns, BAUER and his co-conspirators caused the Blacklight nominee entities to engage in trading activity in the Issuers’ stock, including selling a large percentage of their holdings of the Issuers’ stock, then caused the Blacklight nominee entities they controlled to remit to them the proceeds of the stock sales.

* * *

BAUER, 49, of London, United Kingdom, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. As part of his guilty plea, a money judgment in the amount of $4,377,228.74 was entered against BAUER.

The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He further thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs of the Department’s Criminal Division, as well as authorities in the United Kingdom, in particular the Crown Prosecution Service’s National Extradition Unit. Finally, Mr. Williams also thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission, which separately initiated civil proceedings against BAUER.

The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Richman, Matthew R. Shahabian, Noah Solowiejczyk, and Vladislav Vainberg are in charge of the prosecution.

MIL Security OSI –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Romance Scammer Who Took U.S. Citizens Hostage in the Dominican Republic Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

WASHINGTON – Deivy Jose Rodriguez Delgado, 30, a Venezuelan national, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to 25 years in federal prison for the 2022 armed hostage takings of three U.S. citizens in the Dominican Republic, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and FBI Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the Miami Field Office.

On December 11, 2023, after a nearly two week trial, a jury convicted Delgado of one count of conspiracy to commit hostage taking and three counts of hostage taking. In addition to the prison sentence, U.S. District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg ordered Delgado to serve five years of supervised release. Following his release from prison, Delgado will be subject to deportation proceedings.

According to the government’s evidence, Delgado, also known as “Sebastian,” kidnapped three men in separate instances between July 5 and July 30, 2022. In each of the three hostage-takings, Delgado lured his victim online with the promise of a friendly “date” and picked the victim up in his car. After driving a short distance, Delgado suddenly stopped to let an accomplice into the backseat, at which point Delgado and his accomplice held the victim at knifepoint, physically restrained the victim, and demanded ransom for his release. Delgado ordered that the ransoms be paid to online banking accounts, including the same CashApp account.

Each of the three victims was forced at knifepoint to call his friends and family and ask for money to secure his release. The victims were held in captivity by Delgado and his accomplice(s) for up to an hour and were only released after Delgado believed a ransom payment had been made by the victims’ friends and family. In all three hostage takings, the victims were also robbed of their personal belongings before being released on the streets of the Dominican Republic.

Following multiple victim reports, Dominican authorities began an investigation in August 2022. Local law enforcement in the Dominican Republic traced a vehicle used in one of the hostage takings to Delgado and arrested him on Sept. 14, 2022. During a search of the vehicle, Dominican authorities found two serrated knifes like those used in the hostage takings.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Miami Field Office with valuable assistance provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Dominican Republic’s Division Especial de Investigacion de Crimen Organizado Internacional (DECROI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Korba and Jolie Zimmerman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia with assistance from paralegal Michael Watts.

##

Deivy Jose Rodriguez Delgado, 30, a Venezuelan national, used this image of himself to meet his victims on a social media dating application.

During a search of the vehicle linked to Delgado, Dominican authorities found two serrated knifes like those used in the hostage takings.

An image Delgado used on his social media app to lure victims.

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MIL Security OSI –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Methamphetamine Delivery to Fresno

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

FRESNO, Calif. — Donis Ariel Maldonado, 28, a Guatemalan national residing in El Monte, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

According to court documents, Maldonado agreed with other members of the conspiracy to distribute 22 pounds of heroin and over 80 pounds of methamphetamine sourced from Mexico. On June 24, 2019, Maldonado delivered the drugs to an informant in Fresno.

This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, and the High Impact Investigation Team (HIIT), a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Initiative (HIDTA), which consists of personnel from the California Department of Justice, Fresno Police Department, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, California Highway Patrol, Madera County Sheriff’s Office, Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.

Maldonado is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Feb. 18, 2025. Maldonado faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $2 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

MIL Security OSI –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: Enstar Acquires Bermuda Reinsurer in its Second Property ILS Transaction

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HAMILTON, Bermuda, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enstar Group Limited (Nasdaq: ESGR) today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Cavello Bay Reinsurance Limited (“Cavello Bay”), has acquired a Bermuda-domiciled Class 3B insurer and segregated accounts company (the “Reinsurer”).

The Reinsurer underwrote property reinsurance business between 2020 and 2023 on behalf of third-party investors, assuming the risk through retrocession agreements with a fronting carrier. The Reinsurer had $66 million of shareholders’ equity at the end of July 2024.

The Reinsurer will be merged into Cavello Bay and a consolidated and amended retrocession agreement between the fronting carrier and Cavello Bay will become effective.

Dominic Silvester, Chief Executive Officer of Enstar, said: “This acquisition is our second transaction in the property ILS space in recent months, which we see as a growth market for legacy solutions. The deal structure eliminates collateral requirements, demonstrating the benefit of Cavello Bay’s strong balance sheet and financial strength rating.”

About Enstar

Enstar is a NASDAQ-listed leading global insurance group that offers capital release solutions through its network of group companies in Bermuda, the United States, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, Australia and other international locations. A market leader in completing legacy acquisitions, Enstar has acquired over 120 companies and portfolios since its formation. For further information about Enstar, see www.enstargroup.com.

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Enstar and its management team. Investors can identify these statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as ‘aim’, ‘ambition’, ‘anticipate’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘intend’, ‘will’, ‘project’, ‘plan’, ‘believe’, ‘target’ and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of future events or performance. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Important risk factors regarding Enstar can be found under the heading “Risk Factors” in Enstar’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and Enstar’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2024 and are incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, Enstar undertakes no obligation to update any written or oral forward-looking statements or publicly announce any updates or revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein, to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, except as required by law.

Contact:

For Enstar:
For Investors: Matthew Kirk (investor.relations@enstargroup.com)
For Media: Jenna Kerr (communications@enstargroup.com)

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: Enstar Group Limited Announces Quarterly Preference Share Dividends

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HAMILTON, Bermuda, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enstar Group Limited (“Enstar”) (Nasdaq: ESGR) today announced that it will pay cash dividends on its Series D and Series E preference shares.

Dividends on Enstar’s Series D 7.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Perpetual Non-Cumulative Preference Shares of $0.43750 per depositary share (each of which represents a 1/1,000th interest in a Series D Preference Share) will be payable on December 1, 2024 to shareholders of record on November 15, 2024.

Dividends on Enstar’s Series E 7.00% Perpetual Non-Cumulative Preference Shares of $0.43750 per depositary share (each of which represents a 1/1,000th interest in a Series E Preference Share) will be payable on December 1, 2024 to shareholders of record on November 15, 2024.

About Enstar

Enstar is a NASDAQ-listed leading global insurance group that offers capital release solutions through its network of group companies in Bermuda, the United States, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, Australia and other international locations. A market leader in completing legacy acquisitions, Enstar has acquired over 120 companies and portfolios since its formation. For further information about Enstar, see www.enstargroup.com.

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Enstar and its management team. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Important risk factors regarding Enstar can be found under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the interim period ended June 30, 2024 and are incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, Enstar undertakes no obligation to update any written or oral forward-looking statements or publicly announce any updates or revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein, to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, except as required by law.

Contact: Enstar Communications
Telephone: +1 (441) 292-3645

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: Oak Valley Community Bank Receives Approval On $125,000 in Grants Submitted to Support Turlock Gospel Mission and Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne County

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OAKDALE, Calif., Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oak Valley Community Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oak Valley Bancorp (NASDAQ: OVLY), announced they have received approval on two 2024 AHEAD grants which were submitted to the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLBank San Francisco) on behalf of Turlock Gospel Mission and Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne County for $100,000 and $25,000, respectively.

The communities in Stanislaus and Tuolumne counties are one step closer to getting a needed boost in affordable housing and job training. This highly impactful grant will support Turlock Gospel Mission to create new jobs and purchase equipment for their workforce development and job training program, Volente Coffee Roasters. The grant will support Habitat for Humanity’s digital reach and community engagement in Sonora, CA, by upgrading their communication infrastructure.

As a sponsor of FHLBank San Francisco’s Community Investment Programs and advocate for the services Turlock Gospel Mission and Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne County provide to our community, Oak Valley Community Bank authored and provided supplemental input for this grant. Jose Sabala, Oak Valley’s Community Reinvestment Officer, remarked, “We are deeply honored to facilitate these grants for Turlock Gospel Mission and Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne County. As a community-driven bank, we are dedicated to forging partnerships that create meaningful, lasting change within our communities. The support from FHLBank San Francisco underscores a shared commitment to directing vital resources to the communities we proudly serve, and we are grateful for the chance to make a tangible impact together.”

“These grants delivered in partnership with our member Oak Valley Community Bank will help boost economic opportunity and create access to vital services and support that can be life-changing for people engaged with these programs serving Stanislaus and Tuolumne counties,” said Eric Cicourel, community investment officer for FHLBank San Francisco. “We’re proud that for 20 years and counting, the AHEAD Program continues to make a positive impact throughout the communities we serve.”

