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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Niagara-on-the-Lake — Three foreign nationals apprehended after an illegal crossing at Fort Erie

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 13th, 2025, three foreign nationals were spotted crossing into Canada via the Fort Erie train bridge to a waiting vehicle on the Canadian side.

    One individual was apprehended immediately, a second migrant escaped on foot and was later apprehended. A third migrant managed to enter a waiting vehicle, and while fleeing the scene, nearly struck several of the RCMP Border Integrity Members who were responding. On April 23, the migrant, along with the driver of the vehicle, turned themselves in to police.

    Alexander Cardenas, a Cuban national, was transferred to the Peace Bridge port of entry in Fort Erie. After being assessed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the subject was found to be ineligible to enter Canada and was subsequently returned to the US.

    The driver of the vehicle, Yenny Justo, is the wife of Cardenas. She has been arrested and faces charges for Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance (Sec. 320.13 of the Criminal Code), Conspiracy and Fail to Report under the Customs Act (Sec. 465(1)(c) of the Criminal Code). Justo was held for a bail hearing in St. Catharines court.

    The Niagara-on-the-Lake RCMP Border Integrity Unit currently maintains a 24/7 presence at the railway bridge. The RCMP have arrested several people attempting to make illegal entry into Canada since this new presence was initiated. All individuals arrested were processed by the CBSA in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and subsequently found to be inadmissible to Canada. They were returned to the U.S.

    Members of the Niagara-on-the-Lake RCMP are actively conducting patrols along the border in this area on land, water and air to disrupt cross-border criminal activity.

    The RCMP is committed to working with our partners to protect the residents and communities of Canada. Our collaboration with local police partners and the CBSA continues to provide positive results for Canada.

    The strategic deployment of RCMP Border Integrity Officers between the Ontario Ports of Entry has proven to be a successful tactic in preventing illegal migration into Canada. Our Border Integrity Officers work with our CBSA partners, 24/7, enforcing Canada’s borders.”
    – Superintendent Dale Foote, Officer IN Charge of Central Region (Ontario) Border Integrity

    “Our strong partnership with the RCMP has enabled the continued success in apprehending those circumventing legal immigration routes. The diligent work of our Canada Border Services Agency inland team led to the identity and location of the subjects in this case.” – Abeid Morgan, Director, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Intelligence and Enforcement Operations Division

    Fast Facts

    In Canada, border security and integrity is a shared mandate between the RCMP and the CBSA. The RCMP is responsible for protecting over 9,000 kilometres of Canada’s border between ports of entry, while the CBSA.

    The RCMP Niagara-on-the-Lake Border Integrity Unit is tasked with the prevention and detection of the cross-border smuggling both to and from Canada. This unit supports four CBSA ports of entry by conducting larger criminal investigations that start at the port. The unit is also tasked with protecting the border area between the ports from Cobourg on Lake Ontario to Port Burwell on Lake Erie. The members of the unit will often be found in boats ensuring vessels are complying with reporting requirements when entering Canada.

    If you have any information related to smuggling, drug importation, trafficking, or possession, or wish to report other criminality, you can contact the Ontario RMP at 1-800-387-0020, the confidential CBSA Border Watch toll-free line at 1-888-502-9060 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), at any time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Superstar Platforms, Inc Files Registration Statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Marks Key Milestone Toward Becoming a Fully Reporting Public Company

    ATLANTA, GA, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dinewise, Inc (OTC PINK-DWIS) (referred to as “Dinewise”, “we”, “us”, “our” or the “Company”) A leading national technology conglomerate specializing in automotive, fintech, and entertainment solutions has announced the filing of its Form 10 Registration Statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Formerly known as Dinewise, the Company will now operate under its new name, Superstar Platforms, Inc., as it transitions into a fully reporting public entity.

    “This is a pivotal milestone in our company’s journey,” said Michael Farr, CEO of Superstar Platforms, Inc. “From the moment I accepted the role of CEO, I have been laser-focused on providing transparency and meeting all necessary compliance requirements in our operations. This filing reflects our commitment to our stakeholders, and paves the way for greater liquidity.”

    With this filing, Superstar Platforms, Inc. will now adhere to the SEC’s regulatory framework required of public companies. The company has also established a board of directors composed of a diverse group of seasoned entrepreneurs, trailblazers, and community leaders, each bringing valuable experience and insight to guide the company’s strategic initiatives.

    Looking forward, the company anticipates finalizing its acquisition of TitlePal; a fintech company that has developed an innovative online solution for Title Pawn transactions, in the coming month. Superstar Platforms also plans to update its ticker symbol to better align with its new corporate identity.

    About Superstar Platforms

    Superstar Platforms, a leading national technology conglomerate, is the parent company that owns and controls a diversified portfolio of subsidiaries across various industries. Growth will primarily be driven through strategic acquisitions. Currently Superstar Platforms owns PawnTrust: a specialized marketplace designed exclusively for the approximately 11,000 pawn shops across the country. The online marketplace (www.pawntrust.com) digitizes the inventory using advanced image recognition algorithms to automate item descriptions of the participating pawn shops and markets them on a national scale. The marketplace contains cutting-edge technology that streamlines the borrowing, buying, and bartering transactions typically found at a pawn shop. The platform plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize pricing, reduce fraud, and create personalized search recommendations to enhance the customer’s experience. These enhancements let consumers experience a frictionless shopping experience on their mobile app that gives them instant access to this nationwide inventory of pawn shops. Not only does this provide a more efficient way for consumers to shop, eliminating the need to visit multiple stores, but it also amplifies the reach of individual pawn shop owners. By joining the PawnTrust- ‘Pawn Partners’ network, shop owners gain access to a broader audience, enhancing their visibility and sales opportunities. This innovative approach aligns customer convenience with business growth, reshaping how people interact with the pawn industry. Consumers that purchase items outside of their local area will have their items conveniently shipped to them. As the intermediary in each transaction, PawnTrust earns a fee on every item sold in the marketplace. Many of these local pawn shops lack an online presence or the capital to market their inventory on a national scale. By bridging this gap, PawnTrust opens up opportunities for incremental sales from a wider buying base, effectively transforming the pawn shop and micro-lending industries. This model not only supports local businesses but also extends their reach, driving growth and innovation within the market. 

    About TitlePal 

    TitlePal is an innovative, web-based lender that delivers fast, convenient cash loans to individuals with clear auto titles. By harnessing advanced algorithms and integrating with third-party systems, the platform ensures seamless verification of applicants’ identity, financial capacity, and vehicle condition. Approved funds are deposited directly into customers’ bank accounts, often within minutes, setting a new standard for efficiency in title lending

    Forward-Looking Information

    This release includes statements that may constitute ”forward-looking” statements, usually containing the words ”believe,” ”estimate,” ”project,” ”expect” or similar expressions. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. While the Company believes the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurances such expectations will prove to be accurate. Security holders are cautioned such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Certain factors may cause results to differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements made in this release. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, acceptance of the Company’s current and future products and services in the marketplace, the ability of the Company to develop effective new products and receive regulatory approvals of such products, competitive factors, dependence upon third-party vendors, risks and uncertainties related to the current unknown duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and other risks detailed in the Company’s periodic report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these forward-looking statements, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release.

    Investor Relations:
    Resources Unlimited
    718-269-3366
    mike@resourcesunlimitedllc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lewis Hamilton Foundation Mission 44 and HP Inc. Join Forces to Drive STEM Skills and Future of Work Readiness for Young People

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today at the F1 Miami Grand Prix circuit, Sir Lewis Hamilton’s global foundation Mission 44 and HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) announced a multi-year partnership to fuel access to technology and skills needed to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

    This collaboration unites Mission 44’s drive for greater inclusivity in STEM with HP’s ambition to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people globally by 2030, equipping disconnected adolescents and adults with the critical skills needed to thrive in the future of work.

    Through targeted initiatives in Miami and then expanding to the UK, the partnership will provide the technology, training, digital skills, and mentorship young people need to unlock opportunities to participate in the digital economy.

    Mission 44 and HP will first support two Miami-based tech hubs. America on Tech, an early pipeline tech talent accelerator that creates career pathways for young people and Miami EdTech, which aims to provide workforce development through computer science and digital skilling.

    Later this year, HP and Mission 44 will expand their collaboration to support schools and educators in the UK to increase learning access to equip young people for tomorrow’s workforce.

    “The partnership between HP and Mission 44 harnesses the unique strength and influence of our organizations. HP’s ability to shape the future of work through technology, combined with Mission 44’s drive for impactful change, makes this collaboration truly powerful,” said Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact at HP Inc. and Executive Director of the HP Foundation. “Together, we are fuelling access to essential skills and technology, equipping disconnected adolescents and adults to participate and thrive in the digital economy, and we are excited to bring this program to more people globally. Through a new HP Future of Work Skills Hub and support for local NGOs and educators, we are empowering the next generation with the tools they need to succeed.”

    “At Mission 44, we strongly believe in the power of collaboration, and our partnership with HP is the perfect example,” said Jason Arthur, CEO of Mission 44. “By bringing together a global tech leader and local non-profits, we know we can make a meaningful impact for young people, raising aspirations and achievement, and enabling access to exciting careers in STEM.”

    To kick off the partnership, the two organizations invited a group of young people from the Miami area to the Grand Prix circuit to meet Lewis Hamilton, whose personal experiences of education and motorsport have left him determined to build a more inclusive future. The group was given an exclusive tour of the Scuderia Ferrari HP Team garage and F1 paddock and participated in talks with industry insiders on the opportunities and skills required for careers in STEM related industries.

    Empowering Learners and Educators in Miami and Beyond

    In conjunction with the partnership announcement, HP has launched the new online Future of Work Skills Hub, designed to equip learners and educators across the globe with the tools needed to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world. The online portal offers a variety of skills courses, including AI and data science as well as business leadership. Additionally, it provides resources to assist educators in understanding and utilizing generative AI in education.

    Furthering their commitment to empowering young people, HP, Mission 44, Miami EdTEch and America on Tech have established the first on the ground Future of Work Hubs. These physical hubs in Miami combine lasting access to HP technology with long-term learning support for young people in those communities.

    “Technology is at the heart of our mission to empower underrepresented young people,” said Carlos Vazquez, Founder of Miami EdTech. “Thanks to HP and Mission 44, and the creation of our new hub, we now have more tech to teach with, giving our students the skills they need to succeed in STEM.”

    “We are proud to partner with Mission 44 and HP to help shape a meaningful tech education ecosystem in Miami. Together, we are investing in the brilliance and potential of young people—ensuring they have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive in the innovation economy,” said Jessica Santana, Chief Executive Officer, America on Tech. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to closing the digital divide and creating pathways that empower the next generation of tech leaders.”

    Miami EdTech

    Miami EdTech is a registered 501(c)(3) education technology non-profit organization on a mission to address the biggest challenges we face in education through innovation and technology. We provide teachers with engaging and effective professional development in the areas of Computer Science & Entrepreneurship, develop curriculum and tech-enabled learning environments, and support edtech innovation through pilots, consulting, and mentorship. The organization delivers high-quality education, targeted mentorship,
    industry-aligned internships, and apprenticeship programs to give underserved youth the support they need to succeed in STEM. To learn more visit: https://miamiedtech.com.

    America on Tech

    America On Tech (AOT) is a national nonprofit preparing the next generation of technology leaders from underestimated communities. AOT provides high-quality, no-cost tech education, skills development, and workforce readiness programs starting with high school youth in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and now Atlanta. The organization offers training in Web Development, Artificial Intelligence, UX Design, Product Management, Digital Marketing, Data Science, and Cybersecurity, connecting students with mentorship and career opportunities in the tech sector. Since its founding in 2014, AOT has served more than 5,000 students, facilitated over 1,000 internship placements, and helped students earn $4.1 million in wages through paid work-based learning experiences. To learn more visit: https://www.americaontech.org/.

    About Mission 44

    Founded by seven-time Formula One World Champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, Mission 44 is a global charitable foundation driving change so that every young person can thrive in school and access great careers in STEM. To learn more, visit www.mission44.org.

    About HP

    HP Inc. is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services, and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.hp.com.

    To access the new Future of Work Skills Hub, please visit www.hp.com/future-skills. For more information about HP’s social impact initiatives visit hp.com/digital-equity.

    hp.com/go/newsroom

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is a faith-based charter school a threat to religious freedom, or a necessity to uphold it? The weighty decision lies with the Supreme Court

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Charles J. Russo, Joseph Panzer Chair in Education and Research Professor of Law, University of Dayton

    Supporters of charter schools rally outside the Supreme Court building on April 30, 2025, during oral arguments over a proposed Catholic charter school. AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

    As demonstrators gathered outside, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on April 30, 2025, about whether Oklahoma can operate the nation’s first faith-based charter school. St. Isidore of Seville would be a virtual, K-12 school run by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Diocese of Tulsa.

    Charters are typically public schools of choice, funded by taxpayer dollars. Unlike regular public schools, they are free from most state regulations on curriculum and teacher qualifications. Until now, however, charters, like other public schools, have been secular.

    The litigation over St. Isidore reveals a built-in tension in the First Amendment religion clauses, under which “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” While the free exercise clause guarantees people the right to believe as they wish, controversy remains over what constitutes an “establishment” of religion.

    Here, the specific question is the extent to which, if any, states can spend public funds to allow parents to enroll their children in a faith-based charter school. Supporters are appealing a 2024 ruling from the Supreme Court of Oklahoma, which held that a religious charter school violated state law, as well as the Oklahoma and federal constitutions.

    The Oklahoma Supreme Court bench in the state Capitol building in Oklahoma City.
    AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki

    Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican supporter of St. Isidore, has said the case “stands to be one of the most significant religious and education freedom decisions in our lifetime.”

    On the other hand, the attorney for St. Isidore’s challengers – led by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who blocked the school’s opening – said that a victory for St. Isidore “would result in the astounding rule that states not only may but must fund and create public religious schools, an astounding reversal from this court’s time-honored precedents.”

    It remains to be seen whether a ruling in favor of St. Isidore’s would prove to be a win for religious freedom, as Stitt claimed, or a threat. Even so, as a professor focused on education law, I believe an order to continue expanding taxpayer aid to faith-based institutions looks more likely after Wednesday’s arguments, where five of the eight participating justices seemed sympathetic to St. Isidore.

    The issues

    The Supreme Court faces two key questions.

    First, do the teachings of “a privately owned and run school constitute state action simply because it contracts with the state to offer a free educational option for interested students?” In other words, is a charter school a state actor?

    Second, the justices will weigh how the First Amendment religion clauses apply to a faith-based charter school. According to the First Amendment, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” The question is whether Oklahoma violates the free exercise clause by excluding schools from the charter program “solely because the schools are religious.” If so, is the exclusion justified by concerns about the government “establishing” religion?

    The dispute over St. Isidore comes at a time when the Supreme Court has been steadily expanding the limits of aid to faith-based schools. Starting in 2016, a trio of cases have held that states cannot deny institutions and believers generally available, taxpayer-funded aid based solely on their religions. These cases covered aid to enhance playground safety at a Missouri preschool, the right to participate in Montana’s educational tax credit program, and providing tuition assistance to Maine parents in districts lacking public secondary schools.

    The other issue – the “state actor” question – essentially asks whether a state-funded school teaching Catholicism would constitute the government promoting a religion, in violation of the First Amendment’s prohibition against doing so.

    The Supreme Court building on April 30, 2025, the day of oral arguments in St. Isidore’s case.
    AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

    Drummond, Oklahoma’s attorney general, is also a Republican. However, he reversed his predecessor’s action allowing St. Isidore’s creation, arguing that the school “misuses the concept of religious liberty by employing it as a means to justify state-funded religion.”

    In a 2024 brief to the Supreme Court, Drummond noted that Oklahoma’s “charter schools bear all of the hallmarks of a public school,” such as being entirely state-funded. During April arguments, his attorney emphasized that charters are “required to be public schools by the Congress of the United States and the legislatures of 47 states.”

    If this argument prevails, it means St. Isidore is a government actor, and therefore it cannot promote any one religion over another.

    The state action claim may be difficult for St. Isidore’s supporters to overcome. However, the ace in the hole is the Supreme Court’s recent trend of expanding the boundaries of government aid to faith-based schools and their students.

    In fact, Chief Justice John Roberts authored the majority opinion in all three of those cases. Excluding a religious preschool “from a public benefit for which it is otherwise qualified, solely because it is a church, is odious to our Constitution all the same, and cannot stand,” he wrote in the 2016 decision.

    Justice Amy Barrett, a supporter of increased aid to faith-based schools, recused herself from participating in the oral arguments, without explanation. This leaves five justices who support expanding public aid for faith-based schools: Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Roberts.

    Oral arguments

    During questioning, Roberts commented that St. Isidore’s creation seems like “much more comprehensive [state] involvement” with a religious organization, compared with the previous cases that expanded taxpayer aid to religious schools – leaving the door open to speculation over how he might vote. Nevertheless, he and the other four proponents of aid appeared open to St. Isidore’s argument that to exclude faith-based schools from charter programs is unconstitutional discrimination on the basis of religion.

    “All the religious school is saying is don’t exclude us on account of our religion,” Kavanaugh commented. He added, “You can’t treat religious people and religious institutions and religious speech as second class in the United States.”

    The remaining justices – Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson – appeared skeptical of expanding state aid to faith-based schools.

    Illustrating the tensions within the First Amendment, Sotomayor remarked to the attorney representing St. Isidore, “what you’re saying is the free exercise clause trumps the essence of the establishment clause.”

    Jackson said to the same attorney that St. Isidore is “not being denied a benefit that everyone else gets. It’s being denied a benefit that no one else gets, which is the ability to establish a religious public school.”

    If Roberts agrees with these three justices, resulting in a 4-4 tie, the judgment of the Supreme Court of Oklahoma would remain undisturbed.

    In the words of the baseball sage Yogi Berra, “it ain’t over ‘till it’s over.” The court is expected to rule near the end of its term, likely in late June.

    This article includes material from an article originally published on Jan. 31, 2025.

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

    – ref. Is a faith-based charter school a threat to religious freedom, or a necessity to uphold it? The weighty decision lies with the Supreme Court – https://theconversation.com/is-a-faith-based-charter-school-a-threat-to-religious-freedom-or-a-necessity-to-uphold-it-the-weighty-decision-lies-with-the-supreme-court-253536

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: As heated tobacco products reenter the US market, evidence on their safety remains sparse – new study

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, Assistant Professor of Health Promotion and Policy, UMass Amherst

    Most studies on the safety of heated tobacco products are funded by tobacco companies. YaroslavKryuchka/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Heated tobacco products are often marketed by tobacco companies as less harmful than cigarettes, but they can pose health risks to users, according to a new review I co-authored in the journal Tobacco Control. Evidence on their health risks in people who smoke is limited, sometimes contradictory, and hard to make sense of.

    Heated tobacco products are electronic devices that heat tobacco so users can inhale nicotine. Common brands include IQOS, available in the U.S., and Ploom and Glo, sold in other countries.

    Heated tobacco products are different from e-cigarettes, though they may look similar. E-cigarettes, which are also called vapes, heat a liquid containing nicotine but not tobacco, whereas heated tobacco products heat actual tobacco leaf. Heated tobacco products are also different from traditional cigarettes, which burn tobacco rather than heating it. These distinctions matter because it’s the burning of tobacco leaf – not the nicotine – that directly causes the disease and death associated with smoking.

