Category: Farming

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two new Board Members appointed to the Charity Commission for England and Wales
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Two new Board Members appointed to the Charity Commission for England and Wales

The Secretary of State has appointed Tasnim Khalid and Alan Mather as Board Members to the Charity Commission for England and Wales for a 3 year term commencing 23 April 2025 to 22 April 2028.
Tasnim Khalid

Tasnim Khalid, Solicitor, is the founder and Managing Partner of “Private Client Solicitors” which is a boutique law firm that specialises in private wealth planning, charity law and practice. Tasnim is ranked in leading legal directories such as “Chambers HNW Guide” and “Legal 500”. Tasnim was listed in the “100 Female Entrepreneurs to Watch” in the Telegraph list and won the Northern Power Woman Award 2024 and the Legal 500 “Private Client Partner of the Year” for the Northern Powerhouse award 2025.

Alan Mather

Alan Mather is an experienced digital transformation leader with a strong track record in leading complicated technology programmes across the public and private sectors. He is a recognised pioneer of UK digital government launching the first transactional services such as Self Assessment, UK online, the Government Gateway and Direct.gov.uk; more recently he has delivered and/or designed digital services for organisations including Defra, Livestock Information Ltd, National Physical Laboratory and the Home Office. He has held CEO, CIO and COO positions in large organisations and led the turnaround of major programmes. He has previously been a Non-Executive Director in the hospitality and energy sector.

Remuneration and Governance Code

Trustees of the Charity Commission are remunerated £350 a day. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.

The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Tasnim Khalid and Alan Mather have not declared any significant political activity.

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Published 22 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: A warning for Democrats from the Gilded Age and the 1896 election

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Adam M. Silver, Associate Professor of Political Science, Emmanuel College

Chief Justice Melville Weston Fuller administers the oath of office to William McKinley during his presidential inauguration in 1897, as outgoing President Grover Cleveland looks on. AP Photo/Library of Congress

More than five months after President Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris, Democrats are still trying to understand why they lost the election and the Senate majority – and how the party can regroup.

These concerns have only increased in the wake of Trump’s sustained activity at the start of his second term. The American public has witnessed a Democratic Party struggling to craft a coherent strategy.

Recently, Trump has joined a chorus of people likening the current political period to the Gilded Age – the late 19th-century period known for economic industrialization and wealth inequality.

As a political scientist focused on electoral politics, I believe the Gilded Age provides a warning for the Democrats’ current situation, as the party’s internal struggles hampered its ability to wage successful national campaigns.

The party period

Scholars of U.S. political history often refer to the bulk of the 19th century as the party period due to the degree to which party politics permeated society. Parties framed political discourse through the creation of “brands” centered on distinct ideologies.

These ideologies offered coherent ideas of what it meant to be a Democrat or a Republican.

Democrats opposed a strong national government in favor of states’ rights. They resisted vesting too much economic authority in the national government. And they used their states’ rights position to justify human enslavement and racially discriminatory policies.

Republicans embraced national authority over states’ rights. It was a vision centered on a national political economy that fostered manufacturing and industrialization. This economic approach was accompanied at times by opposition to immigration in often nativist and racist rhetoric.

The Gilded Age

The Gilded Age has been compared with the present. That’s due, in part, to the period’s rapid industrialization, increased immigration and prominent debates over economic policy.

And like today, these Gilded Age years, roughly from 1870 to 1900, witnessed intense competition between Democrats and Republicans, during which only about seven states were contested in any given election due to the regional basis of support for each party.

From 1860 to 1912, Democrats won the White House only twice – Grover Cleveland in 1884 and 1892. But they won the popular vote two more times, while losing the Electoral College – Samuel Tilden in 1876 and Cleveland in 1888.

Further, from the 1870s to the 1890s, party control of Congress tended to rely on slim majorities.

Democrats usually held the House and Republicans controlled the Senate.

The 1880s and 1890s were characterized by debates over economic policies, primarily the protective tariff. That tariff was supported by Northern industrialists to protect domestic industry and opposed by Southern agrarians. The U.S. monetary standard, which determines how value is measured, also dominated discussions.

The 1888 election revealed tensions among Democrats, primarily over the tariff, that became a harbinger of the party’s struggles in 1896. The party’s inability to reconcile competing constituencies in its coalition and offer a coherent message on the tariff ultimately cost them the White House.

After winning reelection in 1892, Democrat Cleveland faced an economic depression that impeded the goals of his second term. The Democrats lost both chambers of Congress in the ensuing midterm election.

President William McKinley, a Republican, is inaugurated in 1901.
Heritage Art/Heritage Images via Getty Images

The 1896 election

The battle over the monetary standard consumed the 1896 election.

From the 1870s-1890s, debates over whether greenbacks, or paper currency, should be redeemable in gold or silver ebbed and flowed.

Republicans, buoyed by wealthy financiers, tended to support maintaining the gold standard only. Democrats, who courted laborers and farmers, usually supported the increased circulation of greenbacks redeemable in both gold and silver.

The economic depression in 1893 heightened tensions on this issue, as many Americans sought to pay off their debts with cheaper currency.

At their national convention, Democrats adopted the pro-silver position and nominated a populist firebrand for president, William Jennings Bryan.

Republicans also faced internal divisions on the issue. But, as in 1888, they were able to overcome these tensions to maintain their coalition and supported the gold standard in their platform.

The Republican candidate, William McKinley, defeated Bryan. The outcome solidified Republican primacy for 30 years.

William Jennings Bryan campaigns in 1896.
AP Photo

The legacy of 1896

Internal strife in the late 19th century hindered Democrats’ ability to advance a unified voice, mobilize their voters and attract new ones. In 1888 and 1896, these divisions harmed Democrats’ electoral prospects. Their organizational problems and intense internal discord proved too much for Bryan to overcome.

Scholar James Reichley contends that the Republicans’ more effective organizing after Reconstruction may have resulted in a coherent message compared with the Democrats.

And a lack of enthusiasm on the part of Democratic voters contributed to Republican success in 1894 and 1896, according to historian Richard White. Republicans mobilized their base and attracted new voters, while Democrats did not.

These elections solidified voter alignments until 1932.

Although Democrat Woodrow Wilson held the presidency from 1913 to 1921, Republicans dictated national policy and controlled Congress for most of those years. It took a massive economic depression to return the Democrats to the majority on the national level.

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

– ref. A warning for Democrats from the Gilded Age and the 1896 election – https://theconversation.com/a-warning-for-democrats-from-the-gilded-age-and-the-1896-election-250887

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI Marks the 45th Anniversary of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces

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

LEXINGTON, SC—The FBI Columbia Field Office this week is recognizing the 45th anniversary of the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF).

The initial JTTF began in 1989 in New York City with a partnership between the New York Field Office and the New York City Police Department. Then, leaders from the agencies discussed how to combine expertise and resources to locate terrorist organizations responsible for attacks in the city. These conversations led to the creation of the first JTTF.

The JTTFs are the nation’s front-line defense against international and domestic terrorism. JTTFs gather evidence, follow leads, make arrets, provide security for special events, collect and share intelligence, and respond to various threats and incidents.

Following the 9/11 attacks, FBI leadership directed all FBI field offices to establish a JTTF. In addition, the FBI established its National Joint Terrorism Task Force to support the local task forces in June of 2002. The NJTTF, at FBI Headquarters, enhances communication, coordination, and cooperation from partner agencies. JTTFs have disrupted dozens of plots in the past four decades.

Today, there are nearly 200 task forces around the country, including at least one in the FBI’s field offices with about 4,400 members from participating state, local, and federal agencies.

The FBI Columbia field office’s JTFF has 19 task force officers and analysts from 12 participating agencies across South Carolina.

“The persistent threat of terrorism across South Carolina demands a united front,” said Reid Davis, acting special agent in charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI Columbia Field Office relies on our strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and their JTTF members to swiftly disrupt threats and respond with precision whenever danger arises.”

The FBI Columbia Field Office counts numerous disruptions of its own, including a plan by a Barnwell man to detonate explosives in public locations in Pickens County in 2019 to express his frustration with the Department of Social Services. One device exploded near the Pickens County Courthouse causing minor damage to the building. Michael Lambert Seabrooke,41, was sentenced in 2021 to 12 years in federal prison for possession of explosive devices and two counts of malicious damage and attempt to damage by means of explosive materials.

The FBI Columbia JTTF also investigated a case where individuals shot at a Duke Energy regulator bank in Dalzell in 2023 which caused significant damage. One suspect, Donald Ray Hurst, 35, of Sumter, pleaded guilty to destruction of an energy facility, and is awaiting sentencing. A second individual allegedly involved, Chad Allen Kron, 33, of Sumter, was charged with destruction of an energy facility and possessing an unregistered firearm. Kron is awaiting trial.

If you see or know about suspicious activity involving chemical, biological, or radiological materials, report it to 1-800-CALL-FBI. You can also submit online tips at tips.fbi.gov.

MIL Security OSI –

April 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Rigetti Wins Innovate UK’s Quantum Missions Pilot Competition to Advance Quantum Error Correction Capabilities on Superconducting Quantum Computers
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Rigetti, in collaboration with Riverlane and the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), has been selected as one of the winners of Innovate UK’s Quantum Missions pilot competition. Leveraging Rigetti’s quantum computer hosted at the NQCC, the £3.5 million Rigetti-led consortium aims to benchmark and enhance the quantum error correction capabilities of superconducting quantum computers — a requirement for achieving large-scale fault-tolerant quantum computing.

BERKELEY, Calif., April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rigetti UK Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Rigetti Computing, Inc. (Nasdaq: RGTI) (“Rigetti” or the “Company”), a pioneer in full-stack quantum-classical computing, today announced that it has been selected as one of the winners of Innovate UK’s Quantum Missions pilot competition to benchmark and enhance quantum error correction (QEC) capabilities on superconducting quantum computers. Rigetti will lead a £3.5 million consortium alongside Riverlane and the NQCC Superconducting Circuits Team to leverage Rigetti’s superconducting quantum computer hosted at the NQCC to conduct ambitious QEC tests that advance state-of-the-art metrics and demonstrate real-time QEC capabilities — a requirement for universal, fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Fault-tolerant quantum computing has the potential to usher in a new era of computational power to solve real-world problems. Achieving fault tolerance requires QEC to be effectively integrated with quantum computing technology, and with that comes addressing critical challenges. These include processing bottlenecks in classical control systems and their integration with quantum error decoding technology, as well as the high error rates of current quantum computers. The project aims to make measurable advancements towards overcoming these challenges by developing key capabilities required for executing a large number of quantum operations on Rigetti’s UK-based quantum computer.

As part of the project, Rigetti will upgrade its existing NQCC quantum computer. The upgrades will include:
- Deploying a larger 36-qubit quantum processing unit (QPU), updating from the current 24-qubit QPU
- Integrating Rigetti’s latest generation control system, enabling improved qubit control and a fully programmable, low-latency interface with Riverlane’s Quantum Error Correction (QEC) Stack
Riverlane will lead the QEC experiments, identifying key improvements to enhance system performance and meet crucial QEC metrics. The NQCC Superconducting Circuits Team will support the system upgrade and provide quality assurance for the QEC experiments.

“Our NQCC testbed continues to serve as a critical resource for advancing our technology capabilities. We believe that we have a tremendous advantage on our path to fault-tolerant quantum computing with Riverlane’s QEC expertise and our modular, open architecture that lends itself to flexible and innovative solutions to scale our technology,” says Dr. Subodh Kulkarni, Rigetti CEO. “Moreover, we benefit from the strong advantages of superconducting qubits, which we believe are the winning qubit modality given their fast gate speeds and clear path to scaling.”

“Developing high-performance quantum error correction is critical to achieving fault-tolerant quantum computing, and this project provides an ideal environment to advance those capabilities,” said Steve Brierley, Riverlane CEO & Founder. “By integrating our QEC stack with Rigetti’s upgraded superconducting quantum computer, we aim to achieve measurable improvements in key performance metrics, including throughput, latency, and decoding accuracy, which are essential for real-time error correction. We look forward to making significant progress through this collaboration.”

The Quantum Missions pilot competition was established to accelerate quantum computing and quantum networking projects by increasing their capabilities and removing technological barriers to their commercialization and adoption. Rigetti was also awarded two additional Quantum Missions pilot competition projects:
- Collaboration with SEEQC to integrate its digital chip-based technology with Rigetti’s 9-qubit Novera™ QPU hosted at the NQCC with the goal of identifying and understanding the key system components needed for scalable QEC. The project partners also include Cambridge Consultants, Oxford Instruments Nanotechnology Tools, NQCC, and University of Edinburgh.
- Collaboration with TreQ, Qruise, Q-CTRL, and Oxford Ionics to create an open-architecture quantum computing testbed. The project will offer eight unique configurations by combining two quantum processors, two control systems, and two quantum software stacks. The project will also deliver an open specification for quantum workflows, creating a common interface between quantum software and hardware.
These projects build on Rigetti’s leadership in the UK’s quantum computing ecosystem, including launching the first fully operational quantum computer at the NQCC and leading a three-year £10 million consortium to deploy one of the first UK-based quantum computers hosted at Oxford Instruments’ Tubney Woods facility.

About Rigetti
Rigetti is a pioneer in full-stack quantum computing. The Company has operated quantum computers over the cloud since 2017 and serves global enterprise, government, and research clients through its Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services platform. In 2021, Rigetti began selling on-premises quantum computing systems with qubit counts between 24 and 84 qubits, supporting national laboratories and quantum computing centers. Rigetti’s 9-qubit Novera QPU was introduced in 2023 supporting a broader R&D community with a high-performance, on-premises QPU designed to plug into a customer’s existing cryogenic and control systems. The Company’s proprietary quantum-classical infrastructure provides high-performance integration with public and private clouds for practical quantum computing. Rigetti has developed the industry’s first multi-chip quantum processor for scalable quantum computing systems. The Company designs and manufactures its chips in-house at Fab-1, the industry’s first dedicated and integrated quantum device manufacturing facility. Learn more at https://www.rigetti.com/.

Rigetti Computing Media Contact:
press@rigetti.com

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this communication may be considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including but not limited to, expectations with respect to the Company’s business and operations, including its expectations related to the Innovate UK grants as part of the Quantum Missions pilot competition and work with Riverlane to benchmark and enhance quantum error correction (QEC) capabilities on superconducting quantum computers; SEEQC, NQCC, Cambridge Consultants, Oxford Instruments Nanotechnology Tools, and University of Edinburgh to integrate a digital chip-based technology with Rigetti’s 9-qubit Novera™ QPU hosted at the NQCC with the goal of identifying and understanding the key system components needed for scalable QEC; and TreQ, Qruise, Q-CTRL, and Oxford Ionics to create an open-architecture quantum computing testbed. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events and can be identified by terminology such as “commit,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “intend,” “strive,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “estimate,” “believe,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursue,” “aim,” “goal,” “outlook,” “anticipate,” “assume,” or “continue,” or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Rigetti and its management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: Rigetti’s ability to achieve milestones, technological advancements, including with respect to its roadmap, help unlock quantum computing, and develop practical applications; the ability of Rigetti to complete ongoing negotiations with government contractors successfully and in a timely manner; the potential of quantum computing; the ability of Rigetti to obtain government contracts and the availability of government funding; the ability of Rigetti to expand its QCS business; the success of Rigetti’s partnerships and collaborations; Rigetti’s ability to accelerate its development of multiple generations of quantum processors; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Rigetti or others; the ability to continue to meet stock exchange listing standards; costs related to operating as a public company; changes in applicable laws or regulations, including taxes and tariffs; the possibility that Rigetti may be adversely affected by other economic, business, or competitive factors; Rigetti’s estimates of expenses and profitability; the evolution of the markets in which Rigetti competes; the ability of Rigetti to execute on its technology roadmap; the ability of Rigetti to implement its strategic initiatives, expansion plans and continue to innovate its existing services; disruptions in banking systems, increased costs, international trade relations, political turmoil, natural catastrophes, warfare, and terrorist attacks; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and the Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements other than as required by applicable law. The Company does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations.