AHEAD economic development grants enable FHLBank San Francisco member financial institutions like Oak Valley Community Bank to fund economic development projects that target pressing community needs and bring greater opportunity to underserved populations. AHEAD grants support innovative, targeted initiatives that will create new economic opportunity by expanding proven development models or piloting new interventions. Grants are awarded annually to the Bank’s members partnering with local nonprofits to meet diverse local needs. The grant is part of a $7.3 million disbursement of AHEAD funds awarded to 84 innovative economic development projects in Arizona, California, and Nevada. A full list of 2024 AHEAD grants are available on the FHLBank San Francisco website.

About Turlock Gospel Mission:

Turlock Gospel Mission is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 2007. Turlock Gospel Mission offers three meals per day, emergency overnight shelter for men, women, and their children, both Men’s and Women’s Restoration Program, and guest services including case management, transportation, clothes closet, shelter from inclement weather, on-site pet kennels, pastoral counseling, and culinary job training. For more information, call (209) 656-1033 or visit turlockgospelmission.org.

About Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne County:

Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 1999. They are dedicated to eliminating substandard housing through constructing homes, advocating for fair and just housing policies, and providing training and access to resources to help families become self-reliant and successful homeowners. For more information, call (209) 536-0970 or visit www.habitattuolumne.org.

About Oak Valley Community Bank:

Oak Valley Bancorp operates Oak Valley Community Bank & their Eastern Sierra Community Bank division, through which it offers a variety of loan and deposit products to individuals and small businesses. They currently operate through 18 conveniently located branches: Oakdale, Turlock, Stockton, Patterson, Ripon, Escalon, Manteca, Tracy, Sacramento, Roseville, two branches in Sonora, three branches in Modesto, and three branches in their Eastern Sierra division, which includes Bridgeport, Mammoth Lakes, and Bishop. For more information, call 1-866-844-7500 or visit www.ovcb.com.

Contact: Chris Courtney/Rick McCarty

Phone: (209) 848-BANK (2265)
Toll Free (866) 844–7500
www.ovcb.com

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: DLC Releases Q3-2024 Results; Achieves $19.7 Billion in Funded Volumes for Q3-2024 (11% Increase over Prior Year)

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dominion Lending Centres Inc. (TSX:DLCG) (“DLCG” or the “Corporation”) is pleased to report its financial results for the three (“Q3-2024”) and nine months ended September 30, 2024. For complete information, readers should refer to the interim financial statements and management discussion and analysis which are dated November 5, 2024 and are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Corporation’s website at www.dlcg.ca. All amounts are presented in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

DLCG includes the Corporation and its three main subsidiaries: MCC Mortgage Centres Canada Inc. (“MCC”), MA Mortgage Architects Inc. (“MA”), and Newton Connectivity Systems Inc. (“Newton”).

Gary Mauris, Executive Chairman and CEO, commented, “The DLC Group maintained its strong momentum from the first half of the year, achieving an 11% increase in funded volumes and a 13% increase in revenues for Q3-2024 compared to Q3-2023. We are pleased that the adoption of our technology connectivity platform ‘Velocity’ continues to grow, increasing to 73% of DLCG-submitted volumes in Q3-2024. As we look ahead, we are focused on our core objectives of recruitment and retention of franchises and brokers, and onboarding of brokers onto Velocity. The DLC Group, its franchisees, and its mortgage professionals have worked hard to achieve the continued success, and we feel well positioned to capitalize on market conditions as interest rates decline.”

Q3-2024 Summary:

Q3-2024 funded volumes of $19.7 billion, representing an 11% increase as compared to Q3-2023;
Q3-2024 revenue of $22.1 million, representing a 13% increase compared to Q3-2023;
Q3-2024 adjusted EBITDA of $12.2 million as compared to $10.1 million in Q3-2023;
The Corporation’s Q3-2024 net income of $5.3 million is consistent with Q3-2023, primarily from higher income from operations from increased funded volumes, and increased revenues offset by higher non-cash finance expense on the Preferred Share liability;
The Corporation declared a quarterly dividend of $0.03 per class A common share (“Common Share”), resulting in a dividend payment of $1.4 million in Q3-2024; and
On October 2, 2024, the Corporation entered into an acquisition agreement with KayMaur Holdings Ltd. and certain minority holders to acquire (“Proposed Acquisition”) all of the issued and outstanding Preferred Shares in exchange for $137 million payable as follows: 30,500,000 class “A” common shares (having a 20 day volume weighted average price of $4.00 per share on the date of announcement) and an aggregate cash payment of $15.0 million. The Proposed Acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including approval by the Exchange. If such conditions are met, the Corporation anticipates closing to occur at or near the end of 2024.

Selected Consolidated Financial Summary:
Below is a summary of our financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023.

	Three months ended Sept. 30,					Nine months ended Sept. 30,
(in thousands, except per share and KPIs)		2024		2023	Change		2024		2023	Change
Revenues	$	22,073	$	19,578	13%	$	54,497	$	46,759	17%
Income from operations		10,215		8,879	15%		21,063		14,397	46%
Adjusted EBITDA ⁽¹⁾		12,218		10,116	21%		25,746		17,913	44%
Adjusted EBITDA margin		55%		52%	3%		47%		38%	9%
Free cash flow attributable to common shareholders ⁽¹⁾		5,609		4,607	22%		10,529		5,424	94%
Net income ⁽²⁾		5,271		5,271	–		11,987		2,067	480%
Adjusted net income ⁽¹⁾		3,754		3,115	21%		7,792		4,973	57%
Diluted earnings per Common Share ⁽²⁾		0.11		0.11	–		0.25		0.04	525%
Adjusted diluted earnings per Common Share ⁽¹⁾		0.08		0.06	33%		0.16		0.10	60%
Dividends declared per share	$	0.03	$	0.03	–	$	0.09	$	0.09	–

Funded mortgage volumes ⁽³⁾		19.7		17.7	11%		47.8		42.3	13%
Number of franchises ⁽⁴⁾		521		526	(1%)		521		526	(1%)
Number of brokers ⁽⁴⁾		8,784		8,081	9%		8,784		8,081	9%
% of DLCG funded mortgage volumes submitted through Velocity		73%		64%	9%		72%		63%	9%

₍₁₎	_{Please see the Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures section of the accompanying MD&A for additional information.}
₍₂₎	_{Net income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 includes $2.0 million and $4.5 million of non-cash finance expense on the Preferred Share liability (September 30, 2023 – $0.9 million and $8.0 million expense). The Preferred Share liability is revalued at the end of each reporting period to reflect our most recent outlook and forecast. Refer to the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A for additional information.}
₍₃₎	_{Funded mortgage volumes are presented in billions.}
₍₄₎	_{The number of franchises and brokers are as at the respective period end date (not in thousands).}

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Corporation saw an increase in revenues over the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 from higher Newton revenues primarily due to an increase in Velocity adoption and lender contract renewals. In addition, revenue increased from an increase in mortgage brokers under a DLC Corporate franchise contributing to higher revenues from the brokering of mortgages. Further, our funded mortgage volumes increased during the three and nine month periods when compared to 2023’s equivalent periods, which contributed to increased revenues during those periods.

As the Corporation’s operating expenses are largely fixed in nature and are not necessarily proportionate to changes in revenues, changes in the Corporation’s revenues have a more pronounced impact on adjusted net income, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins. As such, these metrics have increased, with higher revenues during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 when compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023.

Income from operations increased from higher revenues but was partly offset by an increase in operating expenses during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 when compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in operating expenses is primarily from an increase in direct costs from higher franchise recruiting and support costs.

Net income increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, and was consistent for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the prior year periods. The increase during the nine-month period is primarily from higher revenue and lower other expenses. Other expenses decreased during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, primarily from period-over-period variances in finance expense on the Preferred Share liability (refer to Preferred Shares section the accompanying MD&A for additional information), finance expense, gain on disposal of an equity-accounted investment, and other income. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, higher revenue was partly offset by higher operating expenses and higher other expenses. Other expenses increased during the three months ended September 30, 2024, primarily from period-over-period variances in finance expense on the Preferred Share liability (refer to Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A for additional information).

On April 25, 2024, the Corporation disposed of its 52% interest in Cape Communications International Inc. (operating as “Impact”) for cash proceeds of $3.7 million which was used to fully repay the Junior Credit Facility. The $0.7 million gain on disposal of an equity-accounted investment for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 relates to cumulative amounts arising on foreign exchange translation of Impact that were previously recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and were reclassified to income on the sale of Impact. Other income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 includes $1.0 million related to reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (refer to Related Party section of the accompanying MD&A for additional information).

Free cash flow increased during the three months ended September 30, 2024, primarily from higher adjusted cash flows from operations (in turn from higher income from operations), and partly offset by higher maintenance CAPEX. Free cash flow increased during the nine ended September 30, 2024, primarily from higher adjusted cash flows from operations (in turn from higher income from operations), and lower maintenance CAPEX.

Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures
Management presents certain non-IFRS financial performance measures which we use as supplemental indicators of our operating performance. These non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning, and therefore are unlikely to be comparable to the calculation of similar measures used by other companies and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Non-IFRS measures are defined and reconciled to the most directly-comparable IFRS measure. Non-IFRS financial performance measures include adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, and free cash flow. Please see the Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures section of the Corporation’s MD&A dated November 5, 2024 for further information on key performance indicators. The Corporation’s MD&A is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The following table reconciles adjusted EBITDA from income before income tax, which is the most directly-comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS:

	Three months ended Sept. 30,				Nine months ended Sept. 30,
(in thousands)		2024		2023		2024		2023
Income before income tax	$	7,926	$	7,445	$	17,013	$	5,033
Add back:
Depreciation and amortization		1,117		939		2,994		2,848
Finance expense		605		832		2,072		2,329
Finance expense on the Preferred Share liability		2,025		880		4,539		7,991
		11,673		10,096		26,618		18,201
Adjustments:
Share-based payments expense (recovery)		453		(12)		531		(333)
Promissory note income		(21)		(40)		(78)		(116)
Foreign exchange loss		3		6		26		26
Loss on contract settlement		16		(10)		36		58
Gain on disposal of equity-accounted investment		–		–		(681)		–
Non-cash impairment of equity-accounted investments		–		–		198		–
Other expense (income) ⁽¹⁾		94		76		(904)		77
Adjusted EBITDA ⁽²⁾	$	12,218	$	10,116	$	25,746	$	17,913

₍₁₎	_{Other expense (income) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 relates to the reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (see the Related Party Transactions section of the accompanying MD&A) and costs associated with the Proposed Acquisition. Other expense (income) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 relates to a loss on the disposal of an intangible asset.}
₍₂₎	_{Amortization of franchise rights and relationships of $1.3 million and $3.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively (September 30, 2023 – $1.1 million and $3.7 million) is classified as a charge against revenue and has not been added back for adjusted EBITDA.}

The following table reconciles free cash flow from cash flow from operating activities, which is the most directly-comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS:

	Three months ended Sept. 30,				Nine months ended Sept. 30,
(in thousands)		2024		2023		2024		2023
Cash flow from operating activities	$	11,289	$	9,243	$	26,929	$	13,653
Changes in non-cash working capital and other non-cash items		(620)		(382)		(2,929)		2,952
Cash provided from operations excluding changes in non-cash working capital and other non-cash items		10,669		8,861		24,000		16,605
Adjustments:
Distributions from equity-accounted investees		–		125		285		275
Maintenance CAPEX		(886)		(630)		(4,349)		(6,039)
Lease payments		(117)		(160)		(343)		(476)
Loss on contract settlement		16		(10)		36		58
Share-based payments		68		–		68		–
NCI portion of cash provided from operations excluding changes in non-cash working capital		(242)		–		(311)		–
Other non-cash items ⁽¹⁾		76		–		(956)		1
		9,584		8,186		18,430		10,424
Free cash flow attributable to Preferred Shareholders ⁽²⁾		(3,975)		(3,579)		(7,901)		(5,000)
Free cash flow attributable to common shareholders	$	5,609	$	4,607	$	10,529	$	5,424

₍₁₎	_{Other non-cash items for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 represents foreign exchange losses and promissory note income. The three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 includes losses on disposal of an intangible asset.}
₍₂₎	_{Free cash flow attributable to the Preferred Shareholders is determined based on free cash flow of the Core Business Operations (as defined in the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A).}

The following table reconciles adjusted net income from net income, which is the most directly-comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS:

	Three months ended Sept. 30,				Nine months ended Sept. 30,
(in thousands)		2024		2023		2024		2023
Net income	$	5,271	$	5,271	$	11,987	$	2,067
Adjustments:
Gain on sale of an equity-accounted investment		–		–		(681)		–
Non-cash impairment of equity-accounted investments		–		–		198		–
Foreign exchange loss		3		6		26		26
Finance expense on the Preferred Share liability ⁽¹⁾		2,025		880		4,539		7,991
Loss on contract settlement		16		(10)		36		58
Promissory note interest income		(21)		(40)		(78)		(116)
Other expense (income) ⁽²⁾		94		76		(904)		77
Income tax effects of adjusting items		(25)		(1)		(29)		(4)
		7,363		6,182		15,094		10,099
Income attributable to Preferred Shareholders ⁽³⁾		(3,609)		(3,067)		(7,302)		(5,126)
Adjusted net income		3,754		3,115		7,792		4,973
Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders		3,673		3,113		7,655		4,957
Adjusted net income attributable to non-controlling interest		81		2		137		16
Diluted adjusted earnings per Common Share	$	0.08	$	0.06	$	0.16	$	0.10

₍₁₎	_{The Preferred Share liability is revalued at the end of each reporting period to reflect our most recent outlook and forecast. Refer to the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A.}
₍₂₎	_{Other expense (income) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 relates to the reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (see the Related Party Transactions section of the accompanying MD&A) and costs associated with the Proposed Acquisition. Other expense (income) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 relates to a loss on the disposal of intangible assets.}
₍₃₎	_{Adjusted net income attributable to the Preferred Shareholders is determined based on adjusted net income of the Core Business Operations (as defined in the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A).}

Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements in this document constitute forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or outlooks. Forward-looking information in this document includes, but is not limited to, our anticipation of further interest rate reductions.

Such forward-looking information is based on many estimates and assumptions, including material estimates and assumptions, related to the following factors below that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as at the date of this press release considering management’s experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to:

Changes in interest rates;
The DLC Group’s ability to maintain its existing number of franchisees and add additional franchisees;
Changes in overall demand for Canadian real estate (via factors such as immigration);
Changes in overall supply for Canadian real estate (via factors such as new housing-start levels);
At what period in time the Canadian real estate market stabilizes;
Changes in Canadian mortgage lending and mortgage brokerage laws and regulations;
Changes in the Canadian mortgage lending marketplace;
Changes in the fees paid for mortgage brokerage services in Canada; and
Demand for the Corporation’s products remaining consistent with historical demand.

Many of these uncertainties and contingencies may affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All forward-looking statements made in this document are qualified by these cautionary statements. The foregoing list of risks is not exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this document is made as of the date hereof and, except as required by applicable securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Dominion Lending Centres Inc.
Dominion Lending Centres Inc. is Canada’s leading network of mortgage professionals. DLCG operates through Dominion Lending Centres Inc. and its three main subsidiaries, MCC Mortgage Centre Canada Inc., MA Mortgage Architects Inc. and Newton Connectivity Systems Inc., and has operations across Canada. DLCG extensive network includes over 8,500 agents and over 500 locations. Headquartered in British Columbia, DLC was founded in 2006 by Gary Mauris and Chris Kayat.

DLCG can be found on X (Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn @DLCGmortgage and on the web at www.dlcg.ca.

Contact information for the Corporation is as follows:

Eddy Cocciollo President 647-403-7320 eddy@dlc.ca		James Bell EVP, Corporate and Chief Legal Officer 403-560-0821 jbell@dlcg.ca

NEITHER THE TSX EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: FLINT Announces Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FLINT Corp. (“FLINT” or the “Company”) (TSX: FLNT) today announced its results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. All amounts are in Canadian dollars and expressed in thousands of dollars unless otherwise noted.

“EBITDAS” and “Adjusted EBITDAS” are not standard measures under IFRS. Please refer to the Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of this press release for a description of these items and limitations of their use.

“In the third quarter, we reached record levels of activity with $211.6 million in revenue and successfully executed 13 turnarounds. Adjusted EBITDAS rose by 24.4% year over year. Our dedication to client-centric service and on-time, on-budget contract execution will continue to drive our growth” said Barry Card, Chief Executive Officer.

“We successfully onboarded over 850 new employees in the third quarter, reaching a workforce high of 4,450 in September. Over 2 million exposure hours were worked throughout the quarter without a single recordable incident, showcasing our commitment to safety as it is an integral part of how we deliver services to our clients daily,” added Mr. Card.

THIRD QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

Revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $211.6 million, representing an increase of $24.6 million or 13.1% from the same period in 2023 and an increase of $46.7 million or 28.3% from the second quarter of 2024.
Gross profit for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $23.8 million, representing an increase of $4.0 million or 20.3% from the same period in 2023 and an increase of $5.8 million or 32.1% from the second quarter of 2024.
Gross profit margin for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was 11.2%, as compared to 10.6% in the same period in 2023 and 10.9% in the second quarter of 2024.
Adjusted EBITDAS for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $13.4 million, representing an increase of $2.6 million or 24.4% from the same period in 2023 and an increase of $5.1 million or 61.7% from the second quarter of 2024.
Adjusted EBITDAS margin was 6.3% for the three months ended September 30, 2024 representing an increase of 0.5% from the same period in 2023 and an increase of 1.3% from the second quarter of 2024.
Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2024 were $10.9 million, representing an increase of $1.9 million or 20.9% from the same period in 2023 and an increase of $0.8 million or 7.4% from the second quarter of 2024. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was 5.2%, as compared to 4.8% in the same period in 2023 and 6.2% in the second quarter of 2024.
Liquidity, including cash and available credit facilities, was $48.6 million at September 30, 2024, as compared to $34.4 million at September 30, 2023.
New contract awards and renewals totaled approximately $67.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and $18.3 million for the month of October. Approximately 85% of the work is expected to be completed in 2024.

THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

($ thousands, except per share amounts)	Three months ended September 30,			Nine months ended September 30,
($ thousands, except per share amounts)	2024	2023	% Change	2024	2023	% Change

Revenue ($)	211,594	187,017	13.1	522,779	506,063	3.3

Gross Profit ($)	23,757	19,740	20.3	54,745	50,368	8.7
Gross Profit Margin (%)	11.2	10.6	0.6	10.5	10.0	0.5

Adjusted EBITDAS⁽¹⁾	13,433	10,796	24.4	24,926	24,134	3.3
Adjusted EBITDAS Margin (%)	6.3	5.8	0.5	4.8	4.8	—

SG&A ($)	10,934	9,045	20.9	31,171	26,785	16.4
SG&A Margin (%)	5.2	4.8	0.4	6.0	5.3	0.7

Net income (loss) from continuing operations ($)	5,305	2,789	90.2	(69)	(12,639)	(99.5)
Net income (loss) ($)	5,233	2,786	87.8	(385)	(12,646)	(97.0)

Basic and Diluted:
Net income (loss) per share from continuing operations ($)	0.05	0.03	66.7	—	(0.11)	(100.0)
Net income (loss) per share ($)	0.05	0.03	66.7	—	(0.11)	(100.0)

^{(1) EBITDAS and Adjusted EBITDAS are not standard measures under IFRS and they are defined in the section “Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures”}

Revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $211,594 and $522,779 compared to $187,017 and $506,063 for the same periods in 2023, representing an increase of 13.1% and 3.3%. The increase in revenue was primarily due to the 13 turnarounds that were performed in the third quarter this year, compared to 6 turnarounds that were performed in the same period of 2023.

Gross profit for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $23,757 and $54,745 compared to $19,740 and $50,368 for the same periods in 2023, representing an increase of 20.3% and 8.7%. Gross profit margin for three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was 11.2% and 10.5%, compared to 10.6% and 10.0% to for the same periods in 2023. The increase in gross profit margin was primarily due to the mix of work compared to the same period of 2023.

SG&A expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were $10,934 and $31,171, in comparison to $9,045 and $26,785 for the same periods in 2023, representing an increase of 20.9% and 16.4%. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were 5.2% and 6.0% compared to 4.8% and 5.3% for the same periods in 2023. The increase in SG&A expenses, both on an absolute basis and as a percentage of revenue, is primarily due to higher personnel costs to support the Company’s organic growth strategy and increased professional fees to assist in the ongoing continuous improvements in the business post the implementation of the Company’s enterprise resource planning system.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, Adjusted EBITDAS was $13,433 and $24,926 compared to $10,796 and $24,134 for the same periods in 2023. As a percentage of revenue, Adjusted EBITDAS was 6.3% and 4.8% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to 5.8% and 4.8% for the same periods in 2023.

Income from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $5,305 compared to $2,789 for the same period in 2023. The income variance was primarily driven by the increase in turnaround activity partially offset by higher SG&A expenses. Loss from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $69 compared to $12,639 for the same period in 2023. The loss variance was driven by the impairment of intangible assets, goodwill and PP&E recognized in the second quarter of 2023.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

FLINT has an asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Facility”) providing for maximum borrowings of up to $50.0 million with a Canadian chartered bank. The amount available under the ABL Facility will vary from time to time based on the borrowing base determined with reference to the accounts receivable of FLINT and certain of its subsidiaries. The maturity date of the ABL Facility is April 14, 2027.

The Company anticipates that its liquidity (cash on hand and available credit facilities) and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet its short-term contractual obligations. To maintain compliance with its financial covenants through September 30, 2025, the Company has the ability to pay interest on the Senior Secured Debentures in kind, which requires approval by the holder of the Senior Secured Debentures at its sole discretion

As at September 30, 2024, the issued and outstanding share capital included 110,001,239 Common Shares, 127,732 Series 1 Preferred Shares, and 40,111 Series 2 Preferred Shares.

The Series 1 Preferred Shares (having an aggregate value of $127.732 million) are convertible at the option of the holder into Common Shares at a price of $0.35/share and the Series 2 Preferred Shares (having an aggregate value of $40.111 million) are convertible into Common Shares at a price of $0.10/share.

The Series 1 and Series 2 Preferred Shares have a 10% fixed cumulative preferential cash dividend payable when the Company has sufficient monies to be able to do so, including under the provisions of applicable law and contracts affecting the Company. The Board of Directors of the Company does not intend to declare or pay any cash dividends until the Company’s balance sheet and liquidity position supports the payment. As at September 30, 2024, the accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series 1 and Series 2 shares totaled $106.0 million. Any accrued and unpaid dividends are convertible in certain circumstances at the option of the holder into additional Series 1 and Series 2 Preferred Shares.

On June 30, 2024, Canso, in its capacity as portfolio manager for and on behalf of certain accounts that it manages and sole holder of the Senior Secured Debentures, agreed to accept the issuance of Senior Secured Debentures on June 30, 2024 with a principal amount of $5,205 in order to satisfy the interest that would otherwise become due and payable on such date.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Our unaudited condensed interim financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and the related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the operating and financial results can be accessed on our website at www.flintcorp.com and will be available shortly through SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca.

About FLINT Corp.

With a legacy of excellence and experience stretching back more than 100 years, FLINT provides solutions for the Energy and Industrial markets including: Oil & Gas (upstream, midstream and downstream), Petrochemical, Mining, Power, Agriculture, Forestry, Infrastructure and Water Treatment. With offices strategically located across Canada and a dedicated workforce, we provide maintenance, construction, wear technology and environmental services that help our customers bring their resources to our world. For more information about FLINT, please visit www.flintcorp.com or contact:

Barry Card	Jennifer Stubbs
Chief Executive Officer	Chief Financial Officer
FLINT Corp.	FLINT Corp.
(587) 318-0997
investorrelations@flintcorp.com

Advisory regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain information included in this press release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Specifically, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to: our business plans, strategies and objectives; the sufficiency of our liquidity and cash flow from operations to meet our short-term contractual obligations and maintain compliance with our financial covenants through to September 30, 2025; the payment of interest owing on the Senior Secured Debentures in kind; the Company’s approach to dividends; our view that dedication to client-centric service and on-time, on-budget contract execution will continue to drive our growth; and the amount of work that is expected to be completed in 2024.

Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual events or results to differ materially from the events and results discussed in the forward-looking information including, but not limited to, compliance with debt covenants, access to credit facilities and other sources of capital for working capital requirements and capital expenditure needs, availability of labour, dependence on key personnel, economic conditions, commodity prices, interest rates, regulatory change, weather and risks related to the integration of acquired businesses. These factors should not be considered exhaustive. Risks and uncertainties about FLINT’s business are more fully discussed in FLINT’s disclosure materials, including its annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the operating and financial results, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In formulating the forward-looking information, management has assumed that business and economic conditions affecting FLINT will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including, without limitation, with respect to general levels of economic activity, regulations, taxes and interest rates. Although the forward-looking information is based on what management of FLINT consider to be reasonable assumptions based on information currently available to it, there can be no assurance that actual events or results will be consistent with this forward-looking information, and management’s assumptions may prove to be incorrect.

This forward-looking information is made as of the date of this press release, and FLINT does not assume any obligation to update or revise it to reflect new events or circumstances except as required by law. Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The terms ‘‘EBITDAS’’ and “Adjusted EBITDAS” (collectively, the ‘‘Non-GAAP Financial Measures’’) are financial measures used in this press release that are not standard measures under IFRS. FLINT’s method of calculating the Non-GAAP Financial Measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, the Non-GAAP Financial Measures, as presented, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

EBITDAS refers to income (loss) from continuing operations in accordance with IFRS, before depreciation and amortization, interest expense, income tax expense (recovery) and long-term incentive plan expenses. EBITDAS is used by management and the directors of FLINT as well as many investors to determine the ability of an issuer to generate cash from operations. Management believes that in addition to income (loss) from continuing operations and cash provided by operating activities, EBITDAS is a useful supplemental measure from which to determine FLINT’s ability to generate cash available for debt service, working capital, capital expenditures and income taxes. FLINT has provided a reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to EBITDAS below.

Adjusted EBITDAS refers to EBITDAS excluding impairment of assets, restructuring expense, gain on sale of property, plant and equipment, other income and one time incurred expenses. FLINT has used Adjusted EBITDAS as the basis for the analysis of its past operating financial performance. Adjusted EBITDAS is a measure that management believes (i) is a useful supplemental measure from which to determine FLINT’s ability to generate cash available for debt service, working capital, capital expenditures, and income taxes, and (ii) facilitates the comparability of the results of historical periods and the analysis of its operating financial performance which may be useful to investors. FLINT has provided a reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDAS below.

Investors are cautioned that the Non-GAAP Financial Measures are not alternatives to measures under IFRS and should not, on their own, be construed as an indicator of performance or cash flows, a measure of liquidity or as a measure of actual return on the shares. These Non-GAAP Financial Measures should only be used with reference to FLINT’s consolidated interim and annual financial statements, which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca or on FLINT’s website at www.flintcorp.com.

(In thousands of Canadian dollars)	Three months ended September 30,		Nine months ended September 30,
(In thousands of Canadian dollars)	2024	2023	2024	2023

Income (loss) from continuing operations	5,305	2,789	(69)	(12,639)
Add:
Amortization of intangible assets	66	70	201	332
Depreciation expense	2,671	2,434	8,003	7,610
Long-term incentive plan expense	850	625	2,225	2,670
Interest expense	4,718	4,670	14,033	13,680
EBITDAS	13,610	10,588	24,393	11,653
Add (deduct):
Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment	(810)	(133)	(1,253)	(323)
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets	—	—	—	7,289
Impairment of property, plant and equipment	—	—	—	4,173
Restructuring expenses	334	327	1,310	1,105
Other income	(47)	(32)	(468)	(142)
One-time incurred expenses	346	46	944	379
Adjusted EBITDAS	13,433	10,796	24,926	24,134

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: AGF Reports October 2024 Assets Under Management and Fee-Earning Assets

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AGF Management Limited reported total assets under management (AUM) and fee-earning assets¹ of $51.5 billion as at October 31, 2024.