    There is limited long-term data about the health harms of heated tobacco products. My colleagues and I analyzed the available data, drawn from 40 clinical trials, that followed participants who used these products for a year or less. We looked at molecular changes in the blood, breath and urine, called biomarkers, to explore the potential risks of heated tobacco products.

    The studies we reviewed reported changes in 143 different biomarkers, including measures linked to heart disease and cancer. But drawing clear conclusions from the data was hard because of issues with the available evidence. Of the 40 studies, 29 were funded by the tobacco industry. Furthermore, 31 of the 40 studies were conducted in confined settings, meaning that participants’ activities and their use of the assigned product were controlled. This may not reflect heated tobacco products’ real-world use.

    If heated tobacco products are less harmful than cigarettes, we would expect to see largely beneficial effects in smokers who switched to them. However, the evidence we reviewed was inconclusive. Though most studies suggested that heated tobacco products might reduce risks of disease compared with smoking, other studies found no difference, or even the potential of increased risk. Compared with quitting smoking completely, use of heated tobacco products had more consistently harmful effects.

    Tobacco companies claim that heated tobacco products pose less of a health risk than cigarettes.

    Few studies have directly compared the effects of heated tobacco products with e-cigarettes. However, many independently funded, longer-term studies have examined e-cigarettes and have shown they can help people stop smoking and reduce health risks in people who switch completely from smoking to vaping.

    Why it matters

    Heated tobacco products may be coming to a town near you – or already be there. They are already widely used in Japan. IQOS was removed from the U.S. market in 2021 after a court ruled that the product had infringed on an existing patent. However, following a flurry of promotional activities, IQOS relaunched in March 2025 in Austin, Texas. Like most heated tobacco product brands, IQOS is owned by one of the largest cigarette companies in the world, Philip Morris International.

    The company claims it wants to bring IQOS to the U.S. market to provide smoking adults a “better alternative” to cigarettes. But the science we’ve reviewed on whether heated tobacco products are truly healthier is inconclusive. Our review found inconsistencies in data on health effects, and other research suggests these products may not help smokers quit.

    What still isn’t known

    We do not know the long-term health effects of heated tobacco products, nor whether they can actually reduce the risk of disease and death in people who switch from smoking to using heated tobacco products. It is also unclear how heated tobacco products fit into the wider tobacco and nicotine market, especially in light of other available products and interventions already proved to help smokers quit.

    While our findings do not rule out the possibility that these products have fewer health risks than cigarettes, they provide little support for such claims.

    Jamie Hartmann-Boyce receives research funding for tobacco related research from the US NIH-FDA and Cancer Research UK. She has provided research consultancy for the Truth Initiative. Her involvement in this work was not funded and the views expressed here are those of the researchers and do not necessarily represent those of her funders. Other authors of this work are funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies as part of the Bloomberg Initiative to Reduce Tobacco use. This funder had no role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

    – ref. As heated tobacco products reenter the US market, evidence on their safety remains sparse – new study – https://theconversation.com/as-heated-tobacco-products-reenter-the-us-market-evidence-on-their-safety-remains-sparse-new-study-254278

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Fleeting fireflies illuminate Colorado summer nights − and researchers are watching

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Orit Peleg, Associate Professor of Computer Science, University of Colorado Boulder

    Fireflies in Boulder, Colo., during the summer of 2023. Radim Schreiber/Firefly Experience, CC BY

    The Colorado June air was thick with summer heat. Mosquitoes rose in clouds around us, testing our resolve while we gathered our cameras and sensors. We walked into the wetland, down the unmarked path until the cattails rose shoulder-high. The sounds of frogs and crickets filled the air as we set up our cameras and waited. Then we spotted them: tiny lights lifting from the grasses, blinking in slow rhythms.

    Bioluminescent lampyrid beetles, commonly known as fireflies or lightning bugs, are widespread throughout the Eastern United States but far more scarce west of Kansas.

    Even though many are stargazers and hikers, most Colorado residents don’t know that fireflies share their state.

    We are an associate professor of computer science and a Ph.D. candidate who are working to shed light on Colorado’s hidden fireflies.

    In the past few years, we have observed and filmed elusive bioluminescent fireflies all over Colorado, racing each summer against their brief and unpredictable flashing season.

    The authors − Orit, left, and Owen − in the field, taking notes and observing specimens.
    Nolan R. Bonnie and Mac Stone

    Last year in early June it was too early, we thought, for fireflies in Colorado. For weeks we had been checking weather forecasts, comparing them to previous years, waiting for warmer nights and rising temperatures − the signs that would tell us it’s firefly time.

    Then we got a tip. A friend mentioned seeing one or two flashes near their property. The next morning we packed our gear, rearranged our schedules and contacted our volunteer network. The field season began in a literal flash.

    As adults, fireflies live and flash for only about two weeks a year − and even then, just for a few hours each night. It’s easy to blink and miss the entire season. The next generation overwinters underground as larvae, emerging as adults the following year, though development may take up to two years in arid climates. Making the most of that narrow window is one of the many reasons we rely on volunteers who help us spot the first flashes and record observations across Colorado.

    Western fireflies face unique environmental challenges

    Our work joins a growing chorus of scientific observation focused on western fireflies, which pop up across the arid landscape near temporary wetlands, marshes, drainages, desert rivers and other water sources. Because of the dry landscape, these populations tend to be fragmented, isolated to where the water is and nowhere in between.

    This strong tie to small, unstable habitat spells vulnerability for the fireflies. If the water runs out, or their habitats are damaged by water or light pollution, the flashing populations could vanish. Pesticides in water are toxic to firefly larvae and their prey, and artificial light inhibits the flash courtship between males and females, preventing successful reproduction. Many populations and species of fireflies are threatened with extinction in the United States due to these factors.

    Organizations such as our lab at the University of Colorado and the Xerces Society for Inverteberate Conservation are studying the distribution of and direct threats to western firefly populations. Many of the species are either endangered or not yet described.

    The fireflies of the Photuris genus along the Front Range, for example, still do not have a species name and appear to be genetically distinct from other Photuris around the country. Preliminary genetic results suggest at least one new species might be found here. The genetic data also suggests at least five different bioluminescent species of fireflies are present in Colorado.

    How flash patterns help fireflies (and us) tell species apart

    During their short mating season, fireflies use their flash patterns as mating calls.

    Males produce a series of flash-on, flash-off events, each with specific durations and pauses. These Morse code-like signals communicate what type and how fit the fireflies are to potential mates in the darkness.

    When females detect a suitable male, they respond with their own unique flash pattern.

    Our work piggybacks on this evolutionary adaptation. We first recorded populations from around the U.S. using two video cameras, which allowed us to accurately track individual fireflies in three dimensions and separate their flash patterns.

    We used the data on the flash behavior from different species to train a neural network that can classify the firefly’s flash pattern with a high degree of accuracy. Our algorithm learns the unique flash patterns from our data and can identify the species of firefly that is present in a video.

    This is a powerful tool for firefly conservation efforts. The camera footage can cover more time and ground than field surveys conducted by humans, and our algorithm can more quickly identify species that might be threatened.

    Fostering community engagement with citizen science

    Based on our success with community science data collection across other states, including Tennessee, South Carolina and Massachusetts, we wanted to apply the same principles to Colorado’s firefly populations. This is a big undertaking: There are dozens of fragmented sites where fireflies are active across Colorado, and more are reported by volunteers every season. Our team of two cannot visit and survey every site during the short firefly season.

    In 2023 we put out our first call for volunteers in Colorado. Since that time, 18 community members in Boulder, Fort Collins, Divide and Loveland joined the filming effort. We provide cameras for the volunteers, who bring them to their nearby wetlands and set them up in the fading light.

    Last summer we partnered with local land management agencies in Boulder, Fort Collins and Loveland to host informative community events, where we spoke about firefly biology and conservation to audiences of all ages. On many of those nights, as the flashes began, we heard the excitement build: quiet gasps, hushed enthusiasm and a whisper such as, “Look at that beautiful streak of light!”

    Fireflies have an important story to tell, and here in Colorado that story is just beginning. Their brief flashes each summer help us learn about communication, ecology and how these delicate insects respond to an ever-changing world.

    If you’d like to help us find and study fireflies in Colorado, you can sign up to join our community science project.

    Orit Peleg receives funding from the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, CU Boulder’s Timmerhaus Fund Ambassadors, National Geographic Society, and Research Cooperation for Science Advancement.

    Owen Martin receives funding from Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP).

    – ref. Fleeting fireflies illuminate Colorado summer nights − and researchers are watching – https://theconversation.com/fleeting-fireflies-illuminate-colorado-summer-nights-and-researchers-are-watching-253593

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Reveals Second Domestic Abuse Filing Filed by Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Wife

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    So-called “Maryland Dad’s” Track Record of Violence 

    WASHINGTON – On Wednesday April 30, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revealed that the wife of Kilmar Abrego Garcia — the so-called “Maryland Dad”—filed a petition for protection against him in 2020.  

    “The facts are clear: Kilmar Abrego Garcia is a violent illegal alien who abuses women and children. He had no business being in our country and we are proud to have deported this violent thug,” Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. “We have now found two petitions for protection against him, in addition to the fact that he entered the country illegally and is a confirmed member of MS-13. Our country is safer with him gone.” 

    According to the petition filed by Jennifer Vasquez on August 3, 2020, in the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County, Garcia verbally abused her, kicked her, slapped her, shoved her, mentally abused her kids, locking them in their bedroom while they cried, and detained Vasquez against her will. In November 2019, Vasquez alleges that Garcia grabbed her by the hair while in a vehicle. In December 2019, she states Garcia grabbed her from her hair in the car and dragged her out of the vehicle–abandoning her in the street. In January 2020, Vasquez claims Garcia broke her son’s tablet and broke doors in their house. In March 2020, she alleges that Garcia pushed her against the wall while breaking phones and TVs. 

    This newly released petition was filed in 2020, prior to the petition Vasquez filed against Garcia 2021. In that filing, Vasquez claimed he bruised, punched, and scratched her while ripping off her shirt. 

    DHS has previously revealed that Garcia was involved in a suspected human trafficking incident, is an MS-13 gang member, and had been accused of domestic abuse on at least one other occasion. Still, the media continues to call him a victim while ignoring the real victims: the women he battered, the children he terrorized, and the communities he endangered. 

    The Aug. 2020 protection order petition can be found here.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos: JACKBIT Rated Top Casino Site In 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LARNACA, Cyprus, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the demand for online gambling for real money grows, players face a crowded market of options, making it challenging to identify the best online casinos that pay real money. Our team meticulously evaluated numerous platforms, and JACKBIT emerged as the clear leader in delivering an unmatched real money casino experience.

    JOIN JACKBIT NOW & WIN FREE SPINS

    Whether you’re chasing jackpots on the best online casino slots or strategizing at blackjack tables, JACKBIT offers a seamless and rewarding platform that stands out among top online casinos. This review explains why JACKBIT stands out as the top online casino, detailing its bonuses, games, payment options, and more. Ready to dive in? Join JACKBIT Casino and claim your 30% rakeback and 100 free spins!

    A Closer Look at the Best Online Casino: JACKBIT

    JACKBIT has secured the top spot in our rigorous evaluation of the best online casinos for real money. Below, we break down the key factors that make it the leading real money casino for 2025.

    JACKBIT – The Top Online Casino for Real Money

    Since its 2022 launch under a Curacao eGaming Commission license, JACKBIT has set a new benchmark for real-money online casinos. Its standout feature is a no KYC policy, allowing players to register and play with maximum privacy—a game-changer for those seeking legit online casinos.

    As a best paying online casino, JACKBIT processes withdrawals instantly, ensuring you access your winnings without delay. Imagine depositing, playing Sweet Bonanza, and cashing out a big win in minutes—that’s the JACKBIT experience.

    New players get a sign-up bonus of 30% rakeback and 100 free spins with no wagering requirements—perfect for trying out all the platform’s games and features.

    For example, a $100 deposit could yield $30 back plus free spins on Book of the Dead, giving you a head start. JACKBIT keeps the fun going with ongoing offers: a VIP club that gives up to 30% rakeback, social media rewards, and Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins tournaments with a €2 million prize pool.

    GET 30% RAKEBACK AND 100 FREE SPINS AT JACKBIT!

    With over 7,000 casino games real money options from 91 top providers like Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and Play’n Go, JACKBIT caters to every taste. From high-RTP slots to live dealer blackjack, the variety is staggering.

    Its sportsbook is equally impressive, boasting thousands of monthly live events across 140+ sports, including football, basketball, and esports like League of Legends. This makes JACKBIT a one-stop shop for all gambling needs, from casual slot spins to high-stakes sports betting.

    The platform’s sleek, intuitive interface is available in multiple languages (English, Japanese, French, Spanish), ensuring accessibility. High-end SSL encryption protects your data, and 24/7 customer support via live chat and email guarantees prompt assistance.

    Whether you’re new to online casinos that pay real cash or a seasoned player, JACKBIT’s player-centric design and flexible payment options make it the best casino online real money for 2025.

    Pros and Cons of JACKBIT Casino

    Here’s a balanced look at JACKBIT’s strengths and potential drawbacks:

    • Pros:
      • No KYC policy for maximum privacy
      • Instant deposits and withdrawals
      • Over 7,000 games from top providers
      • Extensive sportsbook with live betting
      • Generous welcome bonus and VIP rewards
      • Supports 16+ cryptocurrencies and traditional methods
      • 24/7 customer support
    • Cons:
      • Relatively new platform (launched 2022)
      • Some bonuses may have wagering requirements
      • Bonuses may be game-specific
      • Availability may be restricted in certain regions

    How to Join JACKBIT

    Joining JACKBIT is quick and user-friendly, designed to get you playing in minutes, even if you’re new to real money casinos:

    1. Visit JACKBIT Casino: Click here to navigate to JACKBIT Casino to access the sign-up page.
    2. Sign Up
      1. Click Sign Up, enter your email, and a password.
      2. No personal details needed—registration is instant.
      3. Make Your First Deposit
        1. Go to the Cashier, choose Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Visa.
        2. Deposit at least $50 (or crypto equivalent).
        3. For crypto, just scan the QR code—funds appear instantly.
        4. Enter Bonus Code
          1. In the deposit window, enter the current promo code (e.g., WELCOME).
          2. Check the Promotions page for the latest code.
          3. Receive Your Bonus
            1. Automatically get 30% rakeback plus 100 free spins (no wagering).
            2. Start Playing
              1. Explore over 7,000 slots, table games, and live sports betting.

                2. Pro Tip: Double-check your email and bonus code before you deposit to avoid any hiccups.

                How We Selected JACKBIT as the Best Online Casino

                Choosing the best online casino for real money play required a strict evaluation process to ensure safety, value, and enjoyment. Here’s how we landed on JACKBIT:

                License and Security

                JACKBIT operates under a Curacao eGaming license, a trusted authority in online gambling. It uses high-end SSL encryption to safeguard player data and transactions, ensuring a secure environment. Regular audits confirm game fairness, making it a reliable real cash online casino (Casinos Blockchain).

                Bonuses and Promotions

                We prioritized casinos with generous, fair bonuses. JACKBIT’s 30% rakeback and 100 free spins with no wagering requirements outshine many competitors. Ongoing promotions, like VIP rakeback up to 30% and weekly $10,000 prize pools, add significant value for regular players.

                Casino Games

                A diverse game library is crucial. JACKBIT’s 7,000+ games, from high-RTP slots to live dealer tables, cater to all preferences. It’s sportsbook, with 140+ sports and thousands of live events, ensures variety, keeping the experience fresh for top online casinos real money users.

                Casino Game Providers

                JACKBIT works with top providers—Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and Play’n Go—to offer fair, eye-catching games with seamless performance, making it a standout online casino.

                Banking Methods

                Flexible, fast payments are essential. JACKBIT accepts over 16 cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin and Solana—for instant, fee-free transactions, and also offers familiar payment methods such as Visa.This aligns with the best online casino payouts expectations.

                Customer Support

                Reliable support is non-negotiable. JACKBIT offers 24/7 live chat and email support, with prompt, professional responses, ensuring players are never left stranded (AskGamblers).

                JACKBIT’s excellence across these criteria—privacy, speed, variety, and support—makes it the undisputed best online casino for 2025.

                CLAIM 30% RAKEBACK + 100 NO-WAGER SPINS—NO KYC!

                What Players Look for in the Best Online Casinos

                When searching for the best online casino, players typically prioritize several key features that enhance their gaming experience and ensure a safe and fair platform. Here’s how JACKBIT meets these expectations:

                1. Security and Licensing: Players seek assurance that their data is secure. JACKBIT’s Curacao license and SSL encryption provide a safe online casino environment.
                2. Game Variety: A broad selection of casino games real money options is essential. JACKBIT’s 7,000+ games and sportsbook cater to all preferences.
                3. Bonuses and Promotions: Generous offers like JACKBIT’s no-wagering welcome bonus and ongoing promotions boost player value.
                4. Payment Options: Flexible methods, including cryptocurrencies and cards, ensure convenience. JACKBIT’s instant withdrawals set it apart as a best paying online casino.
                5. Customer Support: 24/7 support via live chat and email ensures players can resolve issues quickly.
                6. User Experience: An intuitive interface, available in multiple languages, makes JACKBIT accessible and enjoyable.

                JACKBIT’s alignment with these priorities solidifies its status as the top online casino.

                Best Online Casino Games

                JACKBIT’s vast game selection makes it a top online casino, catering to both casual spinners and strategic bettors alike.

                Online Slots

                JACKBIT boasts a vast slot collection, including fan-favorites like Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play, 96.5% RTP), Hand of Anubis, and Mega Moolah (progressive jackpot). These slots feature vibrant themes, bonus rounds, and multipliers, making them ideal for players seeking the best online casino slots. For example, Sweet Bonanza offers cascading reels and a 21,100x max win, perfect for thrill-seekers.

                Blackjack

                A blend of luck and strategy, JACKBIT’s blackjack variants include Classic Blackjack, Multi-Hand, and European Blackjack. Players aim to beat the dealer with a hand close to 21, making it a favorite for those seeking skill-based wins at a real money online casino.

                Roulette

                This classic game of chance offers American and European versions. Players bet on outcomes like red/black or specific numbers, with European Roulette’s lower house edge (2.7%) appealing to savvy gamblers. Its simplicity adds excitement to the best casino online real money experience.

                Poker

                JACKBIT’s poker options, like Caribbean Stud and Three Card Poker, pit players against the house. These games blend strategic depth with high win potential, appealing to different play styles and ramping up the thrill of real-money online casinos.

                Live Dealer Games

                Enjoy more than 250 live dealer games streamed in real time for a true casino atmosphere. Titles like Lightning Roulette and Infinite Blackjack let you chat with professional dealers, making real-money play more immersive.

                Sportsbook

                JACKBIT’s sportsbook covers 140+ sports, including football, basketball, and esports like CS:GO. With thousands of monthly live events and diverse betting types (e.g., over/under, parlays), it’s a haven for sports bettors (Silentbet).

                This varied selection lets JACKBIT serve everyone—from slot lovers to sports bettors—cementing its status as the top online casino.

                GET 30% RAKEBACK + 100 ZERO-WAGER SPINS—JOIN NOW!

