NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-Evening Report: Explainer: what mental health support do refugees and asylum seekers get in Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Philippa Specker, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Refugee Trauma and Recovery Program, School of Psychology, UNSW Sydney

    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    When Australia signed the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention, it committed to providing protection to people who have fled war, persecution and human rights violations.

    Refugees have often experienced severe traumatic events. This can include war, torture, kidnapping and witnessing the murder of loved ones.

    Understandably, refugees are more likely than the general population to experience mental health problems. About 27% of adult refugees suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and 30% from depression. Only 5.6% of Australians experience PTSD and 6.4% experience depression.

    Australia has a humanitarian and legal responsibility to support the mental health of refugees and asylum seekers so they can recover and thrive.

    Mental health problems are highly treatable when people have access to effective treatment. Addressing key barriers to accessing mental health services is in everyone’s best interest.

    So, what mental health support is available for refugees when they arrive in Australia?

    Different pathways

    Much depends on how the person came to Australia and through which scheme they applied to be recognised as a refugee.

    First, there are people who apply for and are granted refugee status by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or Australia’s humanitarian program before arriving in Australia.

    These people, often termed “humanitarian entrants”, represent the largest cohort of Australia’s refugees.

    They are provided with permanent visas and join the government-run Humanitarian Settlement Program upon their arrival.

    Humanitarian Settlement Program caseworkers can refer these people to internal or external mental health support services.

    Importantly, people under Australia’s humanitarian program can also access vital services such as:

    • Medicare
    • Centrelink
    • English-language classes.

    They also have the right to work and study. This helps promote recovery, adjustment and wellbeing.

    Some people apply for and are granted refugee status by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees before arriving in Australia.
    John Wreford/Shutterstock

    Second, there are people who sought asylum via alternate pathways.

    This often means they arrived in Australia without a valid visa. Or, they may have held a non-refugee visa and subsequently applied for refugee status after arriving in Australia.

    These people, termed “asylum seekers”, are in a much more precarious situation.

    They face lengthy visa processing times, the possibility of being held in detention, and a greater likelihood of being granted only temporary visas.

    Many people in this situation are restricted from accessing government-run settlement support, such as the Humanitarian Settlement Program and Centrelink.

    This is a problem, because research shows people seeking asylum or holding temporary visas in Australia are especially likely to be experiencing mental health problems.

    A range of services

    That said, Australia has a range of mental health support services available to all refugees and asylum seekers.

    This includes the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT), a network of rehabilitation centres in every state and territory.

    These specialised services provide holistic support including:

    • psychological and counselling sessions
    • community capacity building programs (such as work readiness and community garden initiatives), and
    • advocacy.

    Organisations such as Settlement Services International, Australian Red Cross, AMES and Beyond Blue also provide refugee-specific mental health supports and resources.

    And some community-run social programs, such as Football United, focus on increasing social inclusion, which can help boost mental health.

    Refugees have often experienced severe traumatic events.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Barriers to access

    Demand for specialised mental health services is high. That can mean long waiting times for all Australians, including refugees and asylum seekers.

    Research has identified a number of barriers that especially affect refugees and asylum seekers. These include:

    • stigma around mental health problems and help-seeking
    • lack of knowledge on mental health
    • language and cultural barriers, and
    • logistical barriers (such as cost and travel distance).

    Finally, some refugees (particularly asylum seekers or people with temporary visas) may not be as aware of mental health services as humanitarian entrants. The latter group are often connected with such services while part of the Humanitarian Settlement Program.

    This puts the onus on such individuals to independently research what services are available and refer themselves.

    That’s a tough ask for people also busy finding housing, learning English, enrolling children in school, and progressing their visa applications.

    Why does this matter?

    Refugees represent a significant portion of our society. By the end of this year, Australia will have welcomed 1 million refugees since the end of World War II.

    International law dictates that survivors of torture and other forms of persecution under Australia’s protection have access to effective rehabilitation services.

    More broadly, the psychological cost of trauma can make it harder for some refugees to adapt to life in Australia. PTSD and depression can be chronic conditions. Without effective treatment, mental health challenges can persist for decades.

    Helping refugees recover from the psychological effects of trauma and displacement also promotes the prosperity of the wider community. That’s because refugees enrich Australian society by establishing local businesses, working, facilitating new trade links, volunteering and contributing to the community.

    When refugees thrive, we all do.

    Philippa Specker receives funding from an MQ: Transforming Mental Health Postdoctoral Scholarship (MPSIP15). She is an associate of the Human Rights Institute, UNSW.

    Angela Nickerson receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

    Belinda Liddell receives funding from the Australian Research Council and National Health and Medical Research Council.

    – ref. Explainer: what mental health support do refugees and asylum seekers get in Australia? – https://theconversation.com/explainer-what-mental-health-support-do-refugees-and-asylum-seekers-get-in-australia-255427

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Dark money: Labor and Liberal join forces in attacks on Teals and Greens for Australian election

    Teals and Greens are under political attack from a new pro-fossil fuel, pro-Israel astroturfing group, adding to the onslaught by far-right lobbyists Advance Australia for Australian federal election tomorrow — World Press Freedom Day. Wendy Bacon and Yaakov Aharon investigate.

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Wendy Bacon and Yaakov Aharon

    On February 12 this year, former prime minister Scott Morrison’s principal private secretary Yaron Finkelstein, and former Labor NSW Treasurer Eric Roozendaal, met in the plush 50 Bridge St offices in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.

    The powerbrokers were there to discuss election strategies for the astroturfing campaign group Better Australia 2025 Inc.

    Finkelstein now runs his own discreet advisory firm Society Advisory, while also a director of the Liberal Party’s primary think-tank Menzies Research Centre. Previously, he worked as head of global campaigns for the conservative lobby firm Crosby Textor (CT), before working for Morrison and as Special Counsel to former NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet.

    Roozendaal earned a reputation as a top fundraiser during his term as general secretary of NSW Labor and a later stint for the Yuhu property developer. He is now a co-convenor of Labor Friends of Israel.

    The two strategists have previously served together on the executive of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, where Finkelstein was vice-president (2010-2019) and Roozendaal was later the chair of public affairs (2019-2020).

    Better for whom?
     Better Australia chairperson Sophie Calland, a software engineer and active member of the Alexandria Branch of the Labor party attended the meeting. She is a director of Better Australia and carries formal responsibility for electoral campaigns (and partner of Israel agitator Ofir Birenbaum).

    Also present at the meeting was Better Australia 2025 member Alex Polson, a former staffer to retiring Senator Simon Birmingham and CEO of firm DBK Advisory. Other members present included another director, Charline Samuell, and her husband, psychiatrist Dr Doron Samuell.

    Last week, Dr Samuell attracted negative publicity when Liberal campaigners in the electorate of Reid leaked Whatsapp messages where he insisted on referring to Greens as Nazis. “Nazis at Chiswick wharf,” Samuell wrote, alongside a photograph of two Greens volunteers.

    The Better Australia group already have experience as astroturfers. Their “Put The Greens Last” campaign was previously directed by Calland and Polson under the entity Better Council Inc. in the NSW Local government elections in September 2024.

    The Greens lost three councillors in Sydney’s East but maintained five seats on the Inner West Council.

    But the group had developed bigger electoral plans. They also registered the name Better NSW in mid-2024. By the time the group met for the first time this year on January 8, their plans to play a role in the Federal election were already well advanced.

    They voted to change the name Better NSW Inc. to Better Australia 2025 Inc.

    Calland and Birenbaum
     Group member Ofir Birenbaum joined the January meeting to discuss “potential campaign fundraising materials” and a “pool of national volunteers”. Birenbaum is Calland’s husband and member of the Rosebery Branch of the Labor Party.

    But by the time the group met with Finkelstein and Roozendaal in February, Birenbaum was missing. The day before the meeting, Birenbaum’s role in the #UndercoverJew stunt at Cairo Takeaway cafe was sprung.

    This incident focused attention on Birenbaum’s track record as an agitator at Pro-Palestine events and as a “close friend” of the extreme-right Australian Jewish Association. The former Instagram influencer has since closed his social media accounts and disappeared from public view.

    The minutes of the February meeting lodged with NSW Fair Trading mention a “discussion of potential campaign management candidates; an in-depth presentation and discussion of strategy; a review and amendments of draft campaign fundraising materials”. All of this suggests that consultants had been hired and work was well underway.

    The group also voted to change Better Council’s business address and register a national association with ASIC so they could legally campaign at a national level.

    On March 4, Calland registered Better Australia as a “significant third party” with the Australian Electoral Commission. This is required for organisations that expect their campaign to cost more than $250,000.

    Three weeks later, Prime Minister Albanese called the election, and Better Australia’s federal campaign was off to the races.

    Labor or Liberal, it doesn’t matter…
     According to its website, Better Australia’s stated goals are non-partisan: they want a majority government, “regardless of which major party is in office”.

    “In Australia, past minority governments have seen stalled reforms, frequent leadership changes, and uncertainty that paralysed effective governance.”

    No evidence has been provided by either Better Australia’s website or campaigning materials for these statements. In fact, in its short lifetime, the Gillard Labor minority government passed legislation at a record pace.

    Instead, it is all about creating fear.  A stream of campaigning videos, posts, flyers and placards carrying simple messages tapping into fear, insecurity, distrust and disappointment have appeared on social media and the streets of Sydney in recent weeks.

    Wentworth independent Allegra Spender wasted no time posting her own video telling voters she was unfazed, and for her electorate to make their own voting choices rather than fall for a crude scare campaign.

    Spender is accused of supporting anti-Israel terrorism by voting to reinstate funding for the United Nations aid agency UNRWA. Better Australia warns that billionaires and dark money fund the Teal campaign, alleging average voters will lose their money if Teals are reelected.

    It doesn’t matter that most Teal MPs have policies in favour of increasing accountability in government or that no information is provided about who is backing Better Australia.

    Anti-Green, too
     The anti-Greens angle of Better Australia’s campaign sends a broad message to all electorates to “Put the Greens Last”. It aims to starve the Greens of preferences. The campaign message is simple: the Greens are “antisemitic, support terrorism, and have abandoned their environmental roots”.

    It does not matter that calls unite the peaceful Palestine protests for a ceasefire, or that the Greens have never stopped campaigning for the environment and against new fossil fuel projects.

    Better Australia promotes itself as a grassroots organisation. In February, Sophie Calland told The Guardian that “Better Australia is led by a broad coalition of Australians who believe that political representation should be based on integrity and action, not extremist or elite activism”.

    It has very few members and its operations are marked by secrecy, and voters will have to wait a full year before the AEC registry of political donations reveals Better Australia’s backers.

    It fits into a patchwork of organisations aiming to influence voters towards a framework of right-wing values, including

    “support for the Israel Defence Force, fossil fuel industries, nationalism and anti-immigration and anti-transgender issues.”

    Advance Australia (not so fair)
    Advance is the lead organisation in this space. It campaigns in its own right and also supports other organisations, including Minority Impact Coalition, Queensland Jewish Collective and J-United.

    Advance claims to have raised $5 million to smash the Greens and a supporter base of more than 245,000. It has received donations up to $500,000 from the Victorian Liberal Party’s holding company, Cormack Foundation.

    In Melbourne, ex-Labor member for Macnamara, Michael Danby, directs and authorises “Macnamara Voters Against Extremism”, which pushes voters to preference either Liberals or Labor first, and the Greens last. Danby has spoken alongside Birenbaum at Together With Israel rallies.

    Together With Israel: Michael Danby (from left), activist Ofir Birenbaum, unionist Michael Easson OAM, and Rabbi Ben Elton. Image: Together With Israel Facebook group/MWM

    The message of Better Australia — and Better Council before it — mostly aligns with Advance. These campaigns target women aged 35 to 49, who Advance claims are twice as likely to vote for the Greens as men of the same age.

    The scare campaign targets female voters with its fear-mongering and Greens MPS, including Australia’s first Muslim Senator Mehreen Faruqi, and independent female MPS with its loathing.

    Meanwhile, Advance is funded by mining billionaires and advocates against renewable energy.

    Labor standing by in silence
     Better Australia is different from Advance, which is targeting Labor because it is an alliance of Zionist Labor and LIberal interests. Calland’s campaign may be effectively contributing to the election of a Dutton government. In the face of what would appear to be betrayal, the NSW Labor Party simply stands by.

    The NSW Labor Rules Book (Section A.7c) states that a member may be suspended for “disloyal or unworthy conduct [or] action or conduct contrary to the principles and solidarity of the Party.”

    Following MWM’s February exposé of Birenbaum, we sent questions to NSW Labor Head Office, and MPs Tanya Plibersek and Ron Hoenig, without reply. Hoenig is a member of the Parliamentary Friends of Israel and has attended Alexandria Branch meetings with Calland.

    MWM asked Plibersek to comment on Birenbaum’s membership of her own Rosebery Branch, and on Birenbaum’s covert filming of Luc Velez, the Greens candidate in Plibersek’s seat of Sydney. Birenbaum shared the video and generated homophobic commentary, but we received no answers to any of our questions.

    According to MWM sources, Calland’s involvement in Better Australia and Better Council before that is well known in Inner Sydney Labor circles. Last Tuesday night, she attended an Alexandria Branch meeting that discussed the Federal election. She also attended a meeting of Plibersek’s campaign.

    No one raised or asked questions about Calland’s activities. MWM is not aware if NSW Labor has received complaints from any of its members alleging that Calland or Birenbaum has breached the party’s rules.

    After all, when top Liberal and Labor strategists walk into a corporate boardroom, there is much to agree on.

    It begins with a national campaign to keep the major parties in and independents and Greens out.

    • MWM has sent questions to Calland, Finkelstein, and Roozendaal, regarding funding and the alliance between Liberal and Labor powerbrokers but we have yet to receive any replies.

    Wendy Bacon is an investigative journalist who was professor of journalism at UTS. She has worked for Fairfax, Channel Nine and SBS and has published in The Guardian, New Matilda, City Hub and Overland. She has a long history in promoting independent and alternative journalism. She is not a member of any political party but is a Greens supporter and long-term supporter of peaceful BDS strategies.

    Yaakov Aharon is a Jewish-Australian living in Wollongong. He enjoys long walks on Wollongong Beach, unimpeded by Port Kembla smoke fumes and AUKUS submarines. This article was first published by Michael West Media and is republished with permission of the authors.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 206

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL6

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 206
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    635 PM EDT Thu May 1 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southern and Central Pennsylvania

    * Effective this Thursday evening from 635 PM until 1100 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Isolated very large hail events to 2 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Strong to severe storms in the vicinity of a warm front
    advancing northward will be capable of strong to severe gusts (55-70
    mph) and large hail. This activity will spread northeastward
    through the Watch with a gradual weakening expected towards mid to
    late evening.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles north and south of a line from 45 miles south
    southwest of Dubois PA to 60 miles east southeast of State College
    PA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 203…WW 204…WW 205…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    22035.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW6
    WW 206 SEVERE TSTM PA 012235Z – 020300Z
    AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    45SSW DUJ/DUBOIS PA/ – 60ESE UNV/STATE COLLEGE PA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM N/S /24NW JST – 20NNE HAR/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 22035.

    LAT…LON 41307923 41247679 39797679 39847923

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU6.

    Watch 206 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (10%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low ( 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Sydney to host major surgical event focused on innovation and excellence

    Source: Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

    Sydney will host one of the largest surgical conferences in the southern hemisphere when the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) brings its 93rd Annual Scientific Congress (ASC) to the International Convention Centre from Saturday 3 to Tuesday 6 May 2025.

    This year’s theme, Innovation. Precision. Excellence., reflects the event’s future-focused program and its role as a key connection and collaboration point for surgeons across all nine RACS specialties.

    More than 1600 surgeons, Trainees and healthcare leaders from Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond are expected to attend, with 253 new Fellows – the largest cohort in recent years – to be formally welcomed at the Convocation Ceremony on Saturday evening.

    “ASC 2025 is designed to inspire and challenge,” says congress convener Professor Henry Woo.

    “It’s a chance for surgeons to connect across specialties and geographies, hear from international leaders, and explore how innovation and leadership are shaping the future of care—from operating theatres to entire health systems.”

    This year’s program puts a spotlight on cross-disciplinary collaboration, with sessions covering robotics and AI in surgery, rural surgical innovation, Indigenous health, and leadership development.

    Event highlights include:

    Dr Glaucomflecken (Dr Will Flanary), a US ophthalmologist and viral medical comedian, presenting Dr Glaucomflecken’s incredibly uplifting and really fun guide to American healthcare on Sunday 4 May at 4pm. A cancer survivor and healthcare satirist, Dr Glaucomflecken brings a unique dual perspective as both clinician and patient. This ticketed plenary session is open to the general public.
    A surgical affair: question time with Tony Jones, a high-profile panel session chaired by veteran journalist Tony Jones, follows directly after. The discussion will tackle elective surgery waitlists and workforce challenges, with panellists including Australian Medical Council President Dr Danielle McMullen, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Health Dr Michael Holland MP, and Queensland Health Chief Medical Officer Associate Professor Catherine McDougall.

    The Congress also features a strong line-up of international speakers:

    • Dr Callisia Clarke (USA) on diversity and political division in healthcare.
    • Dr Doug Anderson (USA) on the future of xenotransplantation.
    • Dr Ian Currie (UK) on innovations in organ donation and retrieval.
    • Dr Stephen Wexner (USA), one of the most cited colorectal surgeons globally.
    • Professor Hyung Seok Park (South Korea) on robotic breast surgery.

    RACS ASC is recognised as the College’s flagship educational event and one of the most significant surgical meetings in the region. It showcases the latest in surgical research, innovation and practice, while providing a platform for shared learning, professional connection and leadership.

    Media are welcome to attend keynote sessions, speaker interviews and selected panels.

    Find out more about the RACS ASC: RACS Annual Scientific Congress: https://asc.surgeons.org

    About the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

    RACS is the leading advocate for surgical standards, professionalism and surgical education in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The College is a not-for-profit organisation that represents more than 8000 surgeons and 1300 surgical trainees and Specialist International Medical Graduates. RACS also supports healthcare and surgical education in the Asia-Pacific region and is a substantial funder of surgical research. There are nine surgical specialties in Australasia being: Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Paediatric Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Urology and Vascular Surgery. www.surgeons.org

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Young, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Affordable Housing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Todd Young (R-IN), and colleagues introduced the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act to increase affordable housing for families and workers by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. The bill also helps build nearly 1.6 million new affordable homes over the next decade.
    “Doing something to help someone buy a home is consistent with President Trump’s goal of helping working families,” said Dr. Cassidy. “No one should be priced out of a roof over their heads.”
    “Affordable housing is needed in Indiana and across the country. The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act will leverage private sector investment to increase the stock of affordable housing in both urban and rural communities.  As a result, this will help to tackle the housing affordability crisis head-on to help Hoosier families, expand our workforce, and strengthen our communities,” said Senator Young.
    Cassidy and Young were joined by U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in introducing the legislation. It is endorsed by the ACTION Campaign and the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition.
    “Ensuring access to affordable housing is a critical component in helping Tennessee continue to grow and prosper,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act strengthens the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, an important tool that helps to drive private sector investment in affordable housing for all Americans, including our nation’s veterans and seniors.”
    Background
    Currently, nearly one-in-four renters, over 11 million families, spend more than half of their household income on rent, cutting into other essential expenses like childcare, medication, groceries, and transportation. At the same time, over 600,000 Americans are experiencing homelessness on any given day, an increase over pre-COVID levels.
    The Housing Credit has built or restored more than 4 million affordable housing units, nearly 90 percent of all federally funded affordable housing since its creation. Roughly nine million American households have benefited from the credit, and the economic activity that it generated has supported 6.6 million jobs and spurred more than $746 billion in wages.
    More specifically, the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act would: 
    Increase the number of credits available to states by 50 percent for the next two years and make the temporary 12.5 percent increase secured in 2018 permanent, which has already helped build more than 59,000 additional affordable housing units nationwide.
    Stabilize financing for workforce housing projects built using private activity bonds by decreasing the amount of private activity bonds needed to secure Housing Credit funding. As a result, projects would have to carry less debt, and more projects would be eligible to receive funding.
    Improve the Housing Credit program to better serve veterans, victims of domestic violence, formerly homeless students, Native American communities, and rural Americans. 
    The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act was recently introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 205

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 205
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    440 PM CDT Thu May 1 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    South-Central and South Texas

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon from 440 PM until Midnight
    CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3.5
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Isolated to widely scattered thunderstorms are forecast to
    develop through the late afternoon and into the evening. A very
    unstable airmass and adequate deep-layer shear will promote
    supercell development. Large to giant hail is possible with the
    stronger storms. By this evening, a few storms may congeal and move
    east of the Rio Grande into parts of south Texas, posing a risk for
    large hail and severe gusts.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 80
    statute miles east and west of a line from 15 miles northwest of
    Junction TX to 50 miles west southwest of Laredo TX. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 203…WW 204…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    3.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    31010.

    …Smith

    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 205
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    440 PM CDT Thu May 1 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    South-Central and South Texas

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon from 440 PM until Midnight
    CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3.5
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Isolated to widely scattered thunderstorms are forecast to
    develop through the late afternoon and into the evening. A very
    unstable airmass and adequate deep-layer shear will promote
    supercell development. Large to giant hail is possible with the
    stronger storms. By this evening, a few storms may congeal and move
    east of the Rio Grande into parts of south Texas, posing a risk for
    large hail and severe gusts.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 80
    statute miles east and west of a line from 15 miles northwest of
    Junction TX to 50 miles west southwest of Laredo TX. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 203…WW 204…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    3.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    31010.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW5
    WW 205 SEVERE TSTM TX 012140Z – 020500Z
    AXIS..80 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    15NW JCT/JUNCTION TX/ – 50WSW LRD/LAREDO TX/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 70NM E/W /8WNW JCT – 45WSW LRD/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 31010.

    LAT…LON 30679860 27279892 27270152 30670129

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU5.

    Watch 205 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (10%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low ( 65 knots

    Mod (30%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (40%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces Additions to the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool, May 2025 Cash Dividend and Q1 2025 Earnings Release Date

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) and Mr. Lube Canada Limited Partnership (“Mr. Lube + Tires”) announced today that effective May 1, 2025 the Mr. Lube + Tires royalty pool (the “Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool”) has been adjusted to include the royalties from six new flagship Mr. Lube + Tires locations and remove one flagship Mr. Lube + Tires location that has permanently closed. With the adjustment for these five net new locations, the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool now includes 149 flagship locations.

    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer of DIV, stated, “Mr. Lube + Tires continues to generate strong same-store-sales-growth across its franchise system and is well positioned to continue this impressive growth moving forward”.

    Pamela Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mr. Lube + Tires, stated, “Mr. Lube + Tires is proud of the performance of our franchisees in 2024. We continue to be focused on growing the Mr. Lube + Tires brand, strengthening the store level economics of our franchisees, and continuing to provide best-in-class service to our customers”.

    Additions to the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool

    Subject to certain performance criteria being met, and the LP Amendment as described further below, the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool is adjusted annually on May 1 (the “Adjustment Date”) to include new Mr. Lube + Tires locations that have been open since July 1 of the previous reporting period and to remove Mr. Lube + Tires locations that have been permanently closed during the previous year.

    The initial consideration paid to Mr. Lube + Tires for the estimated net additional royalty revenue was $4.0 million, representing 80% of the total estimated consideration of $5.0 million. The initial consideration of $4.0 million was elected by DIV to be paid in the form of 1,460,419 Common Shares of DIV on the basis of the 20-day volume weighted average closing price of the Common Shares for the period ended April 24, 2025 of $2.7363 per Common Share.

    The remaining consideration payable for the additional royalty revenue of the six new Mr. Lube + Tires locations added to the Royalty Pool on May 1, 2025 will be paid to Mr. Lube + Tires on May 1, 2026, the next Adjustment Date, and will be adjusted to reflect the actual system sales of these six new locations for the year ending December 31, 2025, net of the lost system sales of the one permanently closed Mr. Lube + Tires location removed from the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty pool on May 1, 2025.

    On May 1, 2023, the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool was adjusted to include royalties from five new flagship Mr. Lube + Tires locations. The initial consideration previously paid by DIV was $4.7 million, which represented 80% of the total estimated consideration for those five locations, which estimate was based on the forecast system sales of these five locations for year ending December 31, 2023. As a result of a previously-announced amendment (the “LP Amendment”) to the amended and restated limited partnership agreement (the “LP Agreement”) of DIV’s direct subsidiary ML Royalties Limited Partnership (“ML LP”), the remaining consideration payable for the additional royalty revenue of the five Mr. Lube + Tires locations (the “2023 True-Up Locations”) added to the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool on May 1, 2023 was to be paid to Mr. Lube + Tires on May 1, 2025 (as opposed to May 1, 2024), and adjusted to reflect the actual system sales of these five new locations for the year ending December 31, 2024 (as opposed to the actual system sales for the year ending December 31, 2023).

    The actual system sales for the 2023 True-Up Locations added to the Royalty Pool on May 1, 2023 has now been determined for the year ended December 31, 2024 to be $10.1 million. The total consideration payable to Mr. Lube + Tires for the net additional royalty revenue of these 2023 True-Up Locations based on their actual system sales for the year ended December 31, 2024 is $7.1 million. After taking into account the $4.7 million previously paid by DIV to Mr. Lube + Tires on May 1, 2023 for the 2023 True-Up Locations, DIV paid Mr. Lube + Tires the remaining $2.4 million of cash consideration for the net additional royalty revenue of these 2023 True-Up Locations on May 1, 2025.

    For further details with respect to the manner in which annual adjustments of the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool occur and the agreements underlying the procedures therefor, see DIV’s Annual Information Form dated March 24, 2025 as well as the LP Amendment, copies of each of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    May 2025 Cash Dividend

    DIV is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved a cash dividend of $0.02083 per common share for the period of May 1, 2025 to May 31, 2025, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on May 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 15, 2025.

    Q1 2025 Earnings Release Date

    DIV will release earnings results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 following the closing of regular trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on May 14, 2025.

    About Diversified Royalty Corp.

    DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

    DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.

    DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” or “financial outlook” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or financial outlook. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intend” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information and financial outlook, although not all forward-looking information and financial outlook contain these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information and financial outlook in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the amount and timing of the payment for the remaining consideration payable to Mr. Lube + Tires for the additional royalty revenue from the six Mr. Lube + Tires locations added to the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool on May 1, 2025; DIV’s belief that Mr. Lube + Tires will continue to generate strong same-store-sales-growth across its franchise system and is well positioned to continue its impressive growth moving forward; Mr. Lube + Tires being focused on growing the Mr. Lube + Tires brand, strengthening the store level economics of its franchisees, and continuing to provide best-in-class service to its customers; the amount and timing of the May 2025 dividend to be paid to DIV’s shareholders; the timing of DIV releasing earnings results for the three months ended March 31, 2025; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied in such forward-looking information and financial outlook. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information and financial outlook are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: Mr. Lube + Tires will continue to make royalty payments in the amounts and at the times required, or at all; the amount of, or timing of the payment for, the additional consideration payable to Mr. Lube + Tires for the six additional Mr. Lube + Tires locations added to the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool on May 1, 2025 will occur in the amount or at the time estimated; that transactions completed with Mr. Lube + Tires for the additions to the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool will be accretive to DIV shareholders; that Mr. Lube + Tires will realize any of the intended benefits of its growth strategy; that Mr. Lube + Tires will continue to grow its brand; that Mr. Lube + Tires will continue opening new stores, or that such stores will be successful if opened; that Mr. Lube + Tires will succeed in strengthening store level economics of its franchisees; that Mr. Lube + Tires will continue to provide best-in-class service to its customers; DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information and financial outlook included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information and financial outlook should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 24, 2025 and in DIV’s most recently filed management’s discussion and analysis, copies of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    In formulating the forward-looking information and financial outlook contained herein, management has assumed that DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; lenders will provide any necessary waivers required in order to allow DIV to continue to pay dividends; the performance of the Mr. Lube + Tires flagship locations in the Mr. Lube + Tires Royalty Pool will be consistent with DIV’s expectations; and the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

    To the extent any forward-looking information in this news release constitutes a “financial outlook” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, such information is being provided to provide investors with an estimate of the financial impact to DIV of transactions with Mr. Lube + Tires described in this news release.

    All of the forward-looking information and financial outlook in this news release is qualified in its entirety by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information and financial outlook included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

    THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Additional Information

    Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Contact:
    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (604) 235-3146

    Greg Gutmanis, Chief Financial Officer and VP Acquisitions
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (604) 235-3146

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CALIFORNIA BANCORP ANNOUNCES INCREASE IN SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM AND THE REDEMPTION OF SUBORDINATED NOTES

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Diego, Calif., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — California Bancorp (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BCAL), the holding company for California Bank of Commerce, N.A. (the “Bank”), announces that its Board of Directors has authorized an increase in the number of shares of the Company’s common stock that may be repurchased pursuant to its share repurchase program to 1.6 million shares, up from 550,000 shares when the program was first announced on June 15, 2023. The increase allows for the repurchase of approximately 4.9% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock. No stock has yet been repurchased through the original or increased repurchase program.

    “The increase in our share repurchase program demonstrates the conviction of our Board of Directors and management team to our relationship-based banking strategy, and our commitment to building long-term shareholder value,” said David Rainer, Executive Chairman of the Company and the Bank. “Our strong balance sheet and capital levels will allow us to be flexible in the opportunistic deployment of capital for share repurchases, as well as the repayment of outstanding callable subordinated debt.”

    Repurchases under the program may occur from time to time in open market transactions, in privately negotiated transactions, or by other means in accordance with federal securities laws and other restrictions. The Company intends to fund its repurchases from available working capital and cash provided by operating activities. The timing of repurchases, as well as the number of shares repurchased, will depend on a variety of factors, including price; trading volume; business, economic and general market conditions; and the terms of any Rule 10b5-1 plan adopted by the Company. The repurchase program has no expiration date and may be suspended, modified, or terminated at any time without prior notice.

    The Company also announces today that it has elected to, and expects to, redeem the $18 million of 5.50% Fixed-to-Floating Subordinated Notes due 2030, that it issued on May 28, 2020.

    ABOUT CALIFORNIA BANCORP

    California BanCorp (NASDAQ: BCAL) is a registered bank holding company headquartered in San Diego, California. California Bank of Commerce, N.A., a national banking association chartered under the laws of the United States (the “Bank”) and regulated by the Office of Comptroller of the Currency, is a wholly owned subsidiary of California BanCorp. Established in 2001 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the Bank offers a range of financial products and services to individuals, professionals, and small to medium-sized businesses through its 14 branch offices and four loan production offices serving California. The Bank’s solutions-driven, relationship-based approach to banking provides accessibility to decision makers and enhances value through strong partnerships with its clients. Additional information is available at www.bankcbc.com.

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    In addition to historical information, this release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and other matters that are not historical facts. Examples of forward-looking statements include expectations regarding opportunities to deploy capital for share repurchases, enhance shareholder value through share repurchases, and redeem our outstanding subordinated debt. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current view about future events and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ from those expressed in the forward-looking statement or historical results. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and often include the words or phrases such as “aim,” “can,” “may,” “could,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “hope,” “intend,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “will likely result,” “continue,” “seek,” “shall,” “possible,” “projection,” “optimistic,” and “outlook,” and variations of these words and similar expressions.

    Factors that could cause or contribute to results differing from those in or implied in the forward-looking statements include but are not limited to risks related to our recently completed merger with the predecessor California BanCorp, including the risks that cost savings may be less than anticipate and difficulties in retaining senior management, employees or customers, the impact of bank failures or other adverse developments at other banks on general investor sentiment regarding the stability and liquidity of banks, changes in real estate markets and valuations; the impact on financial markets from geopolitical conflicts; inflation, interest rate, market and monetary fluctuations and general economic conditions, either nationally or locally in the areas in which the Company conducts business; increases in competitive pressures among financial institutions and businesses offering similar products and services; general credit risks related to lending, including changes in the value of real estate or other collateral, the financial condition of borrowers, the effectiveness of our underwriting practices and the risk of fraud; higher than anticipated defaults in the Company’s loan portfolio; changes in management’s estimate of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses or the factors the Company uses to determine the allowance for credit losses; changes in demand for loans and other products and services offered by the Company; the costs and outcomes of litigation; legislative or regulatory changes or changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines; and other risk factors discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and other documents the Company may file with the SEC from time to time. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties to which our business and future financial performance are subject is contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other documents the Company files with the SEC from time to time.

    Any forward-looking statement made in this release is based only on information currently available to management and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to conform such forward-looking statements to actual results or to changes in its opinions or expectations, except as required by law.

    INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT
    Kevin Mc Cabe
    California Bank of Commerce
    kmccabe@bankcbc.com
    818.637.7065

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Petrus Resources Declares Monthly Dividend for May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Petrus Resources Ltd. (“Petrus” or the “Company”) (TSX: PRQ) is pleased to confirm that its Board of Directors has declared a monthly dividend in the amount of $0.01 per share payable May 30, 2025, to shareholders of record on May 15, 2025. The dividend is designated as an eligible dividend for Canadian income tax purposes.

    Dividend Reinvestment Plan (“DRIP”)
    Petrus’ DRIP enables eligible shareholders to reinvest all or part of their cash dividends into additional common shares of the Company. Participation in the DRIP is optional. Eligible shareholders who elect to reinvest their cash dividends under the DRIP will receive common shares issued from treasury at a discount of 3% from the market price of the common shares.