AUM ($ billions)	October 31, 2024	September 30, 2024	% Change Month-Over-Month		October 31, 2023	% Change Year-Over- Year
Total Mutual Fund	$29.2	$28.7			$23.2
Exchange-traded funds + Separately managed accounts	$2.5	$2.4			$1.5
Segregated accounts and Sub-advisory	$6.6	$6.6			$6.5
AGF Private Wealth	$8.3	$8.3			$7.0
Subtotal (before AGF Capital Partners AUM and fee- earning assets¹)	$46.6	$46.0			$38.2
AGF Capital Partners	$2.8	$2.8			$0.1
Total AUM	$49.4	$48.8	1.2	%	$38.3	29.0	%
AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets¹	$2.1	$2.1			$2.0
Total AUM and fee- earning assets¹	$51.5	$50.9	1.2	%	$40.3	27.8	%

Average Daily Mutual Fund AUM	$29.2	$28.2			$23.3

¹ Fee-earning assets represent assets in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns recurring fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.

Mutual Fund AUM by Category ($ billions)	October 31, 2024	September 30, 2024	October 31, 2023
Domestic Equity Funds	$4.4	$4.4	$3.7
U.S. and International Equity Funds	$17.8	$17.3	$12.9
Domestic Balanced Funds	$0.1	$0.1	$0.1
U.S. and International Balanced Funds	$1.6	$1.6	$1.6
Domestic Fixed Income Funds	$1.8	$1.8	$1.5
U.S. and International Fixed Income Funds	$3.2	$3.2	$3.1
Domestic Money Market	$0.3	$0.3	$0.3
Total Mutual Fund AUM	$29.2	$28.7	$23.2

AGF Capital Partners AUM and fee- earning assets ($ billions)	October 31, 2024	September 30, 2024	October 31, 2023
AGF Capital Partners AUM	$2.8	$2.8	$0.1
AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets	$2.1	$2.1	$2.0
Total AGF Capital Partners AUM and fee-earning assets	$4.9	$4.9	$2.1

About AGF Management Limited

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

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

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $51 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 800,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

AGF Management Limited shareholders, analysts and media, please contact:

Ken Tsang
Chief Financial Officer
416-865-4338, InvestorRelations@agf.com

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI Global: No, America’s battery plant boom isn’t going bust – construction is on track for the biggest factories, with thousands of jobs planned

Source: The Conversation – USA – By James Morton Turner, Professor of Environmental Studies, Wellesley College

Workers install battery packs in a BMW X5 in South Carolina. A new battery plant under construction nearby will supply BMW factories. BMW

The United States is in the midst of the biggest boom in clean energy manufacturing investments in history, spurred by laws like the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act.

These laws have leveraged billions of dollars in government support to drive private sector investments in clean energy supply chains across the country.

For several years, one of us, Jay Turner, and his students at Wellesley College have been tracking clean energy investments in the U.S. and sharing the data at The Big Green Machine website. That research shows that companies have announced 225 projects, totaling US$127 billion in investment, and more than 131,000 new jobs since the Inflation Reduction Act became law in 2022.

You may have seen news stories that said these projects are at risk of failure or significant delays. In August 2024, the Financial Times reported that 40% of more than 100 projects it evaluated were delayed. These included battery manufacturing, renewable energy projects and metals and hydrogen projects, as well as semiconductor manufacturing plants. More recently, The Information, which covers the technology industry, warned that 1 in 4 companies were walking away from government-supported grants for battery investments.

Workers assemble battery packs for electric vehicles in Spartanburg, S.C. New battery plants in the state will help move the supply chain closer to U.S. EV factories.
BMW

We checked up on all 23 battery cell factories announced or expanded since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed – almost all of them gigafactories, which are designed to produce over 1 gigawatt-hour of battery cell capacity. These factories have some of the largest employment potential of any project supported by the act.

We wanted to find out if the boom in U.S.-based clean energy manufacturing is about to go bust. What we have learned is mostly reassuring.

The biggest battery factories are on track

While the exact investment totals are challenging to pin down, our research shows that planned capital expenditures add up to $52 billion, which would support 490 gigawatt-hours of battery manufacturing capacity per year – enough to put roughly 5 million new electric vehicles on the road.

While not all 23 companies have announced their hiring plans, these facilities are expected to support nearly 30,000 new jobs, with projects mostly in the U.S. Southeast, Midwest and Southwest.

We wanted to know if these projects are on track or experiencing delays or problems.

To do that, we first reached out to local and state economic development agencies. In many instances, local and state tax incentives are supporting these projects. Where possible, we sought to confirm the project’s status through public data or formal announcements. In other instances, we looked for news stories to see if there is evidence of construction or hiring.

Of the 23 projects, our research shows that 13 appear to be on track, with total planned capital investments in excess of $40 billion and nearly 352 gigawatt-hours per year of capacity. Importantly, these include most of the biggest projects with the largest investments and projected production.

By our count, 77% of the total planned capital investment, 79% of the proposed jobs and 72% of the planned battery production are on track, which means that a project is likely to happen, roughly on time, and generally with their expected level of investment and employment.

Three projects are on the bubble. These have shown progress but experienced delays in construction or financing.

Five others show deeper signs of distress. We don’t yet have enough information to draw a conclusion on two projects.

An example of a project that is on track is Envision AESC’s battery factory in Florence, South Carolina. Its scale has been expanded twice since it was first announced in December 2022. It is now a $3 billion investment intended to manufacture 30 gigawatt-hours of batteries annually to supply BMW’s factory in Woodruff, South Carolina.

In early October 2024, South Carolina Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey conducted a tour of the Envision site and posted a video. Construction on the plant started in February 2024, and 850 workers are working six days a week to finish the 1.4 million-square-foot facility by August 2025. Once it goes into full production, the project is expected to employ 2,700 people.

2024 election could end or accelerate the boom

But a lot hinges on what happens in the upcoming elections.

Our data suggests the real risk that these projects and projects like them face isn’t slow demand for electric vehicles, as some people have suggested – in fact, demand continues to climb. Nor is it local opposition, which has slowed only a few projects.

The biggest risk is policy change. Many of these projects are counting on Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credits authorized by the Inflation Reduction Act through 2032.

On the campaign trail, Republicans up and down the ticket are promising to repeal key Biden-led legislation, including the Inflation Reduction Act, which includes grant funding and loans to support clean energy as well as tax incentives to support domestic manufacturing.

While full repeal of the act may be unlikely, an administration hostile to clean energy could divert its unspent funds to other purposes, slow the pace of grants or loans by slow-walking project approvals, or find other ways to make the tax incentives harder to get. While our research has focused on the battery industry, this concern extends to investments in wind and solar power too.

So, is the big boom in U.S.-based clean energy manufacturing about to go bust? Our data is optimistic, but the politics is uncertain.

Joshua Busby receives funding from the U.S. Department of Defense. He is affiliated with the Center for Climate and Security and the Chicago Council on Global Affairs.

James Morton Turner and Nathan Jensen do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. No, America’s battery plant boom isn’t going bust – construction is on track for the biggest factories, with thousands of jobs planned – https://theconversation.com/no-americas-battery-plant-boom-isnt-going-bust-construction-is-on-track-for-the-biggest-factories-with-thousands-of-jobs-planned-242567

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Savencia Cheese USA Announces an Expanded Voluntary Recall of Select Soft Ripened Cheeses

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

Summary

Company Announcement Date:: November 04, 2024
FDA Publish Date:: November 05, 2024
Product Type:: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:: Recall Reason Description

Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogens
Company Name:: Savencia Cheese USA
Brand Name:: Brand Name(s)

Aldi, La Bonne Vie and others
Product Description:: Product Description

Soft ripened cheeses

Company Announcement

NEW HOLLAND, Pa. (Nov. 4, 2024) – Savencia Cheese USA is recalling select soft ripened cheeses manufactured in our Lena manufacturing facility because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The following products are affected by this recall:

Description	Best Buy Date	Case GTIN	Product UPC	Mfg Date
Aldi Emporium Selection Brie, 12/8oz Brie	12/24/2024		4099100084016	9/30/2024
Supreme Oval 7oz, 6/7oz	12/24/2024	10071448504211	071448504214	9/30/2024
La Bonne Vie Brie, 6/8oz	12/24/2024	10820581678538		9/30/2024
La Bonne Vie Camember, 6/8oz	12/24/2024	10820581678613		9/30/2024
12/8oz Industrial Brie	12/24/2024	10077901005226	077901005229	9/30/2024
Market Basket Brie 6/8oz	12/24/2024	10049705666309	049705666302	9/30/2024
Glenview Farms Spreadable Brie, 2/3lb	1/13/2025	50758108712312		10/15/2024

The only products being recalled are those in the table above. You can identify these products by reviewing the UPC and the best buy date on the product labels. These products had limited regional distribution in the United States. The few retailers that received the product have been informed of this possible contamination and are in the process of removing products from shelves. Consumers that have any of the recalled products listed in the table above should refrain from consuming them and return them to their place of purchase for a full refund.