                Best Online Casino Payment Methods

                JACKBIT’s payment options are tailored for speed and flexibility, making it a top choice for online casinos that pay real money:

                Cryptocurrency

                JACKBIT excels with 16+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether. These offer instant, fee-free deposits and withdrawals, with enhanced privacy—perfect for players seeking best online casino payouts. To deposit Bitcoin, log in, select BTC, scan the QR code, and confirm; funds appear instantly (Trustpilot).

                Debit/Credit Cards

                Visa and MasterCard provide instant deposits, ideal for players new to real money casinos. Withdrawals take 1–3 days, standard for traditional methods.

                E-Wallets

                While cryptocurrencies dominate, e-wallets like Skrill may be available, offering fast, secure transactions for players avoiding direct bank details.

                Wire Transfer

                Suitable for high rollers, wire transfers enable large withdrawals but take 1–5 days with potential fees, less ideal for quick payouts.

                JACKBIT’s focus on fast, secure transactions aligns with the needs of players at top online casinos real money platforms.

                Mobile Gaming at JACKBIT

                In today’s fast-paced world, mobile gaming is essential for the best online casinos. JACKBIT’s platform is fully optimized for mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy casino games that pay real money on smartphones and tablets. The mobile interface mirrors the desktop experience, offering intuitive navigation, fast loading times, and access to all features, including deposits, withdrawals, and bonuses. Whether you’re spinning slots or betting on sports, JACKBIT ensures a seamless mobile experience, making it a top online casino for on-the-go play.

                UNLOCK YOUR 30% RAKEBACK & 100 FREE SPINS—KYC-FREE!

                Responsible Gambling at Online Casinos

                Gambling with real money at sites like JACKBIT is exciting, but it’s vital to play responsibly. JACKBIT offers tools to help you stay in control:

              • Deposit Limits: Choose a maximum amount you can add to your account.
              • Loss Limits: Cap how much you can lose over a set period.
              • Wagering Limits: Restrict the size of your bets in a given timeframe.
              • Session Time Limits: Track and limit how long you play each session.
              • Cooling-Off Periods: Pause your account temporarily when you need a break.
              • Reality Checks: Get pop-up reminders showing how long you’ve been playing.

              JACKBIT’s commitment to responsible gambling ensures a safe, enjoyable experience. Players should wager only what they can afford to lose and seek support if needed, such as through the National Council on Problem Gambling (1-800-522-4700).

              JACKBIT Conclusion: The Best Online Casino for 2025

              Our team reviewed dozens of real-money casinos and named JACKBIT the top choice for 2025. Its no-KYC policy, instant withdrawals, and library of over 7,000 high-payout games make it stand out. New players get 30% rakeback plus 100 free spins on sign-up, and ongoing VIP rewards and tournaments add even more value. With flexible payment options, strong security, and 24/7 support, JACKBIT delivers a reliable experience.

              Whether you prefer high-RTP slots or sports and esports betting, you’ll find it here. Built around responsible-gaming tools and a player-first design, JACKBIT is the best online casino for real-money play in 2025.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              • Is JACKBIT a legitimate online casino?

              JACKBIT is licensed by the Curacao eGaming Commission, ensuring strict regulatory compliance for fairness and security in online gambling for real money.

              • What bonuses does JACKBIT offer?

              JACKBIT provides a 30% rakeback and 100 free spins welcome bonus with no wagering requirements, plus ongoing promotions and a rewarding VIP program for players.

              • Can I play on JACKBIT from my mobile device?

              Yes, JACKBIT’s platform is fully optimized for mobile devices, offering seamless access to games and betting options on smartphones and tablets for real money play.

              • What currencies does JACKBIT accept?

              JACKBIT supports 16+ cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether, alongside traditional methods like Visa and MasterCard for deposits and withdrawals in real money casinos.

              • How fast are withdrawals at JACKBIT?

              Cryptocurrency withdrawals at JACKBIT are processed instantly, while traditional methods like Visa or bank transfers may take 1-3 days, ensuring quick access to winnings.

              • Does JACKBIT offer live dealer games?

              Yes, JACKBIT features over 250 live dealer games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, hosted by professional dealers for an immersive real money casino experience.

              Email: support@JACKBIT.com

              Legal Disclaimer

              This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or gambling advice. All information is presented “as is,” with no warranties regarding accuracy or completeness. Readers are responsible for verifying information and ensuring compliance with local gambling laws. Gambling involves financial risk and potential addiction. Gamble responsibly, only wagering what you can afford to lose. Seek help from organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling if needed. Some links may be affiliate links, earning a commission at no cost to you. JACKBIT is licensed outside your jurisdiction and may be restricted in certain regions.

              A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dffa4a83-8d63-4896-b946-7c34d8acc993

              The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Crypto Casinos 2025: JACKBIT, Ranked as Top Bitcoin Casino Without Verification

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LARNACA, Cyprus, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Looking for the best crypto casino that actually delivers in 2025? JACKBIT has quickly earned a strong reputation among Bitcoin gamblers for its fast payouts, vast game selection, and fair bonuses. In this review, we break down everything you need to know about JACKBIT so that you can decide if it’s the right fit for your next big win.

    ✅JOIN JACKBIT NOW AND DIVE INTO THE BEST CRYPTO GAMING EXPERIENCE!

    JACKBIT Casino Review 2025: Best Crypto Casino For Bitcoin Players

    JACKBIT keeps crypto gaming simple. Fast sign-ups, real Bitcoin casino games, immersive live tables, lucrative bonuses, and no-nonsense payout options when it’s time to cash out. Whether you’re spinning slots or betting on sports, everything just works fast and smoothly at this crypto casino site.

    Here are a few key takeaways from JACKBIT:

    • Fast Crypto Payments: JACKBIT supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more, with quick deposits and even faster withdrawals.
    • Huge Game Library: Thousands of slots, table games, and live casino games from top providers like Pragmatic Play and Evolution.
      Sportsbook Included: Bet on live sports, esports, and major leagues without switching sites.
    • User-Friendly Design: Clean, simple layout that works great on desktop and mobile, without any confusing menus or slow load times.
    • Regular Bonuses: Ongoing promotions, reload bonuses, tournaments, and rewards for loyal players.
    • Anonymous Play: No KYC checks for crypto players. Register, deposit crypto, and start playing quickly.
    • Safe and Licensed: Operates under a Curacao license with strong security measures to protect players.

    JACKBIT Casino Bonuses And Promotions

    Welcome Offers
    JACKBIT keeps it simple for new players. Right after signing up, you can jump into the action with JACKBIT’s promotions.

    • 30% Rakeback + 100 First Deposit Free Spins + No KYC
    • Sports Welcome Bonus: First bet cashback of at most 100%.

    ✅START TODAY WITH 30% RAKEBACK AND 100 FREE SPINS !!

    Other Promotions

    • 3+1 FreeBet
    • Bet Insurance
    • Social Media Bonuses
    • NBA Playoffs Cashback

    Tournaments And Prize Pools
    JACKBIT is big on competition. Every week, players can join casino and sports tournaments with prize pools that often hit six figures. This includes:

    1. Daily Tournament – 1,000 Free Spins (FS)
    2. Weekly Tournament – Prize pool of up to $10,000
    3. Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins Campaign – Reward pool of up to €2,000,000

    Loyalty Rewards
    JACKBIT has one of the strongest VIP programs with a 30% cashback. JACKBIT’s Rakeback VIP program is designed for players who want real, daily rewards without complicated point systems. Every bet you place, win or lose, earns you a percentage back straight into your account.

    Unlike traditional VIP clubs, the crypto casino’s system rewards regular players right away, making it one of the most straightforward loyalty programs around. As the best crypto casino, JACKBIT ensures that loyal players receive tangible benefits every day.

    JACKBIT Game Selection: Slots, Table Games, And Live Casino

    JACKBIT Casino offers one of the most complete gaming libraries in the crypto casino world. With thousands of games across different categories, it’s built to satisfy every type of player, whether you’re after fast spins, strategic gameplay, or live action. JACKBIT stands out as the best Bitcoin casino, providing an exceptional experience for all players. Here’s a closer look at what’s waiting for you inside.

    Classic And Video Slots
    If you enjoy simple, old-school gameplay, JACKBIT’s huge collection of classic slots brings back the nostalgia. The slot games section ranges from simple 3-reel machines with fruits, bars, and lucky sevens to cutting-edge video slots packed with bonus rounds, free spins, and multipliers. Big names like Gates of Olympus and Sugar Rush from Pragmatic Play are favorites here, delivering colorful graphics and high win potential.

    ✅WANT TO WIN BIG? JOIN JACKBIT AND ENJOY HASSLE-FREE CRYPTO GAMING!

    Table Games And Video Poker

    JACKBIT’s table games cover every casino essential. You’ll find multiple versions of blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker on this crypto-gambling site. The gameplay is smooth, the rules are easy to follow, and there’s a wide range of betting options in the table games section. Fans of strategy will appreciate JACKBIT’s video poker section too, with classics like Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild offering solid return-to-player (RTP) rates.

    Instant Games, Scratch Cards, And Video Bingo
    For those who like quick wins, JACKBIT’s instant games and scratch cards are worth a look. Titles like Aviator add a unique twist, where you bet on a plane’s flight and cash out before it crashes. Meanwhile, video bingo games offer a mix of slot-style excitement and traditional bingo fun.

    Jackpot Games
    Players hunting for life-changing payouts should explore JACKBIT’s jackpot games. These slots offer progressive prizes that can reach six or even seven figures.

    Live Casino Games
    JACKBIT’s live casino offers an authentic casino experience right on your device. Games like live blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game shows such as Mega Wheel are hosted by skilled dealers in real-time, providing an immersive experience that’s nearly as thrilling as being at a physical casino. As one of the best crypto casinos, JACKBIT ensures a seamless, secure, and exciting gaming experience for crypto enthusiasts.

    Supported Cryptocurrencies And Payment Methods At JACKBIT

    Crypto Options
    JACKBIT makes it easy for crypto users to jump right into the action. You can deposit and play using a wide range of coins, including:

    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • Litecoin (LTC)
    • Solana (SOL)
    • XRP
    • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
    • Monero (XMR)
    • Dash (DASH)
    • Binance Coin (BNB)
    • Tether (USDT)
    • USD Coin (USDC)
    • DAI
    • Dogecoin (DOGE)
    • Shiba Inu (SHIBA)
    • Chainlink (LINK)

    With so many options, you’re not tied to just Bitcoin, and transactions are usually fast with lower fees.

    ✅GET IN ON THE ACTION – REGISTER AT JACKBIT AND PLAY WITH CRYPTO!

    Buy Crypto With Traditional Methods
    Even if you don’t already have crypto, JACKBIT has you covered. You can buy digital coins directly through the site using:

    • VISA
    • Mastercard
    • Skrill
    • Neteller
    • Pix

    This is great for players who are just getting started with crypto or want the convenience of topping up without leaving the casino site.

    JACKBIT’s Mobile Gaming Experience

    JACKBIT works well on mobile without making you download an app. You just open your browser, log in, and start playing. The site loads quickly, and games run smoothly, even on older phones. Whether you’re a slots admirer, a sports enthusiast, or like to play immersive live casino games, JACKBIT’s mobile version has got you covered, making it one of the best crypto casinos for on-the-go gaming.

    Buttons are big enough to tap without mistakes, and the pages don’t lag or freeze during play. Depositing and withdrawing crypto is just as simple as it is on a desktop. Even the live dealer games, which can sometimes be tricky on small screens, run without issues on this crypto casino site. If you like gaming on the go, JACKBIT’s mobile experience is solid and reliable, making it the best Bitcoin casino for mobile users.

    JACKBIT Security, Fairness, And Licensing

    JACKBIT operates under a gaming license issued by the government of Curacao, which is one of the most reputable and reliable online gambling licenses in the world. This allows JACKBIT to offer its services anywhere in the world.

    The site uses SSL encryption to protect personal and financial information, so your data stays private during transactions. Payments are processed through secure blockchain networks, adding another layer of safety for crypto users.

    As for fairness, JACKBIT works with trusted game providers like Pragmatic Play, Evolution, and NetEnt, big-time software providers known for using certified random number generators (RNGs). For those who value privacy, JACKBIT stands out as the best no-KYC casino, allowing you to enjoy your favorite games without the need for intrusive identity checks.

    Customer Support At JACKBIT Casino

    JACKBIT offers several ways to get help when you need it. The fastest option is their 24/7 live chat, where you can connect with a support agent in under a minute most of the time. The staff is friendly, polite, and usually gets straight to the point without sending you in circles.

    You can also reach out via email if your question isn’t urgent. Responses through email typically come within a few hours, sometimes faster, depending on when you send your message.

    JACKBIT’s Help Center has a basic FAQ section that covers common issues like deposits, withdrawals, and account verification, though it could be a bit more detailed.

    Overall, customer support at JACKBIT is dependable. You’re not left hanging or dealing with confusing answers. Whether you have a simple question or a problem with a transaction, you can expect real help without long waits.

    Pros And Cons Of Playing At JACKBIT

    Pros

    • Accepts A Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies: JACKBIT supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and more, giving players real flexibility in how they deposit and withdraw.
      Fast Payouts: Crypto withdrawals are processed quickly, often hitting your wallet within minutes to a few hours.
    • Huge Game Selection: With thousands of slots, table games, live dealer options, and even sports betting, there’s always something new to try.
    • Mobile-Friendly: No casino app is needed to play on the go. JACKBIT runs smoothly on your phone’s browser, making it easy to play from the get-go.
      Tournaments and Rakeback: Apart from one-time bonuses, JACKBIT’s regular tournaments and a daily rakeback program give real value back to players.
    • Fair Gaming Providers: Games come from trusted names like Evolution and Pragmatic Play, ensuring random, fair results.
      Buy Crypto On-Site: If you don’t own crypto yet, you can easily buy it with a card or e-wallet inside JACKBIT.

    Cons

    • No Traditional Welcome Bonus: Unlike some casinos, JACKBIT doesn’t offer a huge upfront match bonus, focusing more on ongoing rewards.
    • Restricted Countries: Some regions aren’t able to register due to licensing restrictions.
    • Limited FAQ Details: The Help Center could be more detailed for players who like self-service answers.

    ✅LEVEL UP YOUR CASINO EXPERIENCE – SIGN UP ON JACKBIT TODAY!

    Who Should Play At JACKBIT?

    JACKBIT is a great fit if you want a casino that’s easy to use, fast with crypto, and packed with options. It’s perfect for players who:

    • Prefer crypto over traditional banking: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other coins are welcome here.
    • One Account To Play Them All: Like switching between slots, sports betting, and live casinos without opening multiple accounts.
    • Want quick payouts: No lengthy verification procedures or longer waiting periods.
    • Play mostly on mobile: JACKBIT’s site works just as smoothly on your phone as it does on your laptop.
    • Appreciate simple, no-hassle bonuses: Simple and clear bonus terms with lenient wagering requirements.
    • Value privacy and fast registration: Sign up, deposit, and start playing in just a few clicks.

    If that sounds like your style of gaming, JACKBIT is built for you.

    In Conclusion: JACKBIT’s Reputation As The Best Crypto Casino
    After years of reviewing countless casinos, it’s clear JACKBIT stands out in 2025. It’s built for real players, the ones who want fast crypto payments, a huge variety of games, and a reliable support option. JACKBIT doesn’t waste your time with flashy promises it can’t keep. Instead, it focuses on what matters the most. Like reliable payouts, fair games, and a full gaming experience that keeps you coming back for more.

    The daily rakeback, fast-paced tournaments, and wide crypto support give you real rewards beyond a typical casino bonus. Whether you’re into slots, table games, sports betting, or live dealers, JACKBIT covers it all without cutting corners.

    If you’re seeking the best crypto casino that offers consistent rewards and a top-tier gaming experience, JACKBIT is the smart choice. Ready to experience it yourself? Join JACKBIT today and start playing the way crypto gaming was meant to be.

    FAQ’s
    1. Is JACKBIT Casino safe and legit?

    Yes, JACKBIT operates under a Curacao gaming license and uses SSL encryption to protect player data. All games come from trusted providers with certified fair results, making JACKBIT a secure choice for crypto gambling.

    2. Can I play at JACKBIT Casino on mobile?

    Yes! JACKBIT works smoothly on mobile browsers without needing to download an app. You can play slots, bet on sports, or play live dealer games easily from your phone or tablet.

    3. How fast are withdrawals at JACKBIT?

    Withdrawals at JACKBIT are usually processed within minutes to a few hours, especially for Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies. There are no hidden fees when cashing out.

    4. Which cryptocurrencies can I use at JACKBIT Casino?

    At JACKBIT, you can use Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Solana (SOL), XRP, Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Monero (XMR), Dash (DASH), Binance Coin (BNB), Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), DAI, Dogecoin (DOGE), Shiba Inu (SHIBA), and Chainlink (LINK).

    Email: support@jackbit.com

    Legal Disclaimer

    This content is for informational purposes only and not legal, financial, or gambling advice. Ensure compliance with local gambling laws. No warranties are made regarding accuracy. Readers are responsible for verifying information and ensuring legal compliance. Gambling may be restricted in some regions.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    Some links may be affiliate links, earning a commission at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on objective evaluation, and partnerships do not influence conclusions.

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    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Battery Tender Launches Charge N Start Lineup, a Powerful All-in-One Solution for Charging and Jump-Starting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DELAND, Fla., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Battery Tender by Deltran, a leading brand in battery chargers and jump starters, today announces the launch of its new Charge N Start line, a cutting-edge suite of two-in-one battery chargers and jump starters. With three models featuring smart charging technology and robust jump-starting power, the Charge N Start series ensures versatility for car owners, powersports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

    A dead battery can turn a routine day into an unexpected hassle, whether it strands a commuter in a parking lot, delays an off-road ride or interrupts a road trip. Traditional jumper cables require another vehicle, and portable jump starters, while effective, can’t maintain battery levels. By combining a jump starter with a smart charger and maintainer in one device, Charge N Start eliminates battery anxiety, helps prepare motorists for roadside emergencies and keeps batteries in top condition, leading to longer battery life.

    “At Battery Tender, we understand that our customers rely on their vehicles for adventures, work and everyday convenience,” said Michael Prelec, CEO of Deltran, parent company of Battery Tender. “The Charge N Start lineup is more than a jump starter and charging solution, it’s a game changer in battery maintenance. Whether you’re an everyday motorist, commuter, avid mariner, powersport enthusiast or weekend rider, having a single device that not only gets you back on the road but also protects and maintains your battery’s health over time is invaluable.”

    Charge N Start 4120 leads the lineup, featuring a 4 AMP charger and a 1200 AMP jump starter intended for most vehicles including cars, boats, SUVs and powersport vehicles. For powersport vehicles like motorcycles, personal watercraft and ATVs, riders can count on Charge N Start 1110 and 1120 models. These 12V, 1 AMP solutions provide peace of mind, so riders are always ready, whether they’re taking their bike for a cruise or heading out for an off-road adventure.

    Charge N Start details:

    • Charge N Start 1100 ($129.95) – A 12V, 1 AMP charger and 1000 AMP jump starter for powersports vehicles such as motorcycles, personal watercraft, ATVs and UTVs, capable of jump-starting up to V8 engines.
    • Charge N Start 1120 ($139.95) – An enhanced version of the 1100, designed for the same vehicle types but with improved durability and reliability.
    • Charge N Start 4120 ($169.95) – A 12V, 4 AMP charger with a 1200 AMP jump starter, ideal for cars, trucks, boats, SUVs and powersports vehicles.

    Charge N Start is compatible with standard (sealed or flooded lead acid), AGM, GEL and lithium batteries, supporting a wide range of vehicles. When connected, it automatically switches from charging the car battery to the jump starter once the car battery is fully charged, ensuring it’s ready without manual input. Built with spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection to ensure safe use, motorists can easily operate Charge N Start worry-free. The portable design and carrying case also make it easy to store and transport. Additional accessories include smart alligator clips, a 6-foot AC input and DC output cable and an alligator clip and ring terminal cable combo with a 7.5 AMP fuse.

    Charge N Start is available on BatteryTender.com, Amazon and will be coming to Lowe’s Home Improvement nationwide in June. For more information on Charge N Start models and the full range of battery management solutions from Battery Tender, visit BatteryTender.com.

    About Battery Tender®
    Battery Tender® is a leading force in the power management and battery industry, dedicated to crafting cutting-edge charging and maintenance solutions. With a rich legacy spanning over 35 years, our brand has garnered unwavering trust from customers worldwide, owing to our steadfast commitment to performance and unmatched product reliability. For more information, visit BatteryTender.com and follow @BatteryTender on social.

    About Deltran, Parent Company of Battery Tender®
    Deltran is proud of where they started in 1965. As a third-generation family-owned and operated business, Deltran is committed to developing dependable quality products, providing exemplary customer service, and maintaining the trust of their brand. As stewards of the Battery Tender® brand, they have the great privilege of managing and building a consistent and strong identity for one of America’s leading battery maintenance solution manufacturers.

    Media Contact
    Uproar by Moburst for Battery Tender
    Julia Cappiello
    julia.cappiello@moburst.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tokio Marine HCC International Appoints Thibaud Hervy as CEO with Simon Button Promoted to International CUO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tokio Marine HCC International (TMHCCI), a member of the Tokio Marine HCC (TMHCC) group of companies based in Houston, Texas, today announced that Thibaud Hervy, previously Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO) – Specialty Lines, has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TMHCCI and Simon Button, formerly CUO – London Market, has been promoted to CUO of TMHCCI. These appointments take place with immediate effect subject to regulatory approval.

    This news follows the recent announcement of Barry Cook as Deputy CEO of TMHCC. He is one of the London Market’s longest-serving CEOs, having spent more than 20 years leading TMHCCI. In handing over the leadership of TMHCCI, Mr. Cook will focus on his new role at TMHCC.

    Mr. Hervy joined the business in 1999 as an Underwriter in HCC Global’s Financial Lines team, covering France and the Benelux region. Following this, he went on to play a central part in the rollout of the company’s underwriting strategy around the world, undertaking a number of senior roles, before being promoted to Managing Director of HCC Global in 2010. Mr. Hervy was appointed CUO – Specialty Lines of TMHCCI in 2014 and has been key to driving the continued development of the business’ long-term underwriting and distribution strategies.

    Mr. Button takes up the role of CUO of TMHCCI. He joined the company in 2000 and has held several leadership roles across TMHCCI’s Property, Marine and Energy underwriting divisions. In his expanded responsibilities, Mr. Button will play a pivotal role in shaping TMHCCI’s underwriting strategy as it continues to expand its offerings.

    “Barry’s impact on our international business cannot be overstated. When he took the helm in 2005, TMHCCI was a small player in London. Today, Barry leaves it a $2.8 billion market leader with an excellent track record of success over decades. He has been instrumental in building a business which continues to set new standards and achieve exceptional results,” said Susan Rivera, TMHCC’s CEO. “I am delighted to be working even more closely with Barry in his new role, and in Thibaud, we have the ideal candidate to carry on his legacy. As we embark on an exciting new chapter, Thibaud will spearhead our international growth and the expansion of our product suite.”

    Ms. Rivera added, “I am also delighted to announce Simon’s appointment as CUO of our International business. The risk landscape and the needs of our insureds are evolving. Key challenges such as the global transition to more sustainable practices also present significant business opportunities. Thibaud and Simon’s expertise will be core to the new offerings we are developing and to achieving new heights of excellence in service and innovation for our clients.”

    Mr. Cook commented, “I am proud to pass the baton of leadership of TMHCCI to Thibaud and Simon. I have had the pleasure of working with them for decades, and their vision and expertise continue to impress. I am certain that TMHCCI will continue to go from strength to strength under their management.”

    About Tokio Marine HCC
    Tokio Marine HCC is a member of the Tokio Marine Group, a premier global company founded in 1879 with a market capitalization of $70 billion as of December 31, 2024. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Tokio Marine HCC is a leading specialty insurance group with offices in the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Tokio Marine HCC’s major domestic insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings, ‘A++’ (Superior) from AM Best, and ‘AA-’ (Very Strong) from Fitch Ratings; its major international insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings. Tokio Marine HCC is the marketing name used to describe the affiliated companies under the common ownership of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc., a Delaware-incorporated insurance holding company. For more information about Tokio Marine HCC, please visit www.tokiomarinehcc.com.

    Contact: MHP Group
    max.steward@mhpgroup.com
    +44 (0)7586 050758

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Data Storage Corporation Schedules First Quarter 2025 Business Update Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELVILLE, N.Y., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) (“DSC” and the “Company”), a leading provider of multi-cloud hosting, managed cloud services, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, and IT automation, integrating seamlessly with AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, today announced plans to host a conference call at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, May 15, 2025, to discuss the Company’s progress and the financial results for the first quarter of 2025, which ended March 31, 2025.

    The conference call will be available via telephone by dialing toll-free 877-407-9219 for U.S. callers or for international callers +1-412-652-1274. A webcast of the call may be accessed at  DSC Q1 2025 Earnings Call or on the Company’s News & Events section of the website,  www.dtst.com/news-events.

    A webcast replay of the call will be available on the Company’s website (www.dtst.com/news-events) through November 15, 2025. A telephone replay of the call will be available approximately three hours following the call, through May 22, 2025, and can be accessed by dialing 877-660-6853 for U.S. callers or + 1-201-612-7415 for international callers and entering conference ID: 13753165. 

    About Data Storage Corporation
    Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) through its subsidiaries is a leading provider of multi-cloud hosting, fully managed cloud services, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, IT automation, and voice & data solutions. Recognizing that data migration is a critical step in transitioning from on-premises systems to the cloud, DSC provides comprehensive migration services to ensure seamless, secure, and efficient data transfer, minimizing downtime and optimizing performance.

    Through its owned and operated cloud platform, built on IBM Power Cloud infrastructure, DSC delivers managed high-performance, scalable, and secure cloud solutions with interoperability across its infrastructure partners, AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.

    Tier 3 data centers support the Company’s CloudFirst platform deployments across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. DSC provides mission-critical solutions to a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations.

    As a leader in the multi-billion-dollar managed cloud hosting and business continuity market, DTST is recognized for its expertise in cloud infrastructure, IT modernization, and data migration, enabling clients to transition to the cloud with confidence and operational continuity.

    For more information, please visit www.dtst.com or follow us on X @DataStorageCorp.

    Safe Harbor Provision
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts, although not all forward-looking statements include the foregoing. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations and assumptions as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include the Company’s ability to grow its presence in Europe. These risks should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read together with the other cautionary statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was initially made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    212-671-1020
    DTST@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New skills training program prepares young Canadians for careers in energy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — geoLOGIC is launching an innovative training program to prepare young Canadians for a career in the energy industry.

    The Sustainability in Energy Micro-Credential® for Students addresses vital topics such as climate change, energy security, environmental sustainability, and Indigenous reconciliation.

    The free 35-hour online program is geared to university, college and polytechnic students in Canada as well as recent graduates. The micro-credential covers a wide range of issues that are important to the energy sector. These include emissions reduction technologies, water management, environmental reporting standards, and Indigenous investment and partnership agreements.

    “Canada’s energy sector is continuously evolving and offers excellent career opportunities across several provinces,” said program director Bemal Mehta, geoLOGIC’s Managing Director, Energy Intelligence. “The micro-credential provides vital new skills that can support learners on their career journey.”

    The program is sponsored by Pathways Alliance. Pathways Alliance represents six of Canada’s largest oil sands producers working together to provide energy the world needs while advancing environmental innovation. 

    For more information on the program and to apply:

    geoLOGIC provides premium quality energy data, analytics, software, news and training solutions. The company is headquartered in Calgary with teams in London and Houston.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Flourish Announces Major Expansion of Digital Fee-Based Annuities Platform for RIAs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flourish, a WealthTech platform that helps registered investment advisors (RIAs) grow by evolving from holistic advice to holistic implementation, today announced a significant expansion of Flourish Annuities, its digital end-to-end RIA-centric annuities platform for advisors. The enhanced offering adds to the types of annuities available and broadens its carrier network, further empowering independent advisors to more effectively incorporate protection solutions into client portfolios.

    Building on the success of its Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs) offering, Flourish Annuities is now expanding its marketplace of fee-based annuity products to include Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILAs), Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs), and Variable Annuities (VAs). For clients seeking lifetime income options, guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits (GLWBs) can be added to eligible annuity contracts for a fee, giving clients the option to receive a “paycheck for life.” 

    The platform now boasts offerings from five highly-rated insurance carriers including new partnerships with Equitable and Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®). They join existing carrier partners Aspida, Corebridge Financial, and MassMutual Ascend. 

    The Flourish platform continues to remove the barriers to annuities adoption by RIAs by allowing advisors to leverage an insurance-licensed outsourced insurance desk (OID), offering a digital application experience, and curating a marketplace of fee-based annuities designed for RIAs. 

    “As we transition to Wealth 3.0, advisors are increasingly expected to go beyond traditional portfolio management and bring their clients solutions that address all aspects of their financial lives,” said Max Lane, CEO of Flourish. “Fee-based annuities serve as an important tool to replace older commissioned annuities that are no longer fit for purpose. They can also add highly valued safety to financial portfolios through lifetime income, guaranteed protection and returns, or tax deferral. Advisors who are looking to grow their firms and produce better results for clients can now access a wide range of annuities via the same beautiful experience they’ve come to expect from Flourish solutions.”

    “Recent market volatility underscores the need for protection and income strategies to help financial professionals and their clients plan for the future with confidence, especially with a record 11,000 Americans turning 65 every day. Equitable is a leader in the annuity market and has a history of innovation in designing solutions that offer tax-advantaged growth, downside protection and guaranteed income in retirement,” said Pete Golden, Chief Sales & Distribution Officer for Individual Retirement at Equitable. “We look forward to collaborating with more registered investment advisors through our new relationship with Flourish.”

    “Adding Jackson annuities to the Flourish platform increases our access to the growing RIA channel and represents another option for financial professionals to integrate annuities into their clients’ portfolios,” said Tim Munsie, head of RIA, platform distribution and planning at Jackson National Life Distributors LLC, the marketing and distribution business of Jackson. “We must continue to increase financial professional access to fee-based annuity options, and the Flourish platform makes this possible by eliminating insurance licensing requirements, which helps simplify the process for financial professionals and their clients.”

    The platform expansion also allows advisors to help clients transition from annuities that no longer meet their needs to fee-based alternatives that better align with clients’ financial goals.

    Flourish Annuities was built for independent RIAs who have not traditionally adopted annuities into their practice largely due to licensing requirements, operational complexities, and outdated technology. Flourish Annuities addresses and eliminates these barriers with its digital-first platform, Outsourced Insurance Desk (OID), and curated marketplace of fee-based annuities from vetted carriers. Flourish Annuities is integrated with key advisor platforms including eMoney, Orion, Black Diamond, and Redtail, making it easy for advisors to incorporate annuities into their existing workflows and bill on them just like any other asset in the portfolio.

    Over 990 RIAs managing $2.6 trillion in combined assets trust Flourish to help them fully execute financial plans and bring more assets into their orbit. As a platform that helps RIAs grow by evolving from holistic advice to holistic implementation, Flourish also allows advisors to feature their firm’s branding as well as providing client-friendly marketing materials, premium support, and more.

    ABOUT FLOURISH
    Flourish builds technology that empowers financial advisors, improves financial lives and retirement outcomes, and delivers new and innovative investment options to advisors. Today, the Flourish platform supports more than $7 billion in assets under custody and is used by more than 990 wealth management firms representing $2.6 trillion in assets under management. Flourish is wholly-owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). For more information, visit www.flourish.com. 

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release may contain forward looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied.

    This feedback may not be representative of the experience of other customers, and is not a guarantee of future performance or success. 

    Flourish is an online platform through which investors can access financial services and products. Flourish’s offerings are provided by different entities and are subject to different terms, investor protections, and risks. Flourish Cash is offered by Flourish Financial LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. Flourish Financial LLC is not a bank. Check the background of Flourish Financial LLC and its personnel on FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Flourish Annuities refers generally to the annuity platform operated by Flourish Technologies LLC and to Flourish Insurance Agency LLC, and, where applicable, Flourish Financial LLC. Flourish Insurance Agency operates in its capacity as a licensed insurance producer with offices in Jersey City, New Jersey, and does business in California under the name Flourish Digital Insurance Agency, providing insurance services related to such platform. Variable annuities, defined in this context to include Registered Index-Linked Annuities (“RILAs”), are offered through Flourish Financial LLC. Annuities shown on the platform are sold through Flourish Annuities, and are issued by one or more licensed insurance companies. The Flourish entities mentioned above are affiliates. Flourish Cash and Flourish Annuities accounts are separate accounts and only assets in Flourish Cash accounts may be eligible for protection by the FDIC or SIPC. Please review the Legal section of our website, and the disclosures provided with each Flourish service or product for further information. If you were introduced or invited to Flourish by an investment advisor or other third party, please be aware that, unless otherwise disclosed to you, they are not affiliated with any Flourish entity. The role of the investment advisor or other firm that invited you to Flourish may vary between different Flourish services and products, as further described in your terms of service. © 2025 Flourish. All rights reserved.

    A Flourish Cash account is a brokerage account offered by Flourish Financial LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. Flourish Financial LLC is not a bank. Check the background of Flourish Financial LLC and its personnel on FINRA’s BrokerCheck. The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account will be swept from the brokerage account to deposit account(s) at one or more third-party Program Banks that have agreed to accept deposits from customers of Flourish Financial LLC. The accounts at Program Banks will pay a variable rate of interest. The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account that is swept to one or more Program Banks is eligible for FDIC insurance, subject to FDIC rules, including FDIC aggregate insurance coverage limits. FDIC insurance will not be provided until the funds arrive at the Program Bank. Flourish Cash’s current Program Banks can be found here. For additional information regarding FDIC coverage, visit https://fdic.gov/ and https://www.flourish.com/advisors.

    Flourish Annuities refers generally to the annuity platform operated by Flourish Technologies LLC and to Flourish Insurance Agency LLC, and, where applicable, Flourish Financial LLC. All Flourish entities are affiliates of each other. Flourish Insurance Agency operates in its capacity as a licensed insurance producer with offices in Jersey City, New Jersey, and does business in California under the name Flourish Digital Insurance Agency, providing insurance services related to such platform and the individual annuity contracts intended to be purchased by individual clients of registered investment advisors (“RIAs”). Variable annuities, defined in this context to include Registered Index-Linked Annuities (“RILAs”), are offered through Flourish Financial LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. Flourish Financial LLC is not a bank.

    An annuity is an insurance contract. Variable annuities are considered securities. Securities are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal invested. Annuities available on the platform are sold through Flourish Annuities and are issued by one or more licensed insurance companies. The issuing insurance company, not any Flourish company, is solely responsible for its own financial and contractual obligations. All benefits and guarantees of the annuity contract are subject to the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance company. This is not a proposal or a solicitation to purchase insurance and is for RIA use only. Flourish Annuities is not available to New York residents.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Innovator Extending the Industry’s Largest Suite of Buffer ETFs™ with New 100% Downside Protection ETF® Launch (ZMAY)*

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WHEATON, Ill., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innovator Capital Management, LLC (Innovator), pioneer and provider of the largest lineup of Defined Outcome ETFs™, today announced the launch of its newest 100% Buffer ETF™ ticker: ZMAY. This launch is particularly timely, as it comes to market when investors are facing elevated uncertainty around tariffs, market volatility, and declining investor sentiment.

    * The 100% buffer is stated prior to taking into account the reduction of fees and expenses.

    The suite of 100% Buffer ETFs™ is designed for investors who want to prepare their portfolios for a wide range of outcomes, including those who may be sitting in unprotected equity strategies.

    100% Buffer ETF™ Listing May 1st:

    Ticker Name Reference
    Asset    		 Buffer Upside Cap Outcome Period
    ZMAY Equity Defined Protection ETF® – 1 Yr May S&P 500 ETF 100% 7.21% 1 Year
               

    For more information on Innovator’s leading suite of 100% Buffer ETFs™, visit: innovatoretfs.com/protect.

    About Innovator Capital Management, LLC

    Innovator was established in 2017 by Bruce Bond and John Southard, founders of the PowerShares ETF lineup that has grown to be the fourth largest in the world. The listing of three Innovator Buffer ETFs™ in August 2018 marked the launch of the world’s first Defined Outcome ETFs™.

    Innovator is dedicated to providing ETFs with built-in risk management that offer investors a high level of predictability around their investment outcomes. Today, with more than 140 ETFs and $24 billion in AUM, as of April 30, 2025, Innovator is the industry’s leading provider of Defined Outcome ETFs™.

    Media Contact:
    Frank Taylor
    innovator@dlpr.com
    (646) 808-3647

    The Fund has characteristics unlike many other traditional investment products and may not be suitable for all investors. For more information regarding whether an investment in the Fund is right for you, please see “Investor Suitability” in the prospectus.

    The Funds face numerous market trading risks, including active markets risk, authorized participation concentration risk, buffered loss risk, cap change risk, capped upside return risk, correlation risk, liquidity risk, management risk, market maker risk, market risk, non-diversification risk, operation risk, options risk, trading issues risk, upside participation risk and valuation risk. For a detailed list of Fund risks see the prospectus.

    Fund shareholders are subject to an upside return cap (the “Cap”) that represents the maximum percentage return an investor can achieve from an investment in the Funds for the Outcome Period, before fees and expenses. If the Outcome Period has begun and the Fund has increased in value to a level near to the Cap, an investor purchasing at that price has little or no ability to achieve gains but remains vulnerable to downside risks. Additionally, the Cap may rise or fall from one Outcome Period to the next. The Cap, and the Fund’s position relative to it, should be considered before investing in the Fund. The Fund’s website, www.innovatoretfs.com, provides important Fund information as well information relating to the potential outcomes of an investment in a Fund on a daily basis.

    The Fund only seeks to provide shareholders that hold shares for the entire Outcome Period with their respective buffer level against reference asset losses during the Outcome Period. You will bear all reference asset losses exceeding the buffer. Depending upon market conditions at the time of purchase, a shareholder that purchases shares after the Outcome Period has begun may also lose their entire investment. For instance, if the Outcome Period has begun and the Fund has decreased in value beyond the pre-determined buffer, an investor purchasing shares at that price may not benefit from the buffer. Similarly, if the Outcome Period has begun and the Fund has increased in value, an investor purchasing shares at that price may not benefit from the buffer until the Fund’s value has decreased to its value at the commencement of the Outcome Period.

    FLEX Options Risk. The Fund will utilize FLEX Options issued and guaranteed for settlement by the Options Clearing Corporation (OCC). In the unlikely event that the OCC becomes insolvent or is otherwise unable to meet its settlement obligations, the Fund could suffer significant losses. Additionally, FLEX Options may be less liquid than standard options. In a less liquid market for the FLEX Options, the Fund may have difficulty closing out certain FLEX Options positions at desired times and prices. The values of FLEX Options do not increase or decrease at the same rate as the reference asset and may vary due to factors other than the price of reference asset.

    These Funds are designed to provide point-to-point exposure to the price return of the Reference Asset via a basket of Flex Options. As a result, the Funds are not expected to move directly in line with the Reference Asset during the interim period. Investors purchasing shares after an Outcome Period has begun may experience very different results than the respective Fund’s investment objective. Initial Outcome Periods are approximately 6-months, 1-year, or 2-years beginning on the Funds’ inception dates. Following the initial Outcome period, each subsequent outcome period will begin on the first day of the month the Fund was incepted. After the conclusion of an Outcome Period, another will begin.

    The Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses should be carefully considered before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information, and it may be obtained at innovatoretfs.com. Read it carefully before investing.

    Investing involves risk. Loss of principal is possible. Innovator ETFs® are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

    The following marks: Accelerated ETFs®, Accelerated Plus ETF®, Accelerated Return ETFs®, Barrier ETF®, Buffer ETF™, Defined Income ETF™, Defined Outcome Bond ETF®, Defined Outcome ETFs™, Defined Protection ETF®, Define Your Future®, Enhanced ETF™, Floor ETF®, Innovator ETFs®, Leading the Defined Outcome ETF Revolution™, Managed Buffer ETFs®, Managed Outcome ETFs®, Step-Up™, Step-Up ETFs®, 100% Buffer ETFs™ and all related names, logos, product and service names, designs, and slogans are the trademarks of Innovator Capital Management, LLC, its affiliates or licensors. Use of these terms is strictly prohibited without proper written authorization.

    Copyright © 2025 Innovator Capital Management, LLC. All rights reserved.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RWA Inc. Celebrates RWAI Launch with $50,000 $RWAI Giveaway for Gold+ Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RWAI is your AI agent for crypto research, reporting and token launches. It helps you find high-potential projects, guides developers in making their tokens launch-ready, and supports institutions in tokenizing and listing real-world assets.

    $RWAI is launching on Virtuals on May 5, with TGE going live May 6 at 11:00 AM UTC.

    • Listing on Virtuals: May 5
    • TGE (Token Generation Event): May 6 at 11:00 AM UTC
    • Launch page: https://app.virtuals.io/geneses/344

    RWAI is proudly backed by RWA Inc. To celebrate this milestone and show appreciation to our most engaged community members, we’re launching an exclusive $50,000 $RWAI giveaway, to be distributed among users who reach Gold+ tier on the RWA platform.

    How to Join the Giveaway

    Participation is simple:

    1. Stake $RWA on the official RWA Investor Platform.
    2. Reach Gold+ tier, unlocking access to premium features and rewards.

    Stake $RWA, reach Gold+ tier and join the giveaway: https://launch.rwa.inc

    About RWA Inc

    RWA Inc specializes in connecting funders to premium RWA and DePIN startups. Through our platform, funders can access carefully vetted projects to which we have provided advisory, acceleration and go-to market support. We facilitate different fundraising opportunities for clients. Our formats create investment opportunities for anyone interested in participating in RWA and DePIN startups, staying true to our mission of creating global accessibility to RWA investments.

    Contact:
    RWAI PR
    Marketing@RWAI.inc

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 1 Hour Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Direct Lenders Guaranteed Approval – IOnline Payday Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHERIDAN, Wyo., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Life is full of surprises—medical bills, home or car repairs, or even travel expenses and sometimes you need a little help. In those situations, waiting days for instant payday loans approvals doesn’t make sense. That’s when 1 Hour Payday Loans with No Credit Check come out the smartest. The loans are meant to provide short-term financial relief, even if your credit isn’t great. In this guide, we’re going to break down how these fast loans function and their benefits. We’ll also explain the basics of IOnline Payday Loans, another trustworthy lender known for approving loans within the hour. Get emergency funds with an easy application and there’s no hard credit check with IOnline!

    Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    1-Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check— What is it?

    1-Hour Payday Loans With No Credit Check are typically small loans— $100 to $1,500, that are meant to be used to cover emergency expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs or unpaid rent. The main characteristic of these loans is they do not require a standard credit check, such as the one conducted by banks, which often means that are available even to people with bad credit or no credit history at all.

    Lenders consider current income, employment status and the borrower’s repayment ability, not a credit score. Once approved, the funds tend to be deposited directly into the borrower’s bank account that day. But these loans carry high interest rates and are supposed to be repaid on the next payday, so that’s why they got the name. They provide a quick fix, but it’s important to use them responsibly — or you risk falling into a cycle of debt.

    Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    Types of 1-Hour Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Instant Approval

    1-Hour payday loans online with no credit check instant approval can be in a variety of forms to suit a variety of short-term financial needs. 1-Hour payday loans online with no credit check instant approval or payday loans online no credit check instant approval can be in a variety of forms. All of them are based on fast approval and quick funding, but they have distinct terms and purposes. Here are the primary kinds, all with the option of immediate approval without any credit check:

    1. Traditional Payday Loans:

    Instant payday loans online can help borrowers receive $100 to $1,500 without heavy paperwork or long wait times. One-hour payday loans are these things that you if you could simply get one, would solve all of your problems. Borrowers are lent a small amount —usually between $100 and $1,500 and must repay it by their next payday. Lenders don’t make hard credit checks, but they look at income and employment. Money is sent 24/7 and arrives the same day if approved.

    2. Installment Payday Loans:

    Unlike traditional payday loans, installment loans allow you to repay in multiple payments, which are available through Personal Money Network and the direct lenders we work with, have the flexibility to repay in multiple payments over the period of your loan. These are perfect for borrowers who want the flexibility of more time for repayment.

    3. Bad Credit Payday Loans:

    Online payday loans for bad credit cater to borrowers with low credit scores, focusing on income and bank activity instead. These are loans for people with bad or no credit; they are offered and marketed specifically for borrowers in this situation. Lenders don’t use a credit score but instead look at your financial situation today — such as regular income and how much activity is in your bank account. Bad credit payday loans can be approved instantly and you can have the money in your account within an hour.

    4. Same-Day Payday Loans:

    Same-day payday loans are structured to guarantee that when you apply, the cash is deposited directly into your account within a few hours of approval. Same-day payday loans, or no credit check payday loans with same-day approval, are structured to guarantee. No credit checks, no prolonged procedures and no bureaucracy at all. Provided you satisfy a few basic eligibility criteria, including age, income, and bank account verification, you can have the money in your account in as little as a few hours, perfect for a financial emergency.

    How To Apply 1 Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check?

    Getting a 1-hour payday loan with no credit check is not difficult. Follow these simple measures so that your application gets approved:

    1. Select a Trusted Lender: Select a reputable, licensed lender such as IOnline Payday Loans, with quick approvals, secure sites and without hard credit checks.
    2. Complete the Online Application Form: Check the lender’s website and fill out a brief application. You will be required to provide your full name, contact information, employment details, income, and banking information.
    3. Submit Documents for Verification: As proof of identity and income, you will need to upload files including your government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport), recent pay stubs and a bank statement that demonstrates regular deposits.
    4. Wait For Instant Approval Decision: Once you’ve completed the form and uploaded your documents, the lender will process your application and provide a decision in minutes with no hard credit pull.
    5. Receive Funds Within 1 Hour: Once approved, the money is transferred directly into your bank account–often in an hour or less, because processing time varies from bank to bank.

    Some lenders even offer instant payday loans online with guaranteed approval, based solely on income verification.

    Features & Benefits of IOnline Payday Loans

    Here are the amazing benefits of choosing the IOnline Payday loans:

    • Easy online application: IOnline Payday Loans has made applying for a payday loan straightforward and easy. No long paperwork or in-person visits are required. This quick digital process means that you receive credit matching and approval even quicker, making it great for people who need access to money quickly to deal with emergencies or unexpected expenses.
    • High Approval Rates: IOnline Payday Loans has one of the highest approval rates in the market and can allow you to get money on the same day you apply. Also, IOnline connects users with a vast network of lenders, even those with bad credit can have a good shot at being approved.
    • No Hard Credit Checks: Unlike other lenders, IOnline Payday Loans does not perform hard credit checks which can have a detrimental effect on your credit score. Instead, they conduct soft checks or use other methods such as income verification or employment history.
    • Loan Amounts and Terms Vary: IOnline lends from $100 up to $5,000, with loan terms between 2 and 24 months. This variation allows borrowers to select a loan that best suits their circumstances and budget. Whether you need some quick cash for an emergency, or a little more with longer to repay, IOnline finds you the ideal loan that suits your personal financial circumstances without added pressure on you.
    • Clear Fees and Interest Rates: Transparency is one of the best attributes that customers appreciate at IOnline Payday Loans. Any fees, interest rates and repayment terms are disclosed to you before you accept the loan. APRs fall typically between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on your lender and your financial profile.

    Why is IOnline Payday Loans the best choice for you?

    Here are some additional reasons which will make IOnline payday loans the best choice for your instant approval loan:

    1. Lending decisions for the public service: IOnline Payday Loans will consider borrowers who receive income through TANF and SSI. They accept those as legitimate sources of income, lending to people who are not conventionally employed.
    2. Completely Online—No Phone Calls: At IOnline Payday Loans, the entire money lending process is performed online, and phone calls are not needed. This allows the loan application process to be faster, more confidential and more accommodating.
    3. Loans for the Unemployed: Even if you are currently unemployed you may be eligible for a loan if you have regular income from other sources such as social security, pensions or benefits. Moreover, IOnline Payday Loans refers applicants to lenders who are all willing to help regardless of employment status.
    4. Flexible Repayment Terms: The loan periods range from 2 to 24 months, so borrowers may select their own repayment schedule based on their level of income. This eases the repayment burden and helps borrowers make their repayments more comfortable.

    Process For Application: IOnline Payday Loans

    To qualify for 1 Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check through IOnline Payday Loans, simply do the following:

    Step 1: Selecting Your Loan Amount

    Consider how much you really need and whether or not you really will be able to repay it on time. Look at your income and expenses, then select a repayment amount that feels comfortable to you. Ensure the repayments are within your budget—failure to meet repayments could mean additional charges and penalties.

    Step 2: Organize Your Documents

    You’ll have to include some documents to prove you qualify, and to help speed your application along. When you are ready to apply for a loan through IOnline Payday Loans, have the following prepared:

    • A government-issued ID
    • Evidence of having been paid in the last 3 months (such as bank statements or payslips)
    • Your bank account details

    Step 3: Complete Application Form

    The application form at IOnline Payday Loans is fast and simple to fill out. Click on the “Apply Now” button on the top right of the screen and fill out the form in a few minutes. You’ll provide your basic details, including your full name, email, zip code, loan amount and how long you need to repay it. Then, hit the “Next” button.

    Step 4: Check If You Qualify

    As you enter your personal information and the amount of the loan, you will also be asked for a little more detailed information including the status of your job, financial situation and monthly expenses. This is to see if you qualify for a loan and your details are kept safe all the way till they are received by IOnline Payday Loans & your lender.

    Step 5: Wait till you get a lender

    Once we have your information, IOnline Payday Loans will search our lender network for the right lender for you. This typically lasts only a couple of minutes, and in around 2 minutes you’ll find out whether you have a match or not. If you’re approved, you will be brought to the lender’s website to complete the process. And if you don’t find you’re approved, you’ll also definitely hear from us soon.

    Step 6: Sign the Contract & Receive Your Funds

    Once you’re matched with a lender, they’ll provide you with a loan agreement. Take the time to read through the terms, check the fees and be sure that it’s manageable for you. If you’re in agreement, simply sign and return the form — and you’re finished!

    Eligibility Requirements: IOnline Payday Loans

    There are fairly straightforward requirements you’ll need to meet to apply with most lenders. These usually include:

    1. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible.
    2. You must bring an official, government-issued ID with you—a driver’s license or a passport.
    3. You must have a bank checking account name to get funds.
    4. You will need evidence of regular income, whether from work, benefits or other regular sources.
    5. They will require you to provide a permanent residential address and some lenders might request proof of your address.
    6. You do need to reside in a state the lender operates in, borrowing ranges by state.
    7. To qualify for online no credit check instant approval, applicants must meet basic eligibility like age, ID and income.
    8. U.S. citizenship, permanent residency or a long-term visa is usually a prerequisite.
    9. A legitimate social security number is frequently required for identity and credit verification.

    Types of Other No Credit Check Payday Loans

    Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check:

    Small payday loans online no credit check are perfect for emergencies under $500 and usually come with fast approvals. These are small, short-term loans, usually in the range of $500 or less, that are made with no credit check. They are perfect for those few emergency costs and can be approved within a few minutes.

    $255 Online Payday Loans Same Day No Credit Check:

    These loans are for $255 and they are meant to be taken out and returned the same day—no traditional credit check is required. They’re a favourite in states like California that have eyes on such loan amounts. $255 payday loans online loans same day no credit check are a quick fix for small emergencies, ideal for short-term borrowing needs.

    Tribal Loans for Bad Credit:

    Tribal loans are loans issued by Native American-operated lenders. They also commonly work around state regulations and provide flexible terms, which can make them an option for people with low or no credit history.

    $500 Loan No Credit Check Direct Lender:

    $500 loan no credit check direct lenders are made directly from lenders (not brokers) and don’t require a credit check. You could be approved for a loan of $500 and receive funds quickly, making it an ideal solution for emergency expenses.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Is it possible to get a 1 Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check?

    Yes, a lot of lenders do provide instant decisions and quick funding. Some lenders will okay the loan in a matter of minutes, but funds transfer normally takes 1 business day but also varies depending on your bank.

    2. Does applying for a 1 hour payday loan have an effect on my credit score?

    Most no-credit-check lenders employ soft inquiries or alternative data, so it does not hurt your credit score to apply.

    3. Am I eligible for these loans in every state?

    No, some rules and regulations would determine availability. Payday loans are illegal in some states, while other states regulate or restrict them.

    Wrapping Up

    1 Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check is a quick and easy way to get a couple of days or a week when you need it the most. Whether it’s a crisis or an incidental emergency, services such as IOnline Payday Loans can connect you with trustworthy contracting lenders in just a few minutes. Services like IOnline Payday Loans help you connect with some of the best online payday loans available quickly and securely. Remember to always borrow responsibly, check the terms before you apply, and try to borrow the money you can afford to pay back.

    Project Name: IOnline Payday Loans

    Registered Office Address: 1095 Sugar View Dr Ste 500 Sheridan, WY 82801

    Company Website: https://ionlinepaydayloans.com/

    Email: mria@ionlinepaydayloans.com

    Phone: 307-777-7311

    Contact person name: Mria

    contact person email: mria@ionlinepaydayloans.com

    Disclaimer: This announcement contains general information about Ionline payday loan services and should not be considered financial advice. Ionline Payday Loans does not guarantee loan approval, and loan terms may vary by applicant and lender requirements. Loans are available to U.S. residents only.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4201c2bd-e15f-40f8-89d7-7f5ad360b1fc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Drone-Mounted Lidar Systems for Bathymetric Surveys Market Expected to Reach $890 Million By 2032

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Bathymetry is a rising subset of uses in the drone universe. Bathymetry is the study of the “beds” or “floors” of water bodies, including the ocean, rivers, streams, and lakes. LIDAR and drones drive this segment. According to a recent industry report from Grand View Research said: “The drone-mounted LiDAR systems for bathymetric surveys market is projected to experience significant growth, with the global LiDAR drone market expected to reach around $892 million by 2032. The market is driven by factors such as increasing demand for high-precision geospatial data, technological advancements in LiDAR sensors, and the integration of LiDAR with AI and machine learning. Advancements in LiDAR technology, such as improved accuracy and reduced costs, have made it more accessible for a wide range of applications. Moreover, LiDAR integration with drones and autonomous vehicles is driving market expansion. The airborne segment dominated the U.S. LiDAR industry with a revenue share of over 44.9% in 2024. Airborne LiDAR holds a dominant position in the U.S. market and is also the fastest-growing segment, driven by its extensive use in large-scale mapping, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. The ability of airborne LiDAR to cover vast areas with high accuracy makes it an essential tool for applications such as topographic mapping, flood risk assessment, and forest management. The integration of LiDAR systems with advanced drones and aircraft has further enhanced its utility, enabling cost-effective and efficient data acquisition. The rise of smart city initiatives and infrastructure development projects in the U.S. is another key factor propelling the growth of airborne LiDAR.”   Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO), AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS), EHang (NASDAQ: EH), Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONDS).

    Grand View Research continued: “The mobile & UAV accounted to hold significant market share in 2024. The mobile and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) LiDAR segment is experiencing significant growth in the U.S., primarily due to its versatility and ability to collect data in dynamic environments. Mobile LiDAR systems, mounted on vehicles, are widely used for road mapping, urban modeling, and autonomous vehicle navigation. UAV-based LiDAR has gained traction in industries like agriculture, construction, and mining, where flexibility and accessibility are critical. The reduced cost of UAV platforms and advancements in compact LiDAR sensors have made this technology more accessible to a broader range of industries. Additionally, advancements in miniaturization and cost reduction are opening up new opportunities for LiDAR applications. Smaller, more affordable sensors are becoming available for use in drones, allowing for rapid aerial mapping and surveying in hard-to-reach areas.”

    ZenaTech’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) Drone as a Service (DaaS) Offerings Expand to Bathymetric Surveys for Underwater Terrain Mapping for Commercial and Government Customers – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces its DaaS offerings have expanded to include bathymetric surveys, a specialized method of mapping underwater terrain using drones equipped with sonar. These surveys are important for critical underwater depth and contour data to support maintenance, dredging, environmental planning, and aquatic development for both commercial and government customers.

    ZenaTech’s DaaS bathymetric surveys are now available in South Florida through the recently acquired Wallace Surveying where the team has both golf course and Intracoastal Waterway project relationships and surveying expertise. Utilizing advanced sonar and ZenaDrone drones, high-resolution underwater maps help customers make informed decisions ─ from enhanced water management and lake and channel design strategies, to ensuring long-term sustainability.

    “The Wallace team brings key customer relationships and bathymetric survey expertise that will enhance our national DaaS drone offerings. Bathymetric surveys using aerial drones offer faster, safer, and more cost-effective data collection, especially in hard-to-reach or hazardous environments. Unlike conventional manned survey vessel methods, drones require fewer personnel, reduce operational risks, and can access shallow or narrow areas with greater precision,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    According to DataIntelo market research, the global Bathymetry Survey Sonar Market was valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2023, this market is projected to reach $2.1 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.2%. This encompasses sonar systems utilized in bathymetric surveys, including those deployed on drones.

    ZenaTech’s DaaS business will incorporate the ZenaDrone 1000 and the IQ series of multifunction autonomous drones to provide a variety of service solutions from land surveys to power line inspections or power washing, made accessible and cost effective through an Uber-like business model on a regular subscription or pay-per-use basis. Customers can conveniently access drones for eliminating manual or time-consuming tasks achieving superior results, such as for surveying, inspections, security and law enforcement, or precision farming applications, without having to buy, operate, or maintain the drones themselves.

    The DaaS business model offers customers such as government agencies, real estate developers, construction firms, farmers or energy companies reduced upfront costs as there is no need to purchase expensive drones, as well as convenience, as there is no need to manage maintenance and operation. The model also offers scalability to use more often or less often based on business needs and enables access to advanced drone technology sensors or attachments without the need for specialized training.   Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO) announced recently that official marketing approval from the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s Defense Export Controls Agency (DECA) was received for the DropAir™ Precision Airdrop System, developed in collaboration with Heven Drones (“Heven”).

    Heven is a leading U.S. drone manufacturer with roots in Israel that specializes in custom autonomous UAV platforms. This authorization from DECA enables ParaZero and Heven to actively market their joint DropAir-integrated solution to global clients across commercial, defense, and humanitarian sectors.

    The DropAir system, integrated with Heven’s advanced UAVs, enables accurate and safe aerial delivery of critical payloads, including medical supplies, tactical equipment, and humanitarian aid. The combined solution is designed for autonomous deployment, enhanced safety, and mission-critical precision—especially in hard-to-reach or hazardous environments.

    AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS) recently announced the launch of its eBee VISION next generation application software featuring a variety of critical updates. Of particular note, is the capability for autonomous position updates with map referencing to provide precise navigation even in GNSS-denied areas where satellite signals are unavailable or unreliable due to various factors.

    AgEagle CEO Bill Irby commented, “Of the many new features provided in our latest software update, overcoming GNSS-denied shortfalls marks a significant leap forward in drone operations especially for defense personnel, public safety agencies and industrial teams working in high-stakes, GNSS-denied environments. Whether operating in dense urban centers, near critical installations, or in contested zones with active signal interference, our global eBee VISION customers can now maintain full navigational command of their drone using only the camera and map-based interface. This feature directly addresses a core challenge faced by tactical and industrial drone operators in today’s complex mission environments. Our technical team will continue to work relentlessly on refinements and ongoing advancements to ensure AgEagle remains at the forefront of UAV innovation.”

    EHang (NASDAQ: EH), the world’s leading Urban Air Mobility (UAM) technology platform company, recently announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Guangdong EHang General Aviation Co., Ltd. (“EHang General Aviation”), and its joint venture company in Hefei, Hefei HeYi Aviation Co., Ltd. (“HeYi Aviation”), have been granted the first batch of Air Operator Certificates (“OC”) for civil human-carrying pilotless aerial vehicles by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (“CAAC”).

    This milestone officially marks the launch of China’s human-carrying flight era in the low-altitude economy, allowing citizens and consumers to purchase flight tickets for low-altitude tourism, urban sightseeing, and diverse commercial human-carrying flight services at related operation sites in Guangzhou and Hefei. In the future, operators will also gradually expand into more other scenarios such as urban commuting based on operational conditions legally and compliantly. The issuance of the first batch of OCs sets a new benchmark for the low-altitude economy and urban air mobility and further unleashing a more powerful vitality of the new-quality productive forces.

    Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONDS) recently announced it has secured a $3.4 million order for its Iron Drone Raider Counter-UAS system from renowned European defense contractor for their governmental end client. This marks the initial deployment of the Iron Drone Raider in Europe and represents a major milestone in the global expansion of Ondas’ counter-UAS business.

    “Ongoing geopolitical instability and the rapid proliferation of hostile drone technologies have intensified the urgency for effective counter-UAS capabilities across NATO-aligned and partner nations,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas. “This order reflects the rising global demand for autonomous aerial defense systems that can be rapidly deployed, scaled, and adapted to modern threat environments. Iron Drone Raider delivers a differentiated solution for military and homeland security operators charged with safeguarding critical infrastructure and civilian populations from increasingly sophisticated aerial threats.”

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    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels.  FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein.  FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.  FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.  The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material.  All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks.  All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release.  FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers.  Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks.  For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty one hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company.  FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why do people continue to support politicians who attack their democracies? Expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Williamson, Associate Professor, Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Oxford

    Ahead of a public event in London on May 8 on what the latest research can tell us about the state of democracy, The Conversation asked Scott Williamson, Associate Professor in Comparative Political Economy at the University of Oxford, to help us understand why people don’t always immediately push back when politicians attack their democracies.

    Your findings show that people around the world have relatively similar ideas about what democracy means and are relatively committed to this idea of democratic governance. So why are so many people polarised about whether today’s crop of politicians are attacking our democracies and what to do about it?

    Most people in most countries say it is important to them that they live in a democracy. Research by my colleagues and me also suggests that people tend to agree that competitive elections and protections for civil liberties are central elements of democratic governance.

    Yet, many people who claim to care about democracy also support political leaders and movements that have attacked democratic institutions and values.

    We have to recognise that even when people agree about the fundamental definition of democracy, there is still plenty of room to disagree over the specifics of how democracy is implemented in practice.

    Democracy in decline? The risk and rise of authoritarianism

    Democracy is under pressure around the world in 2025. But is this part of a larger historical cycle or does it signal a deeper, more fundamental shift? Join us for a free event in central London on May 8 to discuss these important questions. Come for a panel discussion and stay for food, drinks and conversation.

    Get tickets here

    Anti-democratic political leaders can take advantage of these disagreements to argue that their actions defend rather than disrupt democracy. Their supporters will often be motivated to believe these claims, especially where politics and the media are highly polarised.

    In the US, Donald Trump and the Republican party have long argued they are protecting American democracy from the deep state and the Democratic party. A prominent example is the claim that Democrats stole the 2020 election, and that subsequent charges against Trump were an attempt at political persecution.

    This message is consistently amplified by rightwing media. Such claims are false, but they create a framework for justifying Trump’s actions in democratic terms.

    A second potential problem is that people who understand democracy similarly and view democracy favourably may still decide that opposing anti-democratic leaders is less important than securing other political objectives. Several recent studies suggest that people in many countries, including the United States, are reluctant to make such trade-offs. Commitment to democracy is relatively strong.

    However, this research also highlights certain conditions under which people may begin to give up this commitment. Some people will care less about democracy if they can secure significantly better economic outcomes. In ongoing research with my co-authors, we also show that perceived threats to safety are especially likely to induce democratic trade-offs.

    One important finding from these studies is that people are strongly committed to maintaining competitive elections in their countries, but they are more willing to give up civil liberties and constraints on executive power in exchange for preferred economic and security outcomes. Some people are openly sympathetic to a majoritarian vision of democracy that empowers elected leaders to ignore institutional constraints if it means giving the people what they want.

    The relatively weaker commitment to these aspects of democracy means that anti-democratic leaders who first focus on undermining political freedoms and expanding their own power, rather than undercutting elections, are less likely to face a backlash.

    This well-used playbook may explain why Trump has faced relatively inconsistent pushback from the public, despite brazenly seizing legislative powers and violating civil liberties.

    Because Trump won the 2024 election, and because many Americans likely believe that subsequent elections will still meet democratic standards, they may tolerate attacks on civil liberties and checks and balances – especially if it gives them policy outcomes they prefer.

    Yet, it is important for Americans who care about democracy to recognise that several of Trump’s actions directly threaten the ability of the United States to hold free and fair elections in the future. The president and his allies have deployed lawsuits and withheld legally obligated funding in an effort to silence critical voices in the media, universities, NGOs, businesses, the legal community, and the Democratic party. Such actions are already muting criticisms of Trump and will make it harder for opposition to compete fairly in upcoming elections.

    Vice president J.D. Vance recently accused European leaders of “running in fear” from voters over immigration. What did you make of his intervention?

    These comments are a good example of how political leaders who attack democracy often claim to be defending democracy instead. A common strategy is to claim that they are the true representatives of the people and their preferences. As a result, their actions must be democratic, and those who oppose them are blocking the will of the people.

    Such claims about immigration should be viewed as a rhetorical cudgel used by the extreme right to beat back accusations of their own anti-democratic stances. Even if their immigration policies are more preferred by the public, this stronger alignment on a single issue should constitute only a small piece of the pie in terms of evaluating their democratic credentials.

    And their claims to represent public opinion on immigration stand on shaky ground at best. Attitudes toward immigration are complicated and multifaceted. Though negative views on the issue are clearly prevalent, attitudes have become more favourable over time in several European countries.

    Negative voices are often louder but do not necessarily represent the majority. Public opinion also fluctuates. In the United States, Trump was perceived more favourably than Kamala Harris on immigration during the 2024 election. But already by late April, a majority of Americans expressed opposition to Trump’s extreme approach.

    How can defenders of democracy meet these challenges?

    In countries where anti-democratic parties are on the rise, political leaders and the public should resist normalising them. The more they are treated as just any other party, the more people may begin to perceive their anti-democratic politics as acceptable.

    When anti-democratic parties come to power, it is important for their opponents to push back as forcefully as possible before the party can consolidate an authoritarian regime. As the political system becomes more repressive, people will increasingly hide their views, and it will be harder to mobilise opposition moving forward.

    For these efforts to succeed, it is important for the opposition to remain as unified as possible. If the ruling party can use its power to make elections less fair, state institutions more biased, and protests more dangerous, then the opposition will need to make use of every advantage they can to oust the government. A divided opposition will be much more likely to fail.

    Scott Williamson receives funding from the UKRI/EPSRC Frontier Research Guarantee Scheme (EP/Y036832/1) for the project Democratic Values and Authoritarian Legitimacy (DEVAL).

    – ref. Why do people continue to support politicians who attack their democracies? Expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/why-do-people-continue-to-support-politicians-who-attack-their-democracies-expert-qanda-255565

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Robert Macfarlane’s new book is a plea to feel the pulse of our rivers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Julian Dobson, Senior Research Fellow, Sheffield Hallam University

    beerlogoff/Shutterstock

    Suggesting that a river could be alive has the potential to change everything. Robert Macfarlane, one of Britain’s best-read writers on the natural environment, has done just this in his latest book.

    At one level, Is A River Alive? is a travelogue of adventuring in extreme environments: a lucid, lyrical addition to a genre Macfarlane has made his own. His odyssey through the cloudforests of Ecuador, the stricken rivers of Chennai in India and the tumultuous rapids of the Mutehekau Shipu in north-east Canada has it all: larger-than-life companions, astonishing revelations about the natural world and inadvisable levels of personal risk (including some particularly scary whitewater kayaking).

    Like all good odysseys, it’s a journey of psychological and spiritual self-discovery with a profound sense of nostos, an ancient Greek word meaning the journey home. But it’s much more than that.

    This is a quest with an agenda and an urgency and one that puts its cards on the table from the outset. If a river is alive, our perceptions, laws and politics must change course to recognise that, Macfarlane argues.

    That recognition must be rapid, because we’re already seeing the consequences of treating rivers – and the natural world – as “limitless source and limitless sump”, as he puts it. As an illustration, think of Lake Ontario in the 1990s, which he suggests was so chemically polluted that you could develop photographic film in its water.



    Read more:
    Some rivers have ‘legal personhood’. Now they need a lawyer

    This is new territory for Macfarlane, who shows a sharper critical edge than in his earlier work but also engages more personally and emotionally with his material. Wrecked or restored relationships between humans and the natural world prompt the writer, like a contemporary William Blake, to throw down a moral gauntlet to those who hold economic and political power.

    While lacking the anticolonial anger of Indian author Amitav Ghosh’s polemic The Nutmeg’s Curse, Macfarlane comes to comparable conclusions. Ghosh declares in his book that “if non-human voices are to be restored to their proper place, then it must be, in the first instance, through the medium of stories”. Is A River Alive? seeks to do that.



    Read more:
    Rivers are increasingly being given legal rights. Now they need people who will defend these rights in court

    Interrogating a mystery

    Macfarlane engages seriously with knotty complexities. A river may be alive, but not in any way that can be readily incorporated into human systems. “If you interrogate a mystery, don’t expect answers in a language you can understand,” he muses. He also insists on the necessity of opening our perceptions to the life of and in a river: “to imagine that a river is alive causes water to glitter differently.”

    Macfarlane adopts an animist outlook, declaring non-human entities to have voices and worth in and of themselves. His stance is part of a wave of thinking and writing that is transporting such beliefs from the margins of western spirituality and scholarship into mainstream literature.

    This is vital work, but the challenge shouldn’t be overestimated. If you address these questions from a government perspective, you quickly get quagmired in legal systems and questions of ownership. The result, critics say, is ecological injustice, silencing the voices of nonhumans and of the humans who speak up for them. Yet action to give legal rights to rivers is increasing, from the Rio los Cedros in Ecuador to the Whanganui in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Logics of inaction

    These are important victories, and work to foreground the rights of nature is gathering pace in the UK. In my own city of Sheffield, my colleagues and I are part of a growing network of academics and community organisations working with the River Dôn project, exploring how the river that runs through our city centre could be given a voice, legal status and, we hope, stronger protection from environmental damage.

    This work joins an increasing flow of thinking in universities, cities and communities that challenges extractive mindsets. But such voices remain sidelined even as the evidence of the damage wrought by the rapacious exploitation of Earth becomes starker.

    My own research has shown how “logics of inaction” persist – even when policymakers know they need to invest in and protect the natural world (in cities, urban parks and wild places), they find reasons to avoid doing so. More often than not, it comes down to money – finances are too tight, or the benefits aren’t obviously quantifiable.

    Even when the benefits of natural spaces are compiled and described in terms that pose no philosophical challenge – they support human health and wellbeing, relationships, participation in society – these benefits are deemed insufficient to stop the cycle of neglect. Indeed, as UK chancellor Rachel Reeves recently declared, developers should “stop worrying about bats and newts” and “focus on getting things built”.

    Is a River Alive? may not stem the tide of environmental destruction. But for those frustrated by the logics of inaction of short-term decision-making, it provides timely and necessary inspiration.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. Robert Macfarlane’s new book is a plea to feel the pulse of our rivers – https://theconversation.com/robert-macfarlanes-new-book-is-a-plea-to-feel-the-pulse-of-our-rivers-247580

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Donald Trump’s trade tariffs are a threat to global food security

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lotanna Emediegwu, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Manchester Metropolitan University

    Billion Photos/Shutterstock

    Donald Trump’s tariffs will make many things more expensive for his fellow US citizens. The price of imported cars, building materials and some tech will go up – and so will the cost of the food on American dining tables.

    The US currently imports around 16% of its food supply, with a large proportion of its fruit and vegetables coming from countries now hit by tariffs.

    Mexico stands out. It supplies over half the fresh fruit and nearly 70% of the fresh vegetables consumed in the US.

    And even when it comes to home grown produce, the US still depends on imported fertiliser for its crops, with Canada providing up to 85% of its neighbour’s supply.

    So grocery bills for American families, especially for fresh produce (and processed foods dependent on foreign ingredients) will get higher. But there will also be a noticeable effect on food prices outside the US.

    The consequences could be particularly serious for developing economies that rely on stable international prices to secure affordable food imports. The prices of many global staples including maize, wheat and soybeans are benchmarked against US markets so when disruptions occur, they reverberate globally.

    Research I conducted with a colleague found that when international prices are disturbed, local food prices, especially in developing countries, go up.

    Take global maize prices, which this year rose by 7% between April 2 (Trump’s “liberation day”) and April 11. Our study suggests this will immediately lead to a similar increase in local maize prices in places like sub-Saharan Africa.

    This is where many of the world’s poorest people live, with hundreds of millions in households earning below the World Bank’s poverty line of US$2.15 (£1.61) per day. When much of that income is spent on food, a 7% increase in the price of maize could be devastating.

    Growth market

    According to another study, tariffs on agricultural products such as fertiliser will increase global production costs, potentially lowering crop yields and worsening food insecurity.

    While the US has reduced tariffs on Canadian potash from 25% to 10%, other fertiliser producers face steeper levels (up to 28% for another major exporter, Tunisia, before Trump’s reciprocal tariffs were paused).

    This is especially worrying for agriculture in countries like Brazil, India and Nigeria, which are still reeling from fertiliser shortages caused by the war between Russia and Ukraine. As with food costs, US tariffs are likely to drive up prices in the global fertiliser market, making it more expensive for everyone, everywhere.

    And when the cost of farming rises, crop production can suffer. This could significantly weaken food production in developing countries that are already battling climate change and volatile markets.

    Another study I conducted found that countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia – already struggling with food insecurity – are among the most vulnerable to local food price shocks. These economies depend heavily on food imports and face high exposure to currency fluctuations and transport costs.

    A banana field in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
    giulio napolitano/Shutterstock

    If the trade war escalates, farmers in these regions may be forced to abandon staple crops for cash commodities such as cocoa or coffee, deepening their reliance on volatile global markets and reducing their food self-sufficiency. Global inequality will worsen unless things change.

    One option would be to protect essential agricultural imports, especially fertilizers and staple foods, from punitive tariffs. This would stabilise prices and protect vulnerable economies. The recently announced 90-day pause for negotiations offers a glimmer of hope, but it must be used wisely to build a more equitable trading system.

    In the long term, developing countries need to bolster the resilience of their food systems. My research recommends investing heavily in mechanised agriculture which is resilient to climate change, incentivising farmers with government support, and strengthening regional trade.

    The global food system is heavily interconnected. Decisions made in Washington can quickly affect food prices in Lagos, Cairo and New Delhi. And if tariffs go unchecked, they may unleash a silent and subtle crisis – one measured not in GDP, but in millions of empty stomachs.

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

    – ref. Why Donald Trump’s trade tariffs are a threat to global food security – https://theconversation.com/why-donald-trumps-trade-tariffs-are-a-threat-to-global-food-security-255064

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo at the Royal Academy is dark and brilliant

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Lang, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Fine Art , University of Lincoln

    The Royal Academy’s latest exhibition, Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo offers a rare glimpse into the dark and moody world of the renowned writer best known for his novels The Hunchback of Notre-Dame and Les Misérables.

    The exhibition is set in exceptionally low lighting, a necessary measure to preserve the fragile drawings, which are usually only accessible under archival conditions. This dim ambience enhances the foreboding atmosphere of Hugo’s works, which are often landscapes featuring cathedrals that appear to be in ruin or emerging from mist or dust clouds.

    These drawings are reminiscent of Dennis Creffield’s gestural, energetic and dark, cathedral sketches. Hugo’s are similar, but much smaller and with a more post-apocalyptic and surreal twist.

    Titles like The Dead City attest to this, while Breakwater on Jersey, with its obscure imagery that recalls looking up a steep incline towards some towers, evokes a sense of Gothic horror, reminiscent of Dracula.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Other drawings in the exhibition are more surreal. One features a giant mushroom with a face looming over a desolate landscape, eerily evoking nuclear war (something that Hugo could not have possibly fathomed in 1850). Windmill on the Roof of a Farmhouse depicts a windmill improbably emerging from another building, adding to the surreal quality of Hugo’s work. And, one of the first drawings visitors encounter is of a poisonous tree with a skull emerging from its shadow, setting the tone for the exhibition.

    The Serpent resembles a Chinese dragon twisting through the sky over the sea with a mountain obscured in mist below its fire-breathing jaws. The light specs illuminating the water add to the mystery, as the light source itself remains unclear. Is the light emanating from the dragon’s mouth or from behind the mountain? This ambiguity adds to the surreal quality of the work.

    The Bowels of Leviathan is one of the largest and most abstract pieces in the exhibition. Loose brushwork, possibly created with a large brush or feather (as suggested by the wall text) fills the surface. Vertical lines appear like prison bars in a dark arch (one of many allusions to Les Misérables in the exhibition), while the title actually refers to the Parisian sewers – a recurring theme in Hugo’s novel.

    Several drawings in the exhibition can be interpreted as metaphors for political turmoil. Lighthouse at Casquets, Guernsey features a heavily tilting ship, while Boat without Sails depicts what appears to be a single piece of wood from a ship wreck, or perhaps a raft afloat.

    Ship in a Storm further emphasises the theme of stormy waters, reflecting the turbulent political landscape of Hugo’s time. His father was a general in the Napoleonic empire, which crumbled when Victor was 12. He saw the Bourbon monarchy restored, then the revolutions of 1830 and 1848. Not only a witness, Hugo was deeply involved in politics, resulting in his exile to the Chanel Islands, where he made most of the drawings on display, during the reign of Napoleon III.

    The Durande Ship After Sinking and The Wreck are positioned on either side of Octopus, a fantastical depiction of what lies beneath the stormy seas. Or perhaps life after the storm, strange and other worldly. There are two versions of Octopus on display, both of which would not look out of place as illustrations for a H.P. Lovecraft novel. These pieces suggest a strange and otherworldly life after turmoil and the sense of uncertainty feels oddly present today.

    Hugo’s use of lace imprints and collage, such as postage stamps, was avant-garde for his time. He combined charcoal, pen, brown ink and wash, gouache, graphite, and more, showcasing his experimental approach to art. Compositionally, these works are sophisticated and live up to Van Gogh’s description of them as “astonishing things”.

    Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo at the Royal Academy is a captivating exhibition that offers a rare opportunity to experience the dark and surreal world of one of history’s most celebrated writers and artists. The exhibition is a must-see for art lovers and fans of Victor Hugo alike.

    Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo is on at the Royal Academy, London until June 29 2025.

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

    – ref. Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo at the Royal Academy is dark and brilliant – https://theconversation.com/astonishing-things-the-drawings-of-victor-hugo-at-the-royal-academy-is-dark-and-brilliant-255262

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Using fire to produce nanoparticles could revolutionize various industries

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Keroles Riad, Postdoctoral fellow, Energy and Particle Technology Laboratory, Carleton University

    Fire is how most widely used nanoparticles — and by extension nanotechnologies — are made. (Shutterstock)

    Fire is arguably humanity’s earliest discovery. It was pivotal in advancing society — underpinning many of humanity’s most transformative inventions, from cooking and forging weapons to generating energy and enabling car combustion engines.

    Today, fire continues to be the gateway to some of the most cutting-edge nanotechnologies currently being developed for use in cancer treatments and as breath sensors for early detection of diabetes and other metabolic diseases.

    Nanotechnologies can be found in almost every aspect of our daily lives. For instance, I have previously written about the nanotechnology used in the mRNA vaccines that helped us through the pandemic, and have facilitated conversations discussing how nanotechnology affects our wine, gut and climate.

    For example, gas sensors incorporating nanoparticles made via fire can be used to verify that there’s no methanol in alcoholic beverages. Methanol is a highly poisonous alcohol contaminant, and has caused numerous poisonings worldwide.

    Fire is how most widely used nanoparticles — and by extension, nanotechnologies — are made. For example, a third of a car tire’s weight is comprised of carbon black nanoparticles, which are made using fire. These nanoparticles help to reinforce the tire. The white paint we use on our walls and the coatings on some pills contain fire-made titania nanoparticles. Similarly, fumed silica — which is used in the optical fibres needed for internet and communication systems — are also forged in fire.

    How nanotechnology is made

    So how do nanoparticles, which are 80 to 100 thousand times smaller than the thickness of a human hair, form inside a fire?

    I specialize in making nanoparticles in fire — specifically using a technology called flame spray pyrolysis.

    In my research, I burn flammable chemicals that contain the target metal elements to form my nanoparticles. Everything gets oxidized during combustion: carbon becomes CO2, hydrogen becomes water vapor and metal elements become metal oxides.

    During the milliseconds that these metal oxide particulates spend inside the fire, they collide and grow into nano- or micro-particles. I collect these particles on a filter on top of the fire. Important properties such as the size and crystal structure of the nanoparticles that are produced depend on how much time these particles spend inside the fire.

    The more time the particles have to collide inside the forging fire, the larger they grow. We can also make complicated particles consisting of multiple elements by burning a mixture of different chemicals. This process is both versatile and scalable — allowing millions of tonnes of nanoparticles to be produced each year.

    Carbon black is a nanoparticle that is produced through flame spray pyrolysis.
    (Shutterstock)

    Overcoming limitations

    Being able to mass-produce nanoparticles has been one of the biggest challenges of producing nanotechnologies on a larger scale. This is because most of the nanoparticles used in nanotechnologies can only be made via “wet chemistry,” or by using liquids.

    It can take hours of working with liquid in beakers, mixing them, heating them, then separating and centrifuging them just to obtain tiny amounts of material. These processes are often too expensive and too dangerous to scale enough for viable commercialisation.

    For instance, quantum dots (nanoparticles made from semiconducting materials which have both optical and electrical properties) — the discovery of which was celebrated by the Chemistry Noble Prize in 2023. These have the potential to revolutionize many technologies — including solar cells, carbon capture and contrast agents used in medical imaging.

    However, quantum dots are hardly ever used in those technologies on a large scale because the prohibitive cost of making them via wet chemistry can be as high as US$45,000 per gram.

    But unlike wet chemistry, fire is simple, cheap, scaleable and surprisingly safe. So when processes that allow for the production of high value nanoparticles, such as quantum dots, with fire are developed, costs drastically drop and they become immediately scaleable and of potential interest to industry.

    Fire can also produce harmful particles and by-products.

    For instance, if you place a napkin in front of the exhaust of your car, black stuff will accumulate on it. This black residue is soot particles produced by the fire burning inside the engine. Similarly, smoking cigarettes causes soot to form and accumulate in a smoker’s lung, often causing cancer.

    Soot is also, by some estimations, the third highest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide and methane. However, those assessments may actually be underestimating the true contribution of soot to greenhouse gas effects.

    Flame spray pyrolysis technology has also been used to simulate combustion conditions to not only study the impact of generated soot more accurately, but also test process changes that could virtually eliminate soot emissions. For example, one study used flame spray pyrolysis to show that injecting air downstream of jet fuel combustion can reduce soot emission by more than 90 per cent. Flame spray pyrolysis could continue to be a useful tool in researching the impacts of pollution.

    The future of nanoparticles

    But not all nanoparticles can be produced by fire. As such, research exploring new recipes and processes to make high-value nanoparticles that are not yet possible to make in fire could have a large impact.

    For example, a major focus of my current work is to explore the possibility of using fire to make graphene. Graphene is the strongest material known at the nanoscale. My previous work shows that by using ultraviolet light, graphene can be transformed into strong macroscopic structures — possibly allowing it to be used in 3D printing.

    Graphene is the strongest material known at nanoscale.
    (Shutterstock)

    Further, there’s massive untapped potential in nanomedicine to integrate the nanoparticles that are already possible to make in fire. Only about 30 types of nanoparticles are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration — such as those used in COVID-19 vaccines, as well as iron-based nanoparticles used for treating anemia and kidney disease.

    All those approved nanomedicines are given via injections. This leaves plenty of room to explore the benefits of inorganic nanoparticles in medicine — especially orally administrated therapeutics.

    Keroles Riad is the founder and CEO of O Nanotech Solutions, a startup that produces flame-made quantum dots. He also receives funding from NSERC as a Canada Banting Postdoctoral Fellow. He also receives funding from MITACS as a part of their Accelerate Entrepreneur Program. He holds both scholarships at Carleton University. He is also the CEO of enuf, a Bcorp-certified social enterprise focused on sustainable waste management.

    – ref. Using fire to produce nanoparticles could revolutionize various industries – https://theconversation.com/using-fire-to-produce-nanoparticles-could-revolutionize-various-industries-234058

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The woman who turned the Met Gala into the biggest party of the year

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Elizabeth Castaldo Lundén, SweAmfo/ASF Research Fellow at USC School of Cinematic Arts | Fulbright Scholar, University of Southern California

    Diana Vreeland takes a drag from her cigarette as she greets Andy Warhol. Ron Galella Collection/Getty Images

    The annual Met Gala in New York City is a dazzling collision of celebrity, fashion and media frenzy.

    The event is ostensibly a fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, which houses a vast collection of historical costumes and fashion artifacts.

    But for many people, it’s that time of year when their social media feeds become awash with posts, stories and live streams of A-list actors, musicians and influencers ascending the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art to showcase their elaborate outfits.

    Zendaya at the 2024 Met Gala, which was themed ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.’
    Neilson Barnard/MG24/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

    The gala has come a long way since its early days as an intimate fundraising event for the local fashion industry and New York’s old-guard elite.

    Through my research at the Met’s Thomas J. Watson Library, I discovered the ways in which a former fashion editor named Diana Vreeland elevated this formerly stuffy charity ball into a global media sensation.

    A low-key affair

    Philanthropist and arts patron Irene Lewisohn launched the Museum of Costume Art in 1937 to promote the preservation and study of historical clothing. In 1946, New York fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert helped bring the museum’s collection under the purview of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with the caveat that it would operate independently of the museum’s budget. It was then renamed the Costume Institute.

    Dorothy Shaver burnished the reputation of the Costume Institute in its early years.
    Erwin Blumenfeld/Condé Nast via Getty Images

    In 1948, Lambert organized the inaugural gala to raise funds for the institute. The following year, Lord & Taylor president Dorothy Shaver established a formal management structure for both the institute and its annual gala, streamlined operations, and helped burnish the reputation of the fledgling institution among New York’s social elite. During her tenure, gala revenues climbed steadily, from US$31,723 in 1949 to $118,775 in 1958 – roughly $1.3 million in today’s dollars.

    The Met Gala that Shaver shaped looked similar, in many ways, to today’s: There was a theme, a formal dinner, live entertainment and a fashion parade that attendees could participate in. There were also a photographers row, where guests could be snapped by famed fashion photographers for a fee, and raffles with department store prizes.

    After Shaver’s death in 1958, department store executives continued to steer the gala, but attendance and revenue waned. In 1961, in an effort to cut costs and revive interest, the event was moved into the museum itself.

    The gala needed a reinvention. Soon, it would get one.

    Vreeland’s vision

    Diana Vreeland took the reins of the Met Gala in 1973.

    She’d had a storied career in fashion journalism, including stints as fashion editor of Harper’s Bazaar and editor-in-chief of Vogue.

    Vreeland, however, understood that in order for the gala to grow, it needed to become a newsworthy event that would be of interest to those who might not even attend the gala itself. So she selected spectacular, sometimes controversial themes that would generate interest from the press.

    Vreeland’s first exhibition in 1973 was bold: a tribute to a single designer, Cristóbal Balenciaga.

    “The World of Balenciaga” was funded by the Spanish government, Iberia Airlines and five Spanish banks – a controversial move, considering Spain was still under Francisco Franco’s dictatorship. The show featured Franco’s granddaughter’s wedding dress as one of the central pieces.

    Some curators also bristled at Vreeland’s unorthodox approach to exhibition planning, such as blurring time periods, displaying clothes without providing historical context and prioritizing beauty over scholarship.

    “She knows fashion and who wore it,” one former museum official said, “but she doesn’t know history.”

    Nonetheless, critics deemed the gala and its accompanying exhibition a huge success. American designer Stan Herman declared that the garments “belong in a museum, like good paintings.”

    In the coming years, Vreeland’s other themes included “Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design,” “The ‘10s, ’20s and ’30s,” and “American Women of Style.” The latter was accompanied by a Vogue magazine spread starring actress and model Marisa Berenson, who channeled iconic American “it girls” like Irene Castle, Consuelo Vanderbilt and Josephine Baker.

    Models and actresses wear costumes and masks for the Costume Institute’s 1974 exhibition ‘Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design.’ Diana Vreeland is seated in the center, sans mask.

    Buzz and pizzazz

    Before Vreeland, coverage of the gala was limited to society pages and publications like Women’s Wear Daily.

    Vreeland knew how to generate buzz because she thought like an editor. She also knew how to charm the press. Vreeland popularized words like “pizzazz,” “splendeur” and “deeveen.” She told tales of discovering model and actress Lauren Bacall and the work of fashion designer Roy Halston. She regaled reporters with stories of allegedly visiting Buffalo Bill in Wyoming.

    Under Vreeland’s leadership, media coverage of the gala and exhibitions exploded, with articles appearing in The New York Times, The New Yorker, New York Magazine, People, Interview, Le Figaro, Le Monde, Revista Hola!, ABC de las Americas, Il Tempo, Paris Herald Tribune and Tokyo’s High Fashion, among others. During her tenure, she also opened the doors to reporters and photographers so they could cover the night of the event.

    In an interview with Women’s Wear Daily she said, “I am an entertainer. And I believe in wit, and good nature, and laughter.”

    Corporate controversies

    With “The World of Balenciaga,” Vreeland also pioneered the use of corporate sponsorships to finance the exhibitions and parties. In 1982, Pierre Cardin Management funded “La Belle Époque,” a Met Gala theme associated with the relaunch of the famed Paris restaurant Maxim’s, in which Cardin had invested.

    In 1983, Vreeland courted controversy again with the first exhibition honoring a living designer — Yves Saint Laurent — underwritten by the Pierre Bergé Foundation. Bergé was Saint Laurent’s life and business partner.

    The show was launched amid rumors of the designer’s declining health and growing criticism of the museum being exploited as a publicity platform.

    “One day the god of the Temple of Dendur will cry: ‘I am not on earth to share a museum with a bunch of fashion freaks!’” critic John Heilpern groused in the East Side Express.

    The following year, Ralph Lauren became the central sponsor and guest of honor for “Man and the Horse.”

    Diana Vreeland and designer Ralph Lauren at the 1984 gala, which was themed ‘Man and the Horse’ and sponsored by Lauren.
    Sonia Moskowitz/Getty Images

    The Met set

    Under Vreeland, a new kind of guest list also emerged.

    The rise of celebrity culture in the 1960s gave birth to the “jet set” – beautiful people whose fame transcended traditional society circles.

    Vreeland embraced this shift. She made space at the gala for the likes of Andy Warhol, Bianca and Mick Jagger, Halston and his Halstonettes, David Bowie, Cher, Diana Ross, Warren Beatty and Jack Nicholson.

    Their presence helped transform the gala from society soirée to pop culture phenomenon.

    After Vreeland’s death in 1989, the event lost some its splendor under the guidance of museum curators. Women’s Wear Daily columnist Aileen Mehle later lamented the decline, writing that the event had become “a far cry from the dear old Diana Vreeland days when that fashion oracle called the Costume Institute’s shots, and elegance and anticipation abounded.”

    In the late 1990s, however, the museum curators who had run the event since Vreeland’s death ceded control back to the fashion industry. High-end brands like Chanel, Versace and Christian Dior sponsored the Met Gala, while fashion editors such as Liz Tilberis and Anna Wintour chaired the event.

    By channeling Vreeland’s vision, they were able to turn the gala into the global media spectacle it is today, which now thrives in an era of social media and global branding.

    This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Styles,” is co-chaired by rapper-producer Pharrell Williams, who is also the artistic director of Menswear at Louis Vuitton. The LVMH conglomerate – Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton – is the sponsor, showing how the gala continues to operate as a platform where corporate branding, celebrity culture and high culture converge.

    Taylor Swift attends the 2014 Met Gala, themed ‘Charles James: Beyond Fashion.’
    Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

    Elizabeth Castaldo Lundén received funding from Fulbright (2023-2024)

    – ref. The woman who turned the Met Gala into the biggest party of the year – https://theconversation.com/the-woman-who-turned-the-met-gala-into-the-biggest-party-of-the-year-250363

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Pandas and politics − from World War II to the Cold War, zoos have always been ideological

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By John M. Kinder, Professor of History and American Studies, Oklahoma State University

    Giant panda Xiao Qi Ji walks around his enclosure at the Smithsonian National Zoo in September 2023 in Washington, D.C. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump’s sweeping range of more than 130 executive orders and other decisions aim to upend everything from long-standing immigration policy to the control of a performing arts center.

    But so far, zoos are not among the many issues the Trump administration has focused on.

    That might no longer be the case.

    Trump issued an executive order on March 27, 2025, to restore “truth and sanity” at federal history sites.

    “Over the past decade, Americans have witnessed a concerted and widespread effort to rewrite our Nation’s history,” Trump wrote in the executive order, “replacing facts with a distorted narrative driven by ideology rather than truth.” As a corrective, he instructed Vice President JD Vance to ferret out “improper ideology” at the Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research centers created and funded by the federal government.

    The executive order also applied to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., which has been part of the Smithsonian since 1890.

    For Trump’s critics, the suggestion that zoos might be indoctrinating visitors was absurd.

    NBC “Late Night” host Seth Meyers joked about the executive order on his show on April 2, characterizing it as evidence of an authoritarian personality.

    “Seriously, what the hell is ‘improper’ ideology at the zoo? Trump is starting to get into weird dictator s—,” Meyers said.

    Meyers’ astonishment should come as no surprise. Zoos go to great lengths to portray themselves as scientifically objective and politically neutral.

    Yet as a scholar of wars’ effects on American culture and society, I know that zoos have always been ideological, sending subtle – and not so subtle – messages about topics that have little to do with animals.

    Historically, zoos have been used to justify colonial exploitation. They have lent weight to eugenicist ideas about racial hierarchy. And they have served as backdrops for all kinds of political theater.

    During the 1920s and 1930s, for example, Italian strongman Benito Mussolini liked to climb inside the lion cage at the Rome Zoo to demonstrate the courage and vitality he associated with fascist politics.

    As I argue in my 2025 book “World War Zoos: Humans and Other Animals in the Deadliest Conflict of the Modern Age,” the links between zoos and national politics are especially pronounced in periods of war.

    Benito Mussolini, the longtime fascist dictator of Italy, visits a zoo in Rome in 1924.

    World war zoos

    Zoo ownership and funding models depend on the individual zoo, but many zoos receive at least some government funding to operate.

    At the start of World War II, most governments required zoos to embrace an ideology of sacrifice – a willingness to set the needs of the state above their own.

    For zoos in North America and the British Empire, this meant slashing workers’ pay, rationing food supplies and offering uniformed soldiers special access to zoo facilities.

    It also meant destroying animals considered a threat to public safety, especially in the event of a bombing or assault that could set them free. In 1939, the London Zoo killed more than 200 animals, starting with the black widow spiders and venomous snakes. Other zoos did the same, slaughtering their animal collections as a precaution against possible escape.

    Joan the hippo at the London Zoo gets a drink of water in June 1939.
    Fox Photos/Getty Images

    Authoritarian governments during World War II exercised almost total control over their nations’ zoos.

    Under Adolf Hitler, German zoos enforced “Aryan-only” visitation policies, festooned their grounds with swastikas, hosted galas for Nazi dignitaries and exhibited animals looted from zoos in occupied nations.

    In Japan, the governor of Tokyo ordered the Ueno Zoo to carry out a series of “propaganda killings” aimed at strengthening public commitment to the wartime struggle. Starting in August 1943, zoo staff shot, electrocuted, stabbed and strangled more than 20 animals, including a polar bear, an American bison, a python and a leopard cub.

    Tokyo’s zoo also starved to death three elephants named Jon, Tonki and Hanako. Weeks after the zoo held an official funeral for its animals, two of the three elephants that were not actually dead continued to suffer, their cages covered in bunting so the public would not see the ghastly evidence.

    Even as the fighting raged, the Soviet government directed its zoos to develop practical measures to help the war effort. At the Moscow Zoo, staff taught people how to breed mice and rabbits for medical applications, such as vaccine testing.

    All the while, Soviet zoo employees had to demonstrate ideological vigilance in the workplace. Any slipup could mean official sanction, loss of position or worse.

    Cold War zoos

    During the Cold War, governments around the world continued to view zoos through an ideological lens.

    This was especially true in Berlin, where the city’s two zoos – one in the capitalist West, the other in the communist East – became symbols of competing ideological worldviews.

    No zoo animals were more ideologically fraught in the Cold War than giant pandas, endemic to the forested mountains of central China.

    In the 1950s and 1960s, American zoos were denied permission by the U.S. government to import pandas from China. The State Department considered them “enemy goods.”

    First lady Pat Nixon welcomes pandas to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., in 1972.

    That changed in 1972, when President Richard Nixon, during a thawing of the Cold War, famously returned from China with Ling-Ling and Hsing-Hsing, the first giant pandas who were gifted to and exhibited in the U.S. in decades.

    The National Zoo unveiled China’s latest “soft power ambassadors” in January 2025. Three-year-old pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao are set to remain in D.C. for 10 years – long enough to win the hearts and minds of millions of zoo visitors.

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

    – ref. Pandas and politics − from World War II to the Cold War, zoos have always been ideological – https://theconversation.com/pandas-and-politics-from-world-war-ii-to-the-cold-war-zoos-have-always-been-ideological-255305

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Guns in America: A liberal gun-owning sociologist offers 5 observations to understand America’s culture of firearms

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By David Yamane, Professor of Sociology, Wake Forest University

    About 86 million American adults own at least one of the estimated 400 million firearms in the U.S. today. Paul Campbell, iStock / Getty Images Plus

    An Asian American and lifelong liberal from the San Francisco Bay Area, I became a first-time gun owner as a 42-year-old in 2011. I began a now 14-year journey into an unfamiliar and complex world of firearms. In my work, I draw on both my personal experiences and sociological observations to understand the long-standing presence of a robust legal gun culture in America.

    In contrast to the dominant scholarly approaches, which focus on gun deviance and harm, I find there is more to firearms than criminal violence, injury and death; more to gun owners than straight white men; and more to gun culture than democracy-destroying right-wing politics.

    Let me share five observations essential to understanding guns in America:

    1. Guns are normal

    About 86 million American adults – 1 in 3 – own at least one of the estimated 400 million firearms in the U.S. today.

    Imagine if everyone who uses TikTok in the U.S. owned a gun – and then add the population of New York City. That is enough gun owners to fill over 1,000 NFL stadiums.

    Humans have used projectile weapons like rocks and spears from the beginning. This unbroken history continues in every society, with firearms as the weapon of choice in all but the most isolated communities. People who could legally own guns in colonial America commonly did so. Even today, civilian firearms ownership remains exceptionally high in the U.S. compared with other industrialized nations.

    The right of everyday Americans to own guns is a deep part of American culture, enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and many state constitutions.

    2. Gun culture 2.0

    The culture of guns in the U.S. has evolved over time.

    Before the mid-1800s, people primarily used firearms for practical purposes: hunting for food, defense from and offense against indigenous populations, controlling enslaved people, expanding territory and fighting against oppressive rulers.

    Kevin Dixie, at a firearms retailer and gun range in Ballwin, Mo., believes that gun rights are about empowering minority communities and ensuring freedom for every American.
    AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

    Starting in the mid-1800s, Americans developed a more complex gun culture that included recreational hunting, organized target shooting and gun collecting. These elements continue today, but, in a shift, Americans increasingly own guns for self-defense.

    Evidence for the evolution to what I call “Gun Culture 2.0” appears in three key areas: surveys about why people own guns, the loosening of gun-carrying laws beginning in the 1980s, and changes in both the types of firearms sold and how companies market them, especially toward small, concealable pistols.

    3. Gun ownership is diverse

    Black Americans have a particularly strong tradition of gun ownership dating at least to the 19th-century abolitionist movement.

    Today, 1 in 4 Black Americans, as well as 1 in 5 Latinos and 1 in 4 women, personally own a gun. Twenty percent of gun owners consider themselves politically liberal. For every four evangelical Protestants who own handguns, three people who don’t identify with any religion own them too. Scholars are even beginning to discover the importance of LGBTQ+ gun owners.

    Gun Culture 2.0 is more diverse and inclusive than the United States’ historical gun culture because security is a universal human concern.

    The response to feelings of insecurity varies. Portfolios of protective measures in the U.S. include home security systems, dogs, the hyperlocal social networking service Nextdoor, gated communities and firearms.

    4. Guns are lethal tools

    Many tools like knives and chainsaws are lethal, meaning they have the capacity to cause death. Guns differ because their lethality is by design. Consequently, guns can make dangerous situations more deadly.

    Despite their ubiquity and deadly potential, accidental firearm deaths are relatively rare and declining in the U.S., numbering fewer than 500 annually in recent years. Most gun deaths are intentional, with suicides accounting for 58% and homicides for 38% of 46,728 gun deaths in 2023.

    While the U.S. has a moderate overall suicide rate compared with other developed countries, it has a firearm suicide rate that substantially exceeds these other nations. This is because firearms are widely available and highly lethal. When people attempt suicide using guns, they die in up to 90% of cases.

    Similarly, although the U.S. is not exceedingly violent or criminal compared with peer nations, its criminal violence is more deadly because these lethal tools are more frequently involved.

    Starting in the mid-1800s, Americans developed a more complex gun culture that included recreational hunting, as depicted in this 1852 lithograph of woodcock hunters.
    Universal History Archive/Getty Images

    5. Guns are paradoxical

    Despite high rates of firearm suicide and homicide, most guns in the U.S. will not kill anyone, and most American gun owners will not commit violence against themselves or others. My calculations, based on the 2023 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, indicate that just one gun death occurred per 8,560 firearms and 1,840 gun owners – meaning at least 99.99% of guns and 99.95% of gun owners were not directly involved in fatalities that year.

    These observations collectively point to a final insight: Guns resist simple categorization and embody multiple paradoxes.

    To different people, they are fun and frightening, dangerous and protective, diffuse and concentrated, unifying and divisive, attractive and repulsive, interesting and controversial, useful and useless, good and bad, and neither good nor bad.

    This is to say, guns are not inherently anything. They take on different meanings according to the various purposes to which people put them.

    A realistic view requires maintaining a clear-eyed understanding of the lethal capabilities of firearms. But the tendency to focus exclusively on firearms-related harms, while understandable, becomes a problem, in my view, when it fails to acknowledge the normality of guns and the diversity of gun owners.

    David Yamane has received funding from The Louisville Institute for the Study of American Religion to study church security. He is a member of the Liberal Gun Club, National African American Gun Association, and National Rifle Association, and financially supports the Liberal Gun Owners 501c4 and Walk the Walk America 501c3 organizations.

    – ref. Guns in America: A liberal gun-owning sociologist offers 5 observations to understand America’s culture of firearms – https://theconversation.com/guns-in-america-a-liberal-gun-owning-sociologist-offers-5-observations-to-understand-americas-culture-of-firearms-251084

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Deporting international students risks making the US a less attractive destination, putting its economic engine at risk

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By David L. Di Maria, Vice Provost for Global Engagement, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

    Boston University students march to demand the school declare itself a sanctuary campus to protect their peers from the federal government regardless of their immigration status, on April 3, 2025. Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

    In early April 2025, the Trump administration terminated the immigration statuses of thousands of international students listed in a government database, meaning they no longer had legal permission to be in the country. Some students self-deported instead of facing deportation.

    The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently announced that it would reverse the terminations after courts across the country determined they did not have merit.

    These moves come as the White House seeks to enhance vetting and screening of all foreign nationals.

    The State Department in March announced plans to use artificial intelligence to review international students’ social media accounts.

    As an administrator and scholar who specializes in international higher education, I know that international students in the United States have long been subjected to a high level of vetting, screening and monitoring.

    Inserting additional bureaucracy into current processes could make the U.S. a less attractive study destination. I believe this would ultimately hamper the Trump administration’s ability to achieve its “America First” priorities related to the economy, science and technology, and national security.

    International students in the US

    The U.S. has long been the global leader in attracting international students. But competition for these students is increasing as other countries, such as Germany and South Korea, enact strategies for attracting international education.

    The U.S. hosts 16% of all students studying outside of their home country, down from 22% in 2014 and 28% in 2001, according to the Institute of International Education. Of the more than 1 million international students who were present in the U.S. during the 2023-2024 academic year, 54% came from just two countries, China and India.

    Most international students pursue graduate degrees in STEM fields – science, technology, engineering and mathematics. And, according to the National Science Foundation, international students make up a significant portion of enrollment at the master’s and doctoral levels.

    How international students are screened

    International students in the U.S. are already subjected to intense screening and continuous monitoring. These measures include:

    • Vetting the student’s school. Before they can apply for a visa, international students must be admitted to a school authorized by the Department of Homeland Security to enroll people on student visas.

    • Vetting at the embassy. As part of the visa application process, international students are subjected to national security reviews carried out by various intelligence and law enforcement agencies. In some cases, such as when a U.S. consular officer in their home country decides that more information is required from external sources to determine visa eligibility, additional screenings occur. That is done through a process known as administrative processing.

    • Vetting upon arrival. When they arrive in the U.S., international students are again screened by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer. If the officer is unable to verify any information, the student is sent to secondary inspection, a secure interview area where the student waits while officers complete additional assessment. The student is then either admitted to the U.S. or forced to depart the country.

    • Ongoing monitoring while in the U.S. If permitted to enter the country, students must enroll full time, earn good grades and notify their school within 10 days of substantive changes to their circumstances.

    Examples include a change to their address, academic major or financial sponsor. And school officials are required to report this information to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s National Security Investigations Division.

    Students participating in temporary, postgraduation training programs must continue to comply with reporting requirements. And certain STEM graduates, and their employers, are subject to additional requirements. They include certification of training plans, annual evaluations and site visits.

    Most international students prefer to study in the U.S., recent research shows. But they are willing to change their preferences as other countries introduce friendlier visa policies, such as more flexible post-study work opportunities and lower visa costs.

    Given the current level of screening and monitoring already imposed on international students in the U.S., it is unclear how additional measures would add value.

    Boston University police officers speak to each other as students protest outside a dean’s office demanding the school declare itself a sanctuary campus, on April 3, 2025.
    Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

    Critical to an America First agenda

    President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda aims to grow the U.S. economy.

    It also intends to maintain U.S. leadership in science and technology and enhance national security.

    Trump administration officials have underlined the importance of recruiting top global talent. And Trump has said that international students who graduate from U.S. colleges should be awarded a green card with their degree.

    During the 2023-2024 academic year, international students contributed US$43.8 billion to the U.S. economy through tuition and living expenses, which supported an estimated 378,175 U.S. jobs.

    Their contributions don’t end following graduation, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research. Many go on to launch successful startups at a rate that is eight to nine times higher than their domestic peers. In fact, 25% of billion-dollar companies in the U.S. were founded by a former international student.

    Such companies include Eventbrite, Grammarly, Moderna, OpenAI, Robinhood and SpaceX.

    International students also help the U.S. maintain global leadership in STEM.

    Consider that 45% of STEM workers in the U.S. holding a doctoral degree were born outside the U.S.

    A 2024 report cautions that the U.S. is failing to develop domestic STEM talent at all levels of the education system. Just 3.2% of U.S. high school graduates are estimated to enter the STEM workforce.

    Moreover, the country’s ability to attract and retain international STEM talent is decreasing due to immigration restrictions and increased global competition.

    Finally, international students are critical to establishing global networks and promoting soft power diplomacy. This is evidenced by the U.S. having graduated more world leaders than any other nation.

    Further restricting the ability of international students to study in the U.S. will ultimately redirect talent to other countries, allies and adversaries alike.

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

    – ref. Deporting international students risks making the US a less attractive destination, putting its economic engine at risk – https://theconversation.com/deporting-international-students-risks-making-the-us-a-less-attractive-destination-putting-its-economic-engine-at-risk-249245

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NHS: Farage’s dire healthcare plans will “cost lives” say Greens

    Source: Scottish Greens

    01 May 2025 Health

    Reform are a threat to people and planet.

    More in Health

    The leader of Reform UK’s plans to introduce private healthcare insurance to the UK would “cost lives”, says Scottish Greens health spokesperson Gillian Mackay MSP.

    The statement was said by the millionaire politician Nigel Farage during an interview with Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, where he said “I do not want it [the NHS] funded through general taxation.”

    The Reform UK MP implied that he would instead replace it with a system of private insurance, which would cost working people across Scotland more.

    Scottish Greens have always stood up for publicly owned healthcare in Scotland and criticised moves from the Labour UK government to implement privatisation in sectors of the NHS south of the border.

    Scottish Greens health spokesperson Gillian Mackay MSP said:

    “Nigel Farage is a millionaire who has no problem funding his own healthcare, but he wants to push these dire plans to punish the least well off in society, the families and communities most likely to need crucial healthcare.

    “Healthcare must always be accessible and free for everyone. We have that right now in Scotland, and any suggestion to introduce private insurance is a blatantly obvious attempt to Americanise our healthcare system.

    “I have no doubt that these proposals from Farage would cost lives. Charging patients to access healthcare will have tragic consequences for those who need healthcare the most.

    “Our NHS needs help to deal with the disastrous staffing crisis caused by the withdrawal from the EU – which Scotland didn’t vote for -, and recovery from one of the worst health crises in centuries. This kind of political distraction isn’t going to help the nurses, doctors and patients; it simply drives profit from ill health.

    “Scottish Greens have always worked to protect Scotland’s NHS, in the 2025/26 budget we supported a £2 billion increase in frontline NHS funding in order to reduce waiting times, improve access and ensure everyone can access the healthcare they need.

    “With the real prospect of a far right  Reform government without a single MP in Scotland, independence has never been so crucial. Next year, Scotland can reject the dire and dangerous ideas of Reform UK and Nigel Farage, by voting for Scottish Green MSPs who will protect our NHS, put money in people’s pockets and tackle the climate emergency.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Firsts: First Graduating Class

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    This May, nearly 8,000 people will receive undergraduate and graduate degrees at 17 ceremonies held in four different locations at UConn, a multiday extravaganza of accomplishment that could scarcely have been imagined the first time the institution celebrated its graduates.

    The year was 1883, just two years after the school first opened its doors. The school didn’t award bachelor’s degrees for its first decade, and so everyone who completed their course of studies received a two-year certificate. And the graduating class in that very first year wouldn’t have needed Gampel Pavilion to hold it: there were just six students finishing their studies, all boys, some of whom later went on to finish high school.

    That first ceremony was held in a grove of oak trees, near what is now Holcomb Hall, and each graduating student read a final paper as part of the exercises. They wore suits for the occasion; UConn ceremonies didn’t feature the familiar cap and gown regalia until 1907.

    While that first ceremony looked completely different from what students experience today, it was the first step in a long history of commencement ceremonies celebrating the most important part about UConn: the students.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Doechii’s ‘Anxiety’ Is an Anthem for Our Emotional State

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Editor’s Note: The following article by Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor Sandra Chafouleas originally appeared in Psychology Today.

    KEY POINTS

    • Doechii’s “Anxiety” nails both the physical and mental symptoms of anxiety.
    • The song guides us to notice anxious thoughts as “passing through.”
    • Multiple coping options exist: observe thoughts, avoid judgment, calm body, and connect with others.
    • Families can use the song to talk about anxiety and healthy coping options.

    Doechii’s “Anxiety” is bigger than pulsating rhythms and unflinching lyrics. In a year thus far dominated with uncertainty, it represents more than popular music. It captures how many of us feel right now. When it pops into our playlists, we might wonder: was the timing of release planned or coincidental? Doechii has nailed it, tapping into our shared whole-body experience.

    The song and accompanying video work so well in showing exactly how anxiety feels in our bodies and minds. When Doechii sings, “Breathing shallow, mind won’t settle / Tomorrow’s problems here today”, she is describing the hallmark features of anxiety. Think about quick and short breaths, racing thoughts, and worrying about things that haven’t happened yet. Anxiety feels like “Anxiety” sounds, with brilliant mirroring of how the experience can hijack us.

    Doechii does more than describe the symptoms of anxiety. In the middle, she attempts to shift perspective: “Notice it, name it, watch it go / It’s not you, it’s just passing through.” This part shows us the beginnings of how to escape from anxiety’s hold. Emotion science tells us that we can learn to observe our thoughts rather than be consumed by them. This awareness, for example, can be found in the core elements of approaches like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. For listeners of the song, this reframing can begin to open multiple pathways for healthy responding to anxiety. We need different options as a single approach doesn’t work for each person or across every situation.

    Here are some examples to explore:

    • Recognize thoughts as just thoughts: When we view a worried thought as “just anxiety talking,” we can acknowledge the intrusion without it taking over how we define who we are or what we do.
    • Just notice without judging: When we observe our thoughts, feelings or sensations without labeling, we can create space to be less reactive to anxiety.
    • Use our bodies to calm down: When we are anxious, we experience sensations in our body like tight muscles or shallow breathing. We can do deep breathing, relax our muscles, or move our bodies to feel better.
    • Connect with others: When we feel alone in holding our anxious feelings, we can reach out with someone we trust to remind us that we are not alone. Sharing with others can help us as well as the other person.

    Helping Our Kids Handle Anxiety

    For parents, Doechii’s song also could open doors to talking about anxiety with our kids, especially our teens. When our kids are feeling mixed up inside, hearing a parent say, “I totally get this song – sometimes I feel just like it” could help. When we share our own worries while talking through healthy coping options, we teach important life skills. This doesn’t mean that we should dump adult problems on our kids. It’s about showing kids how to acknowledge and work through those tough feelings like tension or worried thoughts.

    Here are simple things parents can try:

    • Talk out loud about your own experiences: When you feel worried, say something like: “I’m nervous about my big meeting tomorrow. My heart is beating fast and my throat feels tight. I need to try something to calm my body down. I’m going to take five deep breaths and see what happens.”
    • Discuss the difference between helpful and unhelpful worry: Talk through situations about when worry could actually be useful (I need to plan out when and how to study for this test) and when it might be taking over (If I don’t ace this test, I won’t do well in anything and there goes my future). Notice opportunities to catch and shift unhelpful feelings before they spin even bigger.
    • Create solutions together: Work together to come up with simple activities that family members can use when feeling anxious—like a special way of deep breathing, counting things you can see in the room, or shaking out your arms and legs to release tension.
    • Have kids take the lead in solutions: Instead of jumping in to fix kids’ feelings of anxiety, try first asking them to share what’s happening. Let them take the lead in answering “What could we try?” Encouraging their problem solving in the moment helps build skills for handling future worries on their own.

    Doechii has created more than entertainment with “Anxiety”; she’s offered a useful tool for our times. We identify with it because anxiety is a likely visitor throughout our lives, and especially now. Let’s use the song to shine light on our capacity to respond in healthy ways. We have a shared role in deciding what to do when anxiety shows up, an important lesson for both caregivers and kids.

    MIL OSI USA News –