    To participate in the DRIP, registered shareholders must deliver a properly completed enrollment form to Odyssey Trust Company (“Odyssey”) before 4:00 p.m. (Calgary time) on the 5th business day immediately preceding a dividend record date. Beneficial shareholders who wish to participate in the DRIP should contact their broker or other nominee through which their Common Shares are held to determine their eligibility and provide appropriate enrollment instructions. Participation by shareholders that are not resident in Canada may be restricted.

    A complete copy of the DRIP is available on the Company’s website at www.petrusresources.com and on Odyssey’s website at https://odysseytrust.com/faq/. A copy of the enrollment form for use by registered shareholders is available on Odyssey’s website at https://odysseytrust.com/faq/. For further information regarding the DRIP, please contact Odyssey at 1-888-290-1175 (Toll free in North America) or 1-587-885-0960.

    ABOUT PETRUS
    Petrus is a public Canadian oil and gas company focused on property exploitation, strategic acquisitions and risk-managed exploration in Alberta.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
    Ken Gray
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    T: 403-930-0889
    E: kgray@petrusresources.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman dies after crash at Para Hills

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are preparing a report for the coroner following a crash on private property at Para Hills last night.

    Just before 8pm on Thursday 1 May, police and emergency services were called to Lynore Avenue after reports a woman had been crushed between her vehicle and house.

    The 67-year-old woman was treated by Paramedics at the scene but sadly died.

    Major Crash Investigators attended the scene to determine the cause of the crash.

    There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death and it will not be included on the lives lost toll.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp Completes Acquisition of Bank of Idaho Holding Co. in Idaho Falls, Idaho

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (“Glacier”) (NYSE: GBCI), today announced the completion of its acquisition of Bank of Idaho Holding Co. (“BOID”) (OTCQX: BOID), the bank holding company for Bank of Idaho, a community bank headquartered in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The Bank of Idaho operations will join three existing Glacier Bank divisions: the Eastern Idaho operations of Bank of Idaho will join Citizens Community Bank, the Boise operations will join Mountain West Bank, and the Eastern Washington operations will join Wheatland Bank. As of March 31, 2025, BOID had total assets of $1.3 billion, total loans of $1.1 billion and total deposits of $1.1 billion.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).

    Visit Glacier’s website at www.glacierbancorp.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “estimate,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the potential benefits of the business combination transaction involving Glacier and BOID, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts regarding either company or the combination of the companies. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected, including but not limited to the following: risks that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Glacier and BOID operate; uncertainties regarding the ability of Glacier Bank and Bank of Idaho to promptly and effectively integrate their businesses, including into Glacier Bank’s existing division structure; uncertainties regarding the reaction to the transaction of the companies’ respective customers, employees, and contractual counterparties; and risks relating to the diversion of management time on merger-related issues. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Glacier undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report. For more information, see the risk factors described in Glacier’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other filings with the SEC.

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trupanion Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trupanion, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRUP), a leading provider of medical insurance for cats and dogs, today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    “Q1 was a strong start to the year, with performance ahead of plan across key metrics,” said Margi Tooth, Chief Executive Officer and President of Trupanion. “We saw early momentum in both retention and pet acquisition, and with expanded margins in our subscription business, we’re well-positioned to continue to invest in growth.”

    First Quarter 2025 Financial and Business Highlights

    • Total revenue was $342.0 million, an increase of 12% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • Total enrolled pets (including pets from our other business segment) was 1,667,637 at March 31, 2025, a decrease of 2% over March 31, 2024.
    • Subscription business revenue was $233.1 million, an increase of 16% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • Subscription enrolled pets was 1,052,845 at March 31, 2025, an increase of 5% over March 31, 2024.
    • Net loss was $(1.5) million, or $(0.03) per basic and diluted share, compared to a net loss of $(6.9) million, or $(0.16) per basic and diluted share, in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $12.2 million, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $4.8 million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Operating cash flow was $16.0 million and free cash flow was $14.0 million in the first quarter of 2025. This compared to operating cash flow of $2.4 million and free cash flow of $(0.6) million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • At March 31, 2025, the Company held $321.8 million in cash and short-term investments, including $48.8 million held outside the insurance entities, with an additional $15.0 million available under its credit facility.

    Conference Call
    Trupanion’s management will host a conference call today to review its first quarter 2025 results. The call is scheduled to begin shortly after 1:30 p.m. PT/ 4:30 p.m. ET. A live webcast will be accessible through the Investor Relations section of Trupanion’s website at https://investors.trupanion.com/ and will be archived online for 3 months upon completion of the conference call. Participants can access the conference call by dialing 1-866-250-8117 (United States) or 1-412-317-6011 (International). A telephonic replay of the call will also be available after the completion of the call, by dialing 1-844-512-2921 (United States) or 1-412-317-6671 (International) and entering the replay pin number: 10197710.

    About Trupanion
    Trupanion is a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States, Canada, and certain countries in Continental Europe with over 1,000,000 pets currently enrolled. For over two decades, Trupanion has given pet owners peace of mind so they can focus on their pet’s recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is committed to providing pet parents with the highest value in pet medical insurance with unlimited payouts for the life of their pets. With its patented process, Trupanion is the only North American provider with the technology to pay veterinarians directly in seconds at the time of checkout. Trupanion is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol “TRUP”. The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Seattle, WA. Trupanion policies are issued, in the United States, by its wholly-owned insurance entity American Pet Insurance Company and, in Canada, by Accelerant Insurance Company of Canada. Trupanion Australia is a partnership between Trupanion and Hollard Insurance Company. Policies are sold and administered in Canada by Canada Pet Health Insurance Services, Inc. dba Trupanion 309-1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver, BC V7J 0A2 and in the United States by Trupanion Managers USA, Inc. (CA license No. 0G22803, NPN 9588590). Canada Pet Health Insurance Services, Inc. is a registered damage insurance agency and claims adjuster in Quebec #603927. Trupanion Australia is a partnership between Trupanion and Hollard Insurance Company. For more information, please visit trupanion.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 relating to, among other things, expectations, plans, prospects and financial results for Trupanion, including, but not limited to, its expectations regarding its ability to continue to grow its enrollments and revenue, and otherwise execute its business plan. These forward-looking statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of Trupanion’s management as of the date of this press release, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made in this press release are based on information available to Trupanion as of the date hereof, and Trupanion has no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

    In particular, the following factors, among others, could cause results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: the ability to achieve or maintain profitability and/or appropriate levels of cash flow in future periods; the ability to keep growing our membership base and revenue; the accuracy of assumptions used in determining appropriate member acquisition expenditures; the severity and frequency of claims; the ability to maintain high retention rates; the accuracy of assumptions used in pricing medical plan subscriptions and the ability to accurately estimate the impact of new products or offerings on claims frequency; actual claims expense exceeding estimates; regulatory and other constraints on the ability to institute, or the decision to otherwise delay, pricing modifications in response to changes in actual or estimated claims expense; the effectiveness and statutory or regulatory compliance of our Territory Partner model and of our Territory Partners, veterinarians and other third parties in recommending medical plan subscriptions to potential members; the ability to retain existing Territory Partners and increase the number of Territory Partners and active hospitals; compliance by us and those referring us members with laws and regulations that apply to our business, including the sale of a pet medical plan; the ability to maintain the security of our data; fluctuations in the Canadian currency exchange rate; the ability to protect our proprietary and member information; the ability to maintain our culture and team; the ability to maintain the requisite amount of risk-based capital; our ability to implement and maintain effective controls, including to remediate material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting; the ability to protect and enforce Trupanion’s intellectual property rights; the ability to successfully implement our alliance with Aflac; the ability to continue key contractual relationships with third parties; third-party claims including litigation and regulatory actions; the ability to recognize benefits from investments in new solutions and enhancements to Trupanion’s technology platform and website; our ability to retain key personnel; and deliberations and determinations by the Trupanion board based on the future performance of the company or otherwise.

    For a detailed discussion of these and other cautionary statements, please refer to the risk factors discussed in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including but not limited to, Trupanion’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and any subsequently filed reports on Forms 10-Q, 10-K and 8-K. All documents are available through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering Analysis and Retrieval system at https://www.sec.gov or the Investor Relations section of Trupanion’s website at https://investors.trupanion.com.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    Trupanion’s stated results may include certain non-GAAP financial measures. These non-GAAP financial measures may not provide information that is directly comparable to that provided by other companies in its industry as other companies in its industry may calculate or use non-GAAP financial measures differently. In addition, there are limitations in using non-GAAP financial measures because the non-GAAP financial measures are not prepared in accordance with GAAP, may be different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies and exclude expenses that may have a material impact on Trupanion’s reported financial results. The presentation and utilization of non-GAAP financial measures is not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the directly comparable financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Trupanion urges its investors to review the reconciliation of its non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures in its consolidated financial statements, and not to rely on any single financial or operating measure to evaluate its business. These reconciliations are included below and on Trupanion’s Investor Relations website.

    Because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of equity instruments that can impact a company’s non-cash expenses, Trupanion believes that providing various non-GAAP financial measures that exclude stock-based compensation expense and depreciation and amortization expense allows for more meaningful comparisons between its operating results from period to period. Trupanion offsets new pet acquisition expense with sign-up fee revenue in the calculation of net acquisition cost because it collects sign-up fee revenue from new members at the time of enrollment and considers it to be an offset to a portion of Trupanion’s new pet acquisition expense. Trupanion believes this allows it to calculate and present financial measures in a consistent manner across periods. Trupanion’s management believes that the non-GAAP financial measures and the related financial measures derived from them are important tools for financial and operational decision-making and for evaluating operating results over different periods of time.

    Trupanion, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (in thousands, except share data)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
      (unaudited)
    Revenue:        
    Subscription business   $ 233,064     $ 201,134  
    Other business     108,911       104,987  
    Total revenue     341,975       306,121  
    Cost of revenue:        
    Subscription business     189,845       172,132  
    Other business     101,027       97,762  
    Total cost of revenue(1),(2)     290,872       269,894  
    Operating expenses:        
    Technology and development(1)     8,072       6,960  
    General and administrative(1)     19,892       14,673  
    New pet acquisition expense(1)     20,516       16,843  
    Depreciation and amortization     3,791       3,785  
    Total operating expenses     52,271       42,261  
    Loss from investment in joint venture     (305 )     (103 )
    Operating loss     (1,473 )     (6,137 )
    Interest expense     3,211       3,596  
    Other (income), net     (3,240 )     (2,843 )
    Loss before income taxes     (1,444 )     (6,890 )
    Income tax (benefit) expense     39       (38 )
    Net loss   $ (1,483 )   $ (6,852 )
             
    Net loss per share:        
    Basic and diluted   $ (0.03 )   $ (0.16 )
    Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding:        
    Basic and diluted     42,775,955       41,917,094  
             
    (1)Includes stock-based compensation expense as follows:
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Cost of revenue   $ 1,259     $ 1,390  
    Technology and development     1,151       1,254  
    General and administrative     4,528       3,449  
    New pet acquisition expense     2,892       2,059  
    Total stock-based compensation expense   $ 9,830     $ 8,152  
             
    (2)The breakout of cost of revenue between veterinary invoice expense and other cost of revenue is as follows:
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Veterinary invoice expense   $ 247,450     $ 233,569  
    Other cost of revenue     43,422       36,325  
    Total cost of revenue   $ 290,872     $ 269,894  
    Trupanion, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in thousands, except share data)
      March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024
      (unaudited)    
    Assets      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 166,308     $ 160,295  
    Short-term investments   155,508       147,089  
    Accounts and other receivables, net of allowance for credit losses of $1,046 at March 31, 2025 and $1,117 at December 31, 2024   290,104       274,031  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   16,417       15,912  
    Total current assets   628,337       597,327  
    Restricted cash   39,702       39,235  
    Long-term investments   376       373  
    Property, equipment and internal-use software, net   101,938       102,191  
    Intangible assets, net   12,130       13,177  
    Other long-term assets   16,356       17,579  
    Goodwill   38,323       36,971  
    Total assets $ 837,162     $ 806,853  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 9,681     $ 11,532  
    Accrued liabilities and other current liabilities   36,907       33,469  
    Reserve for veterinary invoices   54,042       51,635  
    Deferred revenue   267,357       251,640  
    Long-term debt – current portion   1,350       1,350  
    Total current liabilities   369,337       349,626  
    Long-term debt   127,526       127,537  
    Deferred tax liabilities   1,884       1,946  
    Other liabilities   4,742       4,476  
    Total liabilities   503,489       483,585  
    Stockholders’ equity:      
    Common stock: $0.00001 par value per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 43,804,141 and 42,775,955 issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025; 43,516,631 and 42,488,445 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024   —       —  
    Preferred stock: $0.00001 par value per share, 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding   —       —  
    Additional paid-in capital   578,293       568,302  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (715 )     (2,612 )
    Accumulated deficit   (227,371 )     (225,888 )
    Treasury stock, at cost: 1,028,186 shares at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024   (16,534 )     (16,534 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   333,673       323,268  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 837,162     $ 806,853  
    Trupanion, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (in thousands)
      Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
      (unaudited)
    Operating activities      
    Net loss $ (1,483 )   $ (6,852 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash provided by operating activities:      
    Depreciation and amortization   3,791       3,785  
    Stock-based compensation expense   9,830       8,152  
    Other, net   349       (202 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
    Accounts and other receivables   (15,965 )     (10,718 )
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   (204 )     287  
    Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other liabilities   1,527       (5,131 )
    Reserve for veterinary invoices   2,407       (885 )
    Deferred revenue   15,712       13,998  
    Net cash provided by operating activities   15,964       2,434  
    Investing activities      
    Purchases of investment securities   (40,875 )     (19,193 )
    Maturities and sales of investment securities   33,242       19,005  
    Purchases of property, equipment, and internal-use software   (1,928 )     (3,065 )
    Other   588       516  
    Net cash used in investing activities   (8,973 )     (2,737 )
    Financing activities      
    Repayment of debt financing   (338 )     (338 )
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options   1,024       372  
    Shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding   (915 )     (245 )
    Other   (230 )     (75 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (459 )     (286 )
    Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, net   (52 )     (313 )
    Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash   6,480       (902 )
    Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period   199,530       170,464  
    Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period $ 206,010     $ 169,562  
    The following tables set forth our key operating metrics.
                                   
      Three Months Ended March 31,                        
        2025       2024                          
    Total Business:                              
    Total pets enrolled (at period end)   1,667,637       1,708,017                          
    Subscription Business:                              
    Total subscription pets enrolled (at period end)   1,052,845       1,006,168                          
    Monthly average revenue per pet $ 77.53     $ 69.79                          
    Average pet acquisition cost (PAC) $ 267     $ 207                          
    Average monthly retention   98.28 %     98.41 %                        
                                   
                                   
      Three Months Ended
      Mar. 31, 2025   Dec. 31, 2024   Sep. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2024   Mar. 31, 2024   Dec. 31, 2023   Sep. 30, 2023   Jun. 30, 2023
    Total Business:                              
    Total pets enrolled (at period end)   1,667,637       1,677,570       1,688,903       1,699,643       1,708,017       1,714,473       1,712,177       1,679,659  
    Subscription Business:                              
    Total subscription pets enrolled (at period end)   1,052,845       1,041,212       1,032,042       1,020,934       1,006,168       991,426       969,322       943,958  
    Monthly average revenue per pet $ 77.53     $ 76.02     $ 74.27     $ 71.72     $ 69.79     $ 67.07     $ 65.82     $ 64.41  
    Average pet acquisition cost (PAC) $ 267     $ 261     $ 243     $ 231     $ 207     $ 217     $ 212     $ 236  
    Average monthly retention   98.28 %     98.25 %     98.29 %     98.34 %     98.41 %     98.49 %     98.55 %     98.61 %
    The following table reflects the reconciliation of cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow (in thousands):
           
      Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Net cash provided by operating activities $ 15,964     $ 2,434  
    Purchases of property, equipment, and internal-use software   (1,928 )     (3,065 )
    Free cash flow $ 14,036     $ (631 )
    The following tables reflect the reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP measures (in thousands except percentages):
      Three Months Ended March 31,
        2024       2023  
    Veterinary invoice expense $ 247,450     $ 233,569  
    Less:      
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   (763 )     (862 )
    Other business cost of paying veterinary invoices(3)   (79,269 )     (81,213 )
    Subscription cost of paying veterinary invoices (non-GAAP) $ 167,418     $ 151,494  
    % of subscription revenue   71.8 %     75.3 %
           
    Other cost of revenue $ 43,422     $ 36,325  
    Less:      
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   (482 )     (420 )
    Other business variable expenses(3)   (21,736 )     (16,498 )
    Subscription variable expenses (non-GAAP) $ 21,204     $ 19,407  
    % of subscription revenue   9.1 %     9.6 %
           
    Technology and development expense $ 8,072     $ 6,960  
    General and administrative expense   19,892       14,673  
    Less:      
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   (5,396 )     (4,258 )
    Development expenses(2)   (1,406 )     (1,178 )
    Fixed expenses (non-GAAP) $ 21,162     $ 16,197  
    % of total revenue   6.2 %     5.3 %
           
    New pet acquisition expense $ 20,516     $ 16,843  
    Less:      
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   (2,873 )     (1,857 )
    Other business pet acquisition expense(3)   (3 )     (13 )
    Subscription acquisition cost (non-GAAP) $ 17,640     $ 14,973  
    % of subscription revenue   7.6 %     7.4 %
           
    (1) Trupanion employees may elect to take restricted stock units in lieu of cash payment for their bonuses. We account for such expense as stock-based compensation according to GAAP, but we do not include it in any non-GAAP adjustments. Stock-based compensation associated with bonuses was approximately $0.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
    (2) Consists of costs related to product exploration and development that are pre-revenue and historically have been insignificant.
    (3) Excluding the portion of stock-based compensation expense attributable to the other business segment.
    The following tables reflect the reconciliation of GAAP measures to non-GAAP measures (in thousands, except percentages):
      Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Operating Loss $ (1,473 )   $ (6,138 )
    Non-GAAP expense adjustments      
    Acquisition cost   17,643       14,985  
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   9,514       7,397  
    Development expenses(2)   1,406       1,179  
    Depreciation and amortization   3,791       3,785  
    Gain (loss) from investment in joint venture   (305 )     (103 )
    Total adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 31,186     $ 21,312  
           
    Subscription Business:      
    Subscription operating income (loss) $ 1,065     $ (4,525 )
    Non-GAAP expense adjustments      
    Acquisition cost   17,640       14,973  
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   7,772       5,882  
    Development expenses(2)   958       774  
    Depreciation and amortization   2,584       2,487  
    Subscription adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 30,019     $ 19,591  
           
    Other Business:      
    Other business operating loss $ (2,233 )   $ (1,510 )
    Non-GAAP expense adjustments      
    Acquisition cost   3       12  
    Stock-based compensation expense(1)   1,742       1,516  
    Development expenses(2)   448       404  
    Depreciation and amortization   1,207       1,298  
    Other business adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 1,167     $ 1,720  
           
    (1) Trupanion employees may elect to take restricted stock units in lieu of cash payment for their bonuses. We account for such expense as stock-based compensation in accordance with GAAP, but we do not include it in any non-GAAP adjustments. Stock-based compensation associated with bonuses was approximately $0.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
    (2) Consists of costs related to product exploration and development that are pre-revenue and historically have been insignificant.
    The following tables reflect the reconciliation of GAAP measures to non-GAAP measures (in thousands, except percentages):
                   
      Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Subscription revenue $ 233,064     $ 201,134  
    Subscription cost of paying veterinary invoices   167,418       151,493  
    Subscription variable expenses   21,204       19,407  
    Subscription fixed expenses*   14,423       10,642  
    Subscription adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 30,019     $ 19,591  
    Other business revenue   108,911       104,987  
    Other business cost of paying veterinary invoices   79,269       81,213  
    Other business variable expenses   21,736       16,498  
    Other business fixed expenses*   6,739       5,555  
    Other business adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 1,167     $ 1,721  
    Revenue   341,975       306,121  
    Cost of paying veterinary invoices   246,687       232,707  
    Variable expenses   42,940       35,905  
    Fixed expenses*   21,162       16,197  
    Total business adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 31,186     $ 21,312  
           
    As a percentage of revenue: Three Months Ended March 31,
        2024       2023  
    Subscription revenue   100.0 %     100.0 %
    Subscription cost of paying veterinary invoices   71.8 %     75.3 %
    Subscription variable expenses   9.1 %     9.6 %
    Subscription fixed expenses*   6.2 %     5.3 %
    Subscription adjusted operating income (non-GAAP)   12.9 %     9.7 %
           
    Other business revenue   100.0 %     100.0 %
    Other business cost of paying veterinary invoices   72.8 %     77.4 %
    Other business variable expenses   20.0 %     15.7 %
    Other business fixed expenses*   6.2 %     5.3 %
    Other business adjusted operating income (non-GAAP)   1.1 %     1.6 %
           
    Revenue   100.0 %     100.0 %
    Cost of paying veterinary invoices   72.1 %     76.0 %
    Variable expenses   12.6 %     11.7 %
    Fixed expenses*   6.2 %     5.3 %
    Total business adjusted operating income (non-GAAP)   9.1 %     7.0 %
           
    *Fixed expenses represent shared services that support both our subscription and other business segments and, as such, are generally allocated to each segment pro-rata based on revenues.

    Adjusted operating income is a non-GAAP financial measure that adjusts operating income (loss) to remove the effect of acquisition cost, development expenses, non-recurring transaction or restructuring expenses, and gain (loss) from investment in joint venture. Non-cash items, such as stock-based compensation expense and depreciation and amortization, are also excluded. Acquisition cost, development expenses, gain (loss) from investment in joint venture, stock-based compensation expense, and depreciation and amortization are expected to remain recurring expenses for the foreseeable future, but are excluded from this metric to measure scale in other areas of the business. Management believes acquisition costs primarily represent the cost to acquire new subscribers and are driven by the amount of growth we choose to pursue based primarily on the amount of our adjusted operating income period over period. Accordingly, this measure is not indicative of our core operating income performance. We also exclude development expenses, gain (loss) from investment in joint venture, stock-based compensation expense, and depreciation and amortization because some investors may not view those items as reflective of our core operating income performance.

    Management uses adjusted operating income and the margin on adjusted operating income to understand the effects of scale in its non-acquisition cost and development expenses and to plan future advertising expenditures, which are designed to acquire new pets. Management uses this measure as a principal way of understanding the operating performance of its business exclusive of acquisition cost and new product exploration and development initiatives. Management believes disclosure of this metric provides investors with the same data that the Company employs in assessing its overall operations and that disclosure of this measure may provide useful information regarding the efficiency of our utilization of revenues, return on advertising dollars in the form of new subscribers and future use of available cash to support the continued growth of our business.

    The following tables reflect the reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to net loss (in thousands):
                                   
      Three Months Ended March 31,                        
        2025       2024                          
    Net loss $ (1,483 )   $ (6,852 )                        
    Excluding:                              
    Stock-based compensation expense   9,514       7,398                          
    Depreciation and amortization expense   3,791       3,785                          
    Interest income   (2,835 )     (3,045 )                        
    Interest expense   3,211       3,596                          
    Income tax expense (benefit)   39       (38 )                        
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 12,237     $ 4,844                          
                                   
      Three Months Ended
      Mar. 31, 2025   Dec. 31, 2024   Sep. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2024   Mar. 31, 2024   Dec. 31, 2023   Sep. 30, 2023   Jun. 30, 2023
    Net (loss) income $ (1,483 )   $ 1,656     $ 1,425     $ (5,862 )   $ (6,852 )   $ (2,163 )   $ (4,036 )   $ (13,714 )
    Excluding:                              
    Stock-based compensation expense   9,514       8,036       8,127       8,381       7,398       6,636       6,585       6,503  
    Depreciation and amortization expense   3,791       3,924       4,381       4,376       3,785       3,029       2,990       3,253  
    Interest income   (2,835 )     (2,999 )     (3,232 )     (3,135 )     (3,045 )     (2,842 )     (2,389 )     (2,051 )
    Interest expense   3,211       3,427       3,820       3,655       3,596       3,697       3,053       2,940  
    Income tax expense (benefit)   39       38       39       (44 )     (38 )     130       (43 )     (238 )
    Goodwill impairment charges   —       5,299       —       —       —       —       —       —  
    Non-recurring transaction or restructuring expenses   —       —       —       —       —       —       8       65  
    (Gain) loss from equity method investment   —       —       (33 )     —       —       —       (110 )     —  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 12,237     $ 19,381     $ 14,527     $ 7,371     $ 4,844     $ 8,487     $ 6,058     $ (3,242 )
     

    Contacts:

    Investors:
    Laura Bainbridge, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications
    Gil Melchior, Director, Investor Relations
    Investor.Relations@trupanion.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/af9a2ab5-2802-4ca8-8a90-199e1c54b91a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mercury Acquires Star Lab to Advance Its Leadership Position in Secure Processing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANDOVER, Mass., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mercury Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: MRCY, www.mrcy.com), a technology company that delivers mission-critical processing to the edge, today announced the closure of an agreement that will further advance the company’s leadership position in secure processing capabilities for aerospace and defense applications.

    Mercury has completed the acquisition of Star Lab, a subsidiary of Wind River Systems, Inc., that provides anti-tamper and cybersecurity software solutions designed to protect mission-critical processors from advanced attacks. Mercury has worked with Star Lab for more than a decade, leveraging its technology in deployed and awarded Common Processing Architecture and BuiltSECURE™ products, which mitigate reverse engineering and safeguard confidential data from adversarial threats even when a system has been compromised. This unique technology is required across many defense applications in order to deter, impede, detect, and respond to the exploitation of critical program information.

    Star Lab software is readily and easily integrated with many other Mercury products to provide unique and valuable cybersecurity protection for customers. The acquisition will enhance a wide range of Mercury products and solutions, such as rugged servers, embedded processing cards, mixed signal cards, avionics, and integrated processing solutions. Star Lab will join Mercury’s Processing Technologies business unit.

    “Mercury is a leader in secure processing technologies for aerospace and defense platforms, with unique expertise and IP related to advanced cryptography, secure boot, and physical protection technologies,” said Tom Smelker, Mercury’s Senior Vice President of Processing Technologies. “As holistic security becomes increasingly essential for government missions, the acquisition of Star Lab will allow Mercury to deliver an expanded portfolio of fully integrated security solutions to our customers and partners.”

    Mercury Systems – Innovation that matters® 
    Mercury Systems is a technology company that delivers mission-critical processing power to the edge, making advanced technologies profoundly more accessible for today’s most challenging aerospace and defense missions. The Mercury Processing Platform allows customers to tap into innovative capabilities from silicon to system scale, turning data into decisions on timelines that matter. Mercury’s products and solutions are deployed in more than 300 programs and across 35 countries, enabling a broad range of applications in mission computing, sensor processing, command and control, and communications. Mercury is headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, and has 23 locations worldwide. To learn more, visit mrcy.com. (Nasdaq: MRCY)

    Forward-Looking Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those relating to the Company’s focus on enhanced execution of the Company’s strategic plan. You can identify these statements by the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “continue,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “likely,” “forecast,” “probable,” “potential,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, continued funding of defense programs, the timing and amounts of such funding, general economic and business conditions, including unforeseen weakness in the Company’s markets, effects of any U.S. federal government shutdown or extended continuing resolution, effects of geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in or cost increases related to completing development, engineering and manufacturing programs, changes in customer order patterns, changes in product mix, continued success in technological advances and delivering technological innovations, changes in, or in the U.S. government’s interpretation of, federal export control or procurement rules and regulations, including tariffs, changes in, or in the interpretation or enforcement of, environmental rules and regulations, market acceptance of the Company’s products, shortages in or delays in receiving components, supply chain delays or volatility for critical components, production delays or unanticipated expenses including due to quality issues or manufacturing execution issues, adherence to required manufacturing standards, capacity underutilization, increases in scrap or inventory write-offs, failure to achieve or maintain manufacturing quality certifications, such as AS9100, the impact of supply chain disruption, inflation and labor shortages, among other things, on program execution and the resulting effect on customer satisfaction, inability to fully realize the expected benefits from acquisitions, restructurings, and operational efficiency initiatives or delays in realizing such benefits, challenges in integrating acquired businesses and achieving anticipated synergies, effects of shareholder activism, increases in interest rates, changes to industrial security and cyber-security regulations and requirements and impacts from any cyber or insider threat events, changes in tax rates or tax regulations, such as the deductibility of internal research and development, changes to interest rate swaps or other cash flow hedging arrangements, changes to generally accepted accounting principles, difficulties in retaining key employees and customers, litigation, including the dispute arising with the former CEO over his resignation, unanticipated costs under fixed-price service and system integration engagements, and various other factors beyond our control. These risks and uncertainties also include such additional risk factors as are discussed in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 28, 2024 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made.

    INVESTOR CONTACT
    Tyler Hojo
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    Tyler.Hojo@mrcy.com

    MEDIA CONTACT
    Turner Brinton
    Senior Director, Corporate Communications
    Turner.Brinton@mrcy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bimini Capital Management Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VERO BEACH, Fla., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bimini Capital Management, Inc. (OTCQB: BMNM), (“Bimini Capital,” “Bimini,” or the “Company”), today announced results of operations for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Net income of $0.6 million, or $0.06 per common share
    • Book value per share of $0.74
    • Company to discuss results on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET

    Management Commentary 

    Commenting on the first quarter results, Robert E. Cauley, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “While economic data and events generally are never uniformly stable or consistent, the first quarter of 2025 was relatively uneventful.  Interest rates were generally range bound, and volatility was low for most of the quarter.  These are ideal conditions for a levered investment strategy in Agency RMBS.  Accordingly, the Company and the Agency RMBS market generated attractive returns for the period.  Orchid Island Capital’s stock also traded well during the quarter – at least until the last week of the quarter. Orchid was able to take advantage of these conditions and the performance of its common stock price and raise additional capital, enhancing the Company’s advisory service revenues going forward. 

    “Although we did not add to the RMBS portfolio at our Royal Palm Capital subsidiary this quarter we did several times during 2024, and with funding costs down as a result of Fed rates cuts late in 2024, our net interest income, inclusive of dividends from our holdings of Orchid, increased substantially.

    “While the first quarter market conditions were very supportive of our two operating segments, conditions so far in the second quarter have been challenging.  At the moment, there remains considerable uncertainty about how the tariffs introduced by the new administration will ultimately impact the economy and markets. To the extent the economy slows, leading to potential additional rate cuts by the Fed, and/or longer-term interest rates rise as a result of the inflationary impacts of the tariffs, both the Company’s investment portfolio as well as Orchid’s could benefit from enhanced net interest margins resulting from the steeper interest rate curve.”

    Details of First Quarter 2025 Results of Operations

    Orchid reported net income for the first quarter 2025 of $17.1 million and generated a 2.60% return on its book value for the quarter – not annualized. Orchid also raised $205.4 million during the quarter and its shareholders equity increased from $668.5 million at December 31, 2024 to $855.9 million at March 31, 2025. As a result, Bimini’s advisory service revenues of approximately $3.6 million represented a 22% increase over the first quarter of 2024 and a 6% increase over the fourth quarter of 2024. 

    Royal Palm did not add to the RMBS portfolio during the first quarter of 2025 but did so several times during 2024, and interest revenue increased 25% over the first quarter of 2024 and 4% over the fourth quarter of 2024.  With funding costs down as a result of Fed rates cuts late in 2024, net interest income, inclusive of dividends from holdings of Orchid common shares, increased approximately 64% over the first quarter of 2024 and by approximately 35% over the fourth quarter of 2024.  Note these figures represent just the net interest income from the investment portfolio, and do not include interest charges on our trust preferred or other long-term debt.

    Interest charges on the preferred trust and other long-term debt of $0.54 million were down 8% from the fourth quarter of 2024 and 12% from the first quarter of 2024. Expenses of $2.92 million increased 4% from the fourth quarter of 2024 and decreased 3% from the first quarter of 2024.  Bimini recorded an income tax provision of $0.2 million for the first quarter of 2025.

    Management of Orchid Island Capital, Inc.

    Orchid is managed and advised by Bimini. As Manager, Bimini is responsible for administering Orchid’s business activities and day-to-day operations. Pursuant to the terms of a management agreement, our subsidiary, Bimini Advisors, provides Orchid with its management team, including its officers, along with appropriate support personnel. Bimini also maintains a common stock investment in Orchid which is accounted for under the fair value option, with changes in fair value recorded in the statement of operations for the current period. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, Bimini’s statement of operations included a fair value adjustment of $(0.1) million and dividends of $0.2 million from its investment in Orchid common stock. Also, during the three months ended March 31, 2025, Bimini recorded $3.6 million in advisory services revenue for managing Orchid’s portfolio, consisting of $2.7 million of management fees, $0.6 million in overhead reimbursement, and $0.2 million in repurchase, clearing and administrative fees.

    Book Value Per Share

    The Company’s book value per share on March 31, 2025 was $0.74. The Company computes book value per share by dividing total stockholders’ equity by the total number of shares outstanding of the Company’s Class A Common Stock. At March 31, 2025, the Company’s stockholders’ equity was $7.4 million, with 10,005,457 Class A Common shares outstanding.

    Capital Allocation and Return on Invested Capital

    The Company allocates capital between two MBS sub-portfolios, the pass-through MBS portfolio and the structured MBS portfolio, consisting of interest-only and inverse interest-only securities. The table below details the changes to the respective sub-portfolios during the quarter.

    Portfolio Activity for the Quarter  
              Structured Security Portfolio          
                  Inverse                  
      Pass     Interest-     Interest-                  
      Through     Only     Only                  
      Portfolio     Securities     Securities     Sub-total     Total  
    Market Value – December 31, 2024 $ 120,055,716     $ 2,285,605     $ 6,849     $ 2,292,454     $ 122,348,170  
    Securities purchased   –       –       –       –       –  
    Return of investment   n/a       (77,876 )     (346 )     (78,222 )     (78,222 )
    Pay-downs   (2,793,832 )     n/a       n/a       n/a       (2,793,832 )
    Discount accreted due to pay-downs   19,415       n/a       n/a       n/a       19,415  
    Mark to market gains   1,423,056       45,169       1,368       46,537       1,469,593  
    Market Value – March 31, 2025 $ 118,704,355     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 120,965,124  

    The tables below present the allocation of capital between the respective portfolios at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, and the return on invested capital for each sub-portfolio for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025. Capital allocation is defined as the sum of the market value of securities held, less associated repurchase agreement borrowings, plus cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash associated with repurchase agreements. Capital allocated to non-portfolio assets is not included in the calculation.

    Capital Allocation  
              Structured Security Portfolio          
                  Inverse                  
      Pass     Interest-     Interest-                  
      Through     Only     Only                  
      Portfolio     Securities     Securities     Sub-total     Total  
    March 31, 2025                                      
    Market value $ 118,704,355     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 120,965,124  
    Cash equivalents and restricted cash   5,500,438       –       –       –       5,500,438  
    Repurchase agreement obligations   (115,510,999 )     –       –       –       (115,510,999 )
    Total $ 8,693,794     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 10,954,563  
    % of Total   79.4 %     20.5 %     0.1 %     20.6 %     100.0 %
    December 31, 2024                                      
    Market value $ 120,055,716     $ 2,285,605     $ 6,849     $ 2,292,454     $ 122,348,170  
    Cash equivalents and restricted cash   7,422,746       –       –       –       7,422,746  
    Repurchase agreement obligations   (117,180,999 )     –       –       –       (117,180,999 )
    Total $ 10,297,463     $ 2,285,605     $ 6,849     $ 2,292,454     $ 12,589,917  
    % of Total   81.8 %     18.2 %     0.1 %     18.2 %     100.0 %

    The returns on invested capital in the PT MBS and structured MBS portfolios were approximately 4.6% and 3.7%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The combined portfolio generated a return on invested capital of approximately 4.4%.

    Returns for the Quarter Ended March 31, 2025  
              Structured Security Portfolio          
                  Inverse                  
      Pass     Interest-     Interest-                  
      Through     Only     Only                  
      Portfolio     Securities     Securities     Sub-total     Total  
    Interest income (net of repo cost) $ 397,204     $ 38,427     $ 43     $ 38,470     $ 435,674  
    Realized and unrealized gains   1,442,471       45,169       1,368       46,537       1,489,008  
    Hedge losses   (1,368,795 )     n/a       n/a       n/a       (1,368,795 )
    Total Return $ 470,880     $ 83,596     $ 1,411     $ 85,007     $ 555,887  
    Beginning capital allocation $ 10,297,463     $ 2,285,605     $ 6,849     $ 2,292,454     $ 12,589,917  
    Return on invested capital for the quarter(1)   4.6 %     3.7 %     20.6 %     3.7 %     4.4 %
    (1 ) Calculated by dividing the Total Return by the Beginning Capital Allocation, expressed as a percentage.


    Prepayments

    For the first quarter of 2025, the Company received approximately $2.9 million in scheduled and unscheduled principal repayments and prepayments, which equated to a 3-month constant prepayment rate (“CPR”) of approximately 7.3%. Prepayment rates on the two MBS sub-portfolios were as follows (in CPR):

      PT Structured  
      MBS Sub- MBS Sub- Total
    Three Months Ended Portfolio Portfolio Portfolio
    March 31, 2025 7.5 6.2 7.3
    December 31, 2024 10.9 12.5 11.1
    September 30, 2024 6.3 6.7 6.3
    June 30, 2024 10.9 5.5 10.0
    March 31, 2024 18.0 9.2 16.5


    Portfolio

    The following tables summarize the MBS portfolio as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:

    ($ in thousands)   
                    Weighted  
            Percentage       Average  
            of   Weighted   Maturity  
      Fair   Entire   Average   in Longest
    Asset Category Value   Portfolio   Coupon   Months Maturity
    March 31, 2025                  
    Fixed Rate MBS $ 118,704   98.1 % 5.60 % 338 1-Jan-55
    Structured MBS   2,261   1.9 % 2.86 % 279 15-May-51
    Total MBS Portfolio $ 120,965   100.0 % 5.27 % 337 1-Jan-55
    December 31, 2024                  
    Fixed Rate MBS $ 120,056   98.1 % 5.60 % 341 1-Jan-55
    Structured MBS   2,292   1.9 % 2.85 % 281 15-May-51
    Total MBS Portfolio $ 122,348   100.0 % 5.26 % 340 1-Jan-55
    ($ in thousands)  
      March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024  
          Percentage of       Percentage of  
    Agency Fair Value Entire
    Portfolio    		   Fair Value Entire
    Portfolio    		  
    Fannie Mae $ 31,705 26.2 % $ 32,692 26.7 %
    Freddie Mac   89,260 73.8 %   89,656 73.3 %
    Total Portfolio $ 120,965 100.0 % $ 122,348 100.0 %
      March 31, 2025 December 31, 2024
    Weighted Average Pass Through Purchase Price $ 102.72 $ 102.72
    Weighted Average Structured Purchase Price $ 4.48 $ 4.48
    Weighted Average Pass Through Current Price $ 100.85 $ 99.63
    Weighted Average Structured Current Price $ 14.02 $ 13.71
    Effective Duration (1)   3.257   3.622
    (1 ) Effective duration is the approximate percentage change in price for a 100 basis point change in rates. An effective duration of 3.257 indicates that an interest rate increase of 1.0% would be expected to cause a 3.257% decrease in the value of the MBS in the Company’s investment portfolio at March 31, 2025. An effective duration of 3.622 indicates that an interest rate increase of 1.0% would be expected to cause a 3.622% decrease in the value of the MBS in the Company’s investment portfolio at December 31, 2024. These figures include the structured securities in the portfolio but not the effect of the Company’s hedges. Effective duration quotes for individual investments are obtained from The Yield Book, Inc.


    Financing and Liquidity

    As of March 31, 2025, the Company had outstanding repurchase obligations of approximately $115.5 million with a net weighted average borrowing rate of 4.47%. These agreements were collateralized by MBS with a fair value, including accrued interest, of approximately $121.4 million. At March 31, 2025, the Company’s liquidity was approximately $4.5 million, consisting of unpledged MBS and cash and cash equivalents.

    We may pledge more of our structured MBS as part of a repurchase agreement funding but retain cash in lieu of acquiring additional assets. In this way, we can, at a modest cost, retain higher levels of cash on hand and decrease the likelihood that we will have to sell assets in a distressed market in order to raise cash. Below is a list of outstanding borrowings under repurchase obligations at March 31, 2025.

    ($ in thousands)  
    Repurchase Agreement Obligations
              Weighted   Weighted
      Total     Average   Average
      Outstanding % of   Borrowing   Maturity
    Counterparty Balances Total   Rate   (in Days)
    South Street Securities, LLC $ 25,952 22.5 % 4.46 % 21
    Marex Capital Markets Inc.   24,040 20.8 % 4.45 % 39
    DV Securities, LLC Repo   19,282 16.7 % 4.45 % 21
    Mirae Asset Securities (USA) Inc.   18,870 16.3 % 4.51 % 51
    Clear Street LLC   16,365 14.2 % 4.46 % 49
    Mitsubishi UFJ Securities, Inc.   11,002 9.5 % 4.49 % 49
      $ 115,511 100.0 % 4.47 % 36


    Summarized Consolidated Financial Statements

    The following is a summarized presentation of the unaudited consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2025, and December 31, 2024, and the unaudited consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024. Amounts presented are subject to change.

    BIMINI CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Unaudited – Amounts Subject to Change)
     
      March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    ASSETS          
    Mortgage-backed securities $ 120,965,124   $ 122,348,170
    Cash equivalents and restricted cash   5,500,438     7,422,746
    Orchid Island Capital, Inc. common stock, at fair value   4,279,414     4,427,372
    Accrued interest receivable   587,536     601,640
    Deferred tax assets, net   15,750,116     15,930,953
    Other assets   4,356,674     4,122,776
    Total Assets $ 151,439,302   $ 154,853,657
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Repurchase agreements $ 115,510,999   $ 117,180,999
    Long-term debt   27,362,762     27,368,158
    Other liabilities   1,191,564     3,483,093
    Total Liabilities   144,065,325     148,032,250
    Stockholders’ equity   7,373,977     6,821,407
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $ 151,439,302   $ 154,853,657
    Class A Common Shares outstanding   10,005,457     10,005,457
    Book value per share $ 0.74   $ 0.68
    BIMINI CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (Unaudited – Amounts Subject to Change)
     
      Three Months Ended March 31,  
      2025     2024  
    Advisory services $ 3,582,289     $ 2,929,261  
    Interest and dividend income   1,947,040       1,598,965  
    Interest expense   (1,844,020 )     (1,815,678 )
    Net revenues   3,685,309       2,712,548  
    Other (expense) income   (27,745 )     926,731  
    Expenses   2,924,157       3,029,395  
    Net income before income tax provision   733,407       609,884  
    Income tax provision   180,837       396,776  
    Net income $ 552,570     $ 213,108  
                   
    Basic and Diluted Net (Loss) Income Per Share of:              
    CLASS A COMMON STOCK $ 0.06     $ 0.02  
    CLASS B COMMON STOCK $ 0.06     $ 0.02  
      Three Months Ended March 31,  
    Key Balance Sheet Metrics 2025     2024  
    Average MBS(1) $ 121,656,646     $ 90,697,087  
    Average repurchase agreements(1)   116,345,999       85,752,999  
    Average stockholders’ equity(1)   7,097,692       8,234,295  
                   
    Key Performance Metrics              
    Average yield on MBS(2)   5.73 %     6.15 %
    Average cost of funds(2)   4.49 %     5.63 %
    Average economic cost of funds(3)   4.13 %     5.54 %
    Average interest rate spread(4)   1.24 %     0.52 %
    Average economic interest rate spread(5)   1.60 %     0.61 %
    (1 ) Average MBS, repurchase agreements and stockholders’ equity balances are calculated using two data points, the beginning and ending balances.
    (2 ) Portfolio yields and costs of funds are calculated based on the average balances of the underlying investment portfolio/repurchase agreement balances and are annualized for the quarterly periods presented.
    (3 ) Represents interest cost of our borrowings and the effect of derivative agreements attributed to the period related to hedging activities, divided by average repurchase agreements.
    (4 ) Average interest rate spread is calculated by subtracting average cost of funds from average yield on MBS.
    (5 ) Average economic interest rate spread is calculated by subtracting average economic cost of funds from average yield on MBS.


    About Bimini Capital Management, Inc.

    Bimini Capital Management, Inc. invests primarily in, but is not limited to investing in, residential mortgage-related securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae). Its objective is to earn returns on the spread between the yield on its assets and its costs, including the interest expense on the funds it borrows. In addition, Bimini generates a significant portion of its revenue serving as the manager of the MBS portfolio of, and providing certain repurchase agreement trading, clearing and administrative services to, Orchid Island Capital, Inc.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Statements herein relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The reader is cautioned that such forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time and on management’s good faith belief with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences are described in Bimini Capital Management, Inc.’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Bimini Capital Management, Inc.’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Bimini Capital Management, Inc. assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except as may be required by applicable law.

    Earnings Conference Call Details

    An earnings conference call and live audio webcast will be hosted Friday, May 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET. Participants can register and receive dial-in information at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIa731c864bb5447568e7b00d74642ab23. A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/cq5fazei or via the investor relations section of the Company’s website at https://ir.biminicapital.com. An audio archive of the webcast will be available on the website for 30 days after the call.

    CONTACT:
    Bimini Capital Management, Inc.
    Robert E. Cauley, 772-231-1400
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
    https://ir.biminicapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairmen Guthrie and Griffith Along with Vice Chairman Joyce and Reps. James and Obernolte Issue Statement on Passage of Bills to Stop California EV Mandates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Environment, along with other members of the Committee applauded the passage of three resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act to repeal disastrous electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

    “The passage of these resolutions is a victory for Americans who will not be forced into purchasing costly EVs because of California’s unworkable mandates,”said Chairmen Guthrie and Griffith. “If not repealed, the California waivers would lead to higher prices for both new and used vehicles, increase our reliance on China, and strain our electric grid. The passage of these three resolutions will help to protect Americans from some of the worst policies of the Biden-Harris Administration. Thank you to Vice Chairman Joyce, Congressman James, and Congressman Obernolte for your work to ensure that families and businesses can continue choosing the vehicles they need.”

    “American consumers, not out-of-touch politicians, should decide what vehicle best fits their individual needs,”said Congressman John Joyce, M.D.“Since I arrived in Washington, I have led this fight to protect consumer freedom and save the American auto industry from dangerous environmental regulations. As this legislation takes its first step toward reaching President Trump’s desk, I urge my colleagues in the Senate to support this bill to save our auto industry and protect the freedom of the open road.”

    “Michigan is not afraid of the future, but we demand to be a part of it. The Biden Administration left behind comply-or-die Green New Deal mandates that threaten to crush our trucking industry and drive-up costs for hardworking Americans,” said Congressman James. “I know — my family has a trucking company. Republicans are working hard to implement President Trump’s America First Agenda, and the first step is repealing the rules and waivers that fueled Bideninflation.”

    “I’m proud that the House passed my resolution to stop California’s unworkable engine emission standards from becoming national policy,”said Congressman Obernolte. “These regulations would raise costs for consumers, crush small businesses, and threaten critical supply chains across the country. It is Congress’ job to ensure that one state’s overreach doesn’t dictate how all Americans live, work, or drive.”

    Read an Op-ed from Chairman Guthrie, Vice Chairman Joyce, Congressman James, and Congressman Obernolte on these resolutions here.

    Background:

    The Clean Air Act generally preempts individual states from setting their own vehicle emission standards. However, section 209 of the Clean Air Act allows the Environmental Protection Agency to waive state preemption for California. This carveout was intended to allow California to implement stricter air vehicle emission standards to address “compelling and extraordinary circumstances” involving local air pollution – not to remake the auto industry and limit consumer choice nationwide. 

    The Biden EPA granted these waivers that have allowed California to ban sales of new gas, diesel, and hybrid vehicles, as well as heavy-duty trucks, while also mandating 100% electric vehicle sales by 2035. With approval of these resolutions, Congress is exercising its important oversight responsibilities and reining in the regulatory overreach of the previous administration. 

    • H.J.Res. 88, led by Rep. John Joyce (PA-13), Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, will repeal California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) waiver, allowing the State to ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035.
    • H.J.Res. 87, led by Rep. John James (MI-10), will repeal California’s Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) waiver, which currently would allow the State to mandate the sale of zero-emission trucks.
    • H.J.Res. 89, led by Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), will put an end to California’s implementation of its most recent nitrogen oxide (NOx) engine emission standards, which create burdensome and unworkable standards for heavy-duty on-road engines.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Leads 142 Members in Demanding Answers Regarding the Revocation of Student Visas

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, is leading 142 Members of Congress in demanding answers regarding the termination of students’ legal status. Despite the Trump Administration’s claim last week that it would reverse course, only Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has made any policy change.  While students are no longer immediately deportable, they will be unable to return to the United States once they go home after the semester ends, as the State Department is not restoring students’ visa status. 

    “This is not about national security. It is about using immigration enforcement as a weapon to stifle political dissent, restrict due process, and enforce an exclusionary and nativist vision of America that runs counter to everything our institutions of higher learning stand for,” wrote the Members. “Across the country, students are being picked up – in some cases by masked immigration agents in unmarked cars – and being held in detention facilities with no warning and limited information as to why they are being deported.”

    According to recent reporting, more than 1,800 students and recent graduates across 280 colleges and universities have had their visas revoked. Since Trump took office, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also confirmed that at least 4,736 have had their legal status terminated in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). However, DHS does not have the authority to terminate this legal status except under very specific circumstances, none of which have been met in the vast majority of these cases.

    “Our campuses have been spaces where students and scholars from around the world come together to challenge assumptions, push the boundaries of knowledge, and foster the innovation that has made our country a global leader,” continued the Members. “But today, the Trump administration’s heavy-handed and politically motivated immigration enforcement is turning university campuses into places of fear, rather than learning, and these actions deter students from coming to study at U.S. institutions.”

    Reporting has also shown that the State Department has been using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to identify students to target through their social media accounts. This aspect is especially troubling as social media accounts may not feature students’ names, and AI facial recognition is often prone to mistakes, at significantly higher rates when identifying people of color.

    The full text of the letter can be read here. 

    The letter was signed by Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Ami Bera (CA-06), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Gerald Connolly (VA-11), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jason Crow (CO-06), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Bill Foster (IL-11), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Al Green (TX-09), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Jim Himes (CT-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), William Keating (MA-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Mike Levin (CA-49), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), John Mannion (NY-22), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Dave Min (CA-47), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

    It was also endorsed by AFL-CIO; American Friends of Combatants for Peace; American Friends Service Committee; Amnesty International USA; Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC; Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago; Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California; Brooklyn for Peace; Center for Constitutional Rights; Center for International Policy Advocacy; Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA); CODEPINK; Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR); DAWN; Friends Committee on National Legislation; Habonim Dror North America; Hindus for Human Rights; HIstorians for Peace and Democracy; IfNotNow Movement ; Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights; IMEU Policy Project; Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC); Indivisible; International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW); J Street; Jewish Voice for Peace Action; MADRE; Minnesota Peace Project; MPower Change Action Fund; National Immigrant Justice Center; New Jewish Narrative; Nonviolence International; OneAmerica; Partners for Progressive Israel; Peace Action; Presbyterian Church (USA), Office of Public Witness; Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration; Reconsider; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC); Stop AAPI Hate; United Church of Christ.

    Issues: Arts & Education, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: As Dutton champions nuclear power, Indigenous artists recall the profound loss of land and life that came from it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Josephine Goldman, Sessional Academic, School of Languages and Cultures, Discipline of French and Francophone Studies, University of Sydney

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s promise to power Australia with nuclear energy has been described by experts as a costly “mirage” that risks postponing the clean energy transition.

    Beyond this, however, the Coalition’s nuclear policy has, for many First Nations peoples, raised the spectre of the last time the atomic industry came to Australia.

    Indigenous peoples across Oceania share memories of violent histories of nuclear bomb testing, uranium mining and waste dumping – all of which disproportionately affected them and/or their ancestors.

    Two sides of the same coin

    While it may be tempting to separate them, the links between military and civilian nuclear industries – that is, between nuclear weapons and nuclear energy plants – are well established. According to a 2021 paper by energy economists Lars Sorge and Anne Neumann: “In part, the global civilian nuclear industry was established to legitimatise the development of nuclear weapons.”

    The causative links between military and civilian uses of nuclear power flow in both directions.

    As Sorge and Neumann write, many technologies and skills developed for use in nuclear bombs and submarines end up being used in nuclear power generation. Another expert analysis suggests countries that receive peaceful nuclear assistance, in the form of nuclear technology, materials or skills, are more likely to initiate nuclear weapons programs.

    Since the first atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, Indigenous peoples across the Pacific have been singing, writing and talking about nuclear colonialism. Some were told the sacrifice of their lands and lifeways was “for the good of mankind”.

    Today, they continue to use their bodies and voices to push back against the promise of a benevolent nuclear future – a vision that has often been used justify their and their ancestors’ suffering and displacement.

    Black mist and brittle landscapes

    In 2023, Bangarra Dance Company produced Yuldea. This performance centres on the Yooldil Kapi, a permanent desert waterhole.

    For millennia, this water source sustained the Aṉangu and Nunga peoples and a multitude of other plant and animal life across the Great Victorian Desert and far-west South Australia.

    In 1933, Yuldea became the site of the Ooldea Mission. Then, in 1953, when the British began testing nuclear bombs at nearby Emu Field (1953) and Maralinga (1956–57), the local Aṉangu Pila Nguru were displaced from their land to the mission.

    Directed by Wirangu and Mirning woman Frances Rings, Yuldea tells the story of this Country in four acts: act one, Supernova; act two, Kapi (Water); act three, Empire; and act four, Ooldea Spirit.

    The impacts of nuclear testing are directly confronted in a section titled Black Mist (in act three, Empire). Dancers’ bodies twist and spasm as a black mist falls from the sky, representing the fog of radioactive particles that resulted from weapons testing. In reality, this fog could cause lifelong injuries when inhaled or ingested, including blindness.

    But Yuldea is more than just a story of destruction. By exploring Aṉangu and Nunga relationships with Country before and after nuclear testing, it affirms their enduring presence in the region. This is captured in the opening prose:

    We are memory.
    Glimpsed through shimmering light on water.
    A story place where black oaks stand watch.
    Carved into trees and painted on rocks.
    North – South – East – West.
    A brittle landscape of life and loss.

    To acknowledge is to remember

    The podcast Nu/clear Stories (2023-), created by Mā’ohi (Tahitian) women Mililani Ganivet and Marie-Hélène Villierme, uses storytelling to grapple with the consequences of colonial nuclear testing.

    Ganivet and Villierme address the memories of French nuclear testing on the islands of Moruroa and Fangataufa in Mā’ohi Nui (French Polynesia) from 1963 to 1996.

    Rather than using a linear understanding of time, which keeps the past in the past and idealises a future of “progress”, Nu/clear Stories draws on Indigenous philosophies of cyclical or spiral time to insist that by turning to the past, we can understand how history shapes the present and future.

    As Ganivet says when introducing the first episode, Silences and Questions:

    We are part of a long genealogy of people who found the courage to speak before us. […] To acknowledge them here is to remember that without them we would not be able to speak today. And so today, we stand on their shoulders, with the face firmly turned towards the past, but with our eyes gazing deep into the future.

    Protest march against French nuclear testing in the Pacific, Willis Street, Wellington. Evening post (Newspaper. 1865-2002) :Photographic negatives and prints of the Evening Post newspaper.
    Ref: 1/4-020364-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22809366, CC BY-NC

    Stories in the Tomb

    In her 2018 poem video Anointed, Part III of the series Dome, Marshall Islander woman Kathy Jetn̄il-Kijiner pays homage to Runit Island. This island in the Enewetak Atoll was transformed into a dumping site for waste from US nuclear bomb tests between 1946 and 1958.

    A huge concrete dome was built on Runit Island in the 1970s to cover about 85,000 cubic metres of radioactive waste. The island became known as “the Tomb” to the Enewetak people – a tomb that still leaks nuclear radiation into the ocean today.

    Nuclear bombs were exploded above ground and underwater on the Bikini and Enewetak Atolls. A huge concrete dome on Runit Island, built to contain nuclear waste, has given the island the nickname ‘the Tomb’.
    Wikimedia

    However, like the creators behind Yuldea and Nu/clear Stories, Jetn̄il-Kijiner refuses to remember Runit Island as only a nuclear graveyard. Instead, she approaches it like a long-lost family member or ancestor who she hopes will be full of stories.

    Jetn̄il-Kijiner speaks to the island through her poem, drawing a devastating contrast between what it once was and what it is now:

    You were a whole island, once. You were breadfruit trees heavy with green globes of fruit whispering promises of massive canoes. Crabs dusted with white sand scuttled through pandanus roots. Beneath looming coconut trees beds of ripe watermelon slept still, swollen with juice. And you were protected by powerful irooj, chiefs birthed from women who could swim pregnant for miles beneath a full moon.

    Then you became testing ground. Nine nuclear weapons consumed you, one by one by one, engulfed in an inferno of blazing heat. You became crater, an empty belly. Plutonium ground into a concrete slurry filled your hollow cavern. You became tomb. You became concrete shell. You became solidified history, immoveable, unforgettable.

    While Jetn̄il-Kijiner describes herself as “a crater empty of stories”, she continues to find stories in the Tomb: namely, the legend of Letao, the son of a turtle goddess who turned himself into fire and, in the hands of a small boy, nearly burned a village to the ground.

    Juxtaposing this fire with the US’s nuclear bombs, she ends her poem with “questions, hard as concrete”:

    Who gave them this power?
    Who anointed them with the power to burn?

    The link between past and future

    In their book Living in a nuclear world: From Fukushima to Hiroshima (2022), Bernadette Bensaude-Vincent and others explore how “nuclear actors” frame nuclear technology as “indispensable”, “mundane” and “safe” by neatly severing nuclear energy from nuclear history.

    This framing helps nuclear actors avoid answering concrete questions. It also helps to hides the colonial history of nuclear technologies – histories which leak into the present. But not everyone accepts this framing.

    Indigenous artists remind us the nuclear past must be front-of-mind as we look to shape the future.

    During her PhD thesis – funded by the Australian Government Research Training Program – Josephine worked on photographic works by Marie-Hélène Villierme. She has also interviewed Villierme in the past, and worked with her collaboratively on a book chapter on her work (published in Francophone Oceania Today (2024)).

    – ref. As Dutton champions nuclear power, Indigenous artists recall the profound loss of land and life that came from it – https://theconversation.com/as-dutton-champions-nuclear-power-indigenous-artists-recall-the-profound-loss-of-land-and-life-that-came-from-it-249371

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Schools today also teach social and emotional skills. Why is this important? And what’s involved?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kristin R. Laurens, Professor, School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology

    DGLImages/Shutterstock

    The school curriculum has changed a lot from when many parents and grandparents were at school.

    Alongside new approaches to learning maths and increasing attention on technology, there is a compulsory focus on social and emotional skills.

    Children start developing these skills by watching and observing others as babies. But they also need to be taught about them more actively – think about parents telling kids to say “thank you” or making sure they take turns when playing with friends.

    How do schools teach social and emotional skills? And why is it important? Our new research shows how these lessons can improve students’ wellbeing and lead to better academic results.

    What do schools teach about social and emotional skills?

    As the Productivity Commission noted in 2023, schools should support students’ social and emotional wellbeing to help them “cope with the various stresses of life”. It also found strong social and emotional skills support students’ ability to engage and learn at school.

    Since 2010, social and emotional skills have been a compulsory part of the Australian Curriculum. This involves four key strands for students from the first year of school to Year 10:

    1. self-awareness: understanding your strengths and limitations and having confidence you can achieve goals

    2. self-management: identifying and managing your emotions, thoughts and behaviours in different situations. This includes managing stress and controlling impulses

    3. social awareness: understanding other perspectives, empathising with others from different backgrounds and cultures and understanding social expectations for behaviour

    4. relationship skills: forming and maintaining healthy relationships, communicating and cooperating. This also includes responsible decision-making and understanding morals and consequences.

    How are these skills taught?

    Teaching these skills can be done in two ways.

    The first is by incorporating them into core academic subjects. For example, an English teacher might ask students to discuss the emotions, behaviours and relationships of characters in a novel. Teachers should also model the skills in their interactions with students.

    To do this effectively, teachers need specific knowledge of how to teach these skills. Busy schools may not prioritise this professional development for teachers because, unlike academic knowledge, these skills are not assessed.

    The second approach is to use a structured program designed to develop these skills. These programs can particularly help teachers with less training in social and emotional teaching.

    However, we know these programs are not always available or implemented adequately in schools. For example, in 2015 we surveyed 600 public, Catholic and independent NSW primary schools. Fewer than two-thirds (60%) taught social and emotional skills using formal programs. And of the programs used, one in three (34%) had either never been tested or showed no positive effects on students’ social-emotional skills.

    Why is this important?

    But research tells us formal programs can work. Our 2025 study looked at the social and emotional skills of 18,600 Year 6 students in NSW government and non-government primary schools. We also used data from their school leaders about the types of social and emotional skills programs they used – or did not use.

    We found students who received structured, evidence-based programs (on average, over three to four years) had better social and emotional skills on our self-report survey than those who did not.

    Students who received these programs had social and emotional skills that were 7-10 percentile points better than those who did not. That is, in a group of 100 students, they ranked 7-10 places higher.

    But it showed there was only a benefit if programs were evidence-based – this means they had been formally tested to check they could be taught effectively by teachers in the classroom.

    Social and emotional skills include being able to identify your emotions and cooperating with others.
    DGLImages/Shutterstock

    There are academic benefits as well

    In another 2025 study, we followed students as they went to high school. We wanted to see how their social and emotional skills in primary school related to their later academic achievement.

    We linked our survey data on NSW Year 6 students’ self-awareness and self-management skills with their NAPLAN reading and numeracy scores in Year 7. We could do this for almost 24,000 students who participated in our survey and in NAPLAN.

    We found increases in these skills were linked to increases in NAPLAN scores. Standard gains ranged between 8–20 percentile points.

    This fits with other research which shows students with strong self-awareness and self-management are more confident about achieving academic goals and more engaged and focused on their learning. This in turn helps them engage and persevere with challenges, so they achieve more academic learning.

    What now?

    Our research shows how programs teaching social and emotional skills can give young people fundamental skills to navigate learning and life beyond school. But implementation is patchy and not always based on evidence. School today involves more than reading, maths and facts. This means all schools need resources and access to effective programs to teach social and emotional skills.

    Kristin R. Laurens received funding for this research from the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia.

    Emma Carpendale received an Australian Government Research Training Program Stipend scholarship and a Queensland University of Technology Faculty of Health Excellence Top-Up scholarship.

    – ref. Schools today also teach social and emotional skills. Why is this important? And what’s involved? – https://theconversation.com/schools-today-also-teach-social-and-emotional-skills-why-is-this-important-and-whats-involved-253342

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Logging devastated Victoria’s native forests – and new research shows 20% has failed to grow back

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maldwyn John Evans, Senior Research Fellow, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University

    Old growth mountain ash forest in the Maroondah water supply catchment, Victoria. Chris Taylor

    Following the end of native logging in Victoria on January 1 2024, the state’s majestic forests might be expected to regenerate and recover naturally. But our new research shows that’s not always the case.

    We quantified the extent of regeneration following logging in the eucalypt forests of southeastern Australia between 1980 and 2019. This included nearly 42,000 hectares of logged mountain ash forest in Victoria’s Central Highlands.

    We analysed satellite data, logging records, on-ground surveys and drone photography, and discovered that nearly 20% of logged areas failed to regenerate. This represents more than 8,000 hectares of forest lost. All that remains in these areas are grassy clearings, dense shrublands or bare soils.

    We also found the rate of regeneration failure has increased over the past decade. While failure was rare in the 1980s, it became much more common over time – affecting more than 80% of logged sites by 2019.

    These regeneration failures weren’t random. They were found mostly in close proximity to each other, on areas with steep slopes, relatively low elevation, and where the area of clear-felled forest was long and narrow.

    Our research shows more needs to be done to restore Victoria’s forest after logging.

    Failed regeneration in the Upper Thomson water supply catchment.
    Chris Taylor/Lachie McBurnie

    Restoring majestic forests and their vital services

    Victoria is home to some of the most spectacular forests on the planet. They include extensive stands of mountain ash, the tallest flowering plant on Earth, which can grow to almost 100 metres in height. Alpine ash, another giant, can grow up to 60m tall.

    These forests have great cultural significance to Indigenous people and support many recreational and tourism activities.

    Healthy forest ecosystems also deliver clean water and carbon storage services. In fact, mountain ash forests contain more carbon per hectare than most other forests around the world.

    But Victoria’s forests have long been logged for timber and pulp. The main method of logging – clearfelling – scars the landscape, leaving large areas devoid of trees if natural tree regeneration fails.

    Mountain ash is especially vulnerable

    Our research revealed 19.2% of areas logged between 1980 and 2019 in our study area (8,030ha out of 41,819ha cut) failed to regenerate naturally.

    We also found strong evidence of a significant increase in the extent of failed regeneration over 40 years, increasing from less than two hectares per cutblock in 1980 (about 7.5%) to more than nine hectares per cutblock in 2019 (about 85%), on average.

    We found regeneration failure was more likely in mountain ash forests compared with other forest types.

    This adds to the case for listing the mountain ash forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria as a threatened ecological community.

    The presence of non-eucalypt categories of vegetation indicates large areas of regeneration failure in forest near Mt Matlock, in the Central Highlands of Victoria.
    Chris Taylor

    A responsibility to restore

    Under Victoria’s Code of Forest Practice for Timber Production, logged native forests must be properly regenerated within two to three years of harvest.

    That’s because it is nearly impossible for the native forest to regenerate after three years without human intervention. The young trees face too much competition from grass and shrubs.

    These degraded areas no longer hold the value they once did and they cannot provide the same level of ecosystem services such as carbon storage, water purification, or habitat for wildlife.

    With no current government restoration plan, these landscapes will remain degraded indefinitely. The Victorian government retains legal responsibility to restore these degraded forests, but currently lacks any large-scale restoration strategy, making action urgently required.

    Photographs of vegetation categories on logged sites: Eucalyptus regeneration near Toolangi (A), grass-dominated area near Mt Matlock (B), shrubby vegetation at Ballantynes Saddle (C), Daviesia vegetation near Mt Matlock (D), Acacia near Mt Baw Baw (E), and bare earth near Mt Matlock (F).
    Chris Taylor

    A way forward: using green bonds to fund regeneration

    Our research shows the regeneration of forests after logging is not guaranteed. Nature often needs a helping hand. But we need to find ways to fund these projects.

    Globally, governments have used “green bonds” to lower the cost of borrowing tied explicitly to measurable environmental results.

    Victoria already has green bonds “to finance new and existing projects that offer climate change and environmental benefits”. But funds are typically used to finance investments in transport, renewable energy, water and low carbon buildings.

    As part of a coalition of researchers, environmental organisations, and finance sector partners we proposed a A$224 million green bond for forest regeneration. This proposal was put to the Victorian government via the Treasury Corporation of Victoria.

    Green bond funding would help leverage co-investment from the Commonwealth government and philanthropic partners to improve monitoring and biodiversity outcomes in native forests.

    As part of the proposed green bond, areas of logged forest where natural regeneration has failed would be restored.

    Other investments under the green bond could include creating tourism ventures (and associated jobs), controlling feral animals such as deer, and biodiversity recovery – creating habitat for endangered species such as the southern greater glider and Leadbeater’s possum, for example.

    The $224 million required for the ten years of the green bond — or around $22.4 million per year — is less than the substantial losses Victoria incurred on its investment in VicForests over the past decade.

    Our research suggests leaving nature to its own devices would mean losing a fifth of the forests logged over the past 40 years. Bringing the trees back has multiple benefits and would be well worth the investment.

    Maldwyn John Evans receives funding from the Australian Government.

    David Lindenmayer receives funding from The Australian Government, the Australian Research Council and the Victorian Government. He is a Councillor with the Biodiversity Council and a Member of Birdlife Australia.

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

    – ref. Logging devastated Victoria’s native forests – and new research shows 20% has failed to grow back – https://theconversation.com/logging-devastated-victorias-native-forests-and-new-research-shows-20-has-failed-to-grow-back-254465

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What are the symptoms of measles? How long does the vaccine last? Experts answer 6 key questions

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Williams, Paediatrician & Infectious Diseases Physician; Senior Lecturer & NHMRC Fellow, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney

    fotohay/Shutterstock

    So far in 2025 (as of May 1), 70 cases of measles have been notified in Australia, with all states and territories except Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory having recorded at least one case. Most infections have occurred in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia.

    We’ve already surpassed the total number of cases recorded in all of 2023 (26 cases) and 2024 (57 cases).

    Measles outbreaks are currently occurring in every region of the world. Most Australian cases are diagnosed in travellers returning from overseas, including popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia.

    But although Australia eliminated local transmission of measles in 2014, recently we’ve seen measles infections once again in Australians who haven’t been overseas. In other words, the virus has been transmitted in the community.

    So with measles health alerts and news reports popping up often, what do you need to know about measles? We’ve collated a list of commonly Googled questions about the virus and the vaccine.

    1. What is measles?

    Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to affect humans. In fact, every person with measles can infect 12 to 18 others who are not immune. The measles virus can survive in the air for two hours, so people can inhale the virus even after an infected person has left the room.

    Measles predominantly affects children and those with weaker immune systems. Up to four in ten people with measles will need to go to hospital, and up to three in 1,000 people who get measles will die.

    In 2023, there were more than 100,000 deaths from measles around the world.



    Read more:
    Travelling overseas? You could be at risk of measles. Here’s how to ensure you’re protected

    2. What are the symptoms of measles?

    The signs and symptoms of measles usually start 7–14 days after exposure to the virus, and include rash, fever, a runny nose, cough and conjunctivitis. The rash usually starts on the face or neck, and spreads over three days to eventually reach the hands and feet. On darker skin, the rash may be harder to see.

    Complications from measles are common, and include ear infections, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), blindness and breathing problems or pneumonia. These complications are more likely in children.

    Pregnant women are also at greater risk of serious complications, and measles can also cause preterm labour and stillbirth.

    Even in people who recover from measles, a rare (and often fatal) brain condition can occur many years later, called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

    Children are most vulnerable to measles.
    Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

    3. What’s the difference between measles and chickenpox?

    Measles and chickenpox are caused by different viruses, although both commonly affect children, and vaccines can prevent both diseases. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus, which is also transmitted through the air, and can cause fever, rash and rare (yet serious) complications.

    The chickenpox rash is different to the rash seen in measles. It often starts on the chest or back, appearing first as separate red bumps that evolve into fluid-filled blisters, called vesicles. Chickenpox can also appear later in life as shingles.

    4. Can you get measles twice?

    The simple answer is no. If you contract measles, you should have lifelong immunity afterwards.

    In Australia, people born before 1966 would have most likely been infected with measles, because the vaccine wasn’t available to them as children. They are therefore protected from future infection.

    Measles infection however can reduce the immune system’s ability to recognise infections it has previously encountered, leaving people vulnerable to many of the infections to which they previously had immunity. Vaccination can protect against this.

    5. What is the measles vaccine, and at what age do you get it?

    The measles vaccine contains a live but weakened version of the measles virus. In Australia, measles vaccinations are given as part of a combination vaccine that contains the measles virus alongside the mumps and rubella viruses (the MMR vaccine), and the chickenpox virus (MMRV).

    Under the national immunisation program, children in Australia receive measles vaccines at 12 months (MMR) and 18 months of age (MMRV). In other countries, the age of vaccination may vary – but at least two doses are always needed for optimal immunity.

    In Australia, children are vaccinated against measles at 12 and 18 months.
    Zhuravlev Andrey/Shutterstock

    Measles vaccines can be given earlier than 12 months, from as early as six months, to protect infants who may be at higher risk of exposure to the virus (such as those travelling overseas). Infants who receive an early dose of the measles vaccine still receive the usual two recommended doses at 12 and 18 months old.

    Australians born between 1966 and 1994 (those aged roughly 20–60) are considered to be at greater risk of measles, as the second dose was only recommended from November 1992. Australia is seeing breakthrough measles infections in this age group.

    An additional measles vaccine can be given to these adults at any time. It’s safe to get an extra dose even if you have been vaccinated before. If you are unsure if you need one, talk to your GP who may check your measles immunity (or immunisation record, if applicable) before vaccinating.

    However, as the measles vaccine is a live vaccine, it’s not safe to give to people with weakened immune systems (due to certain medical conditions) or pregnant women. It’s therefore important that healthy, eligible people receive the measles vaccine to protect themselves and our vulnerable population.

    6. How long does a measles vaccine last?

    The measles vaccine is one of the most effective vaccines we have. After two doses, about 99% of people will be protected against measles for life.

    And the measles vaccine not only protects you from disease. It also stops you from transmitting the virus to others.

    Phoebe Williams receives research funding focused on reducing antimicrobial resistance and neonatal sepsis from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Gates Foundation.

    Archana Koirala is the chair of the Vaccination Special Interest Group and a committee member of the Australian and New Zealand paediatric infectious diseases network with Australasian Society of Infectious Diseases. Her vaccine and seroprevalence research has been funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care and NSW Health.

    – ref. What are the symptoms of measles? How long does the vaccine last? Experts answer 6 key questions – https://theconversation.com/what-are-the-symptoms-of-measles-how-long-does-the-vaccine-last-experts-answer-6-key-questions-255496

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 204

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 204
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    230 PM CDT Thu May 1 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Central Texas

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 230 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Isolated but intense thunderstorms are expected to form
    this afternoon in a very moist and unstable air mass. Slow-moving
    supercells capable of very large hail appear to be the main concern.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
    statute miles north and south of a line from 115 miles west of
    Temple TX to 65 miles east southeast of Temple TX. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 203…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    24035.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 204 SEVERE TSTM TX 011930Z – 020200Z
    AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    115W TPL/TEMPLE TX/ – 65ESE TPL/TEMPLE TX/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM N/S /40NE JCT – 63ENE CWK/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 31719936 31369641 30219641 30569936

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 204 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICYMI: ICE Targets Major Human and Drug Smuggling Property In Oklahoma City

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security set the record straight regarding an April 24, 2025, execution of court-authorized search warrant at a home owned by a human smuggling suspect in Oklahoma City. This lawful operation conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), targeted a property that is involved in a transitional human and drug smuggling organization which trafficked illegal aliens from Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, Central South America and China around the interior of the United States.

    Statement Attributable to Senior DHS Official:

    “The April 24 Oklahoma ICE operation was a lawful, court-authorized action explicitly targeting a property, that was a hub for human smuggling, not specific individuals, as falsely suggested by media reports. 

    “The day prior to the search warrant issuance and the day of the search warrant, HSI agents conducted surveillance, and confirmed via utility records that a member of the Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization was still paying utilities at the residence. The warrant, issued by a Federal Judge was based on an 84-page affidavit detailing probable cause that the address served as a “stash house” for human smuggling, authorizing the seizure of evidence such as electronic devices and documents, regardless of who was present. 

    “The warrant targeted the property itself, not specific individuals, and its execution was not contingent on the presence of any person. HSI, with Oklahoma state police support, executed the warrant with precision, seizing electronic devices as authorized. This court-authorized search was a critical strike against a dangerous human smuggling network in furtherance of our mission to protect American communities from the chaos unleashed by the Biden administration’s open-border policies.

    “This is an ongoing investigation, and we have not ruled out current occupants involvement in the smuggling ring.“

    ICYMI: Get the Facts: Oklahoma home raided by ICE is owned by human smuggling suspect The indictment obtained by KOCO 5 shows eight Guatemalan nationals were the targets of the investigation.

    KEY FACTS ABOUT THE OPERATION:

    FACT: As reported by KOCO 5, the indictment against, “shows eight Guatemalan nationals were the  targets of the investigation as part of the ‘Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization.’ Their charges range from drugs, fraud, money laundering to re-entry after deportation.”

    FACT: The day prior to the search warrant issuance and the day of the search warrant, HSI agents conducted surveillance, and confirmed via utility records that known and confirmed gang members of the Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization, were still paying utilities at the residence. 

    KOCO 5 reported that the owner of the home, Cidia Marleny Lima Lopez, “is allegedly a major player in the human smuggling case that agents have been working for years.”

    “Records show that she owns the home that was raided as well as another one in Oklahoma City,” KOCO added. “Eight arrests were made in that investigation, which was years in the making and not part of any new immigration enforcement.”

    FACT: The warrant, issued by a Federal Judge was based on an 84-page affidavit detailing probable cause that the address served as a “stash house” for human and drug smuggling, authorizing the seizure of evidence such as electronic devices and documents, regardless of who was present.

    FACT: The warrant targeted the property itself, not specific individuals, and its execution was not contingent on the presence of any person. HSI, with Oklahoma state police support, executed the warrant with precision, seizing electronic devices as authorized. 

    KOCO 5 reported that this investigation began “prior to any recent changes to ICE policies.”

    CONCLUSION: This court-authorized search was a critical strike against a dangerous human and drug smuggling network in furtherance of our mission to protect American communities from the chaos unleashed by the Biden administration’s open-border policies. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Chandra Diagnoses Cause of Fracture in Galactic “Bone”

    Source: NASA

    Astronomers have discovered a likely explanation for a fracture in a huge cosmic “bone” in the Milky Way galaxy, using NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and radio telescopes.
    The bone appears to have been struck by a fast-moving, rapidly spinning neutron star, or pulsar. Neutron stars are the densest known stars and form from the collapse and explosion of massive stars. They often receive a powerful kick from these explosions, sending them away from the explosion’s location at high speeds.
    Enormous structures resembling bones or snakes are found near the center of the galaxy. These elongated formations are seen in radio waves and are threaded by magnetic fields running parallel to them. The radio waves are caused by energized particles spiraling along the magnetic fields.

    This new image shows one of these cosmic “bones” called G359.13142-0.20005 (G359.13 for short), with X-ray data from Chandra (colored blue) and radio data from the MeerKAT radio array in South Africa (colored gray). Researchers also refer to G359.13 as the Snake.
    Examining this image closely reveals the presence of a break, or fracture, in the otherwise continuous length of G359.13 seen in the image. The combined X-ray and radio data provides clues to the cause of this fracture.
    Astronomers have now discovered an X-ray and radio source at the location of the fracture, using the data from Chandra and MeerKAT and the National Science Foundation’s Very Large Array. A likely pulsar responsible for these radio and X-ray signals is labeled. A possible extra source of X-rays located near the pulsar may come from electrons and positrons (the anti-matter counterparts to electrons) that have been accelerated to high energies.
    The researchers think the pulsar likely caused the fracture by smashing into G359.13 at a speed between one million and two million miles per hour. This collision distorted the magnetic field in the bone, causing the radio signal to also become warped.
    At about 230 light-years long, G359.13 is one of the longest and brightest of these structures in the Milky Way. To put this into context, there are more than 800 stars within that distance from Earth. G359.13 is located about 26,000 light-years from Earth, near the center of the Milky Way.
    A paper describing these results appeared in the May 2024 issue of the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society and is available here. The authors of the study are Farhad Yusuf-Zadeh (Northwestern University), Jun-Hui Zhao (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian), Rick Arendt (University of Maryland, Baltimore County), Mark Wardle (Macquarie University, Australia), Craig Heinke (University of Alberta), Marc Royster (College of the Sequoias, California), Cornelia Lang (University of Iowa), and Joseph Michail (Northwestern).
    NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science operations from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts.

    Read more from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
    Learn more about the Chandra X-ray Observatory and its mission here:

    chandra

    https://chandra.si.edu

    This release features two composite images of a long, thin, cosmic structure. With the structure’s vertical orientation, seemingly fragile dimensions, and pale grey color against the blackness of space, the images resemble medical X-rays of a long, thin, bone. The main image shows the structure in its entirety. The inset image is an annotated close-up highlighting an apparent fracture in the bone-like structure.
    The structure, called G359.13, or “The Snake”, is a Galactic Center Filament. These filament formations are threaded by parallel magnetic fields, and spiraling, energized particles. The particles cause radio waves, which can be detected by radio arrays, in this case by the MeerKAT array in South Africa.
    In the first composite image, the largely straight filament stretches from the top to the bottom of the vertical frame. At each end of the grey filament is a hazy grey cloud. The only color in the image is neon blue, found in a few specks which dot the blackness surrounding the structure. The blue represents X-rays seen by NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
    In the annotated close-up, one such speck appears to be interacting with the structure itself. This is a fast-moving, rapidly spinning neutron star, otherwise known as a pulsar. Astronomers believe that this pulsar has struck the filament halfway down its length, distorting the magnetic field and radio signal.
    In both images, this distortion resembles a small break, or spur, in the bone-like filament.

    Megan WatzkeChandra X-ray CenterCambridge, Mass.617-496-7998mwatzke@cfa.harvard.edu
    Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama256-544-0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Highlighting Investments in Mental Health

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month throughout New York, issuing a proclamation and highlighting the unprecedented investments made into strengthening the state’s system of care since she launched her landmark $1 billion mental health initiative in 2023. This funding has resulted in the largest expansion of capacity at state-operated psychiatric centers in years, the availability of more beds at community-based hospitals, and a dramatic expansion of outpatient and prevention services.

    “Our historic investments into mental health have dramatically improved our system of care, allowing more New Yorkers to access treatment and positioning our state as a national leader.” Governor Hochul said. “As we recognize the start of Mental Health Awareness Month today, we stand proudly committed to providing services and supports responsive to the needs of all individuals and families throughout our state.”

    Governor Hochul’s investments into mental health have resulted in more than $105 million in operating funding and $831 million in capital awards. These investments extend to all facets of the mental health system and include the largest expansion of inpatient capacity in decades, stronger regulations to connect New Yorkers with treatment when they leave inpatient and emergency settings, more outpatient supports to help individuals live safely in their community, thousands of new units of specialized housing dedicated to individuals living with mental illness and sweeping insurance reforms to improve access to care.

    Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “Governor Hochul’s unprecedented investments into mental health over the past three years has created a more effective and accessible system of care statewide, helping more people get the treatment when and where they need it most. Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity for us to engage in conversations about mental illness, champion stories of recovery, and help every New Yorker understand that help is available.”

    As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, OMH is posting a video to social media each week in May to highlight individual stories of recovery from mental illness. The agency also posted a short message to New Yorkers from Commissioner Sullivan, compiled a list of public events taking place statewide to raise mental health awareness and is encouraging all New Yorkers to be mindful of their own mental wellbeing, offering tips for self-care at Be Well, a state-funded website dedicated to improving mental wellness.

    Since Governor Hochul took office, New York State has added 875 psychiatric beds, including 550 that were brought back online at community-based hospitals, and 325 — 125 since December — at state-operated psychiatric centers, marking the largest expansion at these facilities in years. In addition, the state has funded 109 new beds now under development at community based hospitals and is preparing to build a new 75-bed Transition to Home unit at the Creedmoor Psychiatric Center in Queens.

    Under Governor Hochul’s direction, the State Office of Mental Health and Department of Health recently adopted new regulations now in effect to ensure individuals needing inpatient and emergency psychiatric care are provided with connections to outpatient care once they are discharged from inpatient and emergency psychiatric care. These regulations standardize admission and discharge criteria, require facilities to schedule follow-up appointments, screen for suicide risk, and coordinate discharge details with care managers.

    State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Mental health awareness month is an important time to remember that good mental health is a vital component to good physical health. These investments under the leadership of Governor Hochul will give more New Yorkers access to treatment and expanded services at all levels across New York’s health system while reducing stigma surrounding mental health conditions.”

    As part of this effort, the state has established 13 new Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics statewide, with another 13 expected to be licensed this summer, bringing the total to 39. These clinics provide mental health and substance use disorder services to anyone who walks in the door, regardless of whether they have insurance, and now serve more than 38,000 Medicaid-enrolled New Yorkers.

    OMH is also establishing 50 Critical Time Intervention teams in all areas of the state to provide care management services and support to help individuals during transitions in care, such as leaving inpatient settings. With the first 31 now funded, these teams will have the capacity to serve 3,480 New Yorkers.

    Governor Hochul’s mental health initiative has also established four new Intensive and Sustained Engagement or INSET teams, which are peer-led and provide support services for individuals with complex mental health needs and who have difficulty connecting with traditional forms of care. Teams are now operating in New York City, the Rochester area, Westchester, and on Long Island, collectively serving more than 300 individuals.

    This investment also funded 43 new Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams, with the capacity to provide services to 1,836 individuals living with mental illness within their community rather than a more restrictive hospital setting.

    The mental health initiative greatly expanded the Safe Options Support program, which has now helped permanently house more than 1,000 individuals, including 147 in OMH-licensed housing. With the first teams launched in Spring 2022, the SOS program now has 28 teams, including ones canvassing all five boroughs of New York City, both counties on Long Island, and 19 additional counties across the state.

    This funding has also helped open 1,296 units of specialized housing, with an additional 2,204 housing units that are under development. The units under development include community residence-single room occupancy units, supportive housing-single room occupancy units and short term transitional residential units.

    Under Governor Hochul’s direction, the state has also adopted new regulations to establish network adequacy standards for behavioral health services for insurers. Set to go in effect on July 1, these regulations give commercial and Medicaid managed care plans 10 days to connect New Yorkers with in-network mental health or substance use disorder services, or else allow the individual to access an out-of-network provider at no additional cost.

    The mental health initiative has also greatly expanded services for children and youth, establishing more than 1,200 school-based mental health clinic satellites to provide mental health services at school districts statewide. Additionally, the state now funds 30 Youth Assertive Community Treatment teams in 38 counties, providing support for young New Yorkers with serious emotional disturbances who are either at risk of entering or are returning home from an inpatient or residential setting.

    As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Governor Hochul directed that 15 state buildings and landmarks be illuminated in green – the color that has come to symbolize mental health awareness — at dusk tonight, Thursday, May 1. This includes:

    • 1WTC
    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    • State Education Building
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • Empire State Plaza
    • State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
    • Niagara Falls
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • Lake Placid Olympic Center
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Moynihan Train Hall

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The uni student’s guide to Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    • This story contains information for students about living in Canberra.

    Canberra is a brilliant city for university students.

    With so much to do and see, it can be difficult to know where to start.

    Here’s a quick guide to Canberra for students:

    Get your life admin sorted

    First things first, make sure that your details are up to date and in order.

    You know, those things like:

    • getting an ACT driver licence
    • updating your details with Medicare
    • updating your details on the electoral roll.

    You’ll also need to get familiar with Access Canberra. It’s where you can access ACT Government services and transactions.

    We’ve put together a list that tells you how to go about tackling all these tasks and more.

    Find a place to live

    If you’re not living on campus, there are a few ways to find somewhere to rent or share.

    You can also search for rental listings on:

    Housing ACT offers interest-free loans to pay rental bonds for eligible Canberrans.

    Once you’ve moved into a rental property, you can get a free home energy assessment. The Renters’ Home Energy Program can help you save on energy bills.

    Getting your home set up

    There are lots of places to get good-quality second-hand goods.

    • homewares and furniture
    • entertainment
    • electronics
    • outdoor goods
    • sports gear

    You could also try Facebook Marketplace, or join the “Buy Nothing” Facebook group for your suburb.

    Find your way with MyWay+

    Canberra’s public transport system includes bus and light rail services.

    MyWay+ is the ticketing system that provides personalised and convenient travel management. It offers a range of payment options for bus and light rail services, including smartphones, smartwatches, Mastercard or Visa cards, a physical MyWay+ travel card, digital QR code within the MyWay+ app or printed tickets.

    The MyWay+ app allows you to plan and manage your travel. You can download the MyWay+ app for free from:

    Tertiary students attending a public or private Australian university or CIT full time can access tertiary concession fares. Simply register your concession in your MyWay+ account to access discounted travel.

    And don’t forget, if you plan your journey on a Friday, you can travel for free with Fare free Fridays.

    Find out more.

    Know where to go for your health care

    The ACT Government has developed an online tool to help Canberrans find out more about local health services.

    It includes information about GP services, community-based health care services, and non-government health related services.

    Staying safe

    In the event of an emergency, call triple zero (000). This will connect you to ambulance, police and fire aid.

    Get the most out of your student card

    Many of our cultural institutions are free to enter. Some also offer student discounts for ticketed exhibitions.

    Some of Canberra’s cultural institutions include:

    Here are some stories that might help you to save money while enjoying your new city:

    If you’re a foodie, you might enjoy these stories:

    These stories will help you find some fun ways to see more of the city:

    More great resources

    The canberra.com.au website offers a handy student guide created by local experts.

    Find out more about the city and how to enjoy your time studying and living in Canberra, with articles including:

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Top Canberra baby names for 2024

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s top pet names of 2024

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Votes to Overturn Biden-era Waivers for California Electric-Vehicle Mandates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, three resolutions under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) overturning waivers granted by the Biden administration to the State of California to advance its electric-vehicle mandates.

    “Although electric vehicles are more expensive and less reliable than gas-powered cars, the Biden administration barreled forward with its EV mandates on American families, farmers, and small businesses – enriching China, where EV components are largely sourced, at the expense of U.S. citizens and manufacturers. In one of the most egregious examples of federal overreach, the Biden EPA granted three waivers exclusively to California, allowing the state to move ahead with its plans to ban gas-powered vehicles and electrify trucks, tractors, and semis,” said Rep. Feenstra. “As a strong supporter of liquid fuels, I voted to overturn all three of these waivers, restoring consumer choice and promoting affordability over mandates. In conjunction with President Trump’s executive order repealing the Biden administration’s EV mandates, these resolutions will ensure that California’s ridiculous and misguided policies do not spread to Iowa or any other state.”

    The three resolutions are:

    • H.J. Res. 87, which would repeal California’s Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) waiver, which currently would allow the state to mandate the sale of zero-emission trucks.
    • H.J. Res. 88, which would repeal California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) waiver, allowing the state to ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035.
    • H.J. Res. 89, which would put an end to California’s implementation of its most recent nitrogen oxide (NOx) engine emission standards, which create burdensome and unworkable standards for heavy-duty on-read engines.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ukrainian National Extradited from Spain to Face Conspiracy to Use Ransomware Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Allegedly Took Part in Global Ransomware Scheme Using “Nefilim” Ransomware Strain

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, a superseding indictment was unsealed charging Artem Stryzhak with conspiracy to commit fraud and related activity, including extortion, in connection with computers, for his role in a series of international attacks using the Nefilim ransomware.  Stryzhak, a Ukrainian citizen, was arrested in Spain in June 2024 and extradited to the United States on April 30, 2025.  The arraignment will be held later today before United States Magistrate Judge Robert M. Levy.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Christopher J.S. Johnson, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield, Illinois Field Office (FBI), announced the charges.

    “As alleged, the defendant was part of an international ransomware scheme in which he conspired to target high-revenue companies in the United States, steal data, and hold data hostage in exchange for payment.  If victims did not pay, the criminals then leaked the data online,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “The criminals who carry out these malicious cyber-attacks often do so from abroad in the belief that American justice cannot reach them.  The extradition of the defendant and today’s charges prove that they are wrong.”

    Mr. Durham also thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the FBI’s New York Field Office and the Government of Spain for their crucial assistance in securing the arrest and extradition from Spain of Stryzhak.

    “The FBI has long recognized that combating international ransomware schemes requires strong partnerships,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnson.  “The successful extradition of the defendant is a significant achievement in that ongoing collaboration and it sends a clear message: those who attempt to hide behind international borders to target American citizens will face justice.”

    As alleged in the superseding indictment, Nefilim ransomware was deployed to encrypt computer networks in countries around the world, including in the Eastern District of New York.  These ransomware attacks caused millions of dollars in losses, both from ransomware payments and damage to victim computer systems.  The perpetrators of Nefilim typically customized the ransomware executable file for each victim, creating a unique decryption key and customized ransom notes.  If the victims paid the ransom demand, the perpetrators sent the decryption key, enabling the victims to decrypt the computer files locked by the ransomware program.

    In June 2021, Nefilim administrators gave Stryzhak access to the Nefilim ransomware code in exchange for 20 percent of his ransom proceeds.  He operated the ransomware through his account on the online Nefilim platform, known as the “panel.”  When he first obtained access to the panel, Stryzhak asked a co‑conspirator whether he should choose a different username from the one he used in other criminal activities in case the panel “gets hacked into by the feds.”

    Nefilim’s preferred ransomware targets were companies located in the United States, Canada, or Australia with more than $100 million in annual revenue. Stryzhak and others researched the companies to which they gained unauthorized access, including by using online databases to gather information about the victim companies’ net worth, size, and contact information.  In one exchange with Stryzhak in or about July 2021, a Nefilim administrator encouraged him to target companies in these countries with more than $200 million in annual revenue.

    After gaining sufficient access to the victims’ networks, Stryzhak and his co‑conspirators stole data in furtherance of their scheme to extort ransom payments from them.  Nefilim ransom notes typically threatened the victims that unless they came to an agreement with the ransomware actors, the stolen data would be published on publicly accessible “Corporate Leaks” websites, which were maintained by Nefilim administrators.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  If convicted of the charge, Stryzhak faces up to five years’ imprisonment.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander F. Mindlin and Ellen H. Sise of the Eastern District of New York and Trial Attorney Brian Mund of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Rebecca Roth.

    The Defendant:

    ARTEM ALEKSANDROVYCH STRYZHAK
    Age: 35
    Barcelona, Spain 

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-324 (PKC)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights is a dark parable about coercive control

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Katy Mullin, Professor of Modern Literature and Culture, University of Leeds

    Coercive or controlling behaviour in an intimate or family relationship became a criminal offence in the UK in December 2015. The legislation was the result of a long campaign by the charity Women’s Aid to extend understanding of domestic abuse beyond physical violence. But, over 150 years earlier, Emily Brontë placed coercive control at the heart of her celebrated gothic romance, Wuthering Heights.

    The novel is often read as a great love story. It has inspired a Kate Bush song and many stage, film and TV adaptations. But Heathcliff is an abused child who becomes an abuser – and teaches his son to copy, continue and refine his abuse.

    In the novel, Cathy declares that “My love for Heathcliff resembles the eternal rocks beneath: a source of little visible delight, but necessary. Nelly, I am Heathcliff!” Coercive control, like Cathy’s love, may not be fully visible, but it nonetheless underpins the emotional logic of Brontë’s plot.

    This article is part of Rethinking the Classics. The stories in this series offer insightful new ways to think about and interpret classic books and artworks. This is the canon – with a twist.

    Wuthering Heights is a novel of two halves. The first focuses on spirited, passionate Cathy, caught between her tamely domestic husband Edgar Linton and the thrilling wildness of Heathcliff, her soulmate from childhood. To revenge himself on Cathy for marrying Edgar, Heathcliff elopes with Edgar’s infatuated sister Isabella. Isabella initially sees Heathcliff as a brooding romantic hero, but she soon repents, fleeing with their baby son Linton.

    Heathcliff’s abuse of Isabella is sometimes physical, but more often psychological. He takes care, as he tells the family servant Nelly Dean, to “keep strictly within the limits of the law” to avoid giving Isabella “the slightest right to claim a separation”.

    The law grants him ownership of his wife’s money and property, but subtler refinements of abuse include humiliation, isolation from family and friends, and deprivation of food, privacy and personal care. At Wuthering Heights, Nelly is shocked to see Isabella unwashed, shabbily dressed. She’s “wan and listless; her hair uncurled: some locks hanging lankly down”.



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    Isabella has already reported that she is forced to sleep in a chair because Heathcliff keeps “the key of our room in his pocket”. Heathcliff delights in humbling her before Nelly and his own servants, calling her “an abject thing”, “shamefully cringing”, “pitiful, slavish, and mean-minded”.

    Isabella escapes Heathcliff clad only in “a girlish dress” and “thin slippers”, and goes into hiding with her brother’s financial help. After her death, Heathcliff recovers their son Linton and uses him to engineer a second coercive marriage to his cousin, Cathy and Edgar’s daughter Catherine.

    A sickly, peevish adolescent, Linton Heathcliff is perhaps the most unappealing character in Victorian fiction, lacking altogether the strength and charisma of his father. But his puny physicality casts the coercive nature of his abuse into relief.

    Catherine is imprisoned at Wuthering Heights and blackmailed into consenting to marry Linton, who becomes the legal owner of all her property. Incapable of dominating her physically, Linton delights in psychological torment, conspiring in his father’s surveillance and depriving her of beloved possessions:

    All her nice books are mine; she offered to give me them, and her pretty birds, and her pony Minny, if I would get the key of our room, and let her out; but I told her she had nothing to give, they were all, all mine. And then she cried, and took a little picture from her neck, and said I should have that; two pictures in a gold case, on one side her mother, and on the other uncle [Catherine’s father], when they were young. That was yesterday – I said they were mine, too.

    After Linton’s death, Heathcliff inherits everything, leaving the widowed and orphaned Catherine his penniless dependant. Wuthering Heights is a dark parable about the absolute power that marriage can grant to abusive men.

    Real-life inspiration

    Brontë’s plot was rooted in a real-life local case of domestic torment. In 1840, a Mrs Collins came to Haworth Parsonage to ask Emily’s father Patrick’s advice about her alcoholic, abusive husband. He was Patrick’s colleague and fellow clergyman, Rev. John Collins, assistant curate of Keighley.

    Unusually for the time, Patrick advised her to leave him and take her two children with her. In April 1847, just seven months before Wuthering Heights’ publication, Mrs Collins returned to Haworth to thank him. She told the Brontë family how she had settled in Manchester with her children, supporting them all by running a lodging house.

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    Mrs Collins’ experience of abuse did not only shape the chilling psychodrama of Wuthering Heights. There are echoes of Patrick’s advice in Emily’s sister Charlotte’s novel Jane Eyre (1847), and her eponymous heroine’s famous declaration of autonomy: “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will, which I now exert to leave you.”

    Mrs Collins’ strength and resilience also inspires the bravery of Helen Huntingdon in Anne’s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (1848). Like Emily’s “eternal rocks,” coercive control lurks beneath the Brontës’ best-loved fictions, warning Victorian readers of the terrifyingly real dangers of psychological abuse long before the law caught up.

    Beyond the canon

    As part of the Rethinking the Classics series, we’re asking our experts to recommend a book or artwork that tackles similar themes to the canonical work in question, but isn’t (yet) considered a classic itself. Here is the suggestion from Hannah Roche and Katy Mullin:

    George Gissing photographed in 1880.
    Internet Archive

    Like the Brontës’ famous novels, George Gissing’s The Odd Women (1893) shows an acute awareness of the impact of psychological abuse. Against her better judgement, the 21-year-old Monica Madden marries Edmund Widdowson, a man 23 years her senior who attempts to police every aspect of her domestic, social, intellectual and psychological life.

    Gissing’s fictional abuser is a classic coercive controller, a perpetrator of a crime that did not yet exist, and his pattern of behaviour is now so familiar and identifiable that it appears both prescient and predictable. Intensely jealous and possessive, Widdowson deploys tactics of surveillance, stalking, regulation and isolation, making decisions about where Monica goes, who she sees, and even what she reads.

    Of course, like Heathcliff and Linton, Widdowson does not have access to online communication tools or spyware. But the many red flags in his treatment of Monica are likely to appear strikingly modern to readers today.

    Katy Mullin receives funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (“Coercive Control: From Literature into Law”, an AHRC Research Network).

    Hannah Roche receives funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (“Coercive Control: From Literature into Law”, an AHRC Research Network).

    – ref. Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights is a dark parable about coercive control – https://theconversation.com/emily-brontes-wuthering-heights-is-a-dark-parable-about-coercive-control-253866

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –