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  • MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine, Pact for the Future, Climate & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Ukraine
    Ukraine/Security Council
    Pact for the Future
    Climate
    Renewables
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Sudan
    South Sudan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Biological Weapons Convention
    Clarification
    Financial Contributions

    UKRAINEThe Secretary-General welcomes the discussions and reported commitments reached in Saudi Arabia by the United States, the Russian Federation and Ukraine.Reaching an agreement on freedom of navigation in the Black Sea to ensure the protection of civilian vessels and port infrastructure, will be a crucial contribution to the global food security and supply chains, reflecting the importance of trade routes from both Ukraine and the Russian Federation to global markets.The United Nations has been working consistently, especially following the letters the Secretary-General sent to Presidents Zelenskyy, Putin and Erdogan on 7 February 2024 putting forward a proposal for the safe and free navigation in the Black Sea.The United Nations also remains closely engaged in the continued implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Russian Federation on facilitating access of Russian food and fertilizers to global markets to address global food security.The Secretary-General’s good offices remain available to support all efforts towards peace.The Secretary-General reiterates his hope that such efforts will pave the way for a durable ceasefire and contribute to achieving a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine, in line with the UN Charter, international law and relevant UN resolutions and in full respect of Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.That statement is now being shared with you electronically.
    UKRAINE/SECURITY COUNCILFurther on Ukraine: Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Joyce Msuya briefed Security Council members this morning and said that since 1 March, not a day has passed without an attack harming civilians in that country. She said we are particularly appalled by the strikes countrywide on 7 March that killed 21 civilians and injured many more, making it one of the deadliest days this year.Across Ukraine, Ms. Msuya said, almost 13 million people need humanitarian assistance. More than 10 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, including 3.7 million of them who are internally displaced. This displacement is disproportionately affecting women and girls, heightening their exposure to gender-based violence and hindering their access to support services, she told the members of the Security Council. She told that recent funding cuts have led to a reprioritization of Ukraine response efforts that will be announced in the coming weeks. Continued financial support will be essential to maintain our operations there.
    UKRAINE/HUMANITARIANFurther on Ukraine from the ground, our colleagues in Ukraine tell us that today, an inter-agency convoy delivered vital aid to one of the most affected communities in the Donetsk region. This is the fourth convoy to front-lines communities in the region this year.Humanitarians brought in six metric tonnes of medical, hygiene and other critical supplies, including those for older people, to help some 1,500 residents remaining in the community of Kostiantynivka.Local residents there face daily shelling. Homes and critical civilian infrastructure have been damaged and electricity, water and the gas supply have been disrupted.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=26+March+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM1F1O1Svuo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo’s Minister of Hydrocarbons Confirms Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2026 at Gala Dinner

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo, March 26, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, the Minister of Hydrocarbons of the Republic of Congo, opened the Congo Energy & Investment Forum’s (CEIF) Gala Dinner announcing the premier event will take place for a second edition in 2026.

    “We commend the excellent organization of CEIF and are pleased to confirm its second edition in 2026. We also aim to host similar events, including one in Pointe-Noire, to further strengthen industry collaboration,” said Minister Itoua.

    The Gala Dinner, a gathering of high-level energy stakeholders sponsored by Imperatus Energy, including African Ministers and global energy leaders, took center stage as the winners of the prestigious CEIF in Brazzaville were unveiled.

    Denis Sassou Nguesso, President, Republic of Congo was awarded the Lifetime Achievement to the African Energy Industry Award at the opening of the main event. President Denis Sassou Nguesso is not only the President of the Republic of Congo; he is a visionary leader whose transformative impact is shaping the very future of the nation. By making the oil and gas sector the backbone of the economy, President Nguesso has sparked industrialization, expanded electrification and driven unprecedented job creation. Under his leadership, the Republic of Congo achieved the milestone of becoming an LNG producer in 2024 and witnessed an impressive surge in oil and gas discoveries, while new players entered the market. International companies have committed millions to hydrocarbon projects, and local firms have significantly scaled up their operations across the entire value chain.

    Sockaht Charles, Former Chief of Cabinet at the Ministry of Hydrocarbons & Former General Director for Upstream at SNPC was given the Lifetime Achievement Award. Sockaht Charles has been an instrumental force behind the Republic of Congo’s remarkable oil and gas success, with his visionary leadership shaping policies that have unlocked unparalleled investment and growth. As former Chief of Cabinet at the Hydrocarbons Ministry and former General Director for Upstream at SNPC, he has been at the helm of driving crucial industry reforms that have reinforced the sector’s foundation. His exceptional leadership has been pivotal in advancing the Republic of Congo’s upstream sector, championing regulatory transformations and paving the way for major developments throughout the country. Through his unwavering dedication and foresight, Sockaht Charles has not only positioned the Republic of Congo as a dominant oil and gas powerhouse, but has also fueled progress, prosperity, and a brighter, more sustainable energy future for the nation.

    Eni was named Game Changer of the Year. Eni is revolutionizing the Republic of Congo’s energy landscape with its groundbreaking Congo LNG project. As the country’s first natural gas liquefaction initiative, Congo LNG has set a benchmark for offshore gas development in the Republic of Congo. Through the deployment of the Tango FLNG unit and the upcoming Nguya FLNG planned to start operations in 2025, Congo LNG is redefining a new era of energy production in the Republic of Congo.

    TotalEnergies took home the Explorer of the Year award. TotalEnergies has taken exploration to new heights in the Republic of Congo. Despite facing geological and operational challenges in the Moho-Bilondo offshore block, the company remained resilient, bringing the project online in 2015 and now producing 140,000 barrels per day. In the face of challenging drilling conditions in the pre-salt, TotalEnergies demonstrated that through innovative drilling and a commitment to offshore production, companies can unlock the potential of the Republic of Congo’s deep-offshore acreage.

    AMMAT Global Resources won the Local Content Champion of the Year Award. Independent hydrocarbon producer Ammat Global Resources is revolutionizing the Republic of Congo’s energy sector, but its impact goes beyond exploration and production. The company has not only promoted local content but cemented it across its operations through a commitment to local inclusion, a drive for capacity building and efforts to promote community outreach. With 85% of the company’s workforce local, Ammat is setting a strong benchmark for international companies operating in the Republic of Congo.

    SLB received the Service Company of the Year Award. SLB is a driving force behind deepwater development and production efficiency in the Republic of Congo. From optimizing offshore operations to enhancing well performance to maximizing recovery rates and increasing efficiency, the company has emerged as a driving force behind the country’s production goals. Going forward, SLB’s commitment to ongoing projects and its dedication to long-term industry growth will not only bolster energy security but support sustainable operations for years to come.

    These awards recognize the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and companies in the Republic of Congo’s energy sector.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ageism in service provision – E-001159/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001159/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giorgos Georgiou (The Left)

    Article 25 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU emphasises that the Union recognises and respects the right of the elderly to lead a life of dignity and independence and to participate in social and cultural life. However, data recently discussed in the Cypriot Parliament confirm that older adults are subjected to ageism and unreasonable actions by insurance companies.

    Specifically, there have been a large number of complaints about arbitrary insurance premium increases for older adults. This means that low-income pensioners stay stuck at home because they are not in a position to pay the excessively high car insurance rates. Also, in many cases, insurance companies refuse to insure older adults, exploiting the legal vacuum that exists.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to put forward a European strategy to regulate this issue and help eradicate ageism?
    • 2.What is the Commission’s position concerning the need to push for a European directive on addressing ageism in service provision?

    Submitted: 19.3.2025

    Last updated: 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Arrest of the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu – E-001163/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001163/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D), Yannis Maniatis (S&D), Nikos Papandreou (S&D)

    On 19 March 2025, the Turkish authorities arrested the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, along with around 100 other people, including journalists and business executives. The accusations against him include leadership of a criminal organisation, bribery, manipulating public tenders and aiding a terrorist organisation. The day before his arrest, his degree was annulled in a politically motivated decision, effectively barring him from running in the Turkish presidential elections.

    His arrest and this decision come at a time when the Mayor of Istanbul is considered to be one of President Erdoğan’s main political rivals and was a favourite in the primary elections of the Republican People’s Party for the upcoming presidential elections. These developments have raised serious concerns about the transparency of the judicial process, respect for democratic procedures, the situation of the rule of law and freedom of the press in Türkiye.

    In view of the above, and given the fact that Türkiye holds EU candidate country status, can the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy say:

    • 1.Is the arrest of the Mayor of Istanbul compatible with Türkiye’s status as a candidate country and how does she intend to react?
    • 2.What additional measures does the EU intend to take to ensure that Türkiye respects democratic principles, the rule of law and human rights?
    • 3.In light of the latest developments, does the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative consider Türkiye to be a reliable partner for the EU?

    Submitted: 19.3.2025

    Last updated: 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Marathonisi – Protection of the Caretta caretta sea turtle – E-001168/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001168/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

    Marathonisi, one of the most valuable habitats of the Caretta caretta sea turtle in the Mediterranean, is directly threatened by illegal construction work. Despite the area’s strict legal protection status, the Zakynthos Building Service issued a building permit ignoring the presidential decree prohibiting construction in the area. The work, which includes deforestation, construction of a platform and the use of heavy machinery, has devastated the natural environment, stripped land and violated the park’s protection conditions, causing serious disruption to the ecosystem and threatening the Caretta caretta nesting season.

    In view of the above and given that Marathonisi is part of the Natura 2000 network and is protected by the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC):

    • 1.Does the Commission consider that the issuance of the building permit and the construction work constitute a breach of EU environmental legislation?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to investigate the complaints and seek explanations from the Greek authorities?
    • 3.How does the Commission intend to strengthen the monitoring and implementation of European environmental legislation in Greece in order to prevent similar illegal interference?

    Submitted: 19.3.2025

    Last updated: 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Review of Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on F-gases and its meaning for the European heat pump and cooling sector – E-001165/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001165/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases, also known as the F-gas Regulation, envisages a complete phaseout of F-gases in several industrial applications, including in stationary air conditioning and heat pumps, despite them being one of the crucial components of this equipment.

    With over 250 manufacturing facilities across approximately 20 Member States, the European heat pump sector not only supports our continent’s energy security but also significantly contributes to regional employment.

    However, this positive impact is threatened by regulatory uncertainty. Article 35(5) of the F-gas Regulation states that the actual phaseout of F-gases depends on the results of an evaluation of available technologies and their effectiveness, which should be carried out by the Commission by 2030. This means that for the next five years, producers will be uncertain about what kind of production lines to invest in. This is another example of the unintended consequences of European regulation, which decreases European competitiveness.

    With regard to Article 35(5) and given the importance of the heat pump sector for employment, competitiveness, energy security and innovation in Europe, would the Commission consider an earlier review of the F-gas Regulation, the proposed ban on F-gases, and available technologies with low global warming potential, to take place as early as 2025 or 2026?

    Submitted: 19.3.2025

    Last updated: 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Market – New suburb-level property insights as NZ housing market turns a corner – CoreLogic

    Source: CoreLogic
    Property values across New Zealand are showing signs of recovery, with more than half of suburbs recording stable or rising prices in the first quarter of 2025.
    The latest Mapping the Market update from CoreLogic NZ provides suburb-level insights across 2,661 areas for houses and 1,077 areas for flats/townhouses, offering the most comprehensive view of property values in the country.
    CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said the data confirms that while affordability remains a challenge, improving market conditions are supporting a shift in property values.
    “New Zealand’s housing market has started to turn, driven largely by lower mortgage rates. Over the past three months, 54% of suburbs saw house values stabilise or increase, with a similar trend for flats or townhouses at 56%,” Mr Davidson said.
    “While this recovery is in its early stages, the strongest gains have tended to be concentrated in more affordable areas, where buyers appear to be capitalising on relatively lower property values.”
    Houses on the West Coast, particularly some suburbs in Buller and Grey District, saw values increase by 6% or more over the past quarter, reinforcing the role of affordability in driving market activity.
    Among the main centres, Dunedin’s Waldronville (3.9%), Hamilton’s Temple View (3.5%), and Christchurch’s Kainga (3.3%) recorded some of the strongest gains for standalone houses.
    For flats and townhouses, Glenleith in Dunedin (6.2%) and Grenada North in Wellington (4.8%) led the upturn, while areas such as Deanwell in Hamilton (4.1%) and Auckland North Shore’s Bayview (3.5%) also recorded notable growth.
    Mr Davidson said signs of stabilisation in previously weaker markets suggested demand was gradually beginning to return.
    “The number of suburbs experiencing price declines has narrowed, indicating the early stages of an upturn. Fewer than 230 suburbs saw house values drop by 2% or more over the past three months, while only 111 suburbs recorded similar declines for flats and townhouses,” he said.
    However, he cautioned that recovery remains uneven, with economic conditions, supply levels, and lending constraints continuing to influence local markets.
    “Some areas are stabilising or rising, but others remain affected by high listing volumes and economic uncertainty. The resurgence in values suggests improving sentiment, but we expect the pace of recovery to remain measured as affordability constraints and credit conditions limit momentum.”

    Enhanced market intelligence with new digital mapping

    The Mapping the Market online tool has been significantly expanded, now featuring suburb-level data split by property type. This enhanced dataset allows homebuyers, investors, and policymakers to assess value trends across different housing types using a single, standardised methodology.
    The interactive digital map, available at CoreLogic NZ Mapping the Market, provides current median values across every major suburb. With an intuitive interface, it offers a clear visual representation of where buyers can find properties within their budget.
    Mr Davidson said the latest insights reaffirm the affordability advantages of some regional markets.
    “Lower-priced housing markets are leading the recovery, particularly in West Coast districts such as Buller and Grey, where affordability remains a key driver. Suburbs within major centres, such as Waldronville in Dunedin and Temple View in Hamilton, are also showing signs of renewed demand.”

    NZ’s most expensive and affordable suburbs

    Auckland’s most expensive suburb remains Herne Bay, with a median house value of $3.15 million, while Oriental Bay tops the list in Wellington ($1.57 million) and Merivale in Christchurch ($1.33 million).
    For flats and townhouses, Queenstown continues to dominate, with median values in Queenstown Hill reaching $1.52 million, while Auckland’s Stonefields ($1.37 million) and Campbells Bay ($1.23 million) also rank among the highest.
    More affordable housing options remain available in regional areas, with median property values significantly lower in some parts of Buller and Grey Districts, as examples.

    A cautious recovery ahead

    While more suburbs are showing early signs of a market rebound, Mr Davidson expects the pace of growth to remain gradual due to economic conditions, high listing volumes, and credit constraints.
    “The downturn appears to be largely over, but the upturn in 2025 could be subdued,” he said.
    “The affordability gains seen in recent years are still in place and while lower interest rates may provide a lift, factors like high listings supply levels and restrained lending conditions to some degree – such as the debt to income ratio limits – could temper the recovery.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Tops $2 Billion

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Tops $2 Billion

    Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Tops $2 Billion

    LOS ANGELES – As of March 25, just over two months since the Los Angeles County wildfires were declared a major disaster by the president, FEMA and its federal partners have made more than $2 billion available to disaster survivors

    Federal assistance to eligible homeowners, renters, and businesses, in the form of FEMA grants and low-interest SBA Disaster Loans, has topped $2 billion

    That number includes:$101 million in FEMA housing and other needs assistance

    $2 billion in home and business loan offers from the SBA, the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain nonprofits

    31,941 household have been approved for FEMA funds, including: $24,316,400 in housing assistance for short-term rental assistance and home repair costs$76,431,025 in other essential disaster-related needs, such as expenses related to medical, dental, and lost personal possessions

    Two Disaster Recovery Centers remain open at UCLA Research Park and Altadena Recovery Center

    In total, the centers have logged 32,511 survivor visits

    At the centers, residents may speak in person to representatives from federal and state programs, the American Red Cross and various nongovernmental nonprofits and community groups

    In partnership with the State of California, Los Angeles County, and local officials, FEMA will continue helping California’s individuals and families get back on their feet and jumpstart their recovery

    The deadline to apply for both FEMA and SBA disaster assistance is March 31, 2025

    How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance:Online at DisasterAssistance

    gov

    On the FEMA App

    By calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, give FEMA your number for that service

    Assistance is available in multiple languages

    Lines are open Sunday–Saturday, from 4 a

    m

    – 10 p

    m

    Pacific Time

    At a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)

    To locate a DRC near you, visit the DRC Locator

    For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster AssistanceApply for SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans:Online at sba

    gov/disaster By calling SBA’s Customer Service Center hotline at 800-659-2955

     People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability may dial 711 to access relay services

    By emailingDisasterCustomerService@sba

    govAt a Disaster Recovery Center or Business Recovery Center, where you can submit a completed application or SBA representatives can help you apply

    To find a BRC near you, go to Appointment

    sba

    gov

    Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending

    sba

    gov or other locally announced locations

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

    California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process

    Visit CA

    gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance

    alberto

    pillot
    Wed, 03/26/2025 – 17:29

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Webb Sees Galaxy Mysteriously Clearing Fog of Early Universe

    Source: NASA

    Using the unique infrared sensitivity of NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, researchers can examine ancient galaxies to probe secrets of the early universe. Now, an international team of astronomers has identified bright hydrogen emission from a galaxy in an unexpectedly early time in the universe’s history. The surprise finding is challenging researchers to explain how this light could have pierced the thick fog of neutral hydrogen that filled space at that time.
    The Webb telescope discovered the incredibly distant galaxy JADES-GS-z13-1, observed to exist just 330 million years after the big bang, in images taken by Webb’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) as part of the James Webb Space Telescope Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES). Researchers used the galaxy’s brightness in different infrared filters to estimate its redshift, which measures a galaxy’s distance from Earth based on how its light has been stretched out during its journey through expanding space.

    The NIRCam imaging yielded an initial redshift estimate of 12.9. Seeking to confirm its extreme redshift, an international team lead by Joris Witstok of the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, as well as the Cosmic Dawn Center and the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, then observed the galaxy using Webb’s Near-Infrared Spectrograph instrument.
    In the resulting spectrum, the redshift was confirmed to be 13.0. This equates to a galaxy seen just 330 million years after the big bang, a small fraction of the universe’s present age of 13.8 billion years old. But an unexpected feature stood out as well: one specific, distinctly bright wavelength of light, known as Lyman-alpha emission, radiated by hydrogen atoms. This emission was far stronger than astronomers thought possible at this early stage in the universe’s development.
    “The early universe was bathed in a thick fog of neutral hydrogen,” explained Roberto Maiolino, a team member from the University of Cambridge and University College London. “Most of this haze was lifted in a process called reionization, which was completed about one billion years after the big bang. GS-z13-1 is seen when the universe was only 330 million years old, yet it shows a surprisingly clear, telltale signature of Lyman-alpha emission that can only be seen once the surrounding fog has fully lifted. This result was totally unexpected by theories of early galaxy formation and has caught astronomers by surprise.”

    Before and during the era of reionization, the immense amounts of neutral hydrogen fog surrounding galaxies blocked any energetic ultraviolet light they emitted, much like the filtering effect of colored glass. Until enough stars had formed and were able to ionize the hydrogen gas, no such light — including Lyman-alpha emission — could escape from these fledgling galaxies to reach Earth. The confirmation of Lyman-alpha radiation from this galaxy, therefore, has great implications for our understanding of the early universe.
    “We really shouldn’t have found a galaxy like this, given our understanding of the way the universe has evolved,” said Kevin Hainline, a team member from the University of Arizona. “We could think of the early universe as shrouded with a thick fog that would make it exceedingly difficult to find even powerful lighthouses peeking through, yet here we see the beam of light from this galaxy piercing the veil. This fascinating emission line has huge ramifications for how and when the universe reionized.”
    The source of the Lyman-alpha radiation from this galaxy is not yet known, but it may include the first light from the earliest generation of stars to form in the universe.
    “The large bubble of ionized hydrogen surrounding this galaxy might have been created by a peculiar population of stars — much more massive, hotter, and more luminous than stars formed at later epochs, and possibly representative of the first generation of stars,” said Witstok. A powerful active galactic nucleus, driven by one of the first supermassive black holes, is another possibility identified by the team.
    This research was published Wednesday in the journal Nature.
    The James Webb Space Telescope is the world’s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).
    Downloads
    Click any image to open a larger version.
    View/Download all image products at all resolutions for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.
    View/Download the research results from the journal Nature.

    Laura Betz – laura.e.betz@nasa.govNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
    Bethany Downer – Bethany.Downer@esawebb.orgESA/Webb, Baltimore, Md.
    Christine Pulliam – cpulliam@stsci.eduSpace Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, Md.

    Read more about cosmic history, the early universe, and cosmic reionization.
    Article: Learn about what Webb has revealed about galaxies through time.
    Video: How Webb reveals the first galaxies
    More Webb News
    More Webb Images
    Webb Science Themes
    Webb Mission Page

    What Is a Galaxy?
    What is the Webb Telescope?
    SpacePlace for Kids
    En Español
    ¿Qué es una galaxia?
    Ciencia de la NASA
    NASA en español 
    Space Place para niños

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pulse Oximeter Basics

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Image

    Español中文한국의TagalogTiếng Việt
    We need oxygen to survive. Sometimes the amount of oxygen in the blood falls too low for the body to function well. Asthma, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the flu, and heart disease are among the health conditions that can cause oxygen levels to drop. Being at higher altitudes, where the amount of oxygen in the air can be less than at sea level, can be another factor that can cause oxygen levels to drop.
    One way to monitor the level of oxygen in the blood is by using a device called a pulse oximeter, or pulse ox.  A pulse oximeter can estimate the amount of oxygen in the blood without having to draw a blood sample.
    What is a pulse oximeter?
    A pulse oximeter is a device that is usually clipped on a fingertip and uses light beams to estimate a person’s blood oxygen level (oxygen saturation) and their pulse rate.
    Most pulse oximeters show two or three numbers. The most important number, oxygen saturation level, is usually abbreviated SpO2, and is presented as a percentage. The pulse rate (similar to heart rate) is typically abbreviated PR. Sometimes there is a third number for strength of the signal.
    Oxygen saturation values are between 95% and 100% for most healthy individuals but sometimes can be lower in people with lung and heart problems, for example. Oxygen saturation levels are also generally slightly lower for those living at higher altitudes.
    Using a pulse oximeter
    If you are using a pulse oximeter to monitor your oxygen levels at home, in addition to your pulse oximeter reading, keep track of your symptoms and how you feel. Contact a health care provider if you are concerned about the pulse oximeter reading, or your symptoms are serious or get worse.
    To get the best reading when using a pulse oximeter at home:

    Follow your health care provider’s advice about when and how often to check your oxygen levels.
    Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
    When placing the pulse oximeter on your finger, make sure your hand is warm, relaxed, and held below the level of the heart. Remove any fingernail polish on that finger.
    Sit still and do not move the part of your body where the pulse oximeter is located.
    Wait a few seconds until the reading stops changing and displays one steady number.
    Write down your oxygen level and the date and time of the reading so you can track any changes and report these to your health care provider.

    Be familiar with signs or symptoms of low oxygen levels:

    Bluish coloring in the face, lips, or nails.
    Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or a cough that gets worse.
    Restlessness and discomfort.
    Chest pain or tightness.
    Fast/racing pulse rate.

    Be aware that some people with low oxygen levels may not show any or all these symptoms. Only a health care provider can diagnose a medical condition such as hypoxia (low oxygen levels). Pulse oximeter readings should be considered in context with other information, including signs and symptoms of low oxygen.
    As with any device, there is always a risk of an inaccurate reading. Be aware multiple factors can affect the accuracy of a pulse oximeter reading, such as poor circulation, skin pigmentation, skin thickness, skin temperature, current tobacco use, and use of fingernail polish.
    Categories of pulse oximeters and FDA clearance
    Certain pulse oximeters are intended for medical purposes and are primarily used in hospital settings or doctors’ offices. Pulse oximeters for medical purposes are typically used to monitor (i.e. trending or spot checking) oxygen saturation levels of patients to help in clinical decision-making.
    Currently, a small number of these pulse oximeters intended for medical purposes are available over the counter (OTC) following clearance by the FDA.
    There also are pulse oximeters that are sold as general wellness products or sporting/aviation products. These are not reviewed or evaluated by the agency before being available to the public. Such products are often sold directly to consumers in stores or online and are intended for estimating oxygen saturation often for purposes of general wellness (such as encouraging a general state of health or healthy lifestyle).
    The FDA recognizes that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many people purchased OTC pulse oximeters that are considered general wellness products. These products are not evaluated by the agency for use in clinical decision-making or determining whether to seek medical intervention.
    Current scientific evidence suggests there are some accuracy differences in pulse oximeter performance between individuals with lighter and darker skin pigmentation. The FDA previously informed patients and health care professionals that although pulse oximetry is useful for estimating blood oxygen levels, pulse oximeters have limitations and a risk of inaccuracy under certain circumstances, including use on patients with darker skin pigmentation, that should be considered.
    In addition to the safety communication, to address concerns around the accuracy of these devices, the FDA held advisory committee meetings, published a discussion paper for comment, and published a draft guidance in January 2025 that outlines proposed recommendations to help improve the accuracy and performance of pulse oximeters that are used for medical purposes across the range of skin pigmentations.
    Reporting Problems with a Device
    If you experienced a problem or injury that you think may be related to a pulse oximeter, you can voluntarily report it through the FDA’s MedWatch program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: One Month of FEMA Assistance in West Virginia; Stay in Touch with FEMA

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: One Month of FEMA Assistance in West Virginia; Stay in Touch with FEMA

    One Month of FEMA Assistance in West Virginia; Stay in Touch with FEMA

    CHARLESTON, W

    Va

    – Today, March 26, 2025, marks one month since FEMA Individual Assistance was declared for West Virginia following the winter floods on February 15 – 18, 2025

    Since then, FEMA and the state of West Virginia, along with other partner agencies and organizations, have been working to provide resources and connect with the residents in the impacted areas

     To date, six counties – Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming – have been designated for Individual Assistance

    FEMA Individual Assistance provides assistance to meet basic needs for eligible individuals and households impacted by the winter floods

    Additionally, 10 counties have been designated for Public Assistance

    FEMA Public Assistance provides grants so that communities, and the general public as a whole, can respond to and recover from the floods

    “Under the leadership of Governor Morrisey, the state of West Virginia remains dedicated in its commitment to supporting individuals, families, and communities affected by the winter floods,” said WVEMD Director GE McCabe

    “We appreciate the ongoing partnership with FEMA, local governments, and communities to ensure those impacted receive the assistance they need

    We urge all eligible residents to apply for Individual Assistance and remain in contact with FEMA throughout the recovery process

    ”If you registered your damages through a state survey, you still need to register separately for FEMA Individual Assistance

    The information from the state survey was used to help the damage assistance teams scope the extent of the damages

    But residents in the designated counties must additionally apply for FEMA Individual Assistance and may receive help with expenses related to essential items, temporary housing, home repairs, and other needs as a result of the winter flooding

    “It has been a remarkable coordinated effort between local, state, and federal agencies to execute response and recovery missions to the residents and communities of West Virginia who were impacted by the storm,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Mark O’Hanlon

    “FEMA has been working diligently to connect with residents and ensure they have registered for Individual Assistance, by setting up six disaster recovery centers, canvassing communities and speaking to residents at their homes, visiting community locations, and messaging the four ways that residents can apply

    We encourage all residents in the six counties to apply for Individual Assistance and to stay in touch with FEMA about the status of their application

    ” Over 1,600 people have visited a Disaster Recovery Center in West Virginia and more than 3,475 West Virginians have applied for FEMA Individual Assistance

    Residents, both homeowners and renters, in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who sustained losses can apply for Individual Assistance or track the status of their application in several ways:Visiting DisasterAssistance

    gov

    Downloading the FEMA App

    Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Phone lines are open every day and help is available in most languages

    If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service

    Speaking with someone in person

    Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are on the ground in impacted communities, walking door-to-door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance

    In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and officials in the impacted counties, FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, and Wyoming Counties

    At a Disaster Recovery Center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application, and learn about other resources available

    Logan County Disaster Recovery CenterMercer County Disaster Recovery CenterSouthern WV Community & Technical College100 College DriveLogan, WV 25601 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed Sundays  Lifeline Princeton Church of God250 Oakvale Road Princeton, WV 24740 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

    m

    to 5 p

    m

    Saturdays: 10 a

    m

    to 2 p

    m

    Closed Sundays Closed April 26McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery Center McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center  Board of Education Office900 Mount View High School RoadWelch, WV 24801 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturday March 29: 9 a

    m

    to 1 p

    m

    , weather dependentClosed on SundaysBradshaw Town Hall10002 Marshall HwyBradshaw, WV 24817 Hours of operation:Monday to Saturday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

    Closed SundaysMingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus1601 Armory DriveWilliamson, WV 25661 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on SundaysWyoming Court House24 Main AvePineville, WV 24874 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on SundaysAs a reminder, accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security – including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or other federal benefit programs

     FEMA assistance does not need to be repaid, but residents should file insurance claims as soon as possible

    By law, FEMA cannot cover expenses that have already been covered by other sources like insurance, crowdfunding, local or state programs, donations, or financial assistance from voluntary agencies

    The deadline for residents to apply for Individual Assistance is April 28, 2025, and when applying for FEMA Individual Assistance, provide your 911 address as the location at the time of disaster to ensure accuracy in your application

    For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd

    wv

    gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4861, and www

    facebook

    com/FEMA

    ### FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

     For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

      
    kelly

    magarity
    Wed, 03/26/2025 – 13:12

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC South East Breakfast with Eddie Williams

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    EDDIE WILLIAMS: Well, tax cuts for all workers. Energy Bill Relief. But Budget deficits as far as the eye can see. They are some of the takeaways from the Federal Budget, with a closer look at what it might mean closer to home. Kristy McBain is the Member for Eden-Monaro and the Minister for Regional Development and Local Government. Good morning. 

    KRISTY MCBAIN: Good morning, Eddie. 

    WILLIAMS: What practical difference will this Budget make in the South East? 

    MCBAIN: As you said, there are two new rounds of tax cuts. They’re modest tax cuts, but when they’re combined with the tax cuts that are already in the system, on average by 2026-27, Eden-Monaro taxpayers will be getting an average tax cut of $2,169. Modest changes for the next two years as those two rounds come in, but when we look at the cumulative total, that is good news for workers right across our communities. Obviously, the new round of Urgent Care Clinics, another 50 to the 87 that are already out there in our communities. One of those areas is going to be in the Bega Valley.

    WILLIAMS: Whether it’s health or whether it’s housing, the challenges that regional and rural Australia face play out a bit differently to those in the city. The National Rural Health Alliance says there’s a lack of a targeted strategy to address those unique health challenges in rural communities. Is the Government taking any specific steps to address those specific issues in regional Australia? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve obviously made an announcement about $8.5 billion to strengthen Medicare. There’s a huge amount of money in there, which is all about the health workforce. $662.6 million, which is about growing our health workforce. There’ll be hundreds more GP and rural generalist training places. There are 100 more Commonwealth supported university places for medical students from next year. There are hundreds of scholarships for nurses and midwives to continue to grow their skill set. There are more incentives for our doctors to work in regional and rural Australia, and that builds on our previous announcement to wipe HECS for doctors and nurse practitioners to work in rural and remote Australia. We know it’s really important to deal with the health workforce side of things. It’s not a quick fix to grow our doctor numbers and make sure that they’re trained up and ready to go in our regions, which is why we’re investing really heavily in it. It’s something that should have been happening for decades and unfortunately wasn’t. We’ve seen the freezing of Medicare rebates, which has significantly hampered GP numbers, but we are seeing more students go through and enter our GP training courses now than we have seen in a number of years. 

    WILLIAMS: The Budget is forecast to remain in structural deficit for the next decade. Net debt is rising. Is the Government making any effort at all to pay down Australia’s debt? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve made some significant inroads into that. We’ve reduced the overall national debt by over $170 billion. It will mean that as taxpayers, we’re paying $70 billion less in interest on that debt. Even in this Budget, there’s been $2 billion worth of savings found. Over the four budgets we’ve done there’s been $90 billion of savings made through cutting wastage and rorts, and making sure our departments are working efficiently and effectively. We’ve seen the fruits of that labour by making sure we’ve got Government departments working well. During Cyclone Alfred, where NEMA did such a fantastic job of coordinating response and recovery efforts. Where Services Australia were out on the ground making sure payments were rolled out to people directly impacted. The national emergency stockpile delivering out sandbags, pre-placing generators, and making sure we had a heavy lift helicopters pre-placed in Queensland and New South Wales. You can see the fruits of better, more effective coordination when it comes to those real time disasters. 

    WILLIAMS: 7:15 on ABC South East. If you want to have your say on the Budget, you can call or text 0467 902 684. Joe raises the issue of Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred, and she says she’s disappointed that the Budget doesn’t seem to have anything new on climate adaptation or emissions reduction. Is that an area where the Government’s dropped the ball? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve been the only Government to really take forward climate action for decades. A legislated emissions reduction target. There’s been significant work on pre-preparing places by having the National Emergency Management Agency set up, which came into effect after we took Government. We’ve had the Disaster Ready fund, which is all about resilience and mitigation in our communities. Something that local governments and insurance companies were calling for to make sure our infrastructure was ready to go. We’ve seen that with the Watergums Bridge in Womboin, a significant investment by the three levels of government to ensure that a community doesn’t get cut off every time it rains and there is a flood. So there’s been some heavy work in that space and that will continue. 

    WILLIAMS: Phil at Bombala asks why Australia can’t build manufacturing again to survive a changing world. The Government’s spoken a lot about its Future Made in Australia policies. How realistic is a manufacturing industry future in Australia? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve said from day one that we need to invest heavily in a Future Made in Australia, and in our last Budget we committed $22 billion towards that very thing. We’ve seen with our National Reconstruction Fund, equity stakes taken in manufacturing mining equipment in Toowoomba, working with some of our defence primes to manufacture more things in this country. There is a significant commitment to making sure we manufacture more in Australia, including the stake that we’ve taken now in South Australian steel manufacturing. It is really important as a country that is a little bit further away from the rest of the world, that we do learn the lessons of COVID, that we are more self-sustainable, and we’re a Government that’s committed to that and putting money into it. 

    WILLIAMS: Will you match the funding commitment that the coalition has made to help upgrade the bigger pool? 

    MCBAIN: I’ll have more to say in the coming days and weeks on my election commitments for the Bega Valley and for Eden-Monaro as a whole, but I’m incredibly proud to have secured tens of millions of dollars in funding for local roads, for community infrastructure, and for other critical projects to date. The way I work is working with our local communities to make sure projects that are funded are key priorities. 

    WILLIAMS: Kristy McBain, appreciate your time this morning. Thank you. 

    MCBAIN: Good to be with you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxford Lane Capital Corp. Announces Declaration of Distributions on Common Stock for the Months Ending July 31, August 31, and September 30, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxford Lane Capital Corp. (NasdaqGS: OXLC) (NasdaqGS: OXLCP) (NasdaqGS: OXLCL) (NasdaqGS: OXLCO) (NasdaqGS: OXLCZ) (NasdaqGS: OXLCN) (NasdaqGS: OXLCI) (NasdaqGS: OXLCG) (the “Company”) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared the following distributions on the Company’s common stock as follows:

    Month Ending Record Date Payment Date Amount Per Share
    July 31, 2025 July 17, 2025 July 31, 2025 $0.09
    August 31, 2025 August 15, 2025 August 29, 2025 $0.09
    September 30, 2025 September 16, 2025 September 30, 2025 $0.09
           

    About Oxford Lane Capital Corp.

    Oxford Lane Capital Corp. is a publicly-traded registered closed-end management investment company principally investing in debt and equity tranches of collateralized loan obligation (“CLO”) vehicles. CLO investments may also include warehouse facilities, which are financing structures intended to aggregate loans that may be used to form the basis of a CLO vehicle.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. These factors are identified from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect subsequent events, except as may be required by law.

    Contact:

    Bruce Rubin
    203-983-5280

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Usio Increases and Extends Share Repurchase Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN ANTONIO, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Usio, Inc: (Nasdaq: USIO), a leading FinTech company that operates a full stack of integrated, cloud-based electronic payment and embedded financial solutions, today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized to renew the Company’s Share Repurchase Program for an additional 3 years or until funds are depleted, with an aggregate total purchase limit of $4,000,000.   The original May 15, 2025 expiration date has been extended to May 15, 2028.

    “Usio has utilized virtually all of the original $4 Million the Board of Directors authorized to buyback shares in May 2022, including the repurchase of $1.5 million in stock in 2024. The management team and Board of Directors remain highly confident in the Company’s intrinsic value, and believe the new, Usio ONE initiative will prove a catalyst to unlocking the Company’s significant inherent value,” stated Louis Hoch, President and CEO of Usio. “Having generated positive cash flow over the past several years, and expecting to do so again this year, repurchasing our shares represents another means to create value for our shareholders.”

    The timing and the amount of any repurchases of common stock will be determined by Usio’s management based on the market price of Usio common stock, evaluation of market and economic conditions and other factors. Repurchases of common stock may also be made under a Rule 10b5-1 plan, which would permit common stock to be repurchased when the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws. The repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

    As of December 31, 2024, the Company had unrestricted cash of approximately $8.1 million.

    The Company had approximately 26.5 million shares of common stock outstanding as of March 24, 2025.