The MIL Network –
April 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Admiral Group agrees to sell its U.S. motor business to JC Flowers

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Admiral Group agrees to sell its U.S. motor business to JC Flowers

Admiral Group plc announces that it has entered into an agreement to sell its U.S. motor insurance business, including Elephant Insurance Company and Elephant Insurance Services (“Elephant”), to J.C. Flowers & Co. (“J.C. Flowers”), a global private investment firm dedicated to investing in the financial services industry, for an undisclosed cash consideration (before customary adjustments and transaction and related expenses) representing approximately the net asset value of Elephant. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in Q4 2025.

Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, Elephant Insurance offers U.S. customers simple and affordable car insurance. The company’s tools allow customers to find the best protection for their needs and budget, with tools that are easy to use and understand.

Costantino Moretti, Head of International Insurance, Admiral Group said:
“In Elephant, we have built a business with a great foundation, and selling the company to J.C. Flowers is the right decision to ensure its future success. J.C. Flowers and Elephant have a shared ambition for generating growth and value. This partnership will allow the business to continue to deliver the high-quality insurance products and services that US motorists need.”

“This is a good outcome not only for Elephant and its employees, but also the Group and our shareholders. This transaction will enable us to focus on the opportunities we see for delivering long-term sustainable growth in our businesses in the UK and Mainland Europe.”

Eric Rahe, Managing Director and Co-President, J.C. Flowers said:
“J.C. Flowers has a long, distinguished history of investing in the insurance industry, and we will leverage our experience to help Elephant Insurance generate new opportunities as a standalone company. We are excited to partner with the Elephant team as the business enters this new stage of development.”

Alberto Schiavon, CEO of Elephant Insurance said: “We are very excited to be joining forces with J.C. Flowers. This partnership will enable us to benefit from their extensive expertise which will play a critical role for the next phase of our growth strategy and add value for our customers, whilst maintaining our distinctive culture.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors
Admiral’s corporate broker, BofA Securities, is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Sidley Austin LLP as legal advisor to Admiral Group in connection with this transaction. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company, is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Debevoise & Plimpton LLP as legal advisor to J.C. Flowers in connection with this transaction.

Enquiries

Media:
For Admiral:
Addy Frederick
addy.frederick@admiralgroup.co.uk
+44 (0) 7500 171 810

Analysts and investors:
Diane Michelberger
diane.michelberger@admiralgroup.co.uk
+44 (0) 7881 305 063

For J.C. Flowers:
Jennifer Hurson
Lambert by LLYC
jhurson@lambert.com

About Admiral Group
Admiral Group plc is a leading FTSE 100 Financial Services company offering motor, household, travel and pet insurance as well as personal lending products. Established in 1993 in the UK, the Group now has offices in Canada, France, Gibraltar, India, Italy, Spain, and the US.

About J.C. Flowers & Co
J.C. Flowers is a leading private investment firm dedicated to investing globally in the financial services industry. Founded in 1998, the firm has invested more than $18 billion of capital, including co-investment, in 67 portfolio companies in 18 countries across a range of industry subsectors including banking, insurance and reinsurance, specialty finance, business and insurance services, wealth management and capital markets, payments and software. With approximately $4 billion of assets under management, J.C. Flowers has offices in New York, London and Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.jcfco.com.

The MIL Network –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – MCEC welcomes the sweetest Good Friday Appeal yet

Source: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)

22 April 2025 – Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and The Good Friday Appeal have joined forces for the 11th consecutive year, raising a record $23.8 million to support life-saving care for children across Victoria.

“We love opening our doors every year to welcome thousands of families to enjoy a day of fun and celebration, while raising much-needed funds for sick children across Victoria,” Chief Executive, Natalie O’Brien AM said.

“It’s a truly rewarding experience and you can see how much joy this event brings to the local community and the MCEC team,” Ms O’Brien added.

MCEC’s talented chefs played a crucial role in this year’s success, baking an astonishing 20 metres of hot cross buns, made up of nearly 3,000 buns.

Alessandro Bartesaghi, MCEC’s award-winning pastry chef said, “The Good Friday Appeal event is really close to my heart and I love creating something special for the children every year.”

“This year I really wanted to push the boundaries and try something we’ve never done before. And what a better way than baking the longest table of hot cross buns you’ve ever seen! I was inspired by Japanese baking techniques to create a very soft, delicious bun that everyone can enjoy,” he added.

In addition, MCEC’s interactive Ice Cream-o-Rama served 1,200 house-made ice creams. All profits from the sale of the hot cross buns and ice creams were generously donated to the Good Friday Appeal, further contributing to the remarkable total raised this year.

All funds raised from the event will contribute to groundbreaking research, family care programs and state of the art equipment at The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.

This year’s appeal also extended its impact across the state, providing a significant boost to regional paediatric health services at Barwon Health, Bendigo Health, Grampians Health, Goulburn Valley Health, Albury Wodonga Health and Latrobe Regional Health.

“For over 10 years MCEC has generously supported the Good Friday Appeal, providing the venue and services for our family fun event, Kids Day Out, the all important Phone Room and Money Counting Room”, Rebecca Cowan, Executive Director of the Good Friday Appeal, said.

“Thank you to Natalie O’Brien and the team at MCEC who worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth delivery of this huge event, which allows the community to make a difference to the lives of sick children and their families”.

The collaboration between MCEC and the Good Friday Appeal continues to demonstrate the power of community spirit.

ABOUT MCEC
At Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), visionary ideas come to life, and the world’s thought leaders gather. The iconic venue hosts dynamic exhibitions, conferences, galas, and concerts—everyone who visits leaves inspired and excited.

MCEC loves all communities and interests, creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Blending trendy eats, sustainability, and cutting-edge tech, it creates mind-blowing, globally recognised events.

Thanks to its progressive sustainability practices, choosing MCEC means making a positive environmental impact. Feel Melbourne’s vibe, discover the next big thing, and be part of the conversation that shapes the future.

Acknowledgement of Country

Built on the banks of the Birrarung (Yarra River), Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC. We recognise the ongoing significance of the Birrarung to Traditional Owners as a life source and a meeting place for millennia and seek to honour this long-standing tradition of building community and exchanging ideas on these lands.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proposal for additional SEND provision for Isle of Wight children 22 April 2025 Proposal for additional SEND provision for Isle of Wight children
Source: Aisle of Wight

The Isle of Wight Council is seeking to expand its SEND provisions across the Island.

The proposed additional SEND provision will help manage an increase in the number of children (with an education health and care plan (EHCP)) and ensure we are able to meet the needs of children requiring specialist provision).

The proposed programme seeks to provide specialist education placement for additional children from September 2025 and beyond.

Subject to approval from Cabinet on Thursday 24 April, a consultation period will begin on Friday 2 May and will run until Monday 9 June 2025.

This report, being presented to Cabinet seeks approval to consult on the following expansion of places:
- Expansion of places at Medina House School from 138 places to 168, with 30 places being provided at a satellite provision located at the site of the former Chillerton & Rookley Primary School, Chillerton IOW.
- Expansion of the resourced provision at Hunnyhill Primary School from 8 places to 12 places for children for Social Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH).
- Expansion of the resourced provision at Brading CE Primary School from 8 places to 12 places for children with Autism Spectrum (AS) and/or Complex Learning.
- Expansion of the resourced provision at The Bay CE Primary School (Secondary site) from 15 places to 20 places for children with Autism Spectrum (AS).
- Expansion of Lionheart School from 60 places to 120 places, with 60 places for children with complex high anxiety mental health (Non- EHCP/Section 19 children) being provided at the Cowes Primary School site, Cowes (subject to closure on the 31/8/2025).
- Expansion of St Georges School from 208 places to 228 places, with 40 places being provided at the satellite site located in East Cowes.
- Creation of a new 12 place primary resourced provision at Brighstone CE Primary School for children with Autism Spectrum (AS) and/or Speech Language Communication Need (SLCN).
Ashley Whittaker, Strategic Director of Children’s Services said: ‘‘The additional SEND places are essential for us to develop and improve our education offering across the Island. Contrary to the declining birth rate, the Island has seen a significant growth in the need for additional special educational needs provision.’’

‘‘Without adequate support, children with SEND may struggle to access the curriculum, leading to gaps in their learning and development. This can result in lower academic achievement and hinder their ability to develop essential life skills

Should we move ahead to consultation the notices will be published on Friday 2 May. The consultation will be accessible online . Details of the consultation are to be shared with all schools across the Island to ensure a full engagement in the process and meetings held at all schools named.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev and Vladimir Vladimirov discussed the progress of spring field work in Stavropol Krai

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with the Governor of Stavropol Krai Vladimir Vladimirov. The topics of discussion were the development of the region’s agro-industrial complex and the implementation of national projects in the field of ecology.

Federal state support for the agro-industrial complex this year has increased by 1 billion rubles compared to the previous year and amounted to almost 5 billion rubles. Stavropol Krai demonstrates growth in a significant part of indicators in the field of agriculture. For example, milk production in 2024 amounted to almost 570 thousand tons, which is higher than a year earlier. Almost 60 thousand were produced in January – March of this year, which is 12% higher than in the same period last year.

Vladimir Vladimirov noted that spring field work is currently being actively carried out in the region, farmers are sowing early spring crops. Almost 450 thousand hectares have been sown – this is corn and sunflower. Sugar beet is currently being sown. The majority of winter crops are in good and satisfactory condition. Farmers in the region are provided with everything necessary for the sowing campaign.

One of the key tasks in agriculture is import substitution. Vladimir Vladimirov noted that when sowing grain crops, farmers use 100% domestically produced seeds.

The meeting also discussed work in the environmental protection sphere. Within the framework of the national project “Ecology” from 2019 to 2024, the events of three federal projects were implemented in Stavropol Krai: “Clean Country”, “Integrated System for Handling Municipal Solid Waste” and “Forest Preservation”. The total funding amounted to more than 1.3 billion rubles. Within the framework of the new national project “Environmental Well-Being”, Stavropol Krai takes part in the federal projects “Closed-loop Economy”, “Water of Russia” and “Forest Preservation”.

Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two men before the courts on unlawful hunting charges

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Two people are before the courts after Police executed two search warrants at addresses in Te Karaka, in relation to unlawful hunting in the region.

The warrants were executed on Thursday 17 April, resulting in Police locating and seizing a firearm, ammunition, and a large amount of cannabis.

Two men, aged 32 and 40, are due to appear in the Gisborne District Court tomorrow (23 April), facing charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, unlawful hunting and cultivating cannabis.

Poaching and unlawful hunting continues to be an ongoing issue across the wider district, not only for personal safety reasons but also for the flow on effect from the damage caused to the forestry and farmers properties.
These two arrests are a pleasing result, and Police will continue to work hard to hold offenders to account.

Police urge anybody who has been a victim of poaching to make a report to Police via 105.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays following crash on SH1, Dome Forest

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Emergency services are responding to reports of a two vehicle crash on State Highway 1 in Dome Forest.

The crash, near Sheepworld Farm Park, was reported to Police just before 2.30pm.

Early indications suggest there are no serious injuries.

Both north and southbound lanes are blocked

Diversions are in place and motorists are advised to expect delays.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic in Numbers: Over 1 Million Trees Planted in Just 3 Years by Panasonic Vietnam

Source: Panasonic

Headline: Panasonic in Numbers: Over 1 Million Trees Planted in Just 3 Years by Panasonic Vietnam

Panasonic Vietnam has planted over 1 million trees in only 3 years, making it the fastest foreign company in Vietnam to achieve this goal. Based on estimates from Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture & Environment (MOAE), the initiative, which planted 1,071,300 trees in 20 provinces, is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 108,000 tons over ten years. Totally, Panasonic Vietnam has planted 1,346,390 trees in 11 years.
Besides actively promoting environmental activities as part of Panasonic’s global ECO RELAY project, Panasonic Vietnam launched the “Live Wellness, Contribute Green” tree planting program in 2022, which invited customer contribution through a scheme: a tree is planted each time a customer buys a Panasonic product under Wellness category.
Panasonic Vietnam will continue to support the Panasonic Group’s long-term environmental vision “Panasonic GREEN IMPACT” and contribute to creating a bright future of wellness for Vietnamese people through healthy living and sustainable development.

The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese agriculture poised for breakthroughs in new quality productive forces

Source: China State Council Information Office

A latest report projects systemic breakthroughs in China’s new quality productive forces in terms of agriculture over the next decade, with grain yield per unit area expected to increase by 7.8 percent.

The China Agricultural Outlook Report (2025-2034), released at the 2025 Agricultural Outlook Conference held at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) in Beijing on Sunday, reviewed China’s agricultural market performance in 2024 and forecast production, consumption, trade and price trends for major farm products in the course of the next decade.

The report highlighted structural optimization in China’s agricultural supply during 2024 — marked by steady modernization progress and quality development. Notable achievements included enhanced supply of green and high-quality products, with 139,000 new crop germplasm resources collected, 1.07 million livestock genetic materials preserved, and 120,000 aquatic genetic materials documented.

Agricultural technology and infrastructure continued to strengthen in 2024, contributing more than 63 percent to productivity growth, the report said. High-quality crop variety coverage exceeded 96 percent, while comprehensive mechanization reached 75.4 percent. Over 5.33 million hectares of high-standard farmland were newly developed or upgraded, bringing total coverage to 66.67 million hectares.

According to the report, China’s agricultural green development has progressed significantly — with livestock waste utilization reaching 79.4 percent, crop straw utilization exceeding 88 percent, and agricultural film recycling surpassing 80 percent.

The decade-long forecast predicts fundamental improvements in rural revitalization and agricultural modernization. Grain production capacity will achieve both quantitative and qualitative enhancements, with the cultivated area stabilizing at 119 million hectares by 2034.

Supported by accelerated technological advancement and promotion of high-yield, stress-resistant crop varieties, grain yield is projected to rise 7.8 percent to 6,311 kg/ha by 2034. Corn and soybean yields are expected to reach 7,350 kg/ha and 2,775 kg/ha, respectively, the report said.

It noted that rising consumer demand for premium, healthy and diversified agricultural products aligns with China’s economic growth and living standard improvements.

The report also said that agricultural trade patterns will optimize through deeper global supply chain integration — with grain imports expected to decline to 113 million tonnes by 2034. Vegetable and fruit exports are forecast to grow annually by 2.6 percent and 8.8 percent, respectively, maintaining international competitiveness.

Organized by the Agricultural Information Institute of the CAAS, the conference emphasized enhancing comprehensive production capacity to address external uncertainties. It also emphasized advancing AI and emerging technologies to strengthen monitoring systems, reaffirming commitment to building China into an agricultural powerhouse.

The event featured high-level discussions on food security, smart agriculture development, trade coordination mechanisms, and AI-powered market monitoring, reflecting current industry focus areas.

MIL OSI China News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Financial support on the way for drought-hit farmers

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is making more financial support available for eligible farmers in many parts of the North Island and upper South Island to help with essential living costs, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston and Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson say.
“Rural Assistance Payments are being made available from Monday 28 April 2025 in 27 districts affected by dry conditions. We want to help eligible farmers whose income has been severely affected by drought-stricken conditions,” Louise Upston says.
“We know farmers in these regions have been significantly impacted by low rainfall over recent months, and we want people to be able to access support when they need it
“These Rural Assistance Payments are being made available until 28 October 2025, when farmer incomes are expected to lift.”
Mark Patterson is encouraging farmers doing it tough to get in touch with their local Rural Support Trust to find out what help is available and to apply for a Rural Assistance Payment if they need it.
“Droughts often have a sting in the tail with the cold tough winter months still to come. We know how hard it can be to recover from a drought, and we are here to support farmers through it,” Mark Patterson says.
Farmers in the Northland, Waikato, Taranaki, Horizons (Manawatū-Whanganui, including Tararua), and the Top of the South Island (Marlborough, Tasman, and Nelson City) regional council areas can apply for Rural Assistance Payments.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 22, 2025

MIL-OSI: SOUTHERN MISSOURI BANCORP REPORTS PRELIMINARY RESULTS FOR THIRD QUARTER OF FISCAL 2025; DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND OF $0.23 PER COMMON SHARE; CONFERENCE CALL SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, APRIL 22, AT 8:30 AM CENTRAL TIME

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Poplar Bluff, Missouri, April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Southern Missouri Bancorp, Inc. (“Company”) (NASDAQ: SMBC), the parent corporation of Southern Bank (“Bank”), today announced preliminary net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 of $15.7 million, an increase of $4.4 million or 38.7%, as compared to the same period of the prior fiscal year. The increase was attributable to increases in net interest income and noninterest income, partially offset by increases in noninterest expense, income taxes, and provision for credit losses. Preliminary net income was $1.39 per fully diluted common share for the third quarter of fiscal 2025, an increase of $0.40 as compared to the $0.99 per fully diluted common share reported for the same period of the prior fiscal year.

Highlights for the third quarter of fiscal 2025:

Earnings per common share (diluted) were $1.39, up $0.40, or 40.4%, as compared to the same quarter a year ago, and up $0.09, or 6.9%, from the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the linked quarter.
Annualized return on average assets (ROA) was 1.27%, while annualized return on average common equity (ROE) was 12.1%, as compared to 0.99% and 9.5%, respectively, in the same quarter a year ago, and 1.26% and 11.5%, respectively, in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the linked quarter.
Net interest margin for the quarter was 3.39%, as compared to 3.15% reported for the same quarter a year ago, and up from 3.36% reported for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the linked quarter. Net interest income increased $5.0 million, or 14.4%, compared to the same quarter a year ago, and increased $1.3 million, or 3.5% compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the linked quarter.
Noninterest income was up 19.4% for the quarter, as compared to the same quarter a year ago, primarily as a result of losses realized on sale of available-for-sale (AFS) securities in the year ago quarter, and down 2.9% from the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the linked quarter.
Gross loan balances as of March 31, 2025, decreased by $3.5 million, or 0.1%, as compared to December 31, 2024, and increased by $252.3 million, or 6.7%, as compared to March 31, 2024.
Deposit balances as of March 31, 2025, increased by $50.8 million, or 1.2%, as compared to December 31, 2024, and by $275.3, million, or 6.9%, as compared to March 31, 2024.
Cash equivalent balances and time deposits as of March 31, 2025, increased by $81.1 million, or 55.5%, as compared to December 31, 2024, and increased by $58.4 million, or 34.6% as compared to March 31, 2024.
Tangible book value per share was $40.37, having increased by $4.86, or 13.7%, as compared to March 31, 2024.

Dividend Declared:

The Board of Directors, on April 15, 2025, declared a quarterly cash dividend on common stock of $0.23, payable May 30, 2025, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 15, 2025, marking the 124th consecutive quarterly dividend since the inception of the Company. The Board of Directors and management believe the payment of a quarterly cash dividend enhances stockholder value and demonstrates our commitment to and confidence in our future prospects.

Conference Call:

The Company will host a conference call to review the information provided in this press release on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., central time. The call will be available live to interested parties by calling 1-833-470-1428 in the United States and from all other locations. Participants should use participant access code 154288. Telephone playback will be available beginning one hour following the conclusion of the call through April 27, 2025. The playback may be accessed by dialing 1-866-813-9403, and using the conference passcode 580314.

Balance Sheet Summary:

The Company experienced balance sheet growth in the first nine months of fiscal 2025, with total assets of $5.0 billion at March 31, 2025, reflecting an increase of $372.2 million, or 8.1%, as compared to June 30, 2024. Growth primarily reflected increases in net loans receivable, cash equivalents, and available for sale (AFS) securities.

Cash equivalents and time deposits were a combined $227.1 million at March 31, 2025, an increase of $165.7 million, or 270.0%, as compared to June 30, 2024. The increase was primarily the result of strong deposit generation that outpaced loan growth during the period. AFS securities were $462.9 million at March 31, 2025, up $35.0 million, or 8.2%, as compared to June 30, 2024.

Loans, net of the allowance for credit losses (ACL), were $4.0 billion at March 31, 2025, an increase of $171.3 million, or 4.5%, as compared to June 30, 2024. Gross loans increased by $173.7 million, while the ACL attributable to outstanding loan balances increased $2.4 million, or 4.6%, as compared to June 30, 2024. The increase in loan balances was attributable to growth in 1-4 family residential, commercial and industrial, construction and land development, multi-family real estate, agriculture real estate, owner occupied commercial real estate, and agricultural production loan balances. This increase was somewhat offset by decreases in consumer loans, loans secured by non-owner occupied commercial real estate, and other loan balances. The table below illustrates changes in loan balances by type over recent periods:


Summary Loan Data as of:	Mar. 31,			Dec. 31,			Sep. 30,			June 30,			Mar. 31,
(dollars in thousands)	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024

1-4 residential real estate	$	978,908		$	967,196		$	942,916		$	925,397		$	903,371
Non-owner occupied commercial real estate		897,125			882,484			903,678			899,770			898,911
Owner occupied commercial real estate		440,282			435,392			438,030			427,476			412,958
Multi-family real estate		405,445			376,081			371,177			384,564			417,106
Construction and land development		323,499			393,388			351,481			290,541			268,315
Agriculture real estate		247,027			239,912			239,787			232,520			233,853
Total loans secured by real estate		3,292,286			3,294,453			3,247,069			3,160,268			3,134,514

Commercial and industrial		488,116			484,799			457,018			450,147			436,093
Agriculture production		186,058			188,284			200,215			175,968			139,533
Consumer		54,022			56,017			58,735			59,671			56,506
All other loans		3,216			3,628			3,699			3,981			4,799
Total loans		4,023,698			4,027,181			3,966,736			3,850,035			3,771,445

Deferred loan fees, net		(189	)		(202	)		(218	)		(232	)		(251	)
Gross loans		4,023,509			4,026,979			3,966,518			3,849,803			3,771,194
Allowance for credit losses		(54,940	)		(54,740	)		(54,437	)		(52,516	)		(51,336	)
Net loans	$	3,968,569		$	3,972,239		$	3,912,081		$	3,797,287		$	3,719,858

Loans anticipated to fund in the next 90 days totaled $163.3 million at March 31, 2025, as compared to $172.5 million at December 31, 2024, and $117.2 million at March 31, 2024.

The Bank’s concentration in non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans is estimated at 304.0% of Tier 1 capital and ACL on March 31, 2025, as compared to 317.5% as of June 30, 2024, with these loans representing 40.4% of total loans at March 31, 2025. Multi-family residential real estate, hospitality (hotels/restaurants), care facilities, retail stand-alone, and strip centers are the most common collateral types within the non-owner occupied commercial real estate loan portfolio. The multi-family residential real estate loan portfolio commonly includes loans collateralized by properties currently in the low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) program or that have exited the program. The hospitality and retail stand-alone segments include primarily franchised businesses; care facilities consisting mainly of skilled nursing and assisted living centers; and strip centers, which can be defined as non-mall shopping centers with a variety of tenants. Non-owner-occupied office property types included 31 loans totaling $23.9 million, or 0.59% of gross loans at March 31, 2025, none of which were adversely classified, and are generally comprised of smaller spaces with diverse tenants. The Company continues to monitor its commercial real estate concentration and the individual segments closely.

Nonperforming loans (NPL) were $22.0 million, or 0.55% of gross loans, at March 31, 2025, as compared to $6.7 million, or 0.17% of gross loans at June 30, 2024. Nonperforming assets (NPA) were $23.8 million, or 0.48% of total assets, at March 31, 2025, as compared to $10.6 million, or 0.23% of total assets, at June 30, 2024. The rise in NPAs reflects an increase in NPLs. The increase in NPLs was primarily attributable to several commercial relationships added in the third quarter of 2025 and the addition of three unrelated loans collateralized by single-family residential property in the linked quarter. The increase during the third quarter was mostly attributable to loans totaling $10 million primarily secured by two specific-purpose non-owner occupied commercial properties in different states. The loans have some guarantors in common. The properties, now vacant, were originally leased to a single tenant that became insolvent.

Our ACL at March 31, 2025, totaled $54.9 million, representing 1.37% of gross loans and 250% of nonperforming loans, as compared to an ACL of $52.5 million, representing 1.36% of gross loans and 786% of nonperforming loans at June 30, 2024. The Company has estimated its expected credit losses as of March 31, 2025, under ASC 326-20, and management believes the ACL as of that date was adequate based on that estimate. There remains, however, significant uncertainty as borrowers adjust to relatively high market interest rates, although the Federal Reserve has reduced short-term rates somewhat during this fiscal year. Qualitative adjustments in the Company’s ACL model were increased compared to June 30, 2024, due to various factors that are relevant to determining expected collectability of credit. Additionally, a provision for credit loss was required due to loan net charge offs and to provide reserves for overdrafts in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025. As a percentage of average loans outstanding, the Company recorded net charge offs of 0.11% (annualized) during the current period, as compared to 0.01% for the same period of the prior fiscal year. In the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, $1.1 million of net charge offs were realized, with the increase from prior periods primarily due to a single agricultural relationship with suspected fraudulent activity.

Total liabilities were $4.4 billion at March 31, 2025, an increase of $332.1 million, or 8.1%, as compared to June 30, 2024. Growth primarily reflected an increase in total deposits, other liabilities from the increase of accrued interest payable and income taxes payable, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and FHLB advances.

Deposits were $4.3 billion at March 31, 2025, an increase of $318.3 million, or 8.1%, as compared to June 30, 2024. The deposit portfolio saw year-to-date increases in certificates of deposit and savings accounts, as customers remained willing to move balances into high yield savings accounts and special rate time deposits in the higher rate environment. Public unit balances totaled $575.8 million at March 31, 2025, a decrease of $18.8 million compared to June 30, 2024, and increased $9.8 million from December 31, 2024, the linked quarter, reflecting seasonal trends. Brokered deposits totaled $235.6 million at March 31, 2025, an increase of $61.8 million as compared to June 30, 2024, but a decrease of $18.5 million compared to December 31, 2024, the linked quarter. The average loan-to-deposit ratio for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was 94.2%, as compared to 96.3% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and 92.7% for the same period of the prior fiscal year. The table below illustrates changes in deposit balances by type over recent periods:


Summary Deposit Data as of:	Mar. 31,		Dec. 31,		Sep. 30,		June 30,		Mar. 31,
(dollars in thousands)	2025		2024		2024		2024		2024

Non-interest bearing deposits	$	513,418	$	514,199	$	503,209	$	514,107	$	525,959
NOW accounts		1,167,296		1,211,402		1,128,917		1,239,663		1,300,358
MMDAs – non-brokered		345,810		347,271		320,252		334,774		359,569
Brokered MMDAs		2,013		3,018		12,058		2,025		10,084
Savings accounts		626,175		573,291		556,030		517,084		455,212
Total nonmaturity deposits		2,654,712		2,649,181		2,520,466		2,607,653		2,651,182

Certificates of deposit – non-brokered		1,373,109		1,310,421		1,258,583		1,163,650		1,158,063
Brokered certificates of deposit		233,561		251,025		261,093		171,756		176,867
Total certificates of deposit		1,606,670		1,561,446		1,519,676		1,335,406		1,334,930

Total deposits	$	4,261,382	$	4,210,627	$	4,040,142	$	3,943,059	$	3,986,112

Public unit nonmaturity accounts	$	472,010	$	482,406	$	447,638	$	541,445	$	572,631
Public unit certificates of deposit		103,741		83,506		62,882		53,144		51,834
Total public unit deposits	$	575,751	$	565,912	$	510,520	$	594,589	$	624,465

FHLB advances were $104.1 million at March 31, 2025, an increase of $2.0 million, or 2.0%, as compared to June 30, 2024.

The Company’s stockholders’ equity was $528.8 million at March 31, 2025, an increase of $40.0 million, or 8.2%, as compared to June 30, 2024. The increase was attributable primarily to earnings retained after cash dividends paid, in combination with a $3.5 million reduction in accumulated other comprehensive losses (AOCL) as the market value of the Company’s investments appreciated due to the decrease in market interest rates. The AOCL totaled $14.0 million at March 31, 2025, compared $17.5 million at June 30, 2024. The Company does not hold any securities classified as held-to-maturity.

Quarterly Income Statement Summary:

The Company’s net interest income for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $39.5 million, an increase of $5.0 million, or 14.4%, as compared to the same period of the prior fiscal year. The increase was attributable to a 6.2% increase in the average balance of interest-earning assets in the current three-month period compared to the same period a year ago, and an increase of 24 basis points in the net interest margin, from 3.15% to 3.39%. The primary driver of the net interest margin expansion, compared to the year ago period, was the yield on interest earning assets increasing 16 basis points, while the cost of interest bearing liabilities decreased 11 basis points.

Loan discount accretion and deposit premium amortization related to the Company’s November 2018 acquisition of First Commercial Bank, the May 2020 acquisition of Central Federal Savings & Loan Association, the February 2022 merger of FortuneBank, and the January 2023 acquisition of Citizens Bank & Trust resulted in $1.5 million in net interest income for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, as compared to $1.2 million in net interest income for the same period a year ago. Combined, this component of net interest income contributed 13 basis points to net interest margin in the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, as compared to an 11-basis point contribution for the same period of the prior fiscal year, and as compared to a nine-basis point contribution in the linked quarter, ended December 31, 2024, when net interest margin was 3.36%.

The Company recorded a PCL of $932,000 in the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, as compared to a PCL of $900,000 in the same period of the prior fiscal year. The current period PCL was the result of a $1.3 million provision attributable to the ACL for loan balances outstanding and a $368,000 negative provision attributable to the allowance for off-balance sheet credit exposures.

The Company’s noninterest income for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $6.7 million, an increase of $1.1 million, or 19.4%, as compared to the same period of the prior fiscal year. The increase was primarily attributable to recognized losses on the sale of AFS securities, which totaled $807,000 in the comparable quarter, as compared to a small gain recognized in the current quarter. Additionally, deposit account charges and related fees increased, partially offset by decreases in loan late charges and loan servicing fees.

Noninterest expense for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $25.4 million, an increase of $342,000, or 1.4%, as compared to the same period of the prior fiscal year. The increase as compared to the year-ago period was primarily attributable to increases in other noninterest expense, occupancy and equipment, and legal and professional fees. The increase in other noninterest expense was primarily due to card fraud losses and deposit product expenses. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased due to depreciation on recent capitalized expenditures, including buildings, equipment, and signage. In addition, higher maintenance costs and service agreements were experienced. Lastly, legal and professional fees were elevated due primarily to an increase in accruals for audit expenses and the remaining expenses associated with the performance improvement project. Partially offsetting these increases from the prior year period were decreases in in telecommunication expenses; intangible amortization, as the core deposit intangible recognized in an older merger was fully amortized in the second quarter of fiscal 2025; and advertising expenses.

The efficiency ratio for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was 55.1%, as compared to 61.2% in the same period of the prior fiscal year. The improvement was attributable to net interest income and noninterest income growing faster than operating expenses.

The income tax provision for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $4.1 million, an increase of 45.9% as compared to the same period of the prior fiscal year, primarily due to the increase in net income before income taxes. The effective tax rate was 20.9% as compared to 20.1% in the same quarter of the prior fiscal year.

Forward-Looking Information:

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this press release may be deemed to be forward-looking statements that are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, including: potential adverse impacts to the economic conditions in the Company’s local market areas, other markets where the Company has lending relationships, or other aspects of the Company’s business operations or financial markets, expected cost savings, synergies and other benefits from our merger and acquisition activities might not be realized to the extent expected, within the anticipated time frames, or at all, and costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention and labor shortages, might be greater than expected and goodwill impairment charges might be incurred; the strength of the United States economy in general and the strength of local economies in which we conduct operations; fluctuations in interest rates and the possibility of a recession; monetary and fiscal policies of the FRB and the U.S. Government and other governmental initiatives affecting the financial services industry; potential imposition of new or increased tariffs or changes to existing trade policies that could affect economic activity or specific industry sectors; the risks of lending and investing activities, including changes in the level and direction of loan delinquencies and write-offs and changes in estimates of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses; our ability to access cost-effective funding; the timely development and acceptance of our new products and services and the perceived overall value of these products and services by users, including the features, pricing and quality compared to competitors’ products and services; fluctuations in real estate values in both residential and commercial real estate markets, as well as agricultural business conditions; demand for loans and deposits; legislative or regulatory changes that adversely affect our business; changes in accounting principles, policies, or guidelines; results of regulatory examinations, including the possibility that a regulator may, among other things, require an increase in our reserve for credit losses or write-down of assets; the impact of technological changes; and our success at managing the risks involved in the foregoing. Any forward-looking statements are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions at the time they are made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those contained in such statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking statements discussed might not occur, and you should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

Southern Missouri Bancorp, Inc.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION


Summary Balance Sheet Data as of:	Mar. 31,			Dec. 31,			Sep. 30,			June 30,			Mar. 31,
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024

Cash equivalents and time deposits	$	227,136		$	146,078		$	75,591		$	61,395		$	168,763
Available for sale (AFS) securities		462,930			468,060			420,209			427,903			433,689
FHLB/FRB membership stock		18,269			18,099			18,064			17,802			17,734
Loans receivable, gross		4,023,509			4,026,979			3,966,518			3,849,803			3,771,194
Allowance for credit losses		54,940			54,740			54,437			52,516			51,336
Loans receivable, net		3,968,569			3,972,239			3,912,081			3,797,287			3,719,858
Bank-owned life insurance		75,156			74,643			74,119			73,601			73,101
Intangible assets		74,677			75,399			76,340			77,232			78,049
Premises and equipment		95,987			96,418			96,087			95,952			95,801
Other assets		53,772			56,738			56,709			53,144			59,997
Total assets	$	4,976,496		$	4,907,674		$	4,729,200		$	4,604,316		$	4,646,992

Interest-bearing deposits	$	3,747,964		$	3,696,428		$	3,536,933		$	3,428,952		$	3,437,420
Noninterest-bearing deposits		513,418			514,199			503,209			514,107			548,692
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		15,000			15,000			15,000			9,398			9,398
FHLB advances		104,072			107,070			107,069			102,050			102,043
Other liabilities		44,057			39,424			38,191			37,905			46,712
Subordinated debt		23,195			23,182			23,169			23,156			23,143
Total liabilities		4,447,706			4,395,303			4,223,571			4,115,568			4,167,408

Total stockholders’ equity		528,790			512,371			505,629			488,748			479,584

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,976,496		$	4,907,674		$	4,729,200		$	4,604,316		$	4,646,992

Equity to assets ratio		10.63	%		10.44	%		10.69	%		10.61	%		10.32	%

Common shares outstanding		11,299,962			11,277,167			11,277,167			11,277,737			11,366,094
Less: Restricted common shares not vested		50,658			46,653			56,553			57,956			57,956
Common shares for book value determination		11,249,304			11,230,514			11,220,614			11,219,781			11,308,138

Book value per common share	$	47.01		$	45.62		$	45.06		$	43.56		$	42.41
Less: Intangible assets per common share		6.64			6.71			6.80			6.88			6.90
Tangible book value per common share ⁽¹⁾		40.37			38.91			38.26			36.68			35.51
Closing market price		52.02			57.37			56.49			45.01			43.71

(1) Non-GAAP financial measure.


Nonperforming asset data as of:	Mar. 31,			Dec. 31,			Sep. 30,			June 30,			Mar. 31,
(dollars in thousands)	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024

Nonaccrual loans	$	21,970		$	8,309		$	8,206		$	6,680		$	7,329
Accruing loans 90 days or more past due		—			—			—			—			81
Total nonperforming loans		21,970			8,309			8,206			6,680			7,410
Other real estate owned (OREO)		1,775			2,423			3,842			3,865			3,791
Personal property repossessed		56			37			21			23			60
Total nonperforming assets	$	23,801		$	10,769		$	12,069		$	10,568		$	11,261

Total nonperforming assets to total assets		0.48	%		0.22	%		0.26	%		0.23	%		0.24	%
Total nonperforming loans to gross loans		0.55	%		0.21	%		0.21	%		0.17	%		0.20	%
Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans		250.07	%		658.80	%		663.38	%		786.17	%		692.79	%
Allowance for credit losses to gross loans		1.37	%		1.36	%		1.37	%		1.36	%		1.36	%

Performing modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty	$	23,304		$	24,083		$	24,340		$	24,602		$	24,848


	For the three-month period ended
Quarterly Summary Income Statement Data:	Mar. 31,		Dec. 31,		Sep. 30,		June 30,		Mar. 31,
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)	2025		2024		2024		2024		2024

Interest income:
Cash equivalents	$	1,585	$	784	$	78	$	541	$	2,587
AFS securities and membership stock		5,684		5,558		5,547		5,677		5,486
Loans receivable		62,656		63,082		61,753		58,449		55,952
Total interest income		69,925		69,424		67,378		64,667		64,025
Interest expense:
Deposits		28,795		29,538		28,796		27,999		27,893
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		189		226		160		125		128
FHLB advances		1,076		1,099		1,326		1,015		1,060
Subordinated debt		386		418		435		433		435
Total interest expense		30,446		31,281		30,717		29,572		29,516
Net interest income		39,479		38,143		36,661		35,095		34,509
Provision for credit losses		932		932		2,159		900		900
Noninterest income:
Deposit account charges and related fees		2,048		2,237		2,184		1,978		1,847
Bank card interchange income		1,341		1,301		1,499		1,770		1,301
Loan late charges		—		—		—		170		150
Loan servicing fees		224		232		286		494		267
Other loan fees		843		944		1,063		617		757
Net realized gains on sale of loans		114		133		361		97		99
Net realized gains (losses) on sale of AFS securities		48		—		—		—		(807	)
Earnings on bank owned life insurance		512		522		517		498		483
Insurance brokerage commissions		340		300		287		331		312
Wealth management fees		902		843		730		838		866
Other noninterest income		294		353		247		974		309
Total noninterest income		6,666		6,865		7,174		7,767		5,584
Noninterest expense:
Compensation and benefits		13,771		13,737		14,397		13,894		13,750
Occupancy and equipment, net		3,869		3,585		3,689		3,790		3,623
Data processing expense		2,359		2,224		2,171		1,929		2,349
Telecommunications expense		330		354		428		468		464
Deposit insurance premiums		674		588		472		638		677
Legal and professional fees		603		619		1,208		516		412
Advertising		530		442		546		640		622
Postage and office supplies		350		283		306		308		344
Intangible amortization		889		897		897		1,018		1,018
Foreclosed property expenses		37		73		12		52		60
Other noninterest expense		1,979		2,074		1,715		1,749		1,730
Total noninterest expense		25,391		24,876		25,841		25,002		25,049
Net income before income taxes		19,822		19,200		15,835		16,960		14,144
Income taxes		4,139		4,547		3,377		3,430		2,837
Net income		15,683		14,653		12,458		13,530		11,307
Less: Distributed and undistributed earnings allocated
to participating securities		71		61		62		69		58
Net income available to common shareholders	$	15,612	$	14,592	$	12,396	$	13,461	$	11,249

Basic earnings per common share	$	1.39	$	1.30	$	1.10	$	1.19	$	1.00
Diluted earnings per common share		1.39		1.30		1.10		1.19		0.99
Dividends per common share		0.23		0.23		0.23		0.21		0.21
Average common shares outstanding:
Basic		11,238,000		11,231,000		11,221,000		11,276,000		11,302,000
Diluted		11,262,000		11,260,000		11,240,000		11,283,000		11,313,000


	For the three-month period ended
Quarterly Average Balance Sheet Data:	Mar. 31,			Dec. 31,			Sep. 30,			June 30,			Mar. 31,
(dollars in thousands)	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024

Interest-bearing cash equivalents	$	143,206		$	64,976		$	5,547		$	39,432		$	182,427
AFS securities and membership stock		508,642			479,633			460,187			476,198			472,904
Loans receivable, gross		4,003,552			3,989,643			3,889,740			3,809,209			3,726,631
Total interest-earning assets		4,655,400			4,534,252			4,355,474			4,324,839			4,381,962
Other assets		290,739			291,217			283,056			285,956			291,591
Total assets	$	4,946,139		$	4,825,469		$	4,638,530		$	4,610,795		$	4,673,553

Interest-bearing deposits	$	3,737,849		$	3,615,767		$	3,416,752		$	3,417,360		$	3,488,104
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		15,000			15,000			12,321			9,398			9,398
FHLB advances		106,187			107,054			123,723			102,757			111,830
Subordinated debt		23,189			23,175			23,162			23,149			23,137
Total interest-bearing liabilities		3,882,225			3,760,996			3,575,958			3,552,664			3,632,469
Noninterest-bearing deposits		513,157			524,878			531,946			539,637			532,075
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities		31,282			31,442			33,737			35,198			33,902
Total liabilities		4,426,664			4,317,316			4,141,641			4,127,499			4,198,446

Total stockholders’ equity		519,475			508,153			496,889			483,296			475,107

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,946,139		$	4,825,469		$	4,638,530		$	4,610,795		$	4,673,553

Return on average assets		1.27	%		1.21	%		1.07	%		1.17	%		0.97	%
Return on average common stockholders’ equity		12.1	%		11.5	%		10.0	%		11.2	%		9.5	%

Net interest margin		3.39	%		3.36	%		3.37	%		3.25	%		3.15	%
Net interest spread		2.87	%		2.79	%		2.75	%		2.65	%		2.59	%

Efficiency ratio		55.1	%		55.3	%		59.0	%		58.3	%		61.2	%

The MIL Network –

April 22, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: SAVE OUR RESTAURANTS & SMALL BUSINESSES FROM TRUMP’S TARIFF WAR, STANDING WITH CENTRAL NY BUSINESSES SEEING MAJOR PRICE INCREASES HURTING FAMILIES & LOCAL JOBS, SENATOR ANNOUNCES SENATE DEMS…

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
Syracuse’s Renowned Emerald Cocktail Kitchen Is In Panic Over Trump’s Tariffs That Threaten Their Business, And Small Businesses & Manufacturers Across Central NY Are Already Seeing Costs Spike From Trade War With Canada
Senator Says 16,000 NY-ers In Central NY Work In Industries Directly Impacted By Tariffs, And Syracuse Families Could See Prices Rise Nearly $5,000 More A Year
Schumer: We Need To Save Our Restaurants & Small Businesses From Trump’s Tariff War That Is Raising Prices And Killing Jobs
To kickstart National Cost of Living Week of Action, with Trump’s tariff war hammering Syracuse’s restaurants and small businesses, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today stood at Syracuse’s renowned Emerald Cocktail Kitchen with Central NY small business leaders who are feeling major hits to their bottom line due to tariffs. The senator said this chaotic, self-destructive tariff war has Upstate NY restaurants, local businesses, and working- and middle-class families footing the bill, with the average family in Central NY estimated to be hit with nearly $5,000 in higher prices per year.
Schumer said every day this chaos continues it risks more than 16,000 jobs in Central NY in industries impacted by the tariffs and even more jobs in Upstate NY’s vital recreation and tourism industries. Schumer said enough is enough, and announced that when the Senate returns he will force a vote to end Trump’s trade war.
“Syracuse and Central New York are on the frontlines of Trump’s destructive tariff war. Let’s be clear: these tariffs are a tax increase on Upstate NY. Family restaurants are the heart and soul of Central New York and the backbone of Main Streets across Upstate New York. They are still recovering from the pandemic. They can’t afford to eat price increases when Trump slaps them with tariffs and neither can their customers. Small businesses and manufacturers have already seen costs skyrocket, and some are being hit with a double whammy as tourism & business from Canada dries up from Trump’s actions. No small business or restaurant in Upstate NY or anywhere in America can operate with this kind of uncertainty,” said Senator Schumer. “We need to save our restaurants & small businesses from Trump’s tariff war. That’s why when the Senate returns, I will force a vote to end this reckless trade war. This is a vital ingredient to protect restaurants and families throughout Central New York and across Upstate New York.”
Schumer explained Central NY restaurants were already hit hard by the pandemic and many are still trying to recover. Schumer explained that restaurants operate on some of the slimmest margins – typically 3 to 5 percent – which could shrink more as tariffs go into effect. Since ingredients are perishable, restaurants don’t have the option of stockpiling materials and they can’t change suppliers on a whim. With the threat of tariffs looming, prices across the board have increased and restaurant owners are worried that customers can’t afford to go out to eat anymore. Without business, they might not be able to recover and would be forced to lay off staff, or worse, close their doors.
A New York Times analysis found that over 16,000 New Yorkers across Central NY including 10,000 in Onondaga County work in industries targeted by Trump’s tariffs, which does not even account for all the related jobs, including in the tourism and recreation industries, that are also being impacted by the damage of this trade war. According to the Main Street Alliance, a network of small businesses, 81.5% of small business respondents to a recent survey indicated they would raise prices for consumers due to tariffs and 31.5% indicated they would lay off employees as a result of the increased costs from tariffs.
The tariffs are also creating uncertainty for families and jobs and are expected to increase costs for the average American family by nearly $5,000 a year, while families are struggling to plan for the future without assurances about their jobs.
At the Emerald Cocktail Kitchen, co-founded by local businesswomen Michelle and Nora Roesch, Trump’s tariffs have already begun to take root and are among the Roesch’s chief concerns moving forward, with some of their liquor and wine being imported from Canada and other countries. On the food side of the house, Emerald’s culinary experts use cheeses like feta and gouda, imported from Greece and the Netherlands, as key ingredients in their burgers, pizzas and salads. They also use fruits and other products imported from Canada and Mexico.
In addition to the wide ranging impact that tariffs will have on Emerald Cocktail Kitchen’s menu, they are driving increased costs across the board, which in turn are driving down consumer discretionary spending. As a result, Emerald Cocktail Kitchen customers have started spending less money on an average visit and opting to save by skipping an appetizer or desert. With customers spending less, the business brings in less and employees receive less in tips on smaller checks. Altogether, Trump’s tariffs have left small businesses like Emerald Cocktail Kitchen exposed to significant impacts, uncertain about how to proceed, and uneasy about what could be next.
The senator said unpredictability makes it difficult for local restaurants to plan for tomorrow, especially when they are already operating on such small margins. For example, when asked about catering orders, owners aren’t sure how to quote orders and are faced with the option of facing sky-high prices when planned events roll around, or even needing to turn down customers. These added challenges make it more difficult for small restaurants to survive against larger chain restaurants.
“Imported goods like tequila, gin, prosecco, Aperol, avocados, limes, feta, gouda, and more – all of which are staples behind our bar and in our kitchen – have surged in price as a result of recent United States tariff policy decisions. In Central New York, small businesses like ours depend on steady customer traffic and predictable costs to survive. Unfortunately, the administration’s back-and-forth approach to tariff implementation has made long-term planning feel impossible,” said Michelle Roesch, Co-owner of Emerald Cocktail Kitchen. “For small Syracuse businesses like ours, Trump’s tariffs have created the same kind of stress and uncertainty we felt during COVID – except this time, it’s self-inflicted. As a result, customers are watching their wallets, staff are taking home smaller tips, and we’ve had to cut back on bulk orders. We need trade policies that lift up small and local businesses, not weigh them down. That is why I am proud to stand in support of Senator Schumer as he fights to force a vote Trump’s trade war in support of small businesses here in Syracuse and all across Upstate NY.”
Schumer added, “If this tariff war continues, it could devastate Upstate NY’s economy in ways we haven’t seen since the height of the pandemic. Our local restaurants and other small businesses are already operating on razor thin margins and now they’re being forced into difficult decisions, including if the increase in costs means they will need to raise prices for customers, lay off staff, or even close their business altogether. That is unacceptable.”
Other businesses across industries are also facing uncertainty. In the City of Syracuse alone, tariffs are among the top concerns at restaurants and artisanal food shops like The Wedge and the Curd Nerd, veteran-owned businesses like Talking Cursive Brewing Company, and local food vendors like Firecracker Thai Kitchen at Salt City Market. Elsewhere in Central New York, 5th generation family and employee-owned northern hardwood lumber producer, Gutchess Lumber, and it’s 500 employee-owners are also bracing for negative impacts to their business.
In the North Country, Trump’s tariffs and trade war with Canada have already taken a toll on craft breweries like 1812 Brewing Company in Watertown, manufacturing companies like AmTech Yarns in Massena, and transportation authorities like the Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority. In addition, Alcoa, an aluminum producer based in the North Country, predicts tariffs will cost the company an additional $90 million this quarter alone.
In the Mohawk Valley, local coffee shops like Character Coffee in the City of Utica, and trendy fast-casual restaurants like Laffa’s Mediterranean Grill in the Town of New Hartford have both started to feel the impact of tariffs.
“New York State restaurants have faced immense challenges in recent years. From the hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to the soaring price increases driven by inflation and the rising cost of living, many restaurants have fought to stay afloat. The implementation of these new tariffs is yet another blow to an already struggling industry. Tariffs on food and beverages will place an additional strain on restaurants, ultimately leading to higher prices that will be passed on to consumers. Restaurants are not only a cornerstone of New York State’s economy but also serve as essential gathering places for communities to come together and enjoy each other’s company. Simply put, the tariffs are just an unnecessary burden on an industry barely hanging on. We urge the Administration to control consumer price increases as much as possible by exempting food and beverage items from future tariffs,” said Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association.
“At a small business like Firecracker Thai, we feel the impact of tariffs and increased costs on every single order and with every single purchase. We plan to increase menu prices by 10-15% to help offset rising costs, but our prices can only go so high before we risk pricing out customers. Unfortunately, our planned 10-15% increase is not enough to cover all of our increased costs, so the remainder will take a bite out of our bottom line,” said Sarah Tong-Ngork, Owner of Firecracker Thai Kitchen. “In addition, tariffs have made it more difficult to find authentic, imported ingredients like Jasmine Rice and Rice Noodles at local markets. After the devastating impact that COVID had on the food service industry, the last thing we need is to increase prices and disrupt supply chains. I would like to thank Senator Schumer for coming to Syracuse to fight for small businesses like Firecracker Thai and small business owners like me.”
“As a small craft brewery in Central New York, Talking Cursive Brewing Company faces significant challenges due to tariffs. We rely on imported aluminum cans from Canada, as well as hops and grain from the EU, Australia, and New Zealand. These tariffs, coupled with their ripple effects on the global economy, have been compounded by other actions from the current administration that are reshaping travel, tourism, and consumer behavior. While we experienced a brief uptick in business at the end of 2024 and into January, February and March of this year have seen a sharp decline, with customer counts and sales dropping more than 25% year-over-year. This marks the first time in our seven years of operation that we’ve faced such a downturn in the first quarter,” said Andrew Brooks, Co-Owner of Talking Cursive Brewing Company. “Tourism is a vital part of our business, especially in the summer when 15-20% of our customers are tourists, including about 7% from Canada. Many Canadians I know that travel here often have expressed that they feel disrespected by the current administration, and no longer plan to visit the U.S. in the near future. This decline in tourism directly impacts the revenue of both our tasting room and accounts that we distribute to across New York, including several in the Thousands Islands Region that depend on Canadian tourists. We anticipate a significant loss of sales in that region and will need to reassess the viability of distributing there. I appreciate the efforts that Senator Schumer is taking to help support small businesses like ours during these challenging times.”
“Over the last 24 month, 1812 Brewing Company has invested hundreds of man hours and significant capital to gain entry into the Ontario, Canada market. Because of recently implemented tariffs, the Provincial Government of Ontario has put a stop on the purchase of all American-made craft beer, including our gold medal winning War of 1812 Amber Ale. This will immediately cut off around 10% of our sales,” said Thomas W. Scozzafava, Chairman & CEO of 1812 Brewing Company. “Although relatively small, 1812 Brewing Company and its employees will be hurt by an escalating Trade War with Canada, which could ultimately result in the loss of jobs in our local plant. I hope that those deciding these policies – on both sides of the aisle – understand the true human impact of sudden and dramatic changes to the parameters of trade with our Canadian partners. I thank Senator Schumer for sticking up for small businesses like 1812 and always fighting to protect New York State’s craft breweries.”
“As the owner of Character Coffee in Utica, I rely on specialty roasters who are already feeling the impact of new tariffs. Coffee isn’t grown in the U.S. — so by design, our industry depends on farmers around the world. Even more concerning, these tariffs are piling onto an already fragile supply chain, strained by climate shifts and a year of poor harvests. It’s not just the coffee we have to worry about, but everything from cups and lids to delivery fees,” said Katie Aiello, Owner of Character Coffee. “When costs rise, customers pull back — starting with discretionary spending like grabbing a cup of coffee. The uncertainty is costly too. It’s hard to plan, price, or grow when every week brings new instability in the market. Independent cafes aren’t faceless corporations. We’re local businesses trying to offer good jobs, contribute to the community, and serve something meaningful. These tariffs threaten that. We urgently need thoughtful trade policy that protects American small businesses, and that is why I am proud to stand alongside Senator Schumer in Syracuse today to join in his fight for to safeguard locals businesses like mine.”
“Since we opened in 2021, rising costs have been one of our biggest challenges, and we’ve had no choice but to pass some of that burden onto our customers just to stay open. With tariffs on the horizon, we’re already seeing price hikes on ingredients we depend on, like kalamata olives, tahini, and feta,” said Elias Zeina, Owner of Lafa Mediterranean. “It’s heartbreaking—we’re trying to protect our team and our guests, but I worry about how much more our customers can take. Small business owners like me are feeling squeezed, and our customers are the ones paying the price.
The whiplash and uncertainty over tariffs have also sent the economy into a tailspin. Trump previously delayed the start of his tariffs twice and canceled across-the-board tariffs six days after implementing them. Uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, causing chaos for restaurants to operate, and shaking the job market.
Schumer said the Senate has a plan to end this dangerous trade war and protect Upstate NY businesses. Earlier this month, the Senate passed a bipartisan resolution to end tariffs on Canada and urged the House to pass it as well. Schumer also said when the Senate returns, he will force a vote to reverse these new taxes of 10% on all imported goods and end the looming threat of additional tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. Schumer said ending this costly trade war is key to protecting New York from price increases and job losses as a result of tariffs on Canada.
Schumer concluded, “I am all for addressing trade imbalances—I have always been a China hawk and have long fought against unfair trade practices, but these sweeping, ill-conceived tariffs are creating chaos and undermining those goals. Rather than uniting the world against China, Trump has united them against us! No matter which way you slice it, costs are going to skyrocket for our local restaurants and consumers. If you’re in Upstate New York, you’ll feel it first, and worse than just about anywhere in the country. We need everyone, especially NY Republicans, to stand up against Trump’s senseless, job-killing, cost-increasing tax on Upstate New Yorkers.”
When the Senate returns, it will vote on a bipartisan resolution that would terminate the emergency declared by Trump to authorize his global tariffs. If the resolution is enacted into law, the tariffs would be rescinded. The Senate also previously passed a bipartisan resolution terminating Trump’s national emergency that is justifying his destructive tariffs on Canada, which Schumer said the House needs to vote on. Schumer has been a vocal supporter of both resolutions.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Advancing the Transition to a Cleaner Environment
Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $4.85 million in grants is being awarded to municipalities across the state to support the installation of electric vehicle chargers as part of the State’s Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Grants program. The funded projects support New York’s ongoing efforts to advance clean transportation, expand publicly available electric vehicle chargers, and help reduce pollution including greenhouse gas emissions for a cleaner and greener environment.

“My Administration is committed to advancing the transition to a cleaner and healthier future for our environment benefitting all New Yorkers,”  Governor Hochul said.  “Our continued investments in electric vehicle infrastructure encourages more drivers to switch to electric, reducing pollution and emissions across the State and improving the health and well-being of our residents and communities.”

The Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Infrastructure Grant program administered by the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) prioritizes clean transportation investments in communities most affected by pollution and climate change. The program includes a variable local match requirement based on the municipality’s median household income (MHI) and whether the ZEV infrastructure is located in a disadvantaged community, based on the  disadvantaged communities criteria  developed by the State’s Climate Justice Working Group. Of the awards announced today, approximately $885,000 were granted to municipalities located in disadvantaged communities in New York State.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said,  “New York continues advancing the state’s transition to clean transportation with investments in municipal electric vehicle chargers to encourage the switch to plug-in hybrids and EVs. DEC’s Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant program is expanding New York’s EV charging station network and supporting municipalities statewide taking climate action, investing in electric transportation, and helping realize the clean energy economy of the future.”

New York State Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Through clean transportation initiatives such as DEC’s Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure program, the State is helping counties, cities, towns, and villages install more public charging stations for zero-emission vehicles across New York. Congratulations to these municipalities for their leadership and making it easier for residents and visitors alike to choose cleaner vehicles with the confidence they’ll be able to charge their cars where and when they need to.”

Assemblymember Didi Barrett said, “This funding will help New York’s smaller municipalities, in the Hudson Valley and beyond, be part of the state’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure network build out. The four new Level 2 electric charging ports in the Town of Hyde Park will reduce range anxiety for residents and visitors alike.”

State Senator Pete Harckham said, “Encouraging motorists to drive zero-emissions vehicles is the best way to ramp up our fight statewide against the climate crisis and improve public health. These new state infrastructure grant awards announced by Governor Hochul for EV charging stations show New York is committed to a steady and inclusive transition to a clean energy economy that will benefit residents in many ways. The partnership between the governor and the state legislature in making a transition to clean transportation is a strong one and will continue to make New York an environmental leader.”

2024 Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant Awards include:

Capital Region
- City of Rensselaer – $233,000 for one DCFC pedestal
Finger Lakes
- Village of Brockport – $188,825 for 10 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
- Village of Dundee – $24,200 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Town of Farmington – $225,620 for 24 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
- Town of Huron – $43,200 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Village of Interlaken – $124,470 for one DCFC pedestal
- Village of Le Roy – $20,605 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Village of Oakfield – $24,380 for four Level 2 charging ports
- County of Ontario – $309,100 for 14 Level 2 charging ports and two DCFC pedestals
- Village of Palmyra – $222,250 for two DCFC pedestals
- Village of Warsaw – $148,500 for one DCFC pedestal
- Village of Waterloo – $238,900 for 12 Level 2 charging ports
Long Island
- Town of Huntington – $326,000 for four Level 2 charging ports and six DCFC pedestals
- City of Long Beach – $296,080 for four Level 2 charging ports and two DCFC pedestals
Mid-Hudson
- Town of Hyde Park – $32,480 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Town of Orangetown – $46,352 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Town of Putnam Valley – $29,822 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Town of Shawangunk – $26,587 for two Level 2 charging ports
- Village of South Blooming Grove – $250,000 for three DCFC pedestals
North Country
- Town of Colton – $76,318 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Village of Constableville – $21,222 for two Level 2 charging ports
- Town of Diana – $159,150 for one DCFC pedestal
- County of Essex – $55,008 for four Level 2 charging ports
- Town of Jay – $206,403 for two Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
- County of Lewis – $298,728 for two DCFC pedestals
- Village of Lowville – $93,312 for 12 Level 2 charging ports
- Village of Saranac Lake – $482,164 for 30 Level 2 charging ports
Southern Tier
- Town of Danby – $11,400 for two Level 2 charging ports
Western New York
- City of Dunkirk – $53,400 for 14 Level 2 charging ports
- Village of Springville – $248,000 for one DCFC pedestal
- Town of Tonawanda – $285,007 for 16 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
- Village of Wilson – $49,648 for two Level 2 charging ports
More information about the DEC Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant program, as well as the DEC Municipal ZEV Rebate program, is available on  DEC’s website. For questions about the Municipal ZEV program, email  [email protected]  or call DEC’s Office of Climate Change at 518-402-8448.

New York State’s nearly $3 billion investment in electrifying its transportation sector has supported a range of initiatives aimed to increase access to electric vehicles (EVs) and charging while improving air quality and health outcomes for all New Yorkers. These programs include today’s Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Program grants and many other programs, including EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, Charge Ready NY 2.0, the Drive Clean Rebate, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program, the New York School Bus Incentive Program, and the Direct Current Fast Charger program. The State invests in charging infrastructure and EVs to benefit all New Yorkers, and its efforts have been successful at increasing the number of EVs and charging stations across all regions of New York – with, over 280,000 EVs on the road statewide and over 17,000 public chargers- more public chargers than any other state except for California. Additionally, there are more than 4,000 semi-public charging stations at workplaces and multifamily buildings across the state.

New York State’s Climate Agenda
New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

MIL OSI USA News –
April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Celebrating Earth as Only NASA Can

Source: NASA

From the iconic image of Earthrise taken by Apollo 8 crew, to the famous Pale Blue Dot image of Earth snapped by Voyager I spacecraft, to state-of-the-art observations of our planet by new satellites such as PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem), NASA has given us novel ways to see our home. This Earth Day, NASA is sharing how — by building on decades of innovation—we use the unique vantage point of space to observe and understand our dynamic planet in ways that we cannot from the ground.
NASA has been observing Earth from space for more than 60 years, with cutting-edge scientific technology that can revolutionize our understanding of our home planet and provide benefits to all humanity. NASA observations include land data that helps farmers improve crop production, research on the air we breathe, and studies of atmospheric layers high above us that protect every living thing on the planet.
“NASA Science delivers every second of every day for the benefit all, and it begins with how we observe our home planet from the unique vantage point of space,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Our satellites, Mars rovers, astronauts and other NASA Science missions send back beautiful images of our planet, from the smallest of plankton to the pale blue dot, to help give us a comprehensive, detailed view of our home that we especially celebrate each Earth Day.”
NASA data and tools are vital to federal, state, local, and international governments to monitor and manage land, air, and water resources. From mapping the ocean floor to finding critical mineral deposits to alerting land managers when fire risk is high, NASA’s data and information informs nearly every aspect of our economy and our lives.
“Another way NASA celebrates Earth Day is by sharing information about how our science benefits the entire nation, such as by providing U.S. farmers and ranchers with ongoing measurements of water, crop health, wildfire predictions, and knowledge of what is being grown around the world,” said Karen St. Germain, director of NASA’s Earth Science Division at the agency’s headquarters in Washington. “This data informs field level farming and ranching decisions with impact felt as far as the commodity-trading floor and our grocery stores.”
Next up for NASA’s work to help mitigate natural disasters is a mission called NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) which is a partnership between NASA and ISRO (India Space Research Organization). NISAR, which is targeted to launch later this year, will measure land changes from earthquakes, landslides, and volcanos, producing more NASA science data to aid in disaster response. The mission’s radar will detect movements of the planet’s surface as small as 0.4 inches over areas about the size of half a tennis court. By tracking subtle changes in Earth’s surface, it will spot warning signs of imminent volcanic eruptions, help to monitor groundwater supplies, track the melt rate of ice sheets tied to sea level rise, and observe shifts in the distribution of vegetation around the world.
From our oceans to our skies, to our ice caps, to our mountains, and to our rivers and streams, NASA’s Earth observations enhance our understanding of the world around us and celebrate the incredible planet we call home.
To download NASA’s 2025 Earth Day poster, visit:
https://nasa.gov/earthdayposters

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Helps Introduce Legislation to Make Doubled Standard Deduction Permanent for Iowa Families

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

HULL, IOWA – This Congress, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) helped introduce, alongside U.S. Rep. Max Miller (R-OH), the Permanent Tax Cuts for American Families Act, which would make the enhanced standard deduction – first established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 – permanent.

This enhanced deduction is set to expire at the end of 2025 absent congressional action.

“In 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act nearly doubled the standard deduction that American families, farmers, and workers could claim on their federal taxes. This enhanced standard deduction increased Iowans’ non-taxable income and has let taxpayers keep more of their hard-earned money. However, if Congress fails to act before the end of this year, the standard deduction would be almost slashed in half and lead to massive tax hikes on Americans,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m glad to help introduce the Permanent Tax Cuts for American Families Act to maintain the increased standard deduction and prevent the largest tax hike in U.S. history on Iowa families and workers. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I will continue working with my Republican colleagues and President Trump to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and advance pro-growth economic policies.”

The TCJA nearly doubled the standard deduction, raising the return from $6,500 to $12,000 for individual filers, and from $13,000 to $24,000 for joint filers. For tax year 2024, the standard deduction for married couples filing jointly was raised to $29,200 for joint filers and $14,600 for individual filers.

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to New Mexico Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New Mexico who sustained economic losses due to the drought beginning April 8.

The declaration covers the New Mexico counties of Bernalillo, Cibola, Colfax, Guadalupe, Harding, Los Alamos, McKinley, Mora, Quay, Rio Arriba, San Juan, San Miguel, Sandoval, Santa Fe, Taos and Torrance as well as the Colorado counties of Conejos and Costilla.

Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

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

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 15.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Bacon Lead Bipartisan Legislation To Support Youth Leadership Organizations

Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

Washington, D.C. – 4/21/2025… Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) joined Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Don Davis (NC-01), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), and David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the bipartisan Youth Lead Act last week.

This bill allows the Secretary of Agriculture to provide grants to support the operations of Future Farmers of America (FFA), 4-H, and the Scouts. These are preeminent youth leadership organizations in the United States with approximately eight million youth taking part. Participation in these organizations helps children make lifelong friendships and learn leadership and life skills. The grant program authorizes $5 million annually from 2024 to 2028.

“In the Hudson Valley, youth organizations like the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, and FFA have long helped shape the next generation of leaders, teaching kids the value of service, responsibility, and community. The Youth Lead Act will ensure that young people in rural towns and small communities get the opportunity to grow and thrive. I’m proud to support the effort to expand access to these formative youth programs in New York state and nationwide,” said Congressman Mike Lawler.

“Every year, I meet with youth involved in FFA, 4-H, and Scouts,” said Congressman Don Bacon. “They are always impressive and possess a strong work ethic, valuable life skills, and a commitment to teamwork. Ensuring our youth can participate in these great organizations helps to secure our country’s future leadership in agriculture and numerous other industries.”

“As an Eagle Scout, I know firsthand the transformative impact youth organizations have – instilling discipline, purpose, and a deep commitment to service. The Youth Lead Act strengthens that impact by expanding access to proven programs like the Scouts, 4-H, and FFA. When we equip young people with these lifelong values and leadership skills, we’re not just preparing them for success – we’re preparing our nation for a stronger future,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick.

“Youth organizations like FFA, 4-H Council, and Scouting play a vital role in developing the leaders and citizens of tomorrow,” said Congressman Jimmy Panetta. “By expanding federal investments in these programs, we can support their critical work in equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in their careers and contribute to their communities. Congress must continue to invest in the next generation, and I’m proud to co-lead this effort to shape a brighter future.”

“Growing up, I learned how important it is to work hard, be part of a team, and help others—and that’s exactly what programs like FFA, 4-H, and the Scouts teach,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “The Youth Lead Act helps support these awesome groups so more kids in our community can build confidence, learn new skills, and become great leaders. When we believe in our young people, we believe in a brighter future for everyone.”

“As someone who grew up in a rural town, I know firsthand the positive impact youth organizations can have on our community,” said Congressman David Valadao. “From teaching leadership skills to providing volunteer opportunities, programs like Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, and FFA are an important outlet for young people in rural America. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to ensure our youth can participate in these programs no matter where they live.”

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Polis Administration and Department of Agriculture Announce New Climate Resilience Funding for Colorado Farms and Ranches

Source: US State of Colorado

Broomfield, Colo. — Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Drought and Climate Resilience Office (ADCRO) announced new grant opportunities to support climate resilience projects within the state’s agricultural sector.

“In Colorado we are committed to mitigating the risk associated with climate change, by investing in innovative clean energy technologies, and providing economic avenues for our farmers and ranchers to continue to provide healthy and fresh produce to all Coloradans for generations to come,” said Governor Polis.

Climate resilience is the ability to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from hazardous events, trends, or disturbances related to climate. The Climate Resilience Grants are designed to provide crucial financial assistance to farmers and ranchers who have experienced adverse effects due to climate change-induced disasters and are seeking to enhance their resilience against future climate-related challenges.

“Dealing with extreme weather, resulting from climate change, and an increasingly dry environment is an everyday challenge for Colorado’s farmers and ranchers,” said Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. “This funding will help producers who have experienced these challenges or are at risk for worsening climate disasters to be better prepared to withstand these events now and into the future.”

This is the first grant opportunity at CDA focused on helping producers who have experienced a disaster. Specifically, this funding addresses a critical need producers have to ensure their operations are resilient and can better withstand future climate pressures.

Climate change affects all sectors of agriculture, from workforce and the supply chain, to livestock and farm and ranch profitability. This funding will help tackle issues throughout the supply chain and invest in leaders around the state, who can later serve as positive examples or resources for their neighbors. Climate-related disasters are only increasing, and this funding can create demonstrations on what it means to recover in a resilient way. CDA will select a few priority climate impacts to focus on each funding cycle, based on needs around the state. This year, priority projects will be those that address impacts of drought, snow events, and wildfire. In future years, CDA will work with partners to determine priorities based on needs. Other disasters that are exacerbated by climate change include flooding, extreme heat, and severe storms.

Farmers and ranchers are eligible, as are producer-facing organizations, tribes, and local governments. Grant applications must demonstrate how producers will benefit, how the grant deliverables will address future climate disasters, and feasibility of the project. Matching funding is not required, though applicants will receive more points if they use matching funds. The maximum grant award is $30,000.

The online application is available on the ADCRO website. Grant applications are due on May 29.

The ADCRO team will hold an informational webinar on Wednesday, May 7, at 2:00 p.m., and interested participants can register via Zoom or find the registration link on the ADCRO website. The informational session staff will present an overview of the eligibility criteria and application process and answer producer questions.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in supporting Colorado’s agricultural sector in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change and fostering a more resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape for the future. These grants also align with CDA’s strategic priorities, especially Direction Three: Environmental Stewardship and Climate Resilience. These grants will work with other CDA programs to create healthy and resilient farms, ranches, and food supply chains.

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Rounds Introduce Legislation to Empower Farmers and Strengthen Rural Economies

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
04.21.25
BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.) recently joined Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) in introducing two pieces of agriculture legislation to expand markets for meat and poultry products and prevent against federal government overreach. The bills include:
The New Markets for State Inspected Meat and Poultry Act, legislation to allow meat and poultry products inspected by state Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) programs to be sold across state lines. Currently, meat and poultry products inspected by state programs are limited to markets within the state, even though inspection at a state facility meets or exceeds federal inspection standards. This legislation is cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Senators Angus King (I-Maine), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.).
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Wetland Compliance and Appeals Reform Act, legislation to reform the NRCS within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The NRCS Wetland Compliance and Appeals Reform Act would safeguard farmers, ranchers and landowners from bureaucratic overreach by the NRCS and empower producers to continue to protect their land as they see fit. This bill is also cosponsored by Senator Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.).
“Strengthening rural America starts with empowering the people who feed it,” said Hoeven. “These commonsense reforms support our farmers and ranchers, open up new markets, and cut unnecessary red tape—boosting local economies, creating opportunity, and delivering real benefits for North Dakota and the entire country.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Rounds Introduce Bill to Expand Interstate Sales of State-Inspected Meat, Poultry

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Meat and poultry products inspected by state programs are limited to markets within their particular state, even when inspection at a state facility meets or exceeds federal inspection standards.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) in introducing the New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act to allow meat and poultry products inspected by state Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) programs to be sold across state lines.

This bill does not eliminate or phase out the Cooperative Interstate Shipment (CIS) program and does not explicitly allow for products inspected by state MPI programs to be exported. The CIS program supports the “expansion of business opportunities for state-inspected meat and poultry establishments,” and helps North Dakota access additional markets in neighboring states. The New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act builds on this success by opening even more options without repealing the program.

Cramer and his colleagues previously led this legislation in earlier sessions of Congress. Following meatpacking plant shutdowns and supply chain shortages for meat products in 2020, the group wrote an op-ed advocating for the bill’s passage with COVID-19 relief packages.

“Despite meat and poultry products passing rigorous inspection standards across the nation, high-quality, state-inspected meats cannot be sold across state lines,” said Cramer. “This puts our producers and consumers at a disadvantage. Our bill removes this unnecessary barrier by expanding market opportunities for North Dakota ranchers and provides out-of-state consumers with more choices at the grocery store.”

“South Dakota is home to a robust and diverse agriculture industry. Despite not serving on the Senate Agriculture Committee, I continue to work on addressing issues that impact our farm and ranch operations in South Dakota,” said Rounds. “This includes updating safety net programs to make certain producers are receiving fair coverage for their products, allowing state-inspected meat and poultry products to be sold across state lines and reforming the Natural Resources Conservation Service to protect landowners from unnecessary government overreach. I’m looking forward to working with Chairman Boozman and the Senate Agriculture Committee to get these priorities included in the Farm Bill and across the finish line. I will continue to work to support farmers and ranchers in South Dakota and across the country.”

This legislation is cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), John Barrasso (R-WY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Tina Smith (D-MN).

Click here for bill text. Click here for one-page summary.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Scott, LA Non-Profit Corporation and Two Daughters Indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

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

LAFAYETTE, La. – A federal grand jury in Lafayette, Louisiana has returned an indictment charging a Lafayette man and his two daughters with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud the Child and Adult Care Food Program (“the Program”), a federal program operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (“USDA”), announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.

The indictment charges Brian Desormeaux, 64, and his two daughters, Amy Desormeaux Hernandez, 38, and Lenzi Desormeaux Babineaux, 34, each with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Regional Nutrition Assistance, Inc. (“RNA”) was a Louisiana non-profit corporation located in Scott, Louisiana and was owned and operated by Brian Desormeaux and he served as its Executive Director. Amy Desoremaux Hernandez served as its Assistant Director and Lenzi Desormeaux Babineaux served as its Senior Program Manager.

RNA was a “Sponsoring Organization” for the Program and was responsible for administering it in certain locations, including “Day Care Homes,” which are organized childcare programs for children enrolled in a private home. The Program authorizes assistance to states through grants-in-aid and other means to assist non-profit food service programs for children and adult participants in non-residential institutions that provide care. It is intended to provide aid to the participants and family or group day care homes to provide nutritious foods for the health and wellness of young children, older adults, and chronically impaired persons.

The indictment alleges that the defendants had access to KidKare/Minute Menu HX, the online portal used by Sponsoring Organizations to administer the Program. It is alleged that it was part of the conspiracy that defendant Amy Hernandez would access the online portal at the beginning of the month to change Day Care Home Providers to “inactive” status to avoid monitoring and oversight by the Louisiana Department of Education (“LDOE”). Then at the end of the month, she would change those “inactive” Day Care Home providers back to “active” status so that claims could be submitted to LDOE for reimbursement by USDA.

Allegations in the indictment state that all three defendants submitted or caused the submission of false and fraudulent claims to LDOE for reimbursement from USDA, to include claims that children were being cared for and fed at Day Care Home providers when in fact, they were not. In fact, it is alleged that some of those Day Care Home providers were deceased at the time claims were made on their behalf.

The indictment also alleges that Lenzi Desormeaux Babineaux submitted false and fraudulent state fire marshal inspection reports for Day Care Home providers so that they would be in compliance with LDOE’s requirements for inclusion in the Program, which was necessary for reimbursements. The indictment further alleges that these three defendants submitted false and fraudulent claims seeking reimbursement they were not entitled to, causing LDOE and USDA to pay at least $400,000 in fraudulent claims.

If convicted, each defendant faces not more than 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on each count.

The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Louisiana State Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren L. Gardner.

An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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MIL Security OSI –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Steenhuisen to host G20 agriculture and food security meetings

Source: South Africa News Agency

Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen will this week, host the G20 Agriculture Working Group (AWG) and Food Security Task Force Meetings in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The department said the high-level, three-day meetings, taking place from 23-25 April 2025, form part of a series of international meetings leading up to the G20 Summit, scheduled for November 2025.

The meetings aim to advance global collaboration on food security and agricultural development.

Organised by the Department of Agriculture, the sessions will be held under the themes: “Data-Driven Approaches to Addressing Food Security” and “Promoting Inclusive Agricultural Investment and Market Access”.

The meeting will focus on four key priorities, including:
•    Promotion of policies and investments that drive inclusive market participation towards improved food and nutrition security;
•    Empowering youth and women in agrifood systems;
•    Fostering innovation and technology transfer in agriculture and agro-processing; and
•    Building climate resilience for sustainable agricultural production.

The meeting follows the first G20 Agriculture Working Group Meeting, which was convened on 3 and 4 March 2025, where Steenhuisen noted the challenges facing farmers worldwide and called for strengthened global cooperation, built on the principles of Ubuntu which emphasise collective action, mutual respect and shared responsibility.

The first AWG meeting also provided an opportunity for G20 members, including invited guest countries and international organisations, to learn more about the priorities South Africa has identified during its Presidency, and deliberate on them.

There was overwhelming support for South Africa’s priorities, which include:

•    Promotion of policies and investments that drive inclusive market participation towards improved food and nutrition security;
•    Empowering Youth and Women in Agrifood Systems;
•    Fostering Innovation and Technology Transfer in Agriculture and Agro-processing; and
•    Building climate resilience for sustainable agricultural production.

“With the endorsement of these priorities, the AWG is now poised to pursue transformative agricultural policies, promoting global cooperation, increasing investment in sustainable farming, and ensuring a more resilient, food-secure future for all.

“The second AWG meeting will provide a further opportunity for G20 members to advance the above-mentioned priorities and to begin discussions on a forward-looking declaration to be adopted by Ministers of Agriculture later this year,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Miske Enterprise Member Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy and Role in Kidnapping and Murder of Johnathan Fraser

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

HONOLULU – Acting United States Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson announced that Delia Fabro-Miske, 30, of Honolulu, was sentenced yesterday in federal court by U.S. District Judge Derrick K. Watson to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for racketeering conspiracy. Fabro-Miske pled guilty on January 12, 2024, in the middle of jury selection, to conspiring to conduct and participate in the conduct of the affairs of a racketeering enterprise, the “Miske Enterprise,” through racketeering activity that included bank fraud, obstruction of justice, and wire fraud.

Fabro-Miske admitted that she and codefendant Michael J. Miske committed bank fraud by submitting fraudulent paperwork in order to obtain leases for two vehicles that were used for one of Miske’s businesses. Fabro-Miske also obstructed a joint investigation into another of Miske’s businesses, Kamaaina Termite and Pest Control (“KTPC”), which was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (“HDA”). At Miske’s direction, Fabro-Miske submitted to HDA falsified fumigation logs, which claimed that she was the certified applicator of chemicals on hundreds of jobs. In reality, most of the listed jobs were completed by unlicensed applicators. Fabro-Miske also fraudulently obtained Social Security Administration (“SSA”) survivor benefits at Miske’s direction by having her wages at KTPC decreased below the SSA benefits income threshold. At the same time, Miske paid Fabro-Miske in benefits that were not reported to the SSA or Internal Revenue Service.

Additionally, according to information provided to the Court, in or about 2017, Miske placed Fabro-Miske in charge of his businesses in an attempt to preserve and conceal his assets in anticipation of federal prosecution. In practice, Fabro-Miske carried out Miske’s wishes and acted at his direction. Fabro-Miske assisted in a fraudulent scheme committed through Miske’s businesses, which involved submitting false filings to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs that permitted the businesses to operate under fraudulently obtained and maintained licenses. Miske Enterprise members then falsely represented to customers that Miske’s businesses were properly licensed. Between 2017 and 2020, the businesses generated millions of dollars in income annually. As the head of Miske’s businesses, Fabro-Miske was also responsible for the proper and safe application of pesticides and other chemicals at customers’ homes. Information provided to the Court, however, showed that fumigations were regularly conducted without proper supervision or chemicals. Chief Judge Watson stated that Fabro-Miske’s work at Miske’s businesses “funded any number of crimes that we heard months and months of testimony” about in Miske’s trial, and her assistance “allowed Mr. Miske to run rampant in this community.”

Finally, the Court determined that Fabro-Miske was also responsible for participating in a conspiracy with other Miske Enterprise members to kidnap and murder 21-year-old Johnathan Fraser. According to information provided to the Court, Caleb Miske – Miske’s son and Fabro-Miske’s husband – and Fraser were driving together when the two were involved in a car crash in November 2015. Caleb Miske ultimately passed away from his injuries, and Miske blamed Fraser for his son’s death and enlisted several Miske Enterprise members to assist in his plan to murder Fraser. As part of that plan, Miske directed Fabro-Miske to rekindle her friendship with Fraser and his girlfriend and to lure them into living with her at an apartment paid for by Miske. On July 30, 2016, Fabro-Miske took Fraser’s girlfriend on a “spa day” paid for by Miske, ensuring that Fraser would be isolated when he was kidnapped. Fraser was never seen again after that day. Due to Miske’s death in December 2024, Chief Judge Watson explained that “the person most involved in Mr. Fraser’s demise will not ever be sentenced by this Court.” While Chief Judge Watson found that Fabro-Miske did not “directly and personally kill” Fraser and determined her to be a minimal participant in the kidnapping and murder conspiracy, he noted that there was “no doubt” that her actions led to Fraser’s murder and that the circumstances painted a “strong and clear picture” of a conspiracy to commit kidnapping murder in aid of racketeering.

Fabro-Miske was charged alongside twelve other defendants, all of whom pled guilty except for Miske, who proceeded to trial and was found guilty of racketeering conspiracy, murder, and 11 other felony charges on July 18, 2024. Seven other members and associates of the Miske Enterprise pled guilty to various offenses in related cases.

“Delia Fabro-Miske was an integral member of the Miske Enterprise, which terrorized, exploited, and defrauded our community for decades. She participated in Miske’s bank frauds, social security fraud, falsification of fumigation records, and the concealment of Miske’s illegally obtained assets, and was a vital cog in the plot to murder of Johnathan Fraser. Fabro-Miske’s sentence yesterday demonstrates that those who occupy even the lower rungs of Hawaii’s criminal enterprises will pay a steep price when they face justice in federal court,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “The dismantling of the Miske Enterprise represents one of the most significant law enforcement efforts in the history of Hawaii law enforcement, and it would not have been possible without the tremendous and dedicated work of our partners at the Honolulu Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and Environmental Protection Agency, among many others.”

“Ms. Fabro-Miske was a key member in the Miske Enterprise fraud schemes, actively participating in defrauding the government and taxpayers,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “This sentencing reflects years of collaboration between FBI Honolulu and our law enforcement partners. The FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to dismantle violent criminal enterprises, hold their members accountable, and pursue justice for victims.”

“Our investigators follow the money because criminal organizations profit at the expense of public safety,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Seattle Field Office. “Ms. Fabro-Miske’s racketeering conviction is a reminder that, in the end, crime really doesn’t pay.”

“The sentencing of Ms. Fabro-Miske underscores HSI’s commitment to disrupting and dismantling criminal organizations in Hawaii,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Lucy Cabral-DeArmas. “HSI will continue to hold accountable those who significantly harm our communities by breaking federal laws. By bringing justice to the Miske Enterprise, HSI sends the message that we will not tolerate any violent activity on our islands.”

“By falsifying documents, defendant obstructed EPA and the state’s criminal investigation of a pesticide applicator that illegally applied restricted use pesticides,” said Benjamin Carr, Special Agent in Charge for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division in Hawaii. “Yesterday’s sentencing reflects the seriousness of defendant’s fraudulent conduct and the importance of complying with pesticide reporting requirements so EPA and Hawaii Department of Agriculture can keep our communities safe.”

This prosecution was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligencedriven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Criminal Investigation Division of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Honolulu Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Coast Guard Investigative Service, the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, the Cybercrime Lab of the Department of Justice Criminal Division Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center, the Honolulu Fire Department, the Hawaii National Guard, 93rd Civil Support Team, the Office of Investigations–Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration, and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Inciong, Michael Nammar, KeAupuni Akina, and Aislinn Affinito prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aemetis India Plant Receives $31 million of Biodiesel Orders from OMCs for Delivery in Next Three Months

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CUPERTINO, Calif., April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a diversified global renewable natural gas and biofuels company, announced the Company’s subsidiary in India, Universal Biofuels, received multiple orders for an aggregate of $31 million for the delivery during May, June and July of more than 33,000 kiloliters of biodiesel to the three government-owned Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

Additional OMC orders are expected throughout the year in order to continue shipments to fuel blending terminals on an ongoing basis to support the India government goal of increasing from a 1% to 5% biodiesel blend.

”Universal Biofuels and other biodiesel producers look forward to continuous support from the government of India to ensure that climate issues are addressed, while ensuring a healthy biodiesel industry,” stated Sanjeev Duggal, CEO of Universal Biofuels.

“We are pleased with the progress being made in India in support of the 5% biodiesel blending target of more than 1.2 billion gallons per year,” stated Eric McAfee, Chairman and CEO of Aemetis.  “The OMCs did not take deliveries during this past winter and instead decided to issue new orders for biodiesel with deliveries from May to July. Our Universal Biofuels subsidiary has successfully completed deliveries under contracts with the OMCs for the past several years, highlighting our track record for producing and timely delivering high quality renewable fuels at our India plant.”

Recently, India achieved a 20% ethanol blend into gasoline and the government stated a new 30% blend target for ethanol, enabling further growth in ethanol production and expanding revenues for farmers while reducing the importation of petroleum gasoline into India.

Universal Biofuels significantly expanded the production capacity of the Kakinada biodiesel plant to 80 million gallons per year during a recent plant upgrade and maintenance cycle, including expansion of its proprietary process that produces biodiesel from waste and byproducts that Universal utilizes to produce biofuels that are lower carbon intensity at a significantly reduced cost.

Aemetis’ Universal Biofuels subsidiary is one of the largest biodiesel producers in India, having been in operation for more than 17 years. Universal Biofuels increased annual biodiesel capacity from 50 million gallons to 80 million gallons last year, with further biodiesel expansion to other locations and diversification into biogas production planned for 2025. To support further growth, Universal Biofuels is preparing for an IPO in India which is expected to be completed in late 2025, subject to continued favorable stock market conditions.

Universal Biofuels completed $112 million of biodiesel and glycerine shipments in the twelve months ended September 2024, including deliveries to the three government-owned oil marketing companies under a cost-plus contract. Shipments of biodiesel to OMC’s are expected to begin in early May under the next round of biodiesel contracts.

About Aemetis

Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas and renewable fuel company focused on the operation, acquisition, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies that replace petroleum products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates an 80 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin. Aemetis is developing a sustainable aviation fuel plant and a CO2 sequestration project in California. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events or other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, projections of financial results; statements related to the development, engineering, financing, construction and operation of the Aemetis biodiesel and other biofuel facilities; our ability to promote, develop, finance, and construct facilities to produce biodiesel, renewable fuels, and biochemicals; and statements about future market prices and results of government actions. Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “showing signs,” “targets,” “view,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and predictions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results or events could differ materially from those set forth or implied by such forward-looking statements and related assumptions due to certain factors, including, without limitation, competition in the ethanol, biodiesel and other industries in which we operate, commodity market risks including those that may result from current weather conditions, financial market risks, customer adoption, counter-party risks, risks associated with changes to federal policy or regulation, and other risks detailed in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, and in our other filings with the SEC. We are not obligated, and do not intend, to update any of these forward-looking statements at any time unless an update is required by applicable securities laws.

Company Investor Relations
Media Contact:
Todd Waltz
(408) 213-0940
investors@aemetis.com

External Investor Relations
Contact:
Kirin Smith
PCG Advisory Group
(646) 863-6519
ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

The MIL Network –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Veteran and Mom Adding New Title to Her Résumé: UConn Graduate

Source: US State of Connecticut

Every day, Briana Brady ’25 (CAHNR) gets up at 5:30 a.m.

She packs school lunches and snacks for her two children, gets their backpacks ready, and gives them breakfast.

She squeezes in a shower for herself, puts the kids on the bus to school, and then drives an hour and a half to Storrs.

“I live all the way in Plymouth, over by Waterbury, so it’s three hours of driving a day,” Brady says. “And sometimes I’m only here for one class, so I drive more than I’m actually in class.”

In the afternoons, she races back home to get her kids off the bus.

Then there’s softball. Basketball. Wrestling. Dance. Clubs and carpooling. Dinner.

When everyone is fed and relaxing before bedtime, Brady tries to do some homework before she crashes out for the night herself – getting ready to do it all over again the next day.

It’s been her routine for the last two years, and it hasn’t always been easy for the Natural Resources & the Environment major and New Jersey native, who has spent the last 18 years living a nomadic life.

A U.S. Coast Guard veteran, Brady spent six years in service that took her all over the country. She’s been stationed in San Francisco, Virginia, South Carolina, and Maine. She spent months in and out of Alaska, patrolling the Bering Sea and stopping in some of its ports.

Alaska is where she met her husband, who is still in active duty with the Coast Guard. They came to Connecticut when her husband was transferred five years ago.

While serving in the Coast Guard, Brady was a Boatswains mate third class – expected to be capable of serving in nearly any job on a vessel, an expert in seamanship and navigation, a leader responsible for the safety of their crew.

“I did a lot of navigation,” she explains. “A lot of chart work. A lot of driving of the boat.”

In some ways, she hasn’t stopped serving in that role even though her time in the military has ended.

‘I don’t want to just get a job to have a job’

She’s still navigating things, still driving the boat. And still living on the water.

After earning an associate’s degree from Three Rivers in Norwich, Brady applied to UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. She knew she wanted to do environmental work, but found her calling when she took courses on water resource management and geospatial technologies.

“I think water is insanely important,” she says. “Water resources are everywhere, so anywhere I have to move, there’s water. And I just want to feel good about what I’m doing – I don’t want to just get a job to have a job. I want to feel good about it.”

She continues, “I think that we don’t consider how we contaminate our resources. The things we add to water are hard to filter out and sometimes go undetected for a long time. And then we drink this, and we give this to our kids, and we don’t think twice. We assume it’s clear. Even if we live in U.S., there’s still poor water quality in places, and I think people take it for granted.”

She found willing mentors in several UConn professors and, in addition to her classes and at-home responsibilities, has been working in the campus’s Water Quality Lab after taking a course on green stormwater management, where she helps to build sample kits that are used in the lab’s well testing outreach program.

“I go to events, collect samples, and talk to people about why it’s so important to test your well water,” Brady says, “because sometimes you don’t even know what’s in it.”

Brady’s been a welcome addition to the lab, says Michael Dietz, a water resources extension educator and director of the Connecticut Institute of Water Resources who oversees the lab and the well testing program.

“Although she is a nontraditional student with family responsibilities at home, Briana puts in outstanding effort in her courses,” says Dietz. “She does this work with humility and without complaint. It has also been wonderful to watch her confidence grow through her career as a student. I will truly miss her presence and her warm wit when she graduates!”

And graduation is imminent for Brady – she’s set to wear the cap and gown and walk in her commencement ceremony this May, earning her bachelor’s degree from UConn.

Taking care of a family as a full-time student

It’s something that still doesn’t feel real, she says.

“I can’t even wrap my head around it, because I have papers and finals and projects to do,” she says. “I just look at it day-by-day. I can’t think about what I have to do too far in the future, because it’s overwhelming.

“So, I just keep trucking away. And then sometimes I look back, and I’m like, whoa, how did I do that?”

She did it by getting plenty of sleep. By trying to exercise. By drinking a ton of that precious water, she says, and paying a lot of attention to what she eats.

Taking care of a family as full-time student taking five-to-six course a semester? It’s been extremely challenging.

“I try to balance it as best as I can, but sometimes it’s like, ‘Mom, can you get off the computer?’ she says. “And I’m like, ‘I have a lab due. I’m so sorry, but it’ll be worth it.’ And I think they know it.”

Her efforts haven’t been lost on those around her, including her professors.

“Bri is a highly dedicated individual, not only as student, but also to her family. She definitely gives a 100% to both,” says Morty Ortega, an associate professor in the Department of Natural Resources & the Environment. “Bri has a real passion for the environment – the more she learns about it, she then passes that to her children.”

‘If you think you can’t do it, just do it’

This summer, Brady and her family will be making what she hopes will be their last move, to Pennsylvania, which is closer to their extended families. Her husband has about five years of service left in the Coast Guard.

While her life as a nomad might be ending, her life as a student likely isn’t over. She hopes to pursue a master’s degree once her family is settled while also entering the workforce.

Her advice for other students – those who have taken a traditional path to college, or those, like her, who’ve had a different journey?

Just do it.

“If you think you can’t do it, just do it, because chances are that if you are determined and motivated and disciplined, you will get it done and you’ll get it done well,” Brady says. “It’s mental, and you just have to take that chance and go for it and apply. Don’t be scared.

“It’s very intimidating, especially for someone who has a ton of responsibilities. But I don’t regret going forward. At all.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Dragonfly Energy Partners with the National Forest Foundation to Plant Thousands of Trees for Earth Day
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- Dragonfly Energy’s collaboration with the National Forest Foundation underscores the company’s continued commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The pledge from Dragonfly Energy to plant thousands of trees is part of a bigger environmental plan initiated by the US Forest Service to combat climate change.
- Dragonfly Energy is committed to helping the National Forest Foundation reach its goal to successfully plant 50 million trees by the end of 2025.
RENO, Nev., April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp . (Nasdaq: DFLI) (“Dragonfly Energy” or the “Company”), an industry leader in green energy storage and maker of Battle Born Batteries®, in recognition of Earth Day, is pledging to plant thousands of trees through a collaboration with the National Forest Foundation (NFF), the official non-profit partner of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service. In support of the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Dragonfly Energy aims to exceed last year’s planting of 10,000 trees.

The National Forest Foundation is leading the charge on natural solutions for climate change having planted more than 33.5 million trees to date since the campaign began in 2018, and over five million alone in 2024. In Dragonfly Energy’s backyard alone, the Sierra Nevada, the NFF planted 24,225 trees in 2024, which included planting in five National Forests. These efforts are helping to restore public lands and ensure that forests can continue to sequester carbon dioxide (CO₂), as America’s forests are the most efficient natural systems for pulling CO₂ out of the atmosphere.

“Healthy forests are vital to a greener future, just as eco-friendly battery development and manufacturing are essential to sustainable progress,” said Tyler Bourns, chief marketing officer for Dragonfly Energy. “As we enter our second year of partnership for Earth Day, we remain dedicated to environmental stewardship and the pursuit of a more sustainable planet.”

Earth Day, celebrated globally on April 22, serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the planet for future generations. In honor of this world-wide celebration, Dragonfly Energy pledges to plant 10 trees for every battery sold during its annual Earth Day sale taking place April 21 through April 25.

“We want to thank Dragonfly Energy for its commitment to our reforestation initiatives and dedication to making significant environmental impacts within United States through an annual donation of trees being planted on public lands,” said Abby Schembra, National Forest Foundation Reforestation Team. “As a project-focused nonprofit organization, we value our partners who are helping us to reach our goal to successfully plant 50 million trees by the end of 2025.”

For more information about Dragonfly Energy, visit DragonflyEnergy.com. For more information about the National Forest Foundation and its Reforestation Program, visit NationalForests.org.

About National Forest Foundation

The National Forest Foundation works on behalf of the American public to inspire personal and meaningful connections to our National Forests. By directly engaging Americans and leveraging private and public funding, the NFF leads forest conservation efforts and promotes responsible recreation. Each year the NFF restores fish and wildlife habitat, facilitates common ground, plants trees in areas affected by fires, insects and disease and improves recreational opportunities. The NFF believes our National Forests and all they offer are an American treasure and are vital to the health of our communities. Learn more at nationalforests.org.

About Dragonfly Energy

Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp. (Nasdaq: DFLI) is a comprehensive lithium battery technology company, specializing in cell manufacturing, battery pack assembly, and full system integration. Through its renowned Battle Born Batteries® brand, Dragonfly Energy has established itself as a frontrunner in the lithium battery industry, with hundreds of thousands of reliable battery packs deployed in the field through top-tier OEMs and a diverse retail customer base. At the forefront of domestic lithium battery cell production, Dragonfly Energy’s patented dry electrode manufacturing process can deliver chemistry-agnostic power solutions for a broad spectrum of applications, including energy storage systems, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics. The Company’s overarching mission is the future deployment of its proprietary, nonflammable, all-solid-state battery cells.

To learn more about Dragonfly Energy and its commitment to clean energy advancements, visit investors.dragonflyenergy.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical statements of fact and statements regarding the Company’s intent, belief, or expectations, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the National Forest Foundation and its Reforestation Program, the Company’s future results of operations and financial position, planned products and services, business strategy and plans, market size and growth opportunities, competitive position and technological and market trends. Some of these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words, including “may,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “predict,” “plan,” “targets,” “projects,” “could,” “would,” “continue,” “forecast” or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar expressions.

These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors (some of which are beyond the Company’s control) which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include those set forth in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in the Company’s subsequent filings with the SEC available at www.sec.gov. If any of these risks materialize or any of the Company’s assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that the Company presently does not know or that it currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date they were made. Except to the extent required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

Investor Relations
Eric Prouty
Szymon Serowiecki
AdvisIRy Partners
DragonflyIR@advisiry.com

Media Relations
Margaret Skillicorn, RAD Strategies Inc.
Margaret@radstrategiesinc.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a18578f5-be14-44bb-8604-a590b68b994e

Source: Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp.

The MIL Network –
April 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BharatNet
Source: Government of India

BharatNet

Extending Internet Access, Expanding Rural Progress

Posted On: 21 APR 2025 2:48PM by PIB Delhi
- Q: What is the BharatNet project?
A: BharatNet is an ambitious project of the Government of India aimed at providing broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats (GPs) in the country. It is one of the biggest rural telecom projects in the world.
- Q: What is the objective of the BharatNet project?
A: The primary objective is to provide unrestricted access to broadband connectivity to all the telecom service providers. This enables access providers like mobile operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Cable TV operators, and content providers to launch various services such as e-health, e-education, and e-governance in rural and remote India. It aims to empower rural India, foster inclusive growth, and bridge the gap between urban and rural communities.
- Q: How many Gram Panchayats (GPs) are targeted under BharatNet?
A: The project initially aimed to connect approximately 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across the country.
- Q: What are the different phases of the BharatNet project?
A: The Telecom Commission approved the implementation of the project in three phases on 30.04.2016:
- - Phase I: Focused on laying optical fibre cables to connect 1 lakh Gram Panchayats by utilising existing infrastructure. This phase was completed in December 2017
  - Phase II(ongoing): Expanded coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh Gram Panchayats using optical fibre, radio, and satellite technologies. This phase incorporated collaborative efforts with state governments and private entities.
  - Phase III(ongoing): Aims at future-proofing the network by integrating 5G technologies, increasing bandwidth capacity, and ensuring robust last-mile connectivity. This phase is ongoing. The Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) approved in August 2023 can be considered part of this evolution.
- Q: What is the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP)?
A: Approved in August 2023, the ABP is a design improvement aiming for Optical Fibre (OF) connectivity to 2.64 lakh GPs in ring topology (a network design where connected devices form a circular data channel) and OF connectivity to the remaining non-GP villages on demand. It includes features like IP-MPLS (Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching) network with routers at Blocks and GPs, operation and maintenance for 10 years, power backup, and Remote Fibre Monitoring System (RFMS). The cost allocated is Rs. 1,39,579 crores.
- Q: What other initiatives support digital empowerment in rural India?
A: Several other initiatives complement BharatNet, including:
- - Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA): To ensure digital literacy in rural households, with over 6.39 crore individuals trained by March 31, 2024.
  - National Broadband Mission (NBM): Launched to fast-track the expansion of digital communications infrastructure. National Broadband Mission 2.0 was launched on January 17, 2025. Key initiatives under NBM include the Centralized Right of Way (RoW) Portal GatiShakti Sanchar.
- Q: How is BharatNet being funded?
A: BharatNet is primarily funded through the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), which is a fund that replaced the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). The total funding for BharatNet (Phase-I and Phase-II) approved by the Cabinet is Rs 42,068 crores (exclusive of GST, Octroi, and local taxes). As of 31.12.2023, a total of Rs. 39,825 crores have been disbursed under the BharatNet Project since its inception.
- Q: Who is executing the BharatNet project?
A: The project is being executed by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) namely Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), which was incorporated on 25.02.2012 under the Indian Companies Act 1956. Under the Amended BharatNet Program, BSNL is appointed as the single Project Management Agency (PMA) for Operation & Maintenance of the entire network.
- Q: What is the current status of BharatNet implementation?
A:
- - As of 19^th March 2025, 2,18,347GPs have been made service ready under the BharatNet project in the country.
  - As of March 25, 2025, the Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) length has increased to 42.13 lakh route km.
  - As of 13.01.2025, 6,92,676 Km of OFC (Optical Fiber Cable) has been laid.
  - 12,21,014 Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) connections are commissioned
  - 1,04,574 Wi-Fi hotspots are installed.
- Q: How is the BharatNet network utilised?
A: The network is utilised through leasing bandwidth and dark fibre, Wi-Fi to access broadband or internet services in public places, and Fibre to the Home (FTTH). Last Mile Connectivity (LMC) is provided through Wi-Fi in public places or other suitable broadband technologies, including FTTH at Government institutions such as schools, hospitals, post offices, etc.
- Q: What are the benefits and impact of the BharatNet project?
A: BharatNet has had a transformative impact on rural India, contributing to socioeconomic development in multiple ways:
- - Digital Inclusion: Connecting remote villages to high-speed internet, enabling access to e-governance, online education, and telemedicine.
  - Economic Opportunities: Enabling participation in digital commerce, access to financial services, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
  - Education and Healthcare: Facilitating digital classrooms and telehealth services.
  - Empowering Local Governance: Enabling Gram Panchayats to implement e-governance projects.
- Q: What is the role of CSC e-Governance Services India Limited in BharatNet?
A: CSC (Common Services Centre) e-Governance Services India Limited (CSC-SPV) was assigned to provide the last mile connectivity in GPs through Wi-Fi Access Points and FTTH connections. As of September 2024, 1,04,574 Wi-Fi Access Points and 11,41 ,825 FTTH connections have been installed in the GPs. CSC-SPV also undertook a pilot project for laying overhead optical fiber from GPs.
- Q: What is the collaboration between DBN and NABARD?
A: Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) have signed an MoU to drive rural development by providing access to digital services, digital governance, and promoting a digital economy through high-speed broadband connectivity under the BharatNet program. Key areas of collaboration include reference data sharing, digital content sharing, digital services integration, awareness and capacity building, promoting a digital economy, and inclusion of ICT infrastructure.
- Q: How does BharatNet relate to mobile connectivity in rural areas?
A: Alongside BharatNet, the government is also focusing on expanding mobile connectivity in rural areas. As of December 2024, around 6,25,853 villages are covered with mobile connectivity, including 6,18,968 villages having 4G mobile coverage. The median mobile broadband speed has increased significantly. These efforts are complementary to BharatNet in bridging the digital divide.

REFERENCES

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086701#:~:text=the%20government%20of,truly%20digital%20nation

https://x.com/PIB_India/status/1905232713227067857

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2115831

https://usof.gov.in/en/ongoing-schemes

https://bbnl.nic.in/

https://it.tn.gov.in/en/TACTV/BharatNet

https://www.data.gov.in/keywords/BharatNet

https://usof.gov.in/en/bharatnet-project

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086701

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/1714/AU2874.pdf?source=pqals

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2117923#:~:text=Government%20of%20India%20Takes%20Measures,and%20Meaningful%20Connectivity%20for%20all.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2077908&reg=3&lang=1

https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/267/AU2155_28gbez.pdf?source=pqars

KIndly find the pdf file

*****

Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Chaitanya Mishra

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
April 21, 2025

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BharatNetExtending Internet Access, Expanding Rural Progress

BharatNet

Extending Internet Access, Expanding Rural Progress