At this time, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse health events due to consumption of these products.

Through routine testing, it was identified that processing equipment at the site may have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. While finished product testing has not identified contaminated product, we have initiated a voluntary recall to retrieve the potentially affected product.

This voluntary recall is being conducted in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact Consumer Relations at (800)-322-2743 or email sc.customer.service@savencia.com.

*UPC was stated incorrectly in original release. Updated to reflect correct UPC.

Media Contact:
Kriston Ohm
kriston.ohm@savencia.com

Labels for Identification Purposes:

Product Name	UPC -A	UPC – B	Label
Aldi Emporium Selection Brie, 12/8oz Brie	4099100084016		See image below
La Bonne Vie Brie, 6/8oz			See image below
La Bonne Vie Camembert, 6/8oz			See image below
12/8oz Industrial Brie		077901005229	See image below
Market Basket Brie 6/8oz	004970566630	049705666302	See image below
Supreme Oval 7oz, 6/7oz	007144850421	071448504214	See image below
Glenview Farms Spreadable Brie, 2/3lb	50758108712312		See image below

Initial Press

Company Contact Information

Product Photos

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI Canada: Government launches consultations on National Bank’s proposed acquisition of Canadian Western Bank
Source: Government of Canada News (2)

Today, the Department of Finance is launching consultations to help inform the Minister of Finance’s decision regarding National Bank of Canada’s proposed acquisition of Canadian Western Bank, which was first announced on June 11, 2024.
November 5, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

Today, the Department of Finance is launching consultations to help inform the Minister of Finance’s decision regarding National Bank of Canada’s proposed acquisition of Canadian Western Bank, which was first announced on June 11, 2024.

As stipulated in the Bank Act, all acquisitions and amalgamations in Canada’s banking sector are subject to the approval of the Minister of Finance, who must take into account all matters she considers relevant. These may include:
- The rights and interests of consumers, business customers, and employees;
- The impact of the transaction on the level of competition in the sector;
- The consequences of the stability and integrity of the financial sector and public confidence in it;
- Whether the acquisition is in the best interests of the financial system; and,
- Whether the acquisition is in the best interests of those living in an affected region.
The proposed acquisition would require an additional approval from the Minister of Finance to recategorize Canadian Western Bank and exempt it from the requirement that its shares be widely held. In addition to the regulatory review by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions and by the Competition Bureau, which concluded in September 2024, comments received during this consultation process will help inform the Minister of Finance’s decision, and can be submitted to transactions@fin.gc.ca by November 19, 2024, with “NBC/CWB” in the subject line.
MIL OSI Canada News –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Canada and African Union Commission to host High-Level and Trade Policy dialogues

Source: Government of Canada News

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, will meet African Union Commission (AUC) leadership for the second annual Canada-AUC High-Level Dialogue on November 7, 2024. On November 6, Minister Ng will attend a high-level event at the Canada-AUC Trade Policy Dialogue. The events will take place in Toronto, Ontario.

November 5, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, will meet African Union Commission (AUC) leadership for the second annual Canada-AUC High-Level Dialogue on November 7, 2024. On November 6, Minister Ng will attend a high-level event at the Canada-AUC Trade Policy Dialogue. The events will take place in Toronto, Ontario.

During the High-Level Dialogue events, the ministers will reaffirm Canada’s commitment to deepening its engagement across the African continent. They will meet with representatives of the AUC and the African Union (AU), senior officials, stakeholders from civil society and diasporas and youths to strengthen ties and create opportunities across the African continent. They will also discuss shared priorities, such as promoting peace and security, democracy and human rights, trade diversification and gender equality and tackling food security.

On November 7, Minister Joly will participate in meetings to discuss how Canada and the AUC can work together within multilateral institutions on shared objectives. She will also highlight Canada’s desire to build further upon the 70 years of its relations with African countries as a reliable and trusted partner in advancing shared priorities and fostering mutual prosperity with African countries. She will also underscore the important role of Canada’s Ambassador for Women, Peace and Security in supporting and fostering the role of young women in civil society.

Minister Ng will co-chair an economic cooperation session with Albert Muchanga, the AUC’s Commissioner for Trade and Industry, to advance Canada-AUC trade policy collaboration and promote 2-way trade and investment diversification. She will take the opportunity to strengthen cooperation between Canada and Africa and chart a path forward to shared economic prosperity and resilience. Minister Ng will also explore ways to expand and diversify Canada-Africa trade and investment partnerships that will benefit businesses, economies and people in Canada and Africa.

Minister Hussen will emphasize Canada’s commitment to fostering development partnerships, grounded in its Feminist International Assistance Policy, that benefit both Canada and Africa. He will lead discussions with AUC representatives that focus on Canada and Africa working closely together on trade, gender equality and skills development for youth. Minister Hussen will also underscore Canada’s collaborative approach to maternal health, child nutrition, climate resilience and sustainable agriculture, reinforcing Canada’s dedication to supporting resilient African communities and inclusive economic growth across the continent.

Throughout the High-Level Dialogue, the 3 ministers will leverage the talented and energetic African youth population, which is playing an important leadership role across the continent.

The long-standing relationship between Canada and the AUC will be -enhanced with the signing of a memorandum of understanding. A solid partnership between Canada and Africa is fundamental to advancing shared priorities and fostering the mutual prosperity of Canadians and Africans alike.

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Champagne participating in armchair discussion at the Canadian Aerospace Summit

Source: Government of Canada News

Media advisory

Minister Champagne participating in armchair discussion at the Canadian Aerospace Summit

November 6, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry will participate in an armchair discussion with Mike Mueller, President and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada. The event will take place at the Leadership Luncheon during the 2024 Canadian Aerospace Summit.

Date: Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Time: 12:40 ET

Location:

Rogers Centre (formerly the Shaw Centre)
55 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa, ON
K1N 9J2

Members of the media are asked to contact ISED Media Relations at media@ised-isde.gc.ca if they would like to have an interview with Minister Champagne.[DC2]

Contacts

Audrey Milette
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
audrey.champoux@ised-isde.gc.ca

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
media@ised-isde.gc.ca

Stay connected

Find more services and information at Canada.ca/ISED.

Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on social media.
X (Twitter): @ISED_CA | Facebook: Canadian Innovation | Instagram: @cdninnovation | LinkedIn: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Ensuring fair electoral representation for Albertans
Source: Government of Canada regional news

[embedded content]

The Justice Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, would amend several pieces of legislation, including the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, the Public’s Right to Know Act, the Critical Infrastructure Defence Act and the Alberta Evidence Act. Proposed amendments would increase access to justice and address the current needs of Albertans.

Electoral Boundaries Commission Act

If passed, amendments to the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act would direct the commission to increase the number of electoral divisions in Alberta from 87 to 89 and clarify the list of factors the commission may consider when drawing up the new electoral boundaries.

Under the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, the population of each electoral division in Alberta must not be more than 25 per cent above or more than 25 per cent below the average population of all the proposed electoral divisions. Currently, the populations of nine electoral divisions in Alberta are greater than 25 per cent of the average electoral division population.

Proposed amendments would help address the significant increase in Alberta’s population since the most recent provincial election, and ensure Albertans have effective representation in the legislature.

“The amendments we are proposing are essential to keeping up with Alberta’s significant population growth and ensuring fair, effective representation for all Albertans in the legislature. By increasing the number of electoral divisions, we demonstrate our commitment to balanced and equitable representation for all Albertans.”

Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

Public’s Right to Know Act

The Public’s Right to Know Act legislates public reporting of crime data to make it easier for Albertans to know what’s happening in their community. Proposed amendments would allow the minister of justice to require government departments, municipalities and police services to provide up-to-date data, which will foster greater sharing of information and a better understanding of the criminal justice system.

Critical Infrastructure Defence Act

The Critical Infrastructure Defence Act protects essential infrastructure by creating offences for trespassing, interfering with operations or causing damage. Proposed amendments would incorporate the health care facilities currently identified in the regulation into the act, ensuring the definition of essential infrastructure is contained in one place. The definition of essential infrastructure is currently contained in both the act and the Critical Infrastructure Defence Regulation. With this amendment, the Critical Infrastructure Defence Regulation, which initially added “prescribed health care facilities” into the definition of essential infrastructure, will no longer be needed and will be repealed.

Alberta Evidence Act

The Alberta Evidence Act sets out a process for individuals to give evidence to the court either orally or in writing. Proposed amendments would give Albertans simpler and more modern processes for confirming the truth of the information they provide to the courts. These amendments would save Albertans time and money by allowing them to certify information electronically rather than visiting a courthouse or paying to swear or affirm an oath in person. Processes will still be available for those who prefer in-person and paper-based execution of documents.

Quick facts
- Between July 1, 2023 and July 1, 2024, Alberta’s population grew by around 204,000 people or 4.4 per cent. This is the highest annual growth rate since 1981 and the highest among all provinces.
- The populations of nine electoral divisions currently exceed 25 per cent of the average population of each electoral division, which is the maximum deviation allowed under the legislation.
- An Electoral Boundaries Commission reviews existing electoral boundaries and makes proposals to the legislative assembly about area, boundaries and names of the electoral divisions.
- A new Electoral Boundaries Commission is appointed eight to ten years after the appointment of the previous commission.
- When drawing up the new electoral boundaries, the commission must consider the requirement for effective representation for all Albertans. In addition, the commission may consider:
  
  The sparsity and density of population.
  
  Communities of interest, including municipalities, regional and rural communities, Indian reserves and Metis settlements.
  
  Geographical features, including the availability and means of communication and transportation between various parts of Alberta.
  
  The desirability of understandable and clear boundaries.
  
  The rate of population growth.
  
  Any other factors the commission considers appropriate.
Related information
- Ensuring fair electoral representation
- Bill 31: Justice Statutes Amendment Act, 2024
Multimedia
- Watch the news conference
- Listen to the news conference
MIL OSI Canada News –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FDA Roundup: November 5, 2024
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
For Immediate Release:

November 05, 2024

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is providing an at-a-glance summary of news from around the agency:
- Today, the FDA published “Catching Up with Califf: One Health – Optimal Public Health Outcomes for Humans and Animals in Our Shared Environment,” by FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. Dr. Califf discusses One Health and the FDA’s mission to collaborate across disciplines and sectors to promote the health of humans and animals; and taking into account agricultural and environmental issues, using science, technology, and innovation to better understand and define policies that involve these intersections. The blog also provides details on FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine’s upcoming Symposium: “Paws, Claws, Hooves, Fins, and Feet—Advancements through a One Health Approach.”
- On Monday, the FDA published the Supplement to the 2022 Food Code. The Supplement updates the 2022 Food Code with recommendations made by regulatory officials, industry, academia, and consumers at the 2023 Biennial Meeting of the Conference for Food Protection. The Food Code and its Supplement provide government and industry with practical, science-based controls for reducing the risk of foodborne illness in retail and foodservice establishments of all types. The Food Code and the Supplement are joint projects by the FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the United States Department of Agriculture – Food Safety and Inspection Service.
- On Monday, the FDA, in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), announced the registration of the first antimicrobial treatment for pathogen reduction in pre-harvest agricultural water—a landmark achievement in enhancing food safety. This product effectively combats foodborne pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella in water used to grow crops. It is the first label amendment approved under a revised efficacy protocol–designed by the FDA and EPA–to ensure robust treatment options are available for agricultural use.
- On Monday, the FDA authorized marketing of LumiThera, Inc.’s Valeda Light Delivery System to help improve vision in certain dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients. According to data on AMD prevalence estimates analyzed by the CDC, in 2019 an estimated 19.8 million Americans aged 40 years and older were living with some type (dry or wet) of AMD.
  “Today’s action brings to market the first therapeutic option for adult patients with dry AMD,” said Malvina Eydelman, M.D., director of the Office of Ophthalmic, Anesthesia, Respiratory, ENT and Dental Devices at the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “This authorization reinforces FDA’s commitment to assuring access to innovative, safe and effective medical devices to treat high-prevalence, degenerative conditions.”
  
  The Valeda Light Delivery System uses three light emitting diodes that generate light at different wavelengths to provide treatment to the patient’s eye. Treatment with the device after approximately two years can provide an average improvement in vision equivalent to around one line on an eye chart.
- On Friday, the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations arrested a Massachusetts spa owner, Rebecca Fadanelli, for allegedly performing thousands of illegal injections of counterfeit Botox, Sculptra and Juvederm on clients for over three years. If you or a family member believe you received services involving a counterfeit drug or counterfeit device from Fadanelli and/or Skin Beaute Med Spa in Randolph and South Easton, Mass. between 2021 through and including to the present date, please complete the questionnaire located on the FDA’s website here.
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MIL OSI USA News –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: G7 and Partners Foreign Ministers Statement: 5 November 2024

Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

We, the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union express our grave concerns regarding the deployment of DPRK troops to Russia, potentially for the use on the battlefield against Ukraine.

Several thousands of DPRK troops have been deployed to Russia. The DPRK’s direct support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, besides showing Russia’s desperate efforts to compensate its losses, would mark a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific peace and security. It would be a further breach of international law, including the most fundamental principles of the UN Charter.

We condemn in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation between the DPRK and Russia, including the DPRK’s export and Russia’s unlawful procurement of DPRK ballistic missiles in breach of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs), as well as Russia’s use of these missiles and munitions against Ukraine. DPRK soldiers receiving or providing any training or other assistance related to the use of ballistic missiles or arms is a direct violation of UN Security Council resolutions 1718, 1874 and 2270. We are also deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missile-related technology from Russia to the DPRK in violation of the relevant UNSCRs. We urge the DPRK to stop providing assistance to Russia’s war of aggression.

We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to support Ukraine as it defends its freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. We are working with our international partners for a coordinated response to this new development.

MIL OSI News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Dubuque Man Who Possessed Firearms While Being an Illegal User of Methamphetamine and Cocaine Sentenced to Prison

Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

A man who possessed five firearms while being an illegal drug user was sentenced November 1, 2024, to more than one year in federal prison.

Jesse James Zeromski, age 25, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a May 10, 2024, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful drug user.

At the guilty plea, Zeromski admitted he unlawfully possessed five firearms, including a revolver, two shotguns, and two rifles, while being an unlawful user of methamphetamine, amphetamine, and cocaine.

Zeromski was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Zeromski was sentenced to twelve months’ and one day imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.

Zeromski is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael Hudson and Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and investigated by the Dubuque Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations.

Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

The case file number is 24-CR-1008.

Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

MIL Security OSI –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: A Week of Rain Across Spain

Source: NASA

On October 29, 2024, a period of intense rainfall inundated Valencia province in eastern Spain. The extensive, deadly flooding destroyed infrastructure and spurred massive search and rescue efforts.
The downpours kept coming as a high-altitude, low-pressure weather system remained parked over the region. These systems, known as cut-off lows or locally by the Spanish acronym DANA, develop when cold fronts encounter warm, humid air masses and become isolated from the jet stream. In the days following the Valencia flash floods, rain continued to fall in Spain’s eastern coastal regions as well as its southwest, causing yet more flooding and disrupting transportation, classes, and other activities.
This map shows rainfall accumulation totals from October 29 through November 4, 2024. These data are remotely sensed estimates that come from IMERG (the Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for GPM), a product of the GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) mission, and may differ from ground-based measurements. For instance, IMERG data are averaged across each pixel, meaning that rain-gauge measurements within a given pixel can be significantly higher or lower than the average.
Ground-based measurements by Spain’s meteorological agency, AEMET, indicated that rainfall totals exceeded 300 millimeters (12 inches) in some areas of Valencia province on October 29 alone. A few days later, on November 1, Huelva province in southwest Spain saw torrential rains; 134 millimeters (5 inches) fell in the city of Cartaya in a 12-hour period. AEMET also issued warnings and reported strong storms along the Mediterranean coast on November 2 and 3.
Next, the heavy rains migrated north, and 150 millimeters (6 inches) fell in Barcelona by noon on November 4. Barcelona’s airport cancelled and diverted flights on that day due to flooding, and train services and schools were also suspended.
Cut-off low-pressure weather systems are typical in this region in autumn because intrusions of cold air from the Arctic encounter remaining surface heat from the Mediterranean summer. Storm systems of the same type drenched Spain and Greece in September 2023.
NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison, using IMERG data from the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) at NASA/GSFC. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hancock and Sevier Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Hancock and Sevier Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

Hancock and Sevier Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

FEMA has added Hancock and Sevier counties to the Oct. 2 major presidential declaration for Tropical Storm Helene, meaning state and local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in both counties may seek funding under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Hancock and Sevier counties are now authorized to recover eligible costs under FEMA Public Assistance funding for emergency work including debris removal and emergency protective measures; and permanent work that includes projects to permanently restore community infrastructure affected by Helene.FEMA had previously approved Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties for Public Assistance funding for Helene, which swept across Eastern Tennessee Sept. 26-30.The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities pay for emergency work to save lives and protect property, for debris removal, and for repairs to roads, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, public utilities, parks and recreational facilities.Federal funding is typically available on a cost-sharing basis, with FEMA reimbursing Tennessee applicants 75% of eligible costs and the state responsible for the non-federal share, or up to 25%. For Helene damage in Tennessee, President Biden authorized 100% federal funding for emergency work generated by the disaster. This means FEMA may cover all eligible costs incurred during any 45-day period of the state’s choosing during the first 120 days from the start of the disaster, or Sept. 26. This allows communities to maximize cost savings by selecting the 45 days when the greatest costs occurred.FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement for eligible costs to local and state government agencies, and certain private nonprofits including houses of worship. Learn about Assistance for Governments and Private Non-Profits After a Disaster | FEMA.gov.
kwei.nwaogu
Tue, 11/05/2024 – 22:03

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Vista Outdoor Inc. – VSTO
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO), relating to its proposed merger with Czechoslovak Group a.s. (“CSG”). Under the terms of the agreement, Vista shareholders will also sell Revelyst in an all-cash transaction funds managed by Strategic Value Partners, LLC, and its affiliates. Together, the and the SVP Transactions will deliver an estimated $45 per share in cash to Vista Outdoor stockholders

ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for November 25, 2024.

Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/vista-outdoor-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC

Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:
Juan Monteverde, Esq.
MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
New York, NY 10118
United States of America
jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

The MIL Network –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Province Announces Memorial to Honour Justice Murray Sinclair

Source: Government of Canada regional news

November 5, 2024

Province Announces Memorial to Honour Justice Murray Sinclair

Today the Manitoba government announced plans to honour the life of Murray Sinclair, the first Indigenous judge to be named to the Manitoba provincial court and the Court of Queen’s Bench of Manitoba.

Starting tomorrow, a book of condolences will be placed at the base of the Grand Staircase in the Manitoba Legislative Building. Members of the public are invited to begin signing the book starting tomorrow through Sunday, Nov. 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The province, alongside the Government of Canada, is organizing a memorial for Sinclair, which will take place Sunday, Nov. 10 at Canada Life Centre. Doors open to the public at 1 p.m. and the service will begin at 2 p.m. Books of condolences will also be available to sign at the memorial.

Additionally, tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be a public visitation at Centro Caboto Centre. While this event is open to the public, it is not open to the media. This will be a sacred event that cannot be photographed or filmed. Members of the public are prohibited from using cameras, recording equipment and personal devices to capture the event.

A book of condolence will also be available at the Caboto Centre during the public viewing time on Wednesday, Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The flags at the Legislative Building in Winnipeg and Parliament Building in Ottawa will stay lowered to half-mast until after the memorial on Sunday.

– 30 –

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Parson Signs Executive Order 24-14 Activating State Emergency Operations Plan in Response to Flooding and Severe Weather

Source: US State of Missouri

NOVEMBER 5, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-14 activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to flooding and severe weather. Parts of Missouri have already sustained flood and storm damage with additional impacts expected as river levels begin to crest and floodwaters recede.

“With several areas of Missouri already impacted by this week’s storms and heavy rainfall, we want to ensure state resources are available should further disruptions or damage occur,” Governor Parson said. “This action enables the state to be better prepared and ready to assist our communities with response and recovery. We urge Missourians to follow the direction of local authorities and emergency managers, use extra caution on the roads, and never drive into floodwaters.”

Executive Order 24-14 will expire on December 5, 2024, unless otherwise terminated or extended. To view Executive Order 24-14, click here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Entrepreneur, Gender-Equity Advocate to Discuss How Women Can Move from the Sidelines to the C-Suite

Source: US State of Connecticut

Any company that strives to be profitable and successful needs to include women and other diverse representatives in its leadership. Yet even in the most forward-focused organizations, women may still face obstacles to inclusion.

Sameer Somal, a tech entrepreneur and the co-founder of Girl Power Talk and Girl Power USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping you women become leaders in business and society, will share his experiences and perspective on empowering women during the next Equity Now presentation on Nov. 19. The event is sponsored by School of Business.

“If you look at society for the last 1,000 years, women have too often been sidelined from positions of leadership. Yet studies have repeatedly shown that when women are added to the C-Suite and to Boards of Directors, those companies outperform their peers,’’ Somal said.

“I want business students to be aware that investing in and supporting women is not a trend or a fad, but something that can help your company reach its full potential,’’ he said.
His presentation, “Empowering Girls and Women in Organizations: A Conversation with Sameer Somal,” begins at noon on Nov. 19. The program is available via livestream. To register, please visit the registration page.

Women Walk a Tightrope of Expectations

Somal is the CEO and co-Founder of Blue Global Technology, focused on digital transformation, risk management, and technology development. Raised by a progressive father, and inspired by a friend, he began a journey to help girls and women advance in both business and society.

He will discuss how his organization inspires young women to be their best in their personal and professional lives, and how passionate engagement with girls today empowers them to build a career full of purpose.

Somal will also discuss the obstacles that women and other diverse employees face in the workplace, including how corporate structure has historically been designed to keep women out; hiring and promotion processes that favor men; and adverse institutional mindsets about who qualifies for certain roles, particularly in leadership.

Even today, women often walk a tightrope of expectations, he said. They are expected to exhibit assertiveness, independence, and dominance but still convey sensitivity and compassion.

“While both gender-specific roles and traits are dated concepts, female leaders often have to strike a hard balance to be seen as worthy, adding to the pressure that leadership brings with it,’’ he said.

Finally, women face ‘affinity bias’ in the workplace. Most corporate decisionmakers are still men, and affinity bias can lead them to consciously or unconsciously hire and promote people who are like them, he said.

Somal is a member of the Board of Directors of Future Business Leaders or America, the Abraham Lincoln Association, the Academy of Legal Studies in Business and the American Bar association. A graduate of Georgetown University, he has held leadership roles at Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, and Scotiabank before creating his own company.

Series Brings Business Expectations into Sharp Focus

The 2024-25 Equity Now series began in October with a presentation by Lauren Cleary, an ethics and compliance professional at Patagonia, who spoke about the importance of privacy in organizations.

“Each speaker in the Equity Now speaker series brings their own unique perspective on how legal and ethical issues are deeply intertwined in both business and society,’’ said business law professor Robert Bird, who spearheads the programs.

“For an organization to be truly successful, it must meet, if not exceed, the expectations of stakeholders in the society in which it conducts business,’’ he said. “The Equity Now speaker series brings those expectations into clear focus through the expert academics and practitioners that are invited to share their ideas.’’

The Equity Now series features expert insight on how law and policy can create diversity, equity and fairness in both organizations and society. The UConn program is conducted in affiliation with the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, Virginia Tech, Indiana, Boston and Temple universities.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Ministers Joly, Ng and Hussen to attend the Canada-African Union Commission High-Level Dialogue

Source: Government of Canada News

November 5, 2024 –The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development and The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, will attend the Second Canada-African Union Commission High-Level Dialogue in Toronto. As part of this meeting the Ministers will engage with members of the African Union Commission, including Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, with the aim of building stronger, expanded and more visible partnerships. The Ministers will also make an announcement related to the Government of Canada’s engagement on the continent.

November 5, 2024 –The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development and The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, will attend the Second Canada-African Union Commission High-Level Dialogue in Toronto. As part of this meeting the Ministers will engage with members of the African Union Commission, including Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, with the aim of building stronger, expanded and more visible partnerships. The Ministers will also make an announcement related to the Government of Canada’s engagement on the continent.

Family photo and Memorandum of Understanding singing ceremony

Date: November 7th, 2024
Time: 9:00 am EST
Location: Toronto, Ontario

Notes: This event will be open to media for photos and b-roll only. Media representatives who wish to attend the event must arrive by 8:30 am EST.

Joint Ministerial media availability

Date: November 7th, 2024
Time: 1:30 pm EST
Location: Toronto, Ontario

Notes: Media representatives who wish to attend the event must arrive by 1:00 pm EST.

Evening reception opening remarks

Date: November 7th, 2024
Time: 6:00 pm EST
Location: Toronto, Ontario

Notes: The opening remarks at the evening reception will be open to media. Media representatives who wish to attend the event must arrive by 5:30 pm EST.

For all events noted above, media are asked to confirm their attendance by contacting media@international.gc.ca. The exact address will be shared following confirmation.

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: STOCKHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Nxu, Inc. – NXU
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Nxu, Inc., (NASDAQ: NXU), relating to a proposed merger with Verde Bioresins, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, Nxu will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Verde in an all-stock transaction.

Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/nxu-inc-nxu/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC

Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:
Juan Monteverde, Esq.
MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
New York, NY 10118
United States of America
jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

The MIL Network –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: INVESTIGATION ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of GlycoMimetics, Inc. – GLYC
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating GlycoMimetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: GLYC), relating to a proposed merger with First Crescent Biopharma, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, the pre-acquisition GlycoMimetics stockholders are expected to own approximately 3.1% of the combined Company and the pre-acquisition Crescent stockholders (inclusive of those investors participating in the pre-closing financing) are expected to own approximately 96.9% of the company.

Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/glycomimetics-inc-glyc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC

Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:
Juan Monteverde, Esq.
MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
New York, NY 10118
United States of America
jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

The MIL Network –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Altair Engineering Inc. – ALTR
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Altair Engineering Inc. (NASDAQ: ALTR), relating to a proposed merger with Siemens AG. Under the terms of the agreement Altair stockholders will receive $113.00 per share in cash.

Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/altair-engineering-inc-altr/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC

Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:
Juan Monteverde, Esq.
MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
New York, NY 10118
United States of America
jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

The MIL Network –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. – STAF
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: STAF), relating to a proposed merger with Atlantic International Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, Staffing 360 shareholders will receive 1.202 Atlantic shares for each Staffing 360 share. Atlantic and Staffing 360 shareholders will own approximately 90% and 10%, respectively, of the combined company.

Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/staffing-360-solutions-inc-staf/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?
About Monteverde & Associates PC

Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:
Juan Monteverde, Esq.
MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
New York, NY 10118
United States of America
jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

The MIL Network –
January 26, 2025

Contact:		Chris Courtney/Rick McCarty
Phone:		(209) 848-BANK (2265) Toll Free (866) 844–7500 www.ovcb.com

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Province Announces Memorial to Honour Justice Murray Sinclair

Women Walk a Tightrope of Expectations

Series Brings Business Expectations into Sharp Focus

Family photo and Memorandum of Understanding singing ceremony

Joint Ministerial media availability

Evening reception opening remarks