    Repurchases may be made in open market purchases, block trades or in privately negotiated transactions. Repurchases, if any, under the program will be made at the discretion of management, and will depend upon market pricing and conditions, business, legal, accounting and other considerations. Open market purchases will be conducted in accordance with the limitations of Rule 10b-18 of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Repurchases may be made pursuant to any trading plan that may be adopted in accordance with SEC Rule 10b5-1, which would permit common stock to be repurchased when the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws. Under applicable law, repurchased shares will be cancelled and revert to the status of authorized but unissued shares.

    The repurchase program may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time without notice, in the Company’s discretion, based upon a number of factors, including market conditions, the cost of repurchasing shares, the availability of alternative investment opportunities, liquidity, the need for capital in the Company’s operations and other factors deemed appropriate. These factors may also affect the timing and amount of share repurchases. The repurchase program does not obligate the Company to repurchase any shares.

    About Usio, Inc.

    Usio, Inc. (Nasdaq: USIO), is a leading Fintech that operates a full stack of proprietary, cloud-based integrated payment and embedded financial solutions in a single ecosystem to a wide range of merchants, billers, banks, service bureaus and card issuers. The Company operates credit/debit and ACH payment processing platforms, as well as a turn-key card issuing platform to deliver convenient, world-class payment solutions and services to their clients. The company, through its Usio Output Solutions division offers services relating to electronic bill presentment, document composition, document decomposition and printing and mailing services. The strength of the Company lies in its ability to provide tailored solutions for card issuance, payment acceptance, and bill payments as well as its unique technology in the prepaid sector. Usio is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, and has a development office in Austin, Texas.

    Websites: www.usio.com, www.payfacinabox.com, www.akimbocard.com and www.usiooutput.com. Find us on Facebook® and Twitter.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS DISCLAIMER

    Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this release include forward-looking statements which are covered by safe harbors. Those statements include, but may not be limited to, all statements regarding management’s intent, belief and expectations, such as statements concerning our future and our operating and growth strategy. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “could,” “should,” “intend,” “look forward,” “anticipate,” “schedule,” and “expect” among others. Forward-looking statements in this press release are subject to certain risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company’s business that could cause actual results to vary, including such risks related to an economic downturn, the realization of opportunities from the IMS acquisition, the management of the Company’s growth, the loss of key resellers, the relationships with the Automated Clearinghouse network, bank sponsors, third-party card processing providers and merchants, the security of our software, hardware and information, the volatility of the stock price, the need to obtain additional financing, risks associated with new legislation, and compliance with complex federal, state and local laws and regulations, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. One or more of these factors have affected, and in the future, could affect the Company’s businesses and financial results in the future and could cause actual results to differ materially from plans and projections. The Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements included in this release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the objectives and plans will be achieved. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on information presently available to management. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    Paul Manley
    Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
    Paul.Manley@usio.com
    612-834-1804

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Usio Announces Improved Profitability; Fourth Quarter GAAP Earnings of $0.02 per share and Full Year GAAP Earnings of $0.12 per share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Full Year Revenues up in each of ACH & Complementary Services, Card and Output Solutions Business Units

    Record Full Year 2024 Dollar Processing Volume of $7.1 Billion, a 33% Increase Compared to Fiscal 2023; Transactions Processed also up a Strong 26% Year-over-Year

    Cash Position Increases to Record High of $8.1 Million

    SAN ANTONIO, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Usio, Inc: (Nasdaq: USIO), a leading FinTech company that operates a full stack of integrated, cloud-based electronic payment and embedded financial solutions, today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024.

    Louis Hoch, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Usio, said, “We are delivering on our commitments as profitability improved, cash flow was strong, and revenue grew in each of our ACH & Complementary Services, Card and Output Solutions businesses in both the fourth quarter and full year 2024. We also delivered another year of positive Adjusted EBITDA1. Results were driven across Usio by a 33% increase in total dollar processing volume, which rose to $7.1 billion from $5.3 billion in 2023, while transactions processed reached record levels on 26% year-over-year growth. We attribute this solid revenue performance to our innovative technology and complementary business strategy while the bottom line continues to improve as we implement our disciplined cost control and enhance our results through operating leverage that our business model provides.

    “For the quarter, we reported top line growth as well as our third consecutive quarter of positive GAAP net income, approximately $0.6 million, or $0.02 per share. For both the quarter and the year, revenues were up in three of our business units, and in the fourth, prepaid revenues were up when excluding the COVID incentive programs that was essentially wound down in fiscal 2023. Cash flow remains strong, enabling us to bolster our balance sheet, which provides us with resources to support our growth initiatives. In addition, cash flow in 2024 was also used to repurchase $1.4 million of our stock. And, today, the Board reauthorized a new repurchase agreement of $4 million which further illustrates our confidence in the business’ long-term prospects. Together, this is a strong set up for what we believe will be another year of both top line and Adjusted EBITDA1 growth in 2025.”

    Momentum continues to accelerate in ACH and complementary services, with revenues up 17% in the quarter and 12% for the year, in large part reflecting success cross-selling ACH into existing Card and Prepaid accounts. Card revenue growth remains solid, up 6% for the quarter and 3% for the year, led by PayFac, where revenues were up 29% in the quarter, and 22% on the year. Output Solutions had a strong fourth quarter, growing revenues a healthy 13%, which drove the business to full year growth after facing headwinds in prior quarters during the year. Total dollars loaded on prepaid cards exceeded $111 million in the fourth quarter, the sixth consecutive quarter of over $100 million in prepaid card loads. Fiscal 2024 revenues comparisons in prepaid continue to reflect last year’s expiration of COVID incentive programs, but we believe that Prepaid should begin to benefit from the over 90 client agreements signed in 2024 and a more concerted focus on recurring revenue, ‘evergreen’ clients.”

    Gross profits and margins were down modestly for both the quarter and the year, due primarily to product mix. Selling, general and administrative expenses were up just 3% for the year, reflecting continued strong expense control. The Company closed the 2024 fiscal year with $8.1 million cash on hand compared to year end cash of $7.2 million in 2023. The Company expects this trend of positive cash growth to continue in fiscal 2025.

    Mr. Hoch concluded, “In 2024 our various growth initiatives enabled us to regain nearly all of the revenue lost with the planned expiration of large COVID related card programs while improving profitability and further strengthening our financial position. More importantly, we are fully embarking on our new One Usio strategy, better integrating all of our various product offerings so that we approach the market as a unified force with a portfolio of capabilities that can meet our customer’s various electronic payment and associated needs. Already, we are seeing success selling multiple, complementary Usio products to an increasing number of clients who benefit from the synergies and efficiencies that arise from consolidating their relationships. While this has always been one of our competitive advantages, in 2025 we are redoubling our efforts and organizing around this concept to better unlock the inherent value of this strategy. At the same time, we believe we have the infrastructure to support our growth initiatives such that we can expect to see continued improvement in our operating leverage. We believe 2025 will be another year of growth as we create value for our shareholders.”

    Fiscal 2025 Guidance

    The Company continues to expect strong 14 – 16% growth in revenue in 2025 while also anticipating Adjusted EBITDA1 margins in the 5 – 7% range. Guidance is conditioned on no appreciable deterioration in economic conditions.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Summary

    Revenues were $20.6 million for the fourth quarter, up 2% compared to $20.1 million in the same period in 2023.

        Three Months Ended December 31,  
        (in millions, except percentages)  
        2024     2023     $ Change     % Change  
                                     
    ACH and complementary service revenue   $ 4.6     $ 3.9     $ 0.7       17 %
    Credit card revenue     7.2       6.9       0.4       6 %
    Prepaid card services revenue     3.0       4.0       (1.0 )     (24 )%
    Output Solutions revenue     5.1       4.6       0.6       13 %
    Interest – ACH and complementary services     0.2       0.2       (0.1 )     (22 )%
    Interest – Prepaid card services     0.3       0.5       (0.2 )     (41 )%
    Interest – Output Solutions     0.0       0.0       0.0       73 %
    Total Revenue   $ 20.6     $ 20.1     $ 0.4       2 %
     

    Revenue growth was primarily attributable to 17% growth in our ACH and complementary services revenue, alongside 13% growth in Output solutions, helping offset a 24% decrease in Prepaid revenues associated with the anticipated wind down of COVID incentive programs in 2024. Credit card revenues also saw a 6% increase, due to the success of our PayFac portfolio achieving 29% growth in the quarter, mitigating the continued attrition of our legacy credit card portfolios.

    Gross profits were $5.1 million, down 4% from $5.3 million for the in 2023. Gross margins were 24.6% compared to 26.1% in the same period in 2023. Gross margins in the quarter primarily reflect a shift in revenue mix, and a decline in interest revenues versus the prior year period due to the lower interest rates in the period. 

    The Company had an operating loss of $0.6 million, compared to an operating loss of $0.0 million from the same period in 2023. 

    Adjusted EBITDA1 was positive $0.5 million in the quarter, down $0.5 million from $1.1 million in the same period in 2023, due primarily to lower gross profit margins, and an 8% increase in SG&A expense.

    For the quarter, the Company generated $0.5 million of interest revenue compared to $0.8 million in the year ago quarter.

    Net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $0.6 million, or $0.02 per share, compared to net income of $0.03 million or $0.00 per share for the same period in 2023. Results in the current quarter primarily by the receipt and recognition of approximately $1.5 million in funds related to the employee retention tax credit made available through the CARES Act, and extended through the American Rescue Plan Act.

    During the quarter, the Company repurchased 331,222 shares of its stock at an average price of $1.46 for a total cost of $482,426 as part of its share buyback program.

    1 See reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures below.

    Financial Results for Full Year 2024

    Revenues for 2024 were $82.9 million, down 1% from $84.1 million for the same period in 2023.

        Year Ended December 31,  
        (in millions, except percentages)  
        2024     2023     $ Change     % Change  
                                     
    ACH and complementary service revenue   $ 16.7     $ 14.9     $ 1.8       12 %
    Credit card revenue   29.3       28.5       0.8       3 %
    Prepaid card services revenue     14.1       18.7       (4.6 )     (25 )%
    Output Solutions revenue     20.6       20.5       0.1       1 %
    Interest – ACH and complementary services     0.8       0.5       0.3       59 %
    Interest – Prepaid card services     1.3       0.9       0.4       44 %
    Interest – Output Solutions     0.2       0.0       0.1       220 %
    Total Revenue   $ 82.9     $ 84.1     $ (1.1 )     (1 )%
     

    The Company experienced strong revenue growth in its ACH and complementary services business segment, seeing an $1.8 million, or 12% increase over 2023. This revenue growth, alongside a 55% increase in aggregate interest revenues, helped to offset the 25% decline in our prepaid card services, as we saw the anticipated wind down of revenues associated with COVID incentive programs in 2024. Strong net new customer and organic growth, specifically in our corporate and commercial card programs, generated over $7 million of revenues in 2024, greatly offsetting the revenues in 2023 associated with those COVID programs. Credit card revenues were also up 3%, with PayFac growing 22% in 2024, mitigating attrition in our legacy credit card lines of business. Revenues associated with our PayFac portfolio now exceed 50% of total credit card processing revenues, and performance associated with our PayFac model is anticipated to become more representative of overall credit card revenue growth. Output Solutions revenues were up 1%, as we fully implemented our new processing equipment through the year in order to position the business unit for continued growth in 2025 due to the increased capacity, efficiency, and speed our new equipment provides.

    Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $19.6 million, down 2% from $20.1 million in fiscal 2023. Gross margins were 23.7% for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to 23.9% in fiscal 2023, generally reflecting a shift in business mix over the year.

    The Company reported $2.9 million in Adjusted EBITDA1 for the year ended December 31, 2024, a $1.0 million decline versus $3.9 million in 2023, due primarily to slightly lower revenues and gross margin, alongside a 3% increase in SG&A expense in 2024. The Company increased its cash balance by $0.9 million, while utilizing $1.4 million on share repurchases in 2024. The Company significantly improved its net income for the year by $3.8 million to $3.3 million compared to a loss of $0.5 million for fiscal 2023 due to the recognition of an approximate $3.1 million federal tax benefit. The Company reported earnings of $0.12 per share, a significant improvement compared to loss of $(0.02) per share, in fiscal 2023. 

    Conference Call and Webcast

    Usio, Inc.’s management will host a conference call with a live webcast Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 4:30 pm Eastern time to provide a business update. To listen to the conference call, interested parties within the U.S. should call +1-844-883-3890. International callers should call + 1-412-317-9246. All callers should ask for the Usio conference call. The conference call will also be available through a live webcast, which can be accessed via the company’s website at www.usio.com/invest.

    A replay of the call will be available approximately one hour after the end of the call through April 10, 2025. The replay can be accessed via the Company’s website or by dialing +1-877-344-7529 (U.S.) or +1-412-317-0088 (international). The replay conference playback code is 2388192.

    About Usio, Inc.

    Usio, Inc. (Nasdaq: USIO), is a leading Fintech that operates a full stack of proprietary, cloud-based integrated payment and embedded financial solutions in a single ecosystem to a wide range of merchants, billers, banks, service bureaus and card issuers. The Company operates credit/debit and ACH payment processing platforms, as well as a turn-key card issuing platform to deliver convenient, world-class payment solutions and services to their clients. The company, through its Usio Output Solutions division offers services relating to electronic bill presentment, document composition, document decomposition and printing and mailing services. The strength of the Company lies in its ability to provide tailored solutions for card issuance, payment acceptance, and bill payments as well as its unique technology in the prepaid sector. Usio is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, and has a development office in Austin, Texas.

    Websites: www.usio.com, www.payfacinabox.com, www.akimbocard.com and www.usiooutput.com. Find us on Facebook® and Twitter.

    About Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This press release includes non-GAAP financial measures, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins, as defined in Regulation G of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company reports its financial results in compliance with GAAP, but believes that also discussing non-GAAP financial measures provides investors with financial measures it uses in the management of its business. The Company defines EBITDA as operating income (loss), before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of intangibles. The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA, as defined above, plus non-cash stock option costs and certain non-recurring items, such as costs related to acquisitions. These measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Management uses EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins as indicators of the Company’s operating performance and ability to fund acquisitions, capital expenditures and other investments and, in the absence of refinancing options, to repay debt obligations. 

    In previous periods, the Company reported the non-GAAP financial measure of adjusted operating cash flows, which excluded certain items from operating cash flows to provide a measure of cash generated from its core operations. Beginning with the current reporting period, the Company is no longer presenting adjusted operating cash flows as a non-GAAP financial measure. The decision to discontinue reporting adjusted operating cash flows is due to changes in the presentation of certain assets, specifically the movement of assets held for customers, into the financing activities section of our cash flow statement. As a result of this reclassification, the need for the adjusted operating cash flows measure is no longer required, as the adjustments previously made to exclude these amounts are not necessary. 

    Management believes EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins are helpful to investors in evaluating the Company’s operating performance because non-cash costs and other items that management believes are not indicative of its results of operations are excluded. 

    EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. They are not measurements of our financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to revenue, or net income, as applicable, or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP and may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other businesses. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins have limitations as analytical tools and you should not consider these Non-GAAP measures in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our operating results as reported under GAAP.

    1 See reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures below.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS DISCLAIMER

    Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this release include forward-looking statements which are covered by safe harbors. Those statements include, but may not be limited to, all statements regarding management’s intent, belief and expectations, such as statements concerning our future and our operating and growth strategy. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “could,” “should,” “intend,” “look forward,” “anticipate,” “schedule,” and “expect” among others. Forward-looking statements in this press release are subject to certain risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company’s business that could cause actual results to vary, including such risks related to an economic downturn, the realization of opportunities from the IMS acquisition, the management of the Company’s growth, the loss of key resellers, the relationships with the Automated Clearinghouse network, bank sponsors, third-party card processing providers and merchants, the security of our software, hardware and information, the volatility of the stock price, the need to obtain additional financing, risks associated with new legislation, and compliance with complex federal, state and local laws and regulations, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. One or more of these factors have affected, and in the future, could affect the Company’s businesses and financial results in the future and could cause actual results to differ materially from plans and projections. The Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements included in this release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the objectives and plans will be achieved. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on information presently available to management. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    Paul Manley
    Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
    Paul.Manley@usio.com
    612-834-1804

    USIO, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     
        December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023  
    ASSETS                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 8,056,891     $ 7,155,687  
    Accounts receivable     5,053,639       5,564,138  
    Accounts receivable, tax credit     1,494,612       —  
    Settlement processing assets     47,104,006       44,899,603  
    Prepaid card load assets     25,648,688       31,578,973  
    Customer deposits     1,918,805       1,865,731  
    Inventory     403,796       422,808  
    Prepaid expenses and other     585,500       444,071  
    Current assets before merchant reserves     90,265,937       91,931,011  
    Merchant reserves     4,890,101       5,310,095  
    Total current assets     95,156,038       97,241,106  
                     
    Property and equipment, net     3,194,818       3,660,092  
                     
    Other assets:                
    Intangibles, net     881,346       1,753,333  
    Deferred tax asset     4,580,440       1,504,000  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     3,037,928       2,420,782  
    Other assets     357,877       355,357  
    Total other assets     8,857,591       6,033,472  
                     
    Total Assets   $ 107,208,447     $ 106,934,670  
                     
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                
    Current Liabilities:                
    Accounts payable   $ 1,256,819     $ 1,031,141  
    Accrued expenses     3,366,925       3,801,278  
    Operating lease liabilities, current portion     612,680       633,616  
    Equipment loan, current portion     147,581       107,270  
    Settlement processing obligations     47,104,006       44,899,603  
    Prepaid card load liabilities     25,648,688       31,578,973  
    Customer deposits     1,918,805       1,865,731  
    Current liabilities before merchant reserve obligations     80,055,504       83,917,612  
    Merchant reserve obligations     4,890,101       5,310,095  
    Total current liabilities     84,945,605       89,227,707  
                     
    Non-current liabilities:                
    Equipment loan, non-current portion     571,862       718,980  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current portion     2,534,017       1,919,144  
    Total liabilities     88,051,484       91,865,831  
                     
    Commitments and Contingencies                
    Stockholders’ Equity:                
    Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized; -0- shares issued and outstanding in 2024 and 2023     —       —  
    Common stock, $0.001 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized; 29,902,415 and 28,671,606 issued and 26,609,651 and 26,332,523 outstanding in 2024 and 2023 (see Note 12)     198,317       197,087  
    Additional paid-in capital     99,676,457       97,479,830  
    Treasury stock, at cost; 3,292,764 and 2,339,083 shares in 2024 and 2023 (see Note 12)     (5,770,592 )     (4,362,150 )
    Deferred compensation     (6,914,563 )     (6,907,775 )
    Accumulated deficit     (68,032,656 )     (71,338,153 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     19,156,963       15,068,839  
                     
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 107,208,447     $ 106,934,670  
       
    USIO, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
     
        Three Months Ended (unaudited)     Twelve Months Ended  
        December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023     December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023  
    Revenues   $ 20,560,088     $ 20,130,642     $ 82,931,840     $ 84,066,245  
    Cost of services     15,495,310       14,871,207       63,317,396       63,992,417  
    Gross profit     5,064,778       5,259,435       19,614,444       20,073,828  
                                     
    Selling, general and administrative:                                
    Stock-based compensation     564,300       545,711       2,093,406       2,222,969  
    Other expenses     4,547,694       4,195,580       16,728,081       16,216,690  
    Depreciation and Amortization     555,581       521,932       2,263,302       2,081,533  
    Total operating expenses     5,667,575       5,263,223       21,084,789       20,521,192  
                                     
    Operating loss     (602,797 )     (3,788 )     (1,470,345 )     (447,364 )
                                     
    Other income:                                
    Interest income     116,558       103,337       464,746       219,986  
    Other income     1,476,272       —       1,737,685       50,000  
    Interest expense     (12,267 )     (3,614 )     (53,802 )     (5,202 )
    Other income, net     1,580,563       99,723       2,148,629       264,784  
                                     
    Income (loss) before income taxes     977,766       95,935       678,284       (182,580 )
                                     
    Federal income tax expense (benefit)     109,613       —       (3,076,440 )     —  
    State income tax expense     239,227       70,000       449,227       292,524  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     348,840       70,000       (2,627,213 )     292,524  
                                     
    Net Income (Loss)   $ 628,926     $ 25,935     $ 3,305,497     $ (475,104 )
                                     
    Earnings (Loss) Per Share                                
    Basic income (loss) per common share:   $ 0.02     $ 0.00     $ 0.12     $ (0.02 )
    Diluted income (loss) per common share:   $ 0.02     $ 0.00     $ 0.12     $ (0.02 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding                                
    Basic     27,162,675       26,503,251       26,852,129       26,490,868  
    Diluted     27,162,675       26,503,251       26,852,129       26,490,868  
     
    USIO, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
     
        December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023  
    Operating Activities                
    Net income (loss)   $ 3,305,497     $ (475,104 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:                
    Depreciation     1,391,315       1,209,506  
    Amortization     871,987       872,027  
    Loss on disposal of equipment     18,340       —  
    Deferred federal income tax     (3,076,440 )     —  
    Employee stock-based compensation     2,093,406       2,190,369  
    Vendor stock-based compensation     —       32,600  
    Non-cash revenue from return of treasury stock     —       (156,162 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
    Accounts receivable     510,499       (1,192,498 )
    Accounts receivable, tax credit     (1,494,612 )     —  
    Prepaid expenses and other     (141,429 )     6,318  
    Operating lease right-to-use assets     (617,146 )     374,701  
    Other assets     (2,520 )     —  
    Inventory     19,012       84,547  
    Accounts payable and accrued expenses     (208,675 )     252,689  
    Operating lease liabilities     593,937       (403,506 )
    Merchant reserves     (419,994 )     400,594  
    Customer deposits     53,074       311,609  
    Net cash provided by operating activities     2,896,251       3,507,690  
                     
    Investing Activities                
    Purchases of property and equipment     (991,881 )     (834,964 )
    Sale of equipment     47,500       —  
    Net cash used by investing activities     (944,381 )     (834,964 )
                     
    Financing Activities                
    Payments on equipment loan     (106,807 )     (56,992 )
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock     97,663       —  
    Purchases of treasury stock     (1,408,442 )     (456,961 )
    Assets held for customers     (3,725,882 )     6,570,747  
    Net cash provided (used) by financing activities     (5,143,468 )     6,056,794  
                     
    Change in cash, cash equivalents, customer deposits and merchant reserves     (3,191,598 )     8,729,520  
    Cash, cash equivalents, customer deposits and merchant reserves, beginning of year     90,810,089       82,080,569  
                     
    Cash, Cash Equivalents, Settlement Processing Assets, Prepaid Card Load Assets, Customer Deposits and Merchant Reserves, End of Year   $ 87,618,491     $ 90,810,089  
                     
    Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information                
    Cash paid during the period for:                
    Interest   $ 53,802     $ 5,202  
    Income taxes     290,144       116,204  
    Non-cash operating activities:                
    Right of use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities   $ 1,156,543     $ –  
    Non-cash investing and financing activities:                
    Issuance of deferred stock compensation   $ 1,497,300     $ 2,650,505  
    Non-cash transaction for acquisition of equipment in exchange for note payable     —       811,819  
                     
    USIO, INC.
    STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
     
        Common Stock     Additional Paid- In     Treasury     Deferred     Accumulated     Total Stockholders’  
        Shares     Amount     Capital     Stock     Compensation     Deficit     Equity  
                                                             
    Balance at December 31, 2022     27,044,900     $ 195,471     $ 94,048,603     $ (3,749,027 )   $ (5,697,900 )   $ (70,863,049 )   $ 13,934,098  
                                                             
    Issuance of common stock under equity incentive plan     1,731,506       1,731       3,619,315       —       (2,650,505 )     —       970,541  
    Reversal of deferred compensation amortization that did not vest     (115,000 )     (115 )     (188,088 )     —       103,091       —       (85,112 )
    Deferred compensation amortization     —       —       —       —       1,337,539       —       1,337,539  
    Non-cash return of treasury stock     —       —       —       (156,162 )     —       —       (156,162 )
    Purchase of treasury stock     —       —       —       (456,961 )     —       —       (456,961 )
    Net loss     —       —       —       —       —       (475,104 )     (475,104 )
                                                             
    Balance at December 31, 2023     28,661,406     $ 197,087     $ 97,479,830     $ (4,362,150 )   $ (6,907,775 )   $ (71,338,153 )   $ 15,068,839  
                                                             
    Issuance of common stock under equity incentive plan     1,189,050       1,178       2,130,336       —       (1,497,300 )     —       634,214  
    Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan     66,959       67       97,596       —       —       —       97,663  
    Reversal of deferred compensation amortization that did not vest     (15,000 )     (15 )     (31,305 )     —       31,320       —       —  
    Deferred compensation amortization     —       —       —       —       1,459,192       —       1,459,192  
    Purchase of treasury stock     —       —       —       (1,408,442 )     —       —       (1,408,442 )
    Net income     —       —       —       —       —       3,305,497       3,305,497  
                                                             
    Balance at December 31, 2024     29,902,415     $ 198,317     $ 99,676,457     $ (5,770,592 )   $ (6,914,563 )   $ (68,032,656 )   $ 19,156,963  
     
    RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
     
        Three Months Ended (unaudited)     Twelve Months Ended  
        December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023     December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023  
                                     
    Reconciliation from Operating Income/(Loss) to Adjusted EBITDA:                                
    Operating income (loss)   $ (602,797 )   $ (3,788 )   $ (1,470,345 )   $ (447,364 )
    Depreciation and amortization     555,581       521,932       2,263,302       2,081,533  
    EBITDA     (47,216 )     518,144       792,957       1,634,169  
    Non-cash stock-based compensation expense, net     564,300       545,711       2,093,406       2,222,969  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 517,084     $ 1,063,855     $ 2,886,363     $ 3,857,138  
                                     
                                     
    Calculation of Adjusted EBITDA margins:                                
    Revenues   $ 20,560,088     $ 20,130,642     $ 82,931,840     $ 84,066,245  
    Adjusted EBITDA     517,084       1,063,855       2,886,363       3,857,138  
    Adjusted EBITDA margins     2.5 %     5.3 %     3.5 %     4.6 %

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GigaCloud Technology Inc Welcomes Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan™, the Signature Home Brand of Drew and Jonathan Scott, to Its BaaS Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EL MONTE, Calif., March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GigaCloud Technology Inc (Nasdaq: GCT) (“GigaCloud” or the “Company”), a pioneer of global end-to-end B2B ecommerce technology solutions for large parcel merchandise, today announced that Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan™, the home furnishings brand created by TV hosts and renovation experts Drew and Jonathan Scott, has joined its Branding-as-a-Service (BaaS) Program. This collaboration will bring Scott Living’s trusted brand into the GigaCloud B2B Marketplace, creating new avenues for sellers and broadening product selection for buyers. Scott Living’s expertise in outdoor furniture and décor aligns with current consumer trends and presents potential growth opportunities for sellers and retailers in this product category.

    “Brand has always been a powerful driver in the industry, and by introducing Scott Living into BaaS, we aim to help our marketplace participants reach consumers faster with the right combination of quality products and design solutions from a brand they can trust,” said Larry Wu, Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of GigaCloud.

    “GigaCloud is more than just a marketplace,” added Wu. “We are a service toolbox offering diverse, tailored solutions that empower our customers to build and scale efficiently. Our Supplier Fulfilled Retailing model serves as the backbone of the program, streamlining supply chain management while enhancing our ecosystem through advanced technology and robust infrastructure to drive operational efficiency. This partnership unlocks new opportunities for our sellers and delivers greater value across our marketplace network worldwide.”

    “Partnering with GigaCloud marks an exciting new chapter for Scott Living,” said Drew and Jonathan Scott. “Since launching our very first product line over a decade ago, our mission has always been to make high-quality home furnishings that work for a variety of families and lifestyles. GigaCloud’s platform opens new doors for us to reach a broader audience and allows us to collaborate with more suppliers and retail channels to continue delivering home products that our customers love. We look forward to seeing how this partnership will help us connect with even more families, create opportunities, and inspire future innovations in the home space.”

    “Scott Living brings a fresh, design-forward appeal that resonates with younger and trend-conscious consumers, a perfect complement to our growing ecosystem that is redefining how furniture is marketed and distributed globally,” said Marshall Bernes, Head of GigaCloud’s BaaS Program and a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. 

    About GigaCloud Technology Inc
    GigaCloud Technology Inc is a pioneer of global end-to-end B2B ecommerce technology solutions for large parcel merchandise. The Company’s B2B ecommerce platform, the “GigaCloud Marketplace,” integrates everything from discovery, payments and logistics tools into one easy-to-use platform. The Company’s global marketplace seamlessly connects manufacturers, primarily in Asia, with resellers, primarily in the U.S., Asia and Europe, to execute cross-border transactions with confidence, speed and efficiency. GigaCloud offers a comprehensive solution that transports products from the manufacturer’s warehouse to the end customer’s doorstep, all at one fixed price. The Company first launched its marketplace in January 2019 by focusing on the global furniture market and has since expanded into additional categories, including home appliances and fitness equipment. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://www.gigacloudtech.com.

    About Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan
    Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan helps people create a home that looks good and feels good. After transforming houses for hundreds of families, the designers, renovators, entrepreneurs, and Property Brothers hosts Drew and Jonathan Scott know that each family is unique in the way they live, love, grow, and gather, and the best design solutions prioritize functionality and value. With curated collections of quality furniture, lighting, textiles, decor, and home improvement products, the brothers help families reimagine what’s possible in their spaces to reflect their personal style.

    Scott Living collections are widely available at a variety of North American and online retailers, including Amazon, Wayfair, Costco, Sam’s Club, QVC, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Home Goods.

    In 2025, Drew and Jonathan Scott are celebrating ten years of creating home products that help families make beautiful, functional spaces that feel as good as they look through their Scott Living and Drew & Jonathan Home brands.

    For more information, please visit ScottLivingHome.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements reflect our current view about future events. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “propose,” “potential,” “continue” or similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
    GigaCloud Technology Inc
    Investor Relations – ir@gigacloudtech.com

    PondelWilkinson, Inc.
    Laurie Berman (Investors) –lberman@pondel.com
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    Media – SBG@Rubenstein.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Pakistan: Opaque ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ targeting Afghan refugees must be withdrawn 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Pakistani government’s plans to arbitrarily and forcibly expel Afghan nationals, including refugees and asylum seekers, as part of the opaque ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ will only add to their plight, Amnesty International said today, ahead of the authorities’ 31 March deadline to oust Afghan nationals from the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The exact content of the Pakistan government’s ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ used for deportations has never been made public, but it comes amid a campaign to wrongfully demonize Afghan nationals as so-called criminals and terrorists.  

    “The Pakistani government’s unyielding and cruel deadline, which is less than a week away, to remove Afghan refugees and asylum seekers from two major cities, resulting in deportation of many at risk, shows little respect for international human rights law, particularly the principle of non-refoulement. The opaque executive orders contravene the government’s own promises and repeated calls by human rights organizations to uphold the rights of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers,” said Isabelle Lassée, deputy regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International. 

    “It is disingenuous to frame Afghan refugees as a menace to the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Government of Pakistan is only making a scapegoat of a community that has long been disenfranchised and fleeing persecution.” 

    It is disingenuous to frame Afghan refugees as a menace to the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Government of Pakistan is only making a scapegoat of a community that has long been disenfranchised and fleeing persecution.

    Isabelle Lassée, Deputy regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International

    Risk of relocations and deportations 

    According to a government notification dated 29 January 2025, reviewed by Amnesty International, all Afghan nationals are required to leave the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi by 31 March —some due to be relocated to other cities within Pakistan and others to be deported back to Afghanistan.  

    Those holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, issued by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), are to be moved outside Islamabad and Rawalpindi by the deadline. Speaking to Amnesty, human rights lawyer Moniza Kakar pointed out that forcing Afghan refugees to relocate even within Pakistan is devastating for families. “Many PoR card holders are people who’ve been here for decades, asking them to relocate means you’re asking them to leave homes, businesses, communities and lives they’ve built for years,” she said. 

    Meanwhile, Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders are to be immediately and unlawfully deported to Afghanistan, along with other undocumented refugees and asylum seekers, in violation of the principle of non-refoulement as set out in international human rights law. Afghan refugees due to be resettled in a third country will also be moved outside the cities, far from foreign missions who had promised visas and travel documents, and risk deportation due to the increased difficulty in coordinating their relocation with missions such as the United States. 

    Lawyer Umer Gillani, who has challenged the government’s decision to deport refugees at the Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court, said that “the official notification [for the 31 March deadline] has not been issued under any particular law, it is just an executive instruction. This is not just against fundamental rights, but also against plain black letter law.” 

    Demonization campaign amid conflicting directives 

    While the government has largely failed to give any rationale for its hardline stance against Afghan refugees and those seeking asylum, calls for their deportation have been frequently accompanied by the portrayal of refugees as ‘traitors’, terrorists, drug peddlers, and criminals by Pakistani media. “A significant portion of those involved in criminal and terrorist activities are among these illegal immigrants,” said Pakistan’s then interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar in November 2023. This signaling has been used as a pretext to impose restrictions on Afghan refugees and asylum seekers, leading to widespread discrimination and harassment, amongst numerous conflicting directives from government officials. 

    In January 2025, Minister of Interior, Moshin Naqvi, announced that no Afghan refugees would be allowed to stay in Islamabad without a no-objection certificate (NOC) – a notoriously difficult document to obtain. He gave no explanation for the legal basis of this requirement. Shortly afterwards, Amnesty International noted a surge in arbitrary detentions at the start of the year and 986 deportations were recorded in January by UN International Organization for Migration.  

    In another notification dated 7 March 2025, the Ministry of Interior again stepped-up pressure on Afghan refugees and asylum seekers, urging all “illegal foreigners” and ACC holders to “leave Pakistan voluntarily before 31 March 2025”. The notification was removed from the ministry’s website within hours, but a copy of the text was reproduced on the Joint Action Committee for Refugees (JAC-R) website which has also documented similar eviction notices beyond the capital’s twin cities.   

    In addition to these threats, Afghans living in Islamabad have also been subjected to racial profiling following statements by Pakistani officials, including the country’s interior minister, who have accused Afghan refugees of being involved in political unrest following protests by opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on 26 November 2024 in Islamabad. These developments became a precursor to the March 31st deadline. 

    We call on the authorities to immediately withdraw the ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ and take corrective action in accordance with international human rights law.

    Isabelle Lassée

    “The Pakistani authorities are violating the rights of Afghan refugees with impunity, subjecting them to arbitrary decisions that are shrouded in secrecy, totally lacking transparency and accountability. Carrying out this brazen plan of expelling Afghan refugees and asylum seekers who have long resided in these two cities, will undo the years of hard work that the Afghans have put in rebuilding their lives in Pakistan,” said Isabelle Lassée. 

    “We call on the authorities to immediately withdraw the ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ and take corrective action in accordance with international human rights law.”  

    Background: 

    Between September 2023 and February 2025, Pakistan forcibly deported at least 844,499 Afghan nationals back to Afghanistan where they are at real risk of persecution by the Taliban and an ongoing economic crisis. Many of those facing forced return to Afghanistan, including journalists, human rights defenders, women protestors, artists, and former government officials are at imminent risk of persecution and repression by the Taliban if forced to return to Afghanistan. 

    In January 2025, the government assured the Supreme Court of Pakistan that all Afghan refugees who have been registered in “any way” would not be “apprehended” nor “deported”. Earlier this month, the Islamabad High Court directed authorities to cease all harassment of PoR card holders. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio Visits the Foreign Service Institute

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

    The mission of the ⁨@FSI4000⁩ is to provide high-quality, innovative training, and resources to empower foreign affairs professionals, advancing U.S. foreign policy to serve the American people. FSI hosts a series of trainings on topics ranging from tradecraft to information technology to leadership training, as well as offering instruction in 60 languages.

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

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

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70eq_Vx7csc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio holds a joint press availability with Jamaican Prime Minister Holness – 1:35 PM

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

    Secretary of State, Marco A. Rubio holds a joint press availability with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 26, 2025.

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

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

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNeIdpU5wmo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio holds a joint press availability with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness

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

    Secretary of State, Marco A. Rubio holds a joint press availability with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 26, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eiK-RNLl9c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions and Spring Statement with British Sign Language (BSL) – 26 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Following PMQs, Rachel Reeves MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivers the Spring Statement in the House of Commons.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    X/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUIq5bbbp8M

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Spring Statement – 26 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Rachel Reeves MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivers the Spring Statement in the House of Commons.

    Watch PMQs and the Spring Statement with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/IUIq5bbbp8M

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YEezaqCgDk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 26 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: / houseofcommons
    Facebook: / ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: / ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_z-Rw3GgLM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Speaking to Americans about the value of Alberta ties

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Early exposure to air pollution could affect brain development and mental health later in life: new research

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Hobbs, Associate Professor and Transforming Lives Fellow in Spatial Data Science and Planetary Health, Sheffield Hallam University

    Getty Images

    Exposure to air pollution in early life could have lasting effects on child development and mental health in adolescence, according to our recent study.

    We integrated air pollution data with existing longitudinal data from the Christchurch Health and Development Study (CHDS). The CHDS has followed more than 1,200 children born in the city in 1977, with a strong focus on developmental and mental health outcomes.

    Our aim was to examine how exposure to air pollution shapes development and mental health in later childhood and adolescence. We found an increased risk of attention problems, conduct issues, lower educational attainment and substance abuse in adolescence associated with higher exposure.

    Existing evidence often focuses on adulthood. However, by tracking air pollution exposure from the prenatal period to the age of ten, and linking this data to subsequent cognitive and mental health outcomes, we were able to highlight the long-term consequences of growing up in polluted environments.

    Air pollution is one of the leading environmental contributors to disease, especially respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution because their brains and bodies are developing.

    A growing body of evidence suggests air pollution could affect brain development, educational attainment and mental health, contributing to depression, anxiety and conduct or attention problems. Despite this, few studies have tracked long-term exposure to air pollution from early childhood.

    Patterns of exposure

    We chose to conduct this research in Christchurch because the city is a historical air-pollution hotspot, with a documented history of measurements, and because of its long-running birth cohort study.

    The CHDS collects detailed information on participants’ health, development, education and family backgrounds from prenatal into adulthood.

    The city of Christchurch now enjoys much better air quality, but it was an air-pollution hotspot in the past.
    Flickr/Larry Koester, CC BY-SA

    For this study, we linked historical air-pollution data, measured as the concentration of black smoke from 1977 to 1987, to residential locations of birth cohort members. This allowed researchers to estimate each child’s annual exposure to air pollution during key developmental periods.

    We found four distinct patterns of air-pollution exposure across childhood (see graph below):

    • consistently low (these children had the lowest levels of air pollution throughout childhood)

    • consistently high (this groups had the highest levels of air pollution from birth to the age of ten)

    • elevated preschool (exposure peaked between ages three to six and then declined)

    • high prenatal and postnatal (high exposure before and immediately after birth, but declining later).

    We then examined whether children in the higher exposure groups were more likely to experience adverse impacts on cognition, educational achievement and mental health in later childhood and adolescence.

    We adjusted for a range potential confounders such as socioeconomic status, neighbourhood disadvantage and parental characteristics.

    We found children with elevated pre-school exposure had poorer educational attainment and a higher likelihood of conduct disorders and substance abuse problems. High prenatal and postnatal exposure was linked to a greater risk of attention problems as well as substance abuse in adolescence.

    Children with persistently high air-pollution exposure were more likely to develop attention problems and had higher odds of substance abuse issues in adolescence.

    Researchers identified four different trajectory patterns of exposure to air pollution from the prenatal period through to the age of ten.
    Author provided, CC BY-SA

    What these findings mean

    The effects of air pollution on several outcomes were small at an individual level, but they could be highly important at a population level.

    This is because even small shifts in cognitive and mental health outcomes, when applied to entire populations of children exposed to poor air quality, could have major consequences affecting future educational achievement, workforce productivity and public health burdens.

    These findings support previous research suggesting air pollution could affect brain function by causing inflammation, oxidative stress and affecting neurodevelopmental pathways. Importantly, they reinforce the idea that certain developmental periods, such as the prenatal period and early childhood, may be especially sensitive to pollution exposure.

    We need further research to confirm our findings but potential considerations include reducing children’s exposure to air pollution and improving urban air quality by cutting emissions from vehicles, industry and residential heating.

    We should also promote cleaner energy sources to decrease exposure to harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter. Providing better access to green spaces may mitigate the impact of air pollution.

    To strengthen public health and policy measures, we need stricter air quality regulations, particularly around schools and childcare centres. We should also implement air-quality monitoring in urban areas to identify high-risk zones for children.

    Better public information is crucial to minimise indoor and outdoor pollution exposure. This could include the use of air purifiers for indoor activies or limiting outdoor exposure during peak pollution periods.

    Further research and action

    Our study highlights the need for more research on air pollution’s effects on children’s mental health and cognition, particularly in different environmental and socioeconomic contexts.

    Policymakers, educators and healthcare professionals must consider air pollution as a potential risk factor for developmental challenges, not just a physical health concern.

    Air pollution may not be visible in the same way as poor housing or inaccessible healthcare, but its impact on child development could be important at a population level.

    Given the rising prevalence of mental ill health in young people and adults, tackling air pollution could be an overlooked but essential public health strategy for protecting future generations.

    Associate Professor Matthew Hobbs receives funding from Health Research Council of New Zealand and the Clare Foundation, New Zealand.

    Joseph Boden receives funding from the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Enterprise, and the Health Research Council of New Zealand.

    Lianne Jane Woodward and Susie (Bingyu) Deng do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Early exposure to air pollution could affect brain development and mental health later in life: new research – https://theconversation.com/early-exposure-to-air-pollution-could-affect-brain-development-and-mental-health-later-in-life-new-research-252644

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace responds to delay of North West Shelf decision

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Following a move by DCCEEW to push back the approval decision on Woodside’s application of its North West Shelf (NWS) project by two months, Greenpeace Australia Pacific has urged decisionmakers to use the additional time to thoroughly assess all available evidence, including very recent evidence about the project’s impact on Scott Reef.

    The following lines are attributable to Joe Rafalowicz, Head of Climate and Energy, Greenpeace Australia Pacific. 

    “Recently, Greenpeace Australia Pacific submitted a reconsideration request to the department, calling on the Environment Minister to assess Woodside’s NWS extension with all of the facts in front of her—including new evidence showing this project could devastate our environment, particularly Scott Reef.

    “Contrary to the attempts to downplay the scale and complexity of this decision by Woodside and the fossil fuel lobby, the North West Shelf extension project is an incredibly significant environmental decision, which will have impacts over 50 years. 

    “Woodside’s plans to extend the life of the North West Shelf gas processing facility are directly linked to its proposed Browse project, which entails drilling up to 50 gas wells near Scott Reef. These plans endanger threatened species like Green Sea Turtles and Pygmy Blue Whales, while also jeopardising fragile coral reef habitats with noise, light pollution, and the potential for oil spills.

    “If approved, the NWS extension is also expected to produce nearly 4.4 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases, equivalent to over 11 times Australia’s annual emissions. This will worsen climate change, which is already having devastating impacts on WA’s reefs, forests, and communities. 

    “Rigorous assessment and due process are critical for a project like NWS and the other components of Woodside’s Burrup Hub, given their potential for serious and irreversible harm to the environment.”

    —ENDS—

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Trump vs. Plastic Pollution

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Underwater image of a turtle with plastic on his head. © Troy Mayne / Oceanic Imagery Publications

    In his first month back in the Oval Office, Trump made moves that sent shockwaves in the world of plastic pollution. First, there was the announcement of a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum, to which top global plastic polluter The Coca-Cola Company responded by announcing that they would produce even more plastic bottles to counter the increased price of aluminum cans. Then, there was the executive order to “bring America back” to plastic straws by ending federal procurement of paper straws. But perhaps the biggest blow came as unelected billionaire Elon Musk began efforts to dismantle the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the government agency in charge of managing coastal and marine ecosystems, which are heavily threatened by plastic pollution.

    While the paper straws announcement may have received far more media attention than it deserves, we cannot let such ridiculous symbolic distractions take our collective focus away from the most important issue here: the larger systemic crisis of dismantling key government institutions, such as NOAA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Park Service (NPS) among others, which protect the public good. Make no mistake, our efforts to end plastic pollution will continue no matter what obstacles lie ahead. In the absence of strong government leadership to enact effective policies that can address this crisis at the source, however, the battle to end plastic pollution has certainly gotten longer. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

    US Senator Chris Van Hollen (MD) at press conference to defend NOAA

    Take the Coca-Cola announcement. Instead of responding to the rising cost of aluminum by scaling up plastic bottles, Coke could seize this moment as an opportunity to shift a greater portion of its packaging away from single-use altogether and invest in expanding its existing refillable and returnable packaging portfolio. In 2023, the company reported selling 14% of its total beverage volume in reusable packaging already! Coca-Cola is uniquely positioned to scale up its existing reuse systems that already operate successfully around the world. Refillable Coke bottles are used widely in large country markets such as India, Brazil, Chile, the Philippines, and Mexico, among others.

    Similarly, Trump’s executive order about straws (unsurprisingly) misses the point. The debate between paper or plastic – whether it be straws, cups, or takeout containers – bypasses a much more important opportunity to move away from single-use disposable packaging altogether and expand reuse systems. Particularly in the case of packaging that comes into direct contact with food and beverages, both disposable plastic and paper alike have been found to contain harmful chemicals such as PFAS, phthalates, and bisphenols which are linked to a wide range of health issues. Arguing between paper or plastic is wasting precious time while we could be building large scale reuse systems that are better for the environment, human health, and the economy.

    Coca-Cola pioneered the reusable glass bottle system in the 1940s with great success. It knows full well how to operate large-scale reuse and refill systems using glass, which, unlike plastic, poses no health risks to consumers. PET plastic bottles shed microplastics and contain harmful chemicals linked to cancer, hormone disruption, obesity, early puberty in children, reproductive health problems, and declining fertility. Chemicals in plastics cost Americans over $250 billion in annual healthcare. Coca-Cola is contributing to this public health crisis through its use of unsafe levels of antimony – a known carcinogen – and other chemicals in its PET plastic bottles.

    From household brand names like Coca-Cola to bulk packaging manufacturers, businesses are failing to seize the significant economic advantages that come with shifting to reusables (which has just been made easier than ever thanks to recent FDA changes to the federal food code). Unlike what the plastic industry would like us to believe, reuse systems can, in fact, be much better for business than single-use. Converting just 20% of global plastic packaging into reuse models could represent a $10 billion business opportunity, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Reuse: Rethinking Packaging report. The cost savings can be tremendous for even small businesses, which can save an average of $3,000 to $22,000 annually by transitioning from disposables to reusables. Even after accounting for upfront capital and labor costs, data from hundreds of case studies show that businesses that switch from single-use to reuse save money 100% of the time.

    The majority of American voters – Democrats and Republicans – want action to cut plastic pollution and protect our health. And literally zero Americans voted for Elon Musk’s takeover of the federal government. Musk’s DOGE agency has been wreaking havoc for weeks, slashing programs and firing workers who oversee essential services. NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is the latest victim as hundreds of employees were fired late February. The consequences of this may be dire for plastic pollution as well as broader oceans issues alike.

    Many Americans interact with NOAA every day, maybe without even realizing it. NOAA provides vital services including weather and tide forecasts, extreme weather alerts, as well as fisheries and water quality data that keep people safe and allow businesses to thrive. One of NOAA’s most essential services include weather forecasts, which keep Americans informed about increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events. In 2024, the USA’s hottest year on record, the cost for the U.S. of these disasters was at least $182.7 billion. NOAA’s timely forecasting saves lives and livelihoods. Losing NOAA’s essential services could result in even greater costs and higher loss of life following the ever increasing extreme weather events. Tourism, transportation, food, retail, and other businesses depend on NOAA to keep their doors open.

    NOAA Fisheries uses the best available science to ensure safe, healthy food and to protect endangered species. When US consumers go to the supermarket to buy seafood, at least 80% of which is imported, NOAA Fisheries’s Seafood Import Monitoring Program (SIMP) is the filter that aims to prevent seafood fraud or seafood tainted with forced labor from ending up in people’s shopping baskets. Americans want to know what they are buying and feeding their families, and they support more transparency and traceability in seafood. At this time, the US government should be expanding this program and strengthening the enforcement of import controls to prevent market access of goods produced by illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing or forced labor. This would also better protect American seafood producers from unfair competition that relies on labor abuses and environmental destruction to keep costs low.

    Thankfully, people are rising up in defense of NOAA, and Greenpeace USA is too. At a recent press conference organized by US Senator Chris Van Hollen (MD), climate and environmental advocates, scientists, and members of Congress, Greenpeace USA was there in solidarity – along with our life-sized sea turtle sculpture! Here she is front and center, despite the plastic straw in her nose and oil spill covering her shell, with a few new friends a sign that says it all: “Trump is polluting our democracy.” To take a stand in support of sea turtles and other endangered marine animals, add your name here to contact your Member of Congress to save NOAA’s programs that are critical to our oceans, coastal communities, and economies. If you represent an organization, you can also consider signing onto this letter to protect NOAA, joining the close to 500 other organizations from around the country. Together, our voices are stronger.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revitalizing Downtowns in Western New York

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Village of Cattaraugus will receive $10 million in funding as the Western New York winner of the eighth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, and the Villages of Westfield and Angola will each receive $4.5 million as the Western New York winners of the third round of NY Forward. For Round 8 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Round 3 of the NY Forward Program, each of the state’s 10 economic development regions are being awarded $10 million from each program, to make for a total state commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods.

    “Our state’s downtowns unite friends and families, and these investments will only help reshape neighborhoods to become more vibrant destinations for shopping, dining and living,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our Pro-Housing Communities Program, affordable housing opportunities will open up in neighborhoods across Western New York and local economies will thrive from these opportunities.”

    To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program — an innovative policy created to recognize and reward municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential. Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities initiative allocates up to $650 million each year in discretionary funds for communities that pledge to increase their housing supply; to date, 287 communities across New York have been certified as Pro-Housing Communities. This year, Governor Hochul is proposing an additional $100 million in funding to cover infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing in Pro-Housing Communities, and a further $10.5 million for technical assistance to help communities seeking to foster housing growth.

    Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 4,400 units of housing — 1,823 of which are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed over $8.5 million to 11 projects that provide affordable or free child care and child care worker training. DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art (such as murals and sculptures) and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

    $10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for Cattaraugus
    The Village of Cattaraugus is a vibrant community that is protected and tucked away, perched on a steep incline and sheltered by surrounding hills, productive farmlands and mature verdant forests. The original 19th century brick heart of the village, amazingly intact and a designated National Historic District, imbues a sense of history and character. Stores and businesses are locally owned, and the surrounding area abounds with hundreds of creative artists and artisans. The Village seeks to transform its historic red brick Main Street into a communal gathering place where our natural beauty, cultural heritage and small-town character converge to foster economic growth and enhance quality of life. The Village would become a regional attraction for dining and lodging using its industrial rail heritage to encourage outdoor recreation on its trails that will attract visitors and new residents to stay and enjoy the welcoming nature of the Village.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Westfield
    Westfield is a charming village that graces the southern shore of Lake Erie. This picturesque locale is defined by its stunning waterfront vistas and a wealth of recreational opportunities, inviting residents and visitors to embrace the natural beauty that surrounds them. Visitors and residents enjoy Westfield events like First Fridays, the Arts and Crafts Festival, the weekly Farmer’s Market, the Tour Chautauqua Cycling Event, the Grape and Wine Festival, Christmas in the Village, the Hot Toddy Crawl and the Christmas Cookie weekend. Historically, Westfield’s economy depended on agriculture and industry. Westfield’s vision is to cultivate a vibrant and sustainable community that celebrates its rich history, natural beauty and agricultural heritage while fostering economic growth, creating housing choices and celebrating diverse cultural activities in a safe and welcoming environment.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Angola
    Located within the Town of Evans, the waterfront cottage village of Angola is a tourism destination area that draws thousands of regional, national and international visitors each year. While the Town benefits from its lakefront, the Village possesses entertainment options that are attractive to visitors like festivals, art attractions and more. The Village seeks to capitalize on community strengths and its strategic location near key assets — waterfront, rich history and natural resources — to create a unique and vibrant downtown destination in the rural Southtowns of Erie County. Leveraging the historic Angola Theater as the anchor, the Village will bolster the local economy and quality of life through its quaint historic buildings, creative visual and performing arts, unique retail and special events.

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Governor Hochul recognizes that when we are investing in our communities, we can positively impact not just that community, but the entire region. And that’s exactly what will happen for these three communities receiving awards from our Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program. We can’t wait to see how these investments will make Cattaraugus, Westfield, Angola and the entire Western New York region flourish.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The three Western New York communities selected to be reinvigorated by the latest round of Governor Hochul’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs each have unique projects that will boost business, create new housing, improve quality of life for local families, and attract new visitors. We congratulate the Villages of Cattaraugus, Angola, and Westfield for submitting solid plans to improve their downtowns by making smart investments in the existing assets. We are excited to see your blueprints for revitalization become a reality.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Today’s $19 million DRI and NY Forward award represents monumental investment in the villages of Cattaraugus, Westfield and Angola, that will assist these three picturesque communities as they increase housing supply while transforming their downtowns to increase vibrancy and bring modern improvements to historic surroundings. This commitment to Western New York is only the latest example of Governor Hochul’s focus on enhancing communities and creating economic opportunities in all of New York’s regions.”

    Western New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Steve Stoute and Eric Reich said,“These investments mark a significant step in the revitalization of these vibrant communities. Each village boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, and this funding will help unlock their full potential, while enhancing economic growth, fostering sustainability, and creating welcoming destinations for both residents and visitors. By preserving their distinct character while promoting long-term development, the funding will strengthen local economies and ensure a lasting impact for generations to come. The council extends its gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for her steadfast support through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and the NY Forward program, and we look forward to witnessing the transformative outcomes of these investments.”

    Village of Cattaraugus Mayor Anthony Nagel said, “The Village of Cattaraugus is deeply honored to receive the Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant, a transformative investment in our community’s future. This funding will enable us to revitalize our infrastructure, support local businesses, and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents and visitors. We extend our sincere gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing the potential of our village and making this significant investment. With this grant, we are committed to preserving our heritage while fostering a stronger, more vibrant future for generations to come.”

    Village of Westfield Mayor Dennis Lutes said, “On behalf of the Village of Westfield, I am deeply honored that we have been selected as recipients of a NY Forward grant. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for her leadership and for establishing the NY Forward program to support small communities like ours. This investment marks a pivotal moment for Westfield, providing us with an incredible opportunity to revitalize our village and build upon the progress we have already made. We are truly grateful to Governor Hochul, Department of State, the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council, Empire State Development, the Westfield Development Corporation, and all the dedicated stakeholders who contributed to making this application a success. Their hard work and commitment to our community are greatly appreciated.”

    Village of Angola Mayor Thomas M. Whelan said, “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to receive the NY Forward grant. This funding will have a transformative impact on our community, enabling us to revitalize key areas and enhance the quality of life for our residents, businesses, and visitors. The NY Forward grant reflects New York State’s steadfast commitment to supporting small communities like ours, fostering growth, and driving meaningful progress. We are honored to be a recipient of this initiative and eager to put these funds to work for the betterment of our village. I sincerely appreciate Governor Kathy Hochul and her team for their support and belief in our vision. Her dedication to strengthening small communities is truly inspiring, and we look forward to working together to bring our vision to fruition.”

    Cattaraugus, Westfield and Angola will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtowns. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation, will advance the community’s vision for their downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state’s investment.

    The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review process of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all criteria before recommending these communities as nominees.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through eight rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $900 million to 89 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program
    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orlando Man Sentenced To 32 Years For Possessing Illegal Firearms And Selling Fentanyl That Killed A Woman

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton has sentenced Joel David Fonseca Flores (45, Orlando) to 32 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl that resulted in death, possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On June 27, 2024, a federal jury found Fonseca Flores guilty of the conspiracy resulting in death charge. Prior to trial, on June 3, 2024, Fonseca Flores pleaded guilty to the other two offenses. 

    According to evidence presented at trial, Fonseca Flores and his co-defendant, Misty Lynn Parady (35, Orlando), sold fake “M30” pills laced with fentanyl to “N.K.” Between April 2020 and April 2022, Fonseca Flores and Parady sold N.K. what she, at first, believed to be oxycodone. After some time, N.K. realized that the pills she was buying from them contained fentanyl.

    On October 31, 2021, N.K. warned Parady by text message that she had tested positive for fentanyl. Parady relayed that information to Fonseca Flores. On March 31, 2022, within days of purchasing “M30” pills from Fonseca Flores, N.K. sent a text message to Parady containing an image of her drug test, showing that N.K. had tested negative for oxycodone and positive for fentanyl.

    Despite these and other warnings, Fonseca Flores and Parady continued to supply N.K. with the counterfeit fentanyl pills, and N.K. ultimately died from a fentanyl overdose on April 4, 2022.

    Following a traffic stop of Fonseca Flores and Parady’s vehicle on October 3, 2022, about six months after N.K.’s death, officers seized fake “M30” fentanyl pills from the vehicle. The fake pills were tested by the DEA lab and were shown to contain fentanyl. Inside the car, officers also recovered cocaine, a digital scale, baggies, and hundreds of dollars in cash. Fonseca Flores, a convicted felon, also possessed a firearm.

    On April 4, 2024, law enforcement officers arrested Fonseca Flores and Parady when they executed a search warrant at their home in Orlando. Inside the home, law enforcement found three firearms, ammunition, fake M30’s (fentanyl), other illegal drugs, cash, and drug paraphernalia.

    On May 24, 2024, Misty Lynn Parady pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. She was sentenced on August 26, 2024, to six years and six months in federal prison.

    “Cases like this reinforce drug traffickers care only about profit and driving addiction,” said Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter, Drug Enforcement Administration, Miami Field Division. “DEA will pursue drug traffickers with everything we have to make our communities safe and healthy.”

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Orlando Police Department Overdose Unit. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kara M. Wick, Stephanie McNeff, and Michael P. Felicetta.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Every 3 years, we play the election date waiting game. Are fixed terms the solution?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jill Sheppard, Senior Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

    With another election campaign unofficially underway, voters may feel it hasn’t been long since they were last at the voting booth.

    Australia’s Constitution dictates:

    every House of Representatives shall continue for three years from the first meeting of the House, and no longer, but may be sooner dissolved by the Governor-General.

    This allows the sitting government to call an election sooner than three years after taking office, but recent norms are for governments to use the full term length available to them.

    But how do politicians and the public feel about this format, and could this change anytime soon?

    Early elections

    In 1998, the John Howard Liberal government called an early election seeking voters’ support for its ambitious plans to introduce a goods and service tax. It came very close to defeat, but clawed its way to victory and nine more years of power.

    In 2016, the Malcolm Turnbull Liberal government took a similar punt, calling an early double dissolution election ostensibly on the issue of union corruption. Again, it came very close to defeat but clawed its way to victory (and six more years of power).

    Despite their reasons for calling early elections, both Howard and Turnbull faced declining global economic conditions and arguably moved tactically to avoid campaigning in the worst of the headwinds.

    Most governments have less appetite for capitalising on external events – like interest rate cuts – when calling an election. Voters already largely distrust politicians, and cynical early elections will only confirm their beliefs.

    Fixed versus non-fixed parliamentary terms

    The ability of a government to unilaterally decide the election date is unusual.

    The political systems most similar to Australia – New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States – all have fixed election dates. Australian states and territories have also increasingly moved to fixed dates, where the government of the day has no discretion over election timing.

    As prime minister, Julia Gillard effectively relinquished her right to manipulate the 2013 election date in her favour. She announced it more than seven months ahead of time. Her government lost the subsequent election.

    Unsurprisingly, there is little political will to move to fixed dates for federal elections. Only current Special Minister of State Don Farrell has expressed even passing support for the idea (and then, only if voters were clearly in favour).

    Fixed terms would undoubtedly benefit voters, who could plan their calendars well in advance. They would also benefit non-government parties and independent candidates, who could budget and plan campaigns around a known election date.

    Who wants longer terms?

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supports four-year terms, reflecting long-term Labor Party policy.

    The Liberal Party has generally been more ambivalent. Howard was supportive but “not mad keen” in 2005 and supportive, but resigned to failure in 2024.

    Current leader Peter Dutton also backs longer terms, but observes that, among voters, “generally, there is a reluctance to do anything that makes the life of a politician easier”.

    Beyond voters’ reluctance to grant a one-year extension to politicians’ tenure, the issue of senate term lengths is an obstacle to reform.

    Current tradition sets senate terms twice the length of House of Representatives terms, however, Penny Wong has argued that eight-year terms are too long.

    Both New South Wales and South Australia have experience with eight-year terms in their upper houses, but no other states have yet followed.

    How could (and will) terms be changed?

    Any change to federal parliamentary terms would require a successful referendum. The question has been put to Australians once before, in 1988. Only 33% of voters supported the proposal, and no state achieved majority support.

    Polling from April 2024 finds only 38% support, with 18% unsure. Independent and minor party voters – the fastest growing group in Australian politics – were also the most strongly opposed to longer terms.

    As Dutton noted, voters have been reluctant to support “politician-friendly” referendums in the past. There seems almost no chance the 48th parliament would consider a referendum on the issue.

    Would 4-year terms make politics better?

    David Coleman, recently promoted to the Liberal Party’s frontbench, has confidently declared “businesses and consumers tend to hold off on investment during election periods and the phoney war that precedes them”, and so longer terms would improve the domestic economy.

    The business sector seems to agree.

    Are they right? And what about non-economic outcomes?

    Academic research backs up the assumption governments are less likely to announce major tax reforms in the months leading into an election. Shorter terms might also make governments less likely to introduce austerity (strict cost-cutting) measures.

    The weight of academic evidence suggests that whichever party is in power matters far more than the length of the electoral cycle.

    Researchers have struggled to find differences in how politicians with longer terms (usually four years) behave from those with shorter terms (usually two years). Activity levels for the shorter-term politicians appear slightly more frenetic – more fundraising and expenditure, more campaigning – but the outcomes are similar.

    Longer terms do not seem destined to fix Australia’s political malaise.

    Jill Sheppard receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Every 3 years, we play the election date waiting game. Are fixed terms the solution? – https://theconversation.com/every-3-years-we-play-the-election-date-waiting-game-are-fixed-terms-the-solution-250273

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –