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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Luján, Tuberville Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Frozen Produce for SNAP Participants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), today introduced the Supporting All Healthy Options When Purchasing Produce (SHOPP) Act, which would expand access to frozen fruits and vegetables through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP):
    “Access to whole, nutrient dense foods are essential to making America healthy again,” said Sen. Cornyn. “The SHOPP Act will help meet this need for Texas families and communities across the country by ensuring SNAP participants are able to put well-balanced meals full of fruits and vegetables on their dinner tables.”
    “I am proud to reintroduce the bipartisan SHOPP Act to expand access to fruits and vegetables for families across the country,” said Sen. Luján. “This legislation helps strengthen food security and supports healthier communities in New Mexico and nationwide, especially in rural and Tribal communities where access to fresh produce can be limited. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to move it forward.”
    “SNAP participants deserve access to healthy alternatives,” said Sen. Tuberville. “RFK Jr. has exposed the scary truth behind much of America’s processed food. Expanding access to frozen fruits and vegetables is a step in the right direction of Making America Healthy Again. It is important we continue to increase options and encourage Americans to make healthy choices.”
    Companion legislation is being led by U.S. Representatives Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) and Mark Alford (MO-04).
    Background:
    The Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program (SNAP) and the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP) are designed to help low-income families and individuals access the healthy food options they need. However, GusNIP projects currently only include funding for fresh produce, not frozen. The SHOPP Act would give local GusNIP providers the ability to provide frozen fruits and vegetables, which work better for SNAP participants who may live in rural or urban food deserts. Increased access to frozen produce makes eating a variety of fruits and vegetables possible for these families and individuals, and it is also easier to transport to areas that are on the last mile of a delivery route. This comes as March is National Nutrition Month and National Frozen Food Month, which raise awareness of the importance of developing healthy eating habits.
    This legislation is endorsed by the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) and the Houston Food Bank.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Announces 2025 Guest for President’s Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) announced that he will be joined at President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress by Jason King, a disabled veteran from Fairfax who was fired from his position in the Federal Aviation Administration’s safety division as a result of the Trump Administration’s attacks on the federal workforce.

    “I’m grateful that Fairfax resident and veteran Jason King will join me at this year’s joint address. Jason has served our country for years—first in the military and then at the Federal Aviation Administration where he worked to ensure air safety for millions of passengers. Despite Jason’s service, he is one of many federal employees who were recently fired by the Trump Administration,” Kaine said. “Jason’s story is a powerful example of how indiscriminately firing federal employees disproportionately hurts our veterans and also threatens the safety of the American people who rely on agencies like the FAA. I remain committed to protecting Virginia’s federal workers, our economy, and the safety of our communities from the Trump Administration’s actions.”

    “I served in the United States Army as a transportation coordinator, where I ensured the safest mode of transport of personnel, equipment, and supplies. After the Army, I was given the opportunity to continue serving my country with the FAA as the Executive Assistant to the Director of Safety,” said King. “The tragic midair collision that occurred near DCA serves as a strong reminder that safety can’t be taken for granted. Yet in the wake of this event, our Administration decided to move forward with the firing of hundreds of FAA employees, myself included. Safety doesn’t come by chance. It requires investment, oversight, and expertise of those who work tirelessly to uphold these values. I’m glad to be joining Senator Kaine at the joint address to help send an important message: cutting costs should never come at the expense of safety, especially when it comes to the American people.”

    Last week, Kaine and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) demanded the Trump Administration immediately reinstate all of the estimated 6,000 veterans who were fired during the mass terminations of federal employees and demanded veterans receive their full benefits and back pay. Veterans make up 30% of the federal workforce.

    Kaine has also long advocated for policies to enhance aviation safety and has demanded that the Trump Administration prioritize the safety of America’s air travel system and reverse recent cuts to essential FAA safety roles. Following the deadly DCA collision on January 29, 2025, Kaine pressed the FAA on its plans to protect the flying public and applauded the precautionary safety measures put in place by the agency while the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) carries out its investigation into the crash. On February 14, Kaine was briefed by the NTSB regarding the investigation, and continues to follow the situation closely.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEA President: “Parents and educators are organizing, advocating, and mobilizing to stop Donald Trump and Linda McMahon from hurting students and gutting public education”

    Source: US National Education Union

    WASHINGTON – NEA President Becky Pringle released the following statement reacting to the U.S. Senate’s party-line vote to confirm Linda McMahon as Secretary of Education.  

    “Every student – no matter where they live, how much their family earns, or the color of their skin – deserves the opportunity, resources, and support they need to grow into their full brilliance.  

    “Linda McMahon has pledged to dismantle public education and take away resources students need by hollowing out the Department of Education, destroying programs that support students with disabilities, making higher education less accessible, and gutting civil rights protections. The Trump administration is working to take away taxpayer dollars from public schools, where 90% of students and 95% of students with disabilities learn, and give them to unaccountable and discriminatory private schools. This means less one-on-one support, fewer learning opportunities and larger class sizes for students. 

    “While educators and parents would hope McMahon will reflect upon the enormous responsibility she has to our nation’s students, sadly there is no evidence to believe she will use her position to focus on strengthening public schools so every student can thrive.  

    “In every community across this country and in every neighborhood public school, parents and educators are partners in the effort to provide all students with the academic lessons and life skills they need to reach their full potential. McMahon was confirmed on a party-line vote, but parents and educators are organizing, advocating, and mobilizing to stop Donald Trump and Linda McMahon from hurting students and gutting public education to pay for their tax handouts to billionaires.”  

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    Follow us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neapresident.bsky.social and https://bsky.app/profile/neatoday.bsky.social  

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representingmore than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vaporizer Recall: Getinge Removes Vaporizer Sevoflurane Quick-Fil and Expands Recall of Vaporizer Sevoflurane Maquet Filling due to Risk of Patient and Health Care Professional Exposure to Toxic Chemical Hydrogen Fluoride

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves removing certain devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it.
    This is an expansion of the 2024 Class I Recall: Getinge Recalls Vaporizer Sevoflurane Maquet Filling for Risk of Patient and Health Care Professional Exposure to Toxic Chemical Hydrogen Fluoride 
    Affected Product 

    Product Names: Vaporizer Sevoflurane Maquet Filling, Vaporizer Sevoflurane, Quick-Fil 
    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)/Model:

    Maquet Filling: 07325710000212/6682282*
    Quick-Fil: 07325710001141/6682285 

    Serial Numbers: 

    Maquet Filling: 17336 – 23784* and all serial numbers greater than 1339
    Quick-Fil: All serial numbers greater than 3761

    *These devices were included in the original recall.
    What to Do  

    Do not use any affected vaporizer if it may have ever been used with Sevoflurane Piramal or Baxter Sevoflurane. 
    Do not leave sevoflurane in any Getinge vaporizer for longer than 30 days or during external transportation.
    Make sure any Getinge vaporizer containing sevoflurane has been used within the last 30 days. 
    Do not empty any vaporizer with signs of discoloration or corrosion, or with an unusual smell. 
    Empty and dry-run (see below) Getinge vaporizers containing sevoflurane if they have not been used in the last 30 days and there are no signs of corrosion or discoloration.

    On January 15, 2025, Getinge and its subsidiary Maquet Critical Care AB, sent all affected customers an Urgent Medical Device Recall letter recommending the following actions: 

    Quarantine all affected product. 
    Do not empty any vaporizer used with sevoflurane that has signs of discoloration or corrosion, or with an unusual smell. Use protective gloves, goggles and use general chemical handling safety guidelines when moving the vaporizer for storage.
    If there are no signs of discoloration or corrosion within the vaporizer or an unusual smell, empty it and perform dry run instructions (included in the letter and the instructions for use) as follows:

    Reinsert the Vaporizer: After emptying the vaporizer following the instructions in the user manual, reinstall it into the Flow Family anesthesia system.
    Initiate Manual Mode: Start a case and set the Flow Family anesthesia system to Manual mode.
    Adjust Gas Flow: Increase the fresh gas flow to 20 liters per minute (l/min).
    Set Sevoflurane Concentration: Adjust the sevoflurane concentration to 8%.
    Dry-Run Process: Allow the system to run for 5 minutes to ensure the vaporizer is completely emptied.
    Remove or Refill: After the dry run is complete, remove the empty vaporizer from the anesthesia system. Either store it or refill it with fresh sevoflurane if immediate use is required.

    Contact the local Getinge representative or email Sales Support at CSalesSupport@getinge.com to request a return authorization (RMA) and shipping instructions for return of empty affected product. 

    Ask the Getinge representative for specific instructions related to the return of vaporizers with signs of discoloration/corrosion if needed. 

    Forward the notice to anyone who needs to be aware, whether inside the organization or at any other facility where affected devices have been transferred. 
    Complete and sign the Urgent Medical Device Recall Response Form attached to the letter, even if no affected product is present. 

    Reason for Recall   
    Getinge is recalling the Vaporizer Sevoflurane Maquet Filling and Vaporizer Sevoflurane Quick-Fil after receiving reports of discoloration and/or corrosion within the vaporizer after it was used with low water content sevoflurane manufactured by Piramal or Baxter. Sevoflurane used in the vaporizer may degrade to hydrogen fluoride. This toxic and hazardous acid may present a risk to both patients and health care professionals if it is inhaled or comes into contact with the skin. This is an expansion of an earlier recall. 
    The use of affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including irritation of respiratory tract leading to fluid buildup in the lungs (lung edema) and/or severely low levels of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia), blistering, skin wounds (superficial ulceration), low levels of magnesium in the blood (hypomagnesemia), and death.
    There have been no reported injuries and no reports of death.  
    Device Use 
    Vaporizers Sevoflurane Maquet Filling and Sevoflurane Quick-Fil are part of the Flow anesthesia systems. These vaporizers are used exclusively for containing, vaporizing, and blending liquid sevoflurane with oxygen to start and maintain general anesthesia. The manufacturers Abbvie, Baxter, and Piramal produce different formulations of sevoflurane.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact the local Getinge representative or email Sales Support at CCSalesSupport@getinge.com.
    Additional FDA Resources 

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from manufacturing through distribution to patient use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified, and problems potentially corrected more quickly. 

    How do I report a problem? 
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

    Content current as of:
    03/03/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fleeing alien smuggler sent to federal prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 27-year-old Los Fresnos man has been ordered to prison for attempting to smuggle an illegal alien further into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Carlos Del Angel Bocanegra pleaded guilty Nov. 25, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered him to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard evidence describing how Bocanegra had fled from law enforcement with four children in his vehicle. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the potential danger Bocanegra’s conduct posed the public and his passengers.

    “Alien smuggling is an incredibly dangerous practice, both for the people smuggled and for innocent bystanders,” said Ganjei. “Fortunately, nobody was killed by Bocanegra’s actions, but the facts of this case could have easily turned tragic. I commend law enforcement for their excellent work in this case.”

    On Aug. 27, 2024, Bocanegra approached the Border Patrol checkpoint near Kingsville driving a Chevy Tahoe with an adult passenger and four juveniles visibly present. Upon initial inspection, he denied having any contraband or unlawful people in his vehicle. However, authorities soon discovered an illegal alien concealed under a passenger row seat.

    Bocanegra then immediately fled the checkpoint and led law enforcement on a chase down the highway. Authorities were able to end the pursuit quickly and took him into custody.

    He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Border Patrol conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lamont prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Without change, half of Australian kids and adolescents will be overweight or obese by 2050

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Kerr, Research Fellow, Adolescent Population Health and Obesity Epidemiology, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute

    World Obesity Federation

    Since the 1990s, the proportion of the world’s population who are overweight (with a body mass index of 25–30) or obese (with a body mass index of 30 or above) has doubled.

    If current patterns continue, we estimate that by 2050, 30% of the world’s children and adolescents (aged five to 24 years) will be overweight or obese, according to our new research in The Lancet.

    By 2050, we forecast that 2.2 million Australian children and adolescents will be living with obesity. A further 1.6 million will be overweight. This is a combined prevalence of 50% – and an increase of 146% between 1990 and 2050.

    Already in 2017–18, excess weight and obesity cost the Australian government A$11.8 billion. The projected disease burden will add billions of dollars to these health costs.

    So how did we get here? And most importantly, what can we do to turn this trajectory around?

    It’s not just about health problems later in life

    Living with obesity increases the likelihood of living with disability and dying at a young age.

    Obesity doesn’t just cause health problems later in life. Living with obesity increases the chance of developing many serious diseases during childhood or adolescence, including fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure).

    Due to weight-related teasing, bullying and stigma, obesity can also cause problems with mental health, and school and community engagement.

    Some of the negative health effects of obesity can be reversed if young people return to a normal weight.

    But reducing your weight from an obese BMI (30-plus) to a normal weight BMI (18.5–25) is very difficult. As a result, 70–80% of adolescents with a BMI of 30 or above live their adult years with obesity.

    So it’s important to prevent obesity in the first place.

    How did this happen?

    Obesity is often blamed on the individual child, parent or family. This is reflected in significant weight-based stigma that people in larger bodies often face.

    Yet the rapidly changing patterns of obesity throughout the world reinforce the importance of viewing it as a society-level problem.

    The drivers of the obesity epidemic are complex. A country’s increasing obesity rates often overlap with their increasing economic development.

    Economic development encourages high growth and consumption. As local farming and food supply systems become overtaken by “big-food” companies, populations transition to high-calorie diets.

    Meanwhile, our environments become more “obesogenic”, or obesity-promoting, and it becomes very difficult to maintain healthy lifestyles because we are surrounded by very convenient, affordable and addictive high-calorie foods.

    Obesity arises from a biological response to living in these environments.

    Some people are more negatively affected by living in these environments and gain more body weight than others. As our recent study showed, compared to those born with low genetic risk, adolescents who are born with a high genetic risk of developing obesity are more likely to become overweight or obese when living in poverty.

    Other research shows those with a high genetic risk are more likely to gain weight when living in obesity-promoting environments.

    Can we fix this problem?

    The steepest increase in the proportion of young people with obesity is expected to be in the coming years. This means there is an opportunity to address this public health issue through bold actions now.

    Some young people with severe obesity should be provided access to funded, stigma-free team-based weight-management health care. This may include:

    • access to GPs and nurses for lifestyle advice about diet and exercise

    • anti-obesity medications such as semaglutide

    • weight-loss surgery.

    Changes need to reach older and younger adolescents.
    Murrr Photo/Shutterstock

    But to reach all young people, it is the overarching systems, not people, that need to change.

    Success will be greatest if policies change multiple parts of the environmental systems that young people live in, including schools, food systems, transport systems and built environments. These changes will also reach older adolescents, whose rate of obesity continues to increase.

    It is also important to target the commercial determinants of obesity. Strategies could include:

    This should be coupled with changes to the built environment and urban planning, such as increasing green space, footpaths and walkability.

    Because obesity doesn’t belong to any one part of government, action can fall through the cracks. Although there are significant efforts being made, action requires coordinated investments from numerous government portfolios – health, education, transport, urban planning – at local, state and national levels.

    Governments should commit to an immediate five-year action plan to ensure we don’t fail another generation of children and adolescents.

    Jessica Kerr has received funding from the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council. This research was also funded by the Gates Foundation.

    Peter Azzopardi receives funding from NHMRC.

    Susan M. Sawyer has received funding from National Health and Medical Research Council and the Wellcome Trust.

    – ref. Without change, half of Australian kids and adolescents will be overweight or obese by 2050 – https://theconversation.com/without-change-half-of-australian-kids-and-adolescents-will-be-overweight-or-obese-by-2050-250520

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump says 25 pct tariffs on Mexico, Canada to take effect ‘tomorrow’

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday that 25 percent tariffs on Mexico and Canada will take effect on Tuesday, March 4.

    U.S. President Donald Trump attends a press conference at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, Feb. 13, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

    “Very importantly, tomorrow, tariffs, 25 percent on Canada and 25 percent on Mexico, and that’ll start,” Trump told reporters at the White House.

    “What they have to do is build their car plants, frankly, and other things in the United States, in which case they have no tariffs,” Trump said.

    Trump also reiterated that the reciprocal tariffs will start on April 2.

    On Feb. 1, Trump signed an executive order to impose a 25 percent tariff on goods imported from Mexico and Canada, with a 10 percent tariff increase specifically for Canadian energy products.

    On Feb. 3, Trump announced that the additional tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada would be deferred for one month, allowing more time for negotiations. According to this decision, the relevant tariff measures are set to take effect on March 4.  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $10 million for Cascade Pier upgrades

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    The Australian Government is investing in Norfolk Island’s shipping needs, with a $10 million project to repair and raise the Cascade Pier apron, as well as supporting future freight containerisation.

    The apron section of the Cascade Jetty sustained significant damage with large rocks being deposited on it from Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023.

    The Australian Government’s investment will see this important commercial and recreational asset repaired and upgraded.  

    The project will see the apron raised and extended with storage and washdown facilities established for cargo containers, for the enhanced loading and unloading of materials, vessels and goods to and from the island. 

    It will improve cyclone resilience, marine access and shipping operations, along with safety for jetty users.

    The Norfolk Island community and stakeholders will have opportunities for input throughout the design and construction of the Cascade Pier upgrades, particularly in considering the needs of business, industry and pier users.

    Project design consultants will be on island for stakeholder engagement to support the detailed design works for the project in the next few months.

    The project to deliver two purpose-built Cargo Transfer Vessels (CTVs) is also now almost complete with construction being finalised and the CTVs anticipated to be delivered to the island by April this year. 

    The CTVs have been specifically constructed for Norfolk Island lighterage and delivered in partnership with Norfolk Island Regional Council to improve safety, efficiency and reliability, including for the crew loading and unloading the cargo. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain MP: 

    “As the first issue raised with me when I commenced as Minister, I understand the importance of reliable shipping to Norfolk Island.

    “Cascade Pier is not only critical for Norfolk’s sea freight supply, it’s an iconic part of the island’s coastline and heritage – which is why we’re investing in its future.

    “Upgrading the Cascade Pier apron is part of our Government’s commitment to supporting the long-term resilience and sustainability of Norfolk Island’s freight network.”

    Quotes attributable to the Member for Bean, David Smith MP: 

    “From fishing boats, to supply ships and cargo and lighterage vessels – Cascade Pier is a vital part of Norfolk Island.

    “These essential upgrades have the potential to reshape how freight is transported to and from the island, which is why I’m proud we’re delivering this targeted investment.

    “I’ll continue working with the community on ways we can support Norfolk Island’s distinct needs into the future.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis: Trump’s Tariff Tax will Raise Costs For All

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – President Trump plans to implement a new 25% tax on hardworking Americans through his disastrous tariff tax.

    “Unless President Trump pulls back from tariffs on products from Mexico and Canada, starting at midnight, the President’s horrible sales tax will apply to all hardworking Coloradans. Trump’s tariffs are a costly sales tax that will raise the price of groceries, clothes, homes, technology, cars, and everyday items Americans rely on and hurt North American competitiveness. President Trump is playing chicken with people’s pocketbooks, small businesses, and our economy, and it is harmful. While Colorado is pushing ahead to lower costs, the President’s tariffs alone will cause economic devastation across America in their wake,” said Colorado Governor Polis.  

    Governor Polis has been outspoken in opposition to President Trump’s reckless tariff tax.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Criminal Charges Against 30 Officers for Role in Facilitating “Gladiator Fights” Between Youths at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall

    Source: US State of California

    Monday, March 3, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    LOS ANGELES – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the unsealing of a grand jury indictment against 30 detention services officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey, California on charges of child endangerment and abuse, conspiracy, and battery. The indictment alleges that the officers allowed and, in some instances, encouraged 69 fights to occur between youths at Los Padrinos during the period from July 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. The indictment stems from an investigation launched by the California Department of Justice after video footage of one of the so-called “gladiator fights” leaked in January 2024. Twenty-two of the 30 officers were arraigned today at Los Angeles Superior Court. The remaining officers will be arraigned on April 18, 2025.

    “Officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall have a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of those under their care. Instead, the officers charged today did just the opposite – overseeing ‘gladiator fights’ when they should have intervened,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The indictment – and the filing of criminal charges – is an important step toward holding these officers accountable and addressing shortfalls at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall. Let today’s charges be a warning for all those who abuse their power: the California Department of Justice is watching, and we will hold you accountable.”

    The officers were indicted on charges, including alleged child abuse/endangerment; conspiracy to commit a crime; and battery impacting 143 victims between the ages of 12 and 18. The indictment also alleges aggravating factors, including the vulnerability of the victims and the officer’s position of trust or confidence, which helped enable them to commit the offense. The indictment identifies 69 incidents over a six-month period where probation officers facilitated and permitted youths in their custody to fight each other. These so-called “gladiator fights” resulted in physical harm to youth involved and, if the charges are proven, were a dereliction of the officers’ duty to protect those in their care.

    Separate and apart from this criminal prosecution, Attorney General Bonta has worked to address systemic shortfalls in Los Angeles County juvenile halls and to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of the youths under their care. In November 2024, Attorney General Bonta separately announced additional monitoring and strengthened protections as part of an amended court judgment to address illegal and unsafe conditions in Los Angeles County juvenile halls, including Los Padrinos. This civil judgment is wholly independent of the criminal charges announced today against Los Padrinos detention officers. 

    A copy of the indictment is available here.  

    It is important to note that a criminal indictment contains charges that must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why are so many people obsessed with fantasy sports?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Hartley, Lecturer in Health and Physical Education, University of Tasmania

    Koshiro K/Shutterstock

    With the AFL and NRL seasons kicking off, fantasy footy players have been deep in draft mode, carefully building their best teams.

    Fantasy sports have transformed the way fans engage with many sports, sparking interest beyond simply watching matches or supporting a favourite team.

    What are fantasy sports?

    In simple terms, fantasy sports involve participants acting as team coaches/managers, selecting real-life players to form a fantasy team within the constraints of the game’s rules.

    These teams compete based on the actual performance of the selected players in real matches. Points are awarded on various performance metrics, depending on the sport.

    Many fantasy leagues also incorporate a stock market-like element. When a real-life player exceeds expectations, their fantasy value increases, while underperformance leads to a decrease in value.

    This allows coaches to trade players in and out strategically, aiming to build the most valuable and high-scoring team during a season.

    Success in fantasy sports often depends on statistical analysis, player scouting, and smart decision-making when it comes to trades and team selection.

    The origins of fantasy sports

    The first mainstream fantasy game can be attributed to Rotisserie League Baseball in 1980 by Daniel Okrent and friends.

    Rotisserie League Baseball is said to be the oldest fantasy sports league in the world.

    This league required participants to track their own players’ progress using a scoring system based on statistics obtained in newspapers after a game.

    With the rapid progression of technology, fantasy sports have evolved significantly, with most major sporting codes worldwide now offering multiple fantasy platforms, formats and prizes.

    In Australia, the number of people playing fantasy sports has doubled since 2021, with nearly 2.5 million players engaged in one league or another.

    This growth presents opportunities for content creation, expanded revenue streams, and potentially increased engagement with sports betting.

    Fan engagement

    The way fans engage with sports has evolved with the rise of fantasy sports, social media, and real time data tracking, leading to “second screen consumption”.

    This involves fans using multiple digital platforms such as fantasy sports apps, social media and tracking of live statistics while simultaneously watching live broadcasts.

    This shift has redefined the traditional sports fandom experience.

    Fantasy coaches watch more games each week, with a dual identity that extends beyond traditional loyalty to the team they support.

    While sports fans have historically supported a single team, fantasy sports reshape fan identity by encouraging engagement with both their favourite team and their fantasy team. Fans often watch games they normally wouldn’t be interested in specifically to watch the fantasy-relevant players involved.

    Community engagement is a key motivator for participation, often surpassing interest in the real-life sports.

    In Australia, a study by News Corporation Australia, which owns SuperCoach, found bragging rights, social connection and learning more about sport drive participation.

    While prizes matter, the main reason people join is to connect with others.

    In 2021, Australian fantasy players were largely concentrated in the larger sporting codes such as the AFL and NRL, but by 2023 it had broadened into the Big Bash League (BBL) and National Basketball League (NBL).

    There are many Australians playing fantasy leagues in global sports too, from the English Premier League (soccer) to the United States’ National Football League (NFL) and National Basketball Association (NBA). Some 14% of the Australian fantasy audience plays in global leagues.

    Media involvement

    With some sporting seasons becoming longer and the connection to fantasy sports extending beyond live games, fans are kept invested throughout the off-season as they analyse trades, follow pre-season developments and prepare for the next competition.



    Read more:
    How the AFL and NRL have crept into cricket’s traditional summer timeslot

    This almost year-round involvement offers extended media coverage and consumption of new content in a variety of formats.

    Fantasy sport complements traditional media by offering alternative coverage, such as podcasts and short-form content that extends beyond game day, keeping fans connected throughout the week as they adjust their lineups and strategies.

    Fantasy sports are also boosting viewership for new formats like AFLW by increasing fan engagement.

    Rich pickings

    Fantasy sport has been big business for a long time but the global fantasy sports market is challenging to quantify.

    In 2013, Forbes estimated the NFL fantasy football market alone to be worth $US70 billion ($A111 billion), significantly surpassing the NFL’s 2021 revenue of $US11 billion ($A17 billion), highlighting its major role in the global sporting market.

    Big revenues mainly come from sponsorship and advertising on fantasy platforms.

    Major brands invest hundreds of millions of dollars in targeted advertising campaigns to capitalise on this engaged audience.

    Money is also made by charging fees to enter some contests and to access premium analytics content, in-app purchases, and related entertainment products like websites and podcasts.

    Links to sports betting

    Many of the advertisers on fantasy platforms are gambling businesses.

    Fantasy organisations have tried to highlight the differences between fantasy sports and sports betting, which has been linked to poor mental health, family violence and even suicide.

    Their key argument is that betting is a game of chance whereas fantasy sports are games of skill.

    Despite these differences, concerns have been raised about the links between fantasy sports and sports betting.

    An Australian fantasy betting app was recently fined more than $A500,000 for illegally offering inducements to gamble in dozens of ads on its platform.

    Whether or not fantasy sports are likely to encourage gambling is a grey area – studies in this space are mixed.

    Some studies have found people who participate in fantasy sports are more likely to gamble and experience gambling-related problems.

    However, others describe fantasy sports as a more positive alternative to gambling and that participants are motivated by the social benefits, rather than being motivated by a chance to win money.

    As fantasy sports continue to evolve and attract new players, their ability to deepen fan engagement, foster community connections, and enhance the sports watching experience ensures they will remain a dynamic and influential part of the sporting world.

    I have worked with members of the AFL Fantasy Traders before in schools.

    Vaughan Cruickshank 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 are so many people obsessed with fantasy sports? – https://theconversation.com/why-are-so-many-people-obsessed-with-fantasy-sports-249010

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Sick of pie charts for your uni, school or work projects? Here are 5 other options

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicole White, Associate Professor of Statistics, Queensland University of Technology

    Master1305/Shutterstock

    Whether it’s for a work meeting or a class assignment, presenting data to others is a common task on our to-do list.

    We use data to make decisions on our health, finances and the world we live in, yet finding the best ways to communicate data without boring your audience can be daunting.

    However, there are some tried and true techniques to getting your message across effectively.

    First, you need to boost your data literacy – which includes learning about the different kind of charts and how to use them.

    What is data literacy?

    Data literacy is the ability to “plot” and present complex data in a way that’s easy to digest. There is even a branch of statistics focusing on the best way to present data.

    It’s one of the most desired skills in the workplace, yet a 2020 survey found only one in five employees across nine different countries (including Australia) believe they are data literate.

    With seemingly countless options available, choosing the right chart is challenging, and the wrong choice can influence how data is interpreted.

    Passing on the humble pie

    Pie charts are often the first pick when it comes to presenting data with different categories, such as age group or blood type. These categories are represented as slices, with the size of each slice proportional to the amount of data.

    Doughnut charts, a close relative of the pie chart, work the same way but are shown with a hole in the middle.

    As delicious as they sound, these charts should be consumed in moderation.

    Pie charts present data in a circular pattern, making it difficult to make comparisons when there are many groups, or when groups are similar in size. They can also misrepresent data entirely, especially when data add up to over 100%.

    Here are some alternatives to pie charts that sound just as tasty, but are easier to digest.

    Bar charts

    Bar charts summarise data across different categories, but present them next to each other. This makes it easier to compare several categories at once.

    Here is an example from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing the different generations from the last census.

    Waffle charts

    Waffle charts are a good option for data organised by categories.

    They present data in a grid, with each unit representing a fixed number. This is useful for presenting both large and small percentages that are difficult to compare side-by-side.

    We can clearly see most people eat meat from the figure.

    However, a bar chart would make comparing less common diets difficult. With a waffle chart, we can see 4% of people surveyed are vegan, while 2% are pescetarian.

    Histograms

    Data often represent different measurements, such as height and weight, or time taken to write an article.

    Histograms also present data with bars but, unlike bar charts, are used for data collected as numbers, or numerical data.

    This chart type is used to show how a set of numbers are spread out, and can be useful in seeing which numbers occur more often than others.

    It’s tempting to simplify data by fitting them into categories, but this can sometimes hide interesting facts.

    The example below shows the body mass index (BMI) of a group of people as a bar chart.

    It’s easy to lose information when trying to simplify BMI into categories, especially among people who may be obese.

    Each category in the bar chart could easily be misunderstood as representing BMI as similar ranges. However, if we look at the histogram, BMI for obese people can be as high as 70.

    A doctor using this data would need to take into account that someone with a BMI of 60 may need a different treatment method compared to someone with a BMI of 30.

    Line charts and scatterplots

    Other chart types for numerical data, such as line charts and scatterplots, allow us to explore how different measurements are related to one another.

    Line charts are used to visualise trends over time, such as stock prices and weekly flu cases.

    In contrast, scatterplots show how two different measurements collected on the same subject are related.

    While scatterplots summarise trends, they sometimes show unusual results that would go unnoticed if measurements were charted separately.

    For example, the figure below compares life expectancy and health expenditure in different countries.

    If we’re only looking at health expenditure, people from the United States would appear healthier as the US spends the most money on health care per person.

    Presenting this information along with life expectancy tells a different story.

    Keep it simple and avoid ‘chart junk’

    It is always tempting to add more information.

    “Chart junk” refers to extra information such as excess labels, 3D effects or even different types of data in the same chart.

    Example of a chart filled with ‘junk’.
    ResearchGate, CC BY

    This makes them more difficult to read and can distort the data, and is usually a sign your data is too complicated. You’re better off using multiple charts to tell the full story.

    As Coco Chanel once said, “simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance”.

    Keep these words in mind and choose a chart that keeps it simple without compromising style, content and detail.

    Nicole White is a member of the Statistical Society of Australia.

    – ref. Sick of pie charts for your uni, school or work projects? Here are 5 other options – https://theconversation.com/sick-of-pie-charts-for-your-uni-school-or-work-projects-here-are-5-other-options-250499

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Cramer Announce Reintroduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Develop New Technology to Identify and Plug Orphaned Wells

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Bipartisan Bill Builds on Successful Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Initiative Championed by Luján and Cramer to Clean Orphaned Wells;
    Orphaned Wells Can Be Hazardous to Public Health and Safety
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) announced the reintroduction the Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act (AWRRDA) to identify and remediate abandoned gas and oil wells, which can leak methane, contaminate groundwater, and create community safety risks. The AWRRDA builds on Senators Luján and Cramer’s REGROW Act, which was adopted in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and put skilled energy workers back to work to plug abandoned wells. Despite the progress of the REGROW Act, methods for identifying and remediating abandoned wells are currently not well developed. Congresswoman Summer Lee (D-Pa.) leads companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    Senators Luján and Cramer’s AWRRDA will authorize funding to enhance the abandoned well remediation programs currently authorized in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by ensuring that funds are dedicated to thoroughly researched efforts that maximize benefits for affected communities and the energy sector. Specifically, the AWRRDA will support the Department of Energy’s efforts to develop:
    Technology to detect and catalog abandoned wells more rapidly and efficiently, such as remote sensors and optical gas imaging;
    Methods to more accurately quantify methane emissions and how they are affected by well age, geology and other factors;
    Processes to plug and remediate abandoned wells more efficiently, economically, and sustainably;
    Innovative alternative uses for abandoned wells, including geothermal power production or carbon dioxide storage, which will create entirely new economic sectors that leverage abandoned and hazardous infrastructure; and
    An improved understanding of abandoned well impacts on groundwater quality.
    “In New Mexico and across the country, abandoned wells pose serious environmental harm and threaten the health of our communities. That’s why our REGROW Act works to cut methane emissions and lessen public health risks, but more research and development is needed to help identify the thousands of abandoned wells nationwide,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation with Senator Cramer to build upon our work in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to further develop technology to identify and plug abandoned wells to prevent public health risks, create jobs, and boost economic growth.”
    “North Dakota is a leader in remediating abandoned wells,” said Senator Cramer. “Our legislation builds on the successes of REGROW and keeps the momentum going. It invests in new and innovative ways to track the problem, mitigate any damage, and hopefully prevent degradation in the future. This will help more land be returned to productive use and address safety issues.”
    Full text of the bill is available here. Endorsement quotes can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Auckland congestion costing freight companies and customers millions

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says reducing congestion will have big benefits for freight efficiency, labour productivity, and emissions reduction.
    “The report estimates that congestion in Auckland is costing our trucking members $130 million dollars per year – costs that end up impacting businesses and consumers across the country.
    “Congestion reduces the number of trips that freight operators can complete, puts pressure on drivers who are only legally permitted to work a certain number of hours per day, and pressures freight companies to put more, less efficient vehicles on the road.”
    Kalasih hopes there will broad cross-party support for sending the Government’s Time of Use Charging Bill to the select committee stage so it can consider improvements to the proposed legislation around freight and supply chain implications and exemptions.
    “Getting congestion charging settings right is really challenging, and essential to getting enduring schemes put in place. Only a handful of cities operate comprehensive congestion charging schemes, and there have been many proposals that haven’t gone ahead due to concerns about cost implications and implementation.”
    The latest New York time-of-use scheme is currently subject to legal action by the Trucking Association of New York, alleging that trucks are being disproportionately charged.
    Kalasih says that Transporting New Zealand would like to see exemptions for freight and goods vehicles permitted by the legislation.
    “Transporting New Zealand is concerned that the proposed legislation limits exemptions to emergency vehicles. This is bad news for bus users and road freight businesses who will have to pass costs on to consumers. Overseas schemes allow for wider exemptions that maximise savings for consumers and businesses.”
    “Around half of all vehicles in the London charge area are exempt or qualify for a discount.”
    Kalasih says ruling exemptions out entirely will prevent an evidence-based assessment being done where schemes operate on key freight routes or around freight or passenger hubs.
    He says that Transporting New Zealand will be consulting with its membership on the legislation and making a major submission at any select committee considering the legislation.
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Primary care funding a positive step in the right direction, says College of GPs

    Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

    The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has welcomed the Health Minister’s funding announcement saying it is a big step in the right direction towards building a well-resourced and sustainable primary care workforce.
    Increased investment in primary care has long been at the forefront of our members’ concerns and the College’s advocacy work, particularly improving access to GP, rural hospital and primary care services and growing, and retaining, the workforce.
    College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “Any additional funding for primary care will ultimately benefit our patients and improve health outcomes, and as specialist GPs and rural hospital doctors who work in the community, this is our priority.
    “As we know there are many areas in primary care that need permanent solutions and further investment, and the Minister has shown that he is willing to invest broadly. I hope that by incentivising primary care to nursing graduates they will see the value in what our workforce does and choose to stay in it for the long-term. This will help alleviate nursing workforce challenges especially in rural communities. Pay parity between primary and secondary nursing is what we still need to aim for.
    “Providing timely and accessible care for all New Zealanders and the increased availability of telehealth will be beneficial, but it needs to be offered alongside improved support for face-to-face primary care services to ensure continued patient safety. Telehealth fills a niche, not a void,” says Dr Murton.
    College Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole says, “Enabling more overseas doctors to gain general registration in primary care in New Zealand and gain valuable first-hand experience will boost the workforce pipeline. That said, we cannot take our focus off supporting our homegrown workforce. New Zealand needs to attract and retain 300 general practice registrars per year just to maintain GP numbers and investment in the training programme is critical to this.
    “Investment in strong, future focused and sustainable primary care will reduce the pressure on secondary care. We look forward to further engagement with Minister Brown on lasting solutions that increase access to specialist general practitioners for New Zealanders and thank him for the steps he has announced.
    “The College is pleased to see our ongoing advocacy has been reflected in the Minister’s decisions and we look forward to learning the specifics of this additional funding.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New free virtual health service opens to all of Sydney

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 4 March 2025

    Released by: Minister for Health

    Today, the Minns Labor Government has expanded a new free virtual healthcare service to all Sydney residents.

    Residents from Western Sydney, South West Sydney, Nepean Blue Mountains, Central Coast and the Illawarra Shoalhaven local health districts will be able to access free and safe virtual care for non-life threatening conditions, right from the comfort of their own home.

    It is expected to save 85,000 people from an unnecessary wait in an emergency department each year.

    This virtual care service will provide care for urgent but non-life threatening illnesses or injuries including:

    • Coughs, colds, fevers and flu;
    • Respiratory symptoms;
    • Vomiting and diarrhoea; or
    • Minor infections and rashes.

    The service will be available between 8am and 10pm seven days a week for people aged 16 years and older.

    You can access this service by phoning HealthDirect on 1800 022 222 where patients will first speak to a registered nurse who will assess your condition, and if appropriate, refer you to the virtual care service.

    The service uses video conferencing technology to connect patients with a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, including doctors and nurses, where clinically appropriate.

    Virtual care forms part of a broader range of measures to relieve pressure on the state’s busy EDs, including:

    • $100 million investment for a further two years to continue our urgent care services, providing a pathway to care outside of our hospitals for an estimated 114,000 patients;
    • $70 million over 4 years to expand emergency department short stay units to improve patient flow to reduce ED wait times by nearly 80,000 hours;
    • $15.1 million for an Ambulance Matrix that provides real time hospital data to enable paramedics to transport patients to emergency departments with greater capacity and reducing wait times;
    • $31.4 million over 4 years to increase Hospital in the Home across the state allowing over 3,500 additional patients each year to be cared for in their home rather than a hospital bed; and
    • $53.9 million to improve patient flow and support discharge planning by identifying patients early that are suitable to be discharged home with the appropriate supports in place.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “Today, we are announcing that virtual care for non-life threatening conditions will now be available to all residents across Sydney.

    “This virtual care service is a free, convenient and safe way to access care right from the comfort of home.

    “People from right across Sydney will be able to avoid for a wait for a GP or in a hospital through this expanded virtual care service.

    “It will relieve pressure on our busy emergency departments by creating more alternative pathways to care outside the hospital.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Tugun tunnel’s overheight issue overcome

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 4 March 2025

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    A rare but highly disruptive problem for heavy vehicle operators on the Pacific Motorway is now a thing of the past following the installation of new technology and truck turning areas at the Tugun bypass tunnel.

    Drivers of overheight vehicles would sometimes slip past warning signs and find themselves stuck at the northbound or southbound tunnel entrances.

    It was a particular problem approaching the tunnel from the north because if an overheight vehicle reached the tunnel from the Queensland side, the driver would have to reverse his or her rig four kilometres back up the motorway before they could turn around.

    And they had to have support from Transport for NSW, Transport and Main Roads Queensland and the police forces of the two states to resolve.

    That chaos is now a thing of the past following the completion of a project to improve advance warning for drivers of overheight vehicles and the installation of new turning areas closer to the north and southbound entries to the Tugun Bypass tunnel.

    This means that if any operators do happen to go past the warning signs, they will only have to reverse a short distance up the highway to reach an area where they can cross over.

    Most of the work to fix the issue was carried out over two years during the quarterly maintenance tunnel closures to minimise impacts to motorists.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison:

    “With the investment from the Minns Labor Government, overheight vehicles should never reach the tunnel, but if they do, they can be turned around with help from the Tugun incident response officer or a single police officer.

    “The time and cost savings from this change are enormous and it will mean the lengthy delays when an overheight vehicle inadvertently entered the tunnel are a thing of the past.

    “Transport for NSW put in new overheight detection systems to notify staff of a vehicle approaching the tunnel, so they can immediately activate variable speed limit signs to stop them reaching the tunnel.

    “We’ve also installed five new advance warning signs and new traffic lights just short of where we’ve put in new heavy vehicle crossovers.

    “The Tugun tunnel goes underneath the Coolangatta Airport, with the southern end of the tunnel in NSW and the northern end in Queensland, and we had great collaboration with the Queensland authorities to get the work done.

    “The project has improved advance warning technology as well as the infrastructure, so if any overheight vehicles did get past the advance warning systems, they would be stopped and able to turn around at the entrance to the tunnel.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Opposition’s ‘analysis’ ignores regions

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 4 March 2025

    Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    In a stunning display of just how out of touch they are, the NSW Opposition have ignored the Illawarra, Hunter and Central Coast in a desperate attempt to criticise planning reforms that will deliver homes for young people.

    The Opposition Spokesperson for Planning has tried to pass off a flawed examination of the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise planning reforms as ‘analysis’, conveniently leaving out one-in-five locations.

    The Low and Mid-Rise reforms, introduced last week, address the “missing middle” by allowing terraces, townhouse and mid-rise apartments within 800m of 171 stations across Sydney, the Hunter, Central Coast, the Illawarra and Shoalhaven filling the supply gap between high-rise and single dwellings – a planning solution the Opposition were unable to deliver for twelve years when they were in Government.

    The Opposition Spokesperson has claimed that the regional Low and Mid-Rise sites should not be considered in the total number of sites, defying both logic and explanation.

    The majority of Low and Mid-Rise changes are in Labor electorates. Of the top 12 councils taking the largest amount of new housing set through council targets, 10 are council areas represented predominantly by Labor electorates.

    This follows the NSW Opposition also moving a bill in parliament last year to abolish the Transport Oriented Development program, a program that also delivered housing in a majority of Labor electorates.

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “I represent a large regional city called Wollongong.  While the Opposition don’t seem to have heard of it, it is host to three Low and Mid-Rise sites, that is contributing to solving the housing challenge.

    “It is particularly insulting to have the Opposition continue to ignore regional centres like they did in government.

    “I think the Opposition Spokesperson needs to buy a map of NSW and a calculator.

    “Passing off this sort of rubbish as analysis says everything you need to know about the attitude of the NSW Liberals.

    “I would encourage the Opposition Spokesperson to step outside of his Sydney bubble, stop obsessively worrying about the North Shore and speak to people living in regional NSW, struggling to buy a house.

    “As the Shadow Minister for cities, you’d think he’d know there’s more than one city in NSW.”

    Support for the LMR program from stakeholders:

    Property Council NSW Executive Director, Katie Stevenson:

    “These long-awaited reforms bring certainty and confidence to support the industry to deliver more housing, improve affordability, and provide greater choice for homebuyers and renters.”

    Urban Development Institute of Australia NSW CEO, Stuart Ayres:

    “Today’s announcement is welcome and long overdue. UDIA has consistently advocated to increase availability of medium density housing options in locations close to existing services and transport to help tackle a worsening housing supply crisis.”

     

    ALP Electorates

    Liberal Electorates

    Other Electorates

    Total

    Low and Mid-Rise

    80

    69

    22

    171

    The Opposition’s Missing sites:

    1. Erina Fair Centre
    2. Gosford Station
    3. Green Point Centre
    4. The Entrance Town Centre
    5. Tuggerah Westfield
    6. Woy Woy Station
    7. Wyong Station
    8. Cessnock Town Centre
    9. Kiama Town Centre
    10. Belmont Town Centre
    11. Boolaroo Town Centre
    12. Cardiff Station
    13. Charlestown Town Centre
    14. Jewellstown Plaza
    15. Morisset Station
    16. Green Hills Stockland
    17. Maitland Town Centre
    18. Rutherford Marketplace
    19. Adamstown Station
    20. Hamilton Station
    21. Junction Fair Centre
    22. Kotara Station
    23. Mayfield Town Centre
    24. Wallsend Town Centre
    25. Waratah Town Centre
    26. Nelson Bay Town Centre
    27. Raymond Terrace Town Centre
    28. Albion Park Town Centre
    29. Shellharbour Town Centre
    30. Warilla Grove Town Centre
    31. Bomaderry Town Centre
    32. Nowra Town Centre
    33. Corrimal Town Centre
    34. Dapto Town Centre
    35. Fairy Meadow Town Centre
    36. Warrawong Town Centre

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering More Road Safety Improvements in Goulburn

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Government is partnering with Goulburn Mulwaree Council to improve the safety of local roads, with $3.6 million in federal funding supporting the delivery of two new priority road upgrades.

    $2.3 million in federal funding will support upgrading the surface of Lansdowne Street, along with line marking and kerb and guttering improvements – to ensure this heavy vehicle route keeps pace with increased traffic.

    Construction is expected to commence by the end of this year, and be completed in September 2026.

    $1.3 million from the Albanese Government will support replacing the ageing Glynmar Road Causeway with a higher concrete bridge. 

    Design works will be finalised by the end of this year, with construction expected to begin by September next year, and be completed by August 2027. 

    These two new projects are supported by the Albanese Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, and the Roads to Recovery Program.

    Goulburn Mulwaree Council is receiving $9.4 million in Roads to Recovery funding over five years for a pipeline of priority projects – a funding boost of over $4 million thanks to the Albanese Government.

    Over $2.9 million under the Albanese Government’s Road Safety Program is also supporting a package of safety improvements on Crookwell Road, along with Albert, Deccan, Clifford, Goldsmith, Verner, and Faithful Streets.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain MP: 

    “As someone that drives hundreds of thousands of kilometres across Eden-Monaro, I know how important it is to improve the safety of our local roads, which is why I’m proud to be delivering $3.6 million for repairs on Lansdowne Street, and to replace the Glynmar Road Causeway outside of Marulan.

    “Lansdowne Street is under increasing pressure from heavy vehicles and this has caused parts of the road to deteriorate – something we’ll repair, to keep local freight businesses moving, and to make it safer for the 1,800 motorists that pass through this street every day.

    “The Glynmar Road Causeway over Stony Creek is reaching the end of its operational life, and local property owners have said it needs to be replaced – which is exactly why we’re delivering a new concrete structure that’s both higher and wider.

    “These two new projects build on a series of road safety upgrades we’re already delivering across the Goulburn Mulwaree region, as part of my commitment to working with council and the community to support their local priority projects.”

    Quotes attributable to Mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Council, Cr Nina Dillon:

    “We welcome this additional funding from the Australian Government, because it means Goulburn Mulwaree Council can continue improving the safety of our local roads.

    “Delivering these two new projects is a major win for our community – because we know how important it is that our local roads keep pace with increasing traffic.

    “We have a strong partnership with the Australian Government, and this is what we can deliver for our community when we work together.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME’s Saunders: Children and workers will suffer the cost of Linda McMahon’s plans to cut education

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in opposition to Linda McMahon’s confirmation to lead the U.S. Department of Education:

    “Billionaires led by Elon Musk are hellbent on dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, and wrestling mogul Linda McMahon is ready and willing to do their bidding. She has no reservations about hollowing out the agency responsible for ensuring equal educational opportunities for the nation’s 50 million public school students or protecting the civil rights of students with disabilities, English learners, and students from low-income and rural communities. Having spent her entire career padding the profits of corporate shareholders, it’s no surprise she supports vouchers that siphon funding away from public schools that serve 90 percent of our communities’ schoolchildren.

    “Children and public school workers will suffer the cost of understaffed schools, larger classroom sizes, and fewer extracurricular opportunities – all to give tax cuts to the wealthy. But AFSCME members won’t stand for it. They are among the millions of workers across this nation who have dedicated their careers to educating and supporting America’s children and youth. They don’t do it to get rich – they do it because they believe in the next generation, and we will be standing together against any attack on students.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – National Freight Survey is Live!

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    March is a big month for the road freight industry with the largest survey in a decade being held to find out what are the key issues for transport operators and all the industry players.
    The 2025 National Road Freight Survey has been organised by national road freight organisation Transporting New Zealand.
    CEO Dom Kalasih says the online survey, which is being run by independent surveying firm Research New Zealand, is designed to help all parts of the industry share their priorities with policy makers and regulators.
    “There are over 30,000 people working in the road freight sector across more than 5,000 business entities, carrying 93 percent of the national freight task,” Kalasih says.
    “We want to get a clearer picture of what their leading concerns are, what opportunities they see for improvement, and what might be lesser priorities.”
    “There are plenty of big issues in the industry such as staff shortages, operating conditions, tolling and congestion charging, the Cook Strait ferries and road policing to name a few.”
    “If it is important to the people in the industry, we want to hear about it.”
    Some of the other groups supporting the survey are the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association and Groundspread NZ.
    Jonathan Bhana-Thomson, the CEO of Heavy Haulage, says it is a great initiative for the industry and he’s sure the industry will provide plenty of great responses.
    The survey is to get feedback from transport companies, no matter their size, or whether they are member of an industry association or not.
    Rose Hyslop, the Executive Officer for Groundspread NZ, is also right behind the survey. She is looking forward to seeing the results which will be shared with all the groups that make up the transport and freight sectors.
    Kalasih says that Research NZ has kept the survey short, multi-choice and accessible, with the option to provide more in-depth answers if they have more detailed feedback.
    “We’ve also thrown in a $500 travel voucher from the House of Travel for one lucky person to win. Just as a bit of a sweetener.”
    The survey runs till March 28.
    The survey is at:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government News – Chief Ombudsman releases report into secure aged care facilities

    Source: Office of the Ombudsman

    The Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier is concerned that people can be placed in secure aged care facilities in New Zealand without the proper legal authority.
    Mr Boshier has today released a report on his inspections and visits to 148 secure residential aged care facilities across the country from 2021-2024.
    “The COVID-19 pandemic saw many restrictions imposed in these types of facilities. As part of my regular visiting programme I wanted to check whether these restrictions had been lifted or at least minimised. I am pleased to say that most of the restrictions I saw during the pandemic had been lifted.
    “I also identified some areas that need to be addressed, including the lack of independent and centralised oversight around the legal basis for a person’s placement in secure care.
    “In the vast majority of facilities I found that at least one resident didn’t have a legal basis for being placed there and at a small number of facilities, almost half of the residents didn’t have the proper paperwork.
    “I have observed varying levels of understanding on the part of facility management, medical professionals, and whānau around what is legally required and why it is required for someone to be placed in a secure aged care facility.
    “I consider there would be significant benefit in establishing a centralised register for Enduring Power of Attorney to help with these issues.”
    Mr Boshier says a number of other improvements could be made including in the area of restraint.
    “It alarmed me to find that restraint policies were not always followed.
    “Restraint comes in many forms, including staff using their own body to limit residents’ movement, using equipment to limit residents’ movement, and locking doors to prevent free movement between different areas.
    “Residents receiving psychogeriatric care are at increased risk of being subjected to excessive restrictions or restraint.
    “In many instances it was clear that staff did not fully understand how certain actions result in residents being restrained, for example, restraint applies to residents who are left in recliner chairs with their legs elevated, where they are clearly unable to move from that position.”
    Mr Boshier also identified issues around the treatment of residents with dementia.
    “I was very concerned that a small minority of facility staff and management felt that because residents had dementia they were not capable of making complaints.
    “Residents are the experts on their experience of care. All residents have the right to share their opinions and be heard. They need ways to let someone know if they feel unsafe or they are dissatisfied with their care.”
    Other issues Mr Boshier found were an over-reliance on whānau to provide advocacy and support for residents, resourcing pressures across most facilities and staff who were close to burnout.
    “I am pleased, however, to see a range of improvements have been made by a number of the facilities I visited. These are still happening and I encourage all facilities to continue making improvements. I wish to acknowledge the commitment shown by staff I met and observed to delivering the best treatment and conditions to people living in secure aged care facilities.
    “It is vital that the human rights of all residents in our country’s secure aged care facilities are safeguarded and maintained.”
    Explanatory note: The Chief Ombudsman examines the conditions and treatment of people in places where they may not be free to leave at will. This includes people who may be in secure dementia level care and specialised hospital level care (psychogeriatric level care).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Gladwyne Entrepreneur Pleads Guilty to Bilking Dozens of Investors, Employees, and Business Partners Out of Millions of Dollars

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – Acting United States Attorney Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., announced that Josh S. Verne, 47, formerly of Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, now a resident of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge John F. Murphy to three counts of securities fraud, nine counts of wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft, charges arising from a series of schemes through which the defendant defrauded dozens of investors, prospective investors, employees, and business partners out of millions of dollars.

    Verne was charged by indictment in August of last year with carrying out the schemes, which took place from in or about 2017 to 2020.

    As detailed in the indictment and admitted by the defendant during today’s guilty plea hearing, Verne held himself out as a wealthy and successful businessman, entrepreneur, and investor, carrying out his fraudulent activities through a series of limited liability companies, of which he was the chief executive and over which he maintained control.

    Among other things, Verne falsely represented his prior business successes, falsely represented his personal net worth, falsely represented his own investments, and falsely represented the financial health of his companies and investments, in order to induce others to invest in or provide loans to him or his companies.

    For instance, Verne admitted to providing an investor with a forged Goldman Sachs statement that showed family investment holdings for Verne of more than $50 million, when, in fact, Verne did not have an investment account at Goldman Sachs in his own name or in his family’s names, much less an account with a market value of more than $50 million.

    Verne also misused business and investor funds to repay prior debts and to finance an affluent lifestyle he could not afford, such as personal expenses related to renovations to his showcase vacation property on the Jersey shore, travel on private jets, contributions to political candidates, personal charitable contributions, and country club payments.

    The defendant admitted that, in order to delay and prevent discovery by law enforcement of his own misconduct, he later sent bank and FedEx confirmations purporting to confirm delivery of funds to investors to whom he had promised repayment; the bank and FedEx confirmations were false and fraudulent.

    Further, Verne stole the identity of a former employee from his company, forging the employee’s signature on a sales agreement to disguise an unauthorized sale of the employee’s shares of stock. Verne obtained $150,000 from the unauthorized sale and used those funds to make payments to himself and to a prior investor.

    The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on June 13 and faces a maximum possible sentence of 242 years’ imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of two years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, a $17,500,000 fine, and a $1,300 special assessment. Full restitution also shall be ordered.

    The case was investigated by FBI Philadelphia’s Fort Washington Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Paul G. Shapiro and Jerome M. Maiatico. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Philadelphia Regional Office investigated civil securities fraud charges against Verne, which are pending.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: DealBox Asks If Bitcoin Stuck in the Past? How It’s Quietly Becoming a Programmable Blockchain Powerhouse

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Palo Alto, CA, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ethereum showed the world that blockchains could do more than just settle transactions and lock in value; they could become platforms for a vast array of services, from decentralized finance (DeFi) applications and sophisticated liquidity pools to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and entire digital economies.

    At the heart of these innovations is the idea of Layer 1 and Layer 2 solutions. Layer 1 refers to the base blockchain itself—like Bitcoin or Ethereum—where transactions are recorded and secured by the network’s consensus mechanism. Layer 2, on the other hand, consists of additional protocols built on top of Layer 1 to improve scalability, reduce fees, and add advanced functionality without overloading the base layer. Ethereum, with its Layer 2 rollups and sidechains, has demonstrated how these additional layers can unlock entirely new possibilities.

    As Bitcoin’s steadfast community watched this evolution unfold, a pressing question emerged: Can Bitcoin ever evolve to a similar level of programmability and utility, without compromising its prized security and decentralization? Today, the industry stands on the brink of an answer. Cutting-edge solutions are introducing the tools required to build complex applications using Bitcoin as the foundational layer of trust. By anchoring execution and data within Bitcoin’s unassailable network, these new frameworks promise to deliver functionality reminiscent of Ethereum’s thriving ecosystem—without bridging out, altering Bitcoin’s core code, or compromising on its guiding principles.

    The Market’s Call for More Than Just a Store of Value

    As Bitcoin continued to solidify its status as a global store of value, the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem moved quickly. DeFi platforms began serving as global liquidity pools, enabling everything from lending and borrowing to automated market making. Layer 2 solutions on Ethereum, such as rollups and sidechains, sprang up to improve scalability and reduce fees. NFTs captured mainstream attention by proving that digital art, music, and collectibles could carry verifiable uniqueness and ownership. All of this paved a path for a more complex and dynamic type of blockchain usage: one that Bitcoin, for all its strengths, had not yet fully embraced. Despite Bitcoin’s unmatched security and track record, developers wanting to build advanced financial applications, tokenization platforms, or NFT ecosystems had traditionally looked to Ethereum and other programmable chains to bring their ideas to life.

    A Quiet Evolution: Introducing Programmability to Bitcoin

    The key to bringing robust programmability to Bitcoin lies in meeting two critical demands: remain faithful to Bitcoin’s trust-minimized architecture and ensure that the network’s famously deliberate development ethos is respected. Attempts to graft complex applications directly onto Bitcoin’s blockchain often met resistance due to concerns around data bloat, security risks, and consensus changes. However, a new class of solutions is rising to the challenge by performing the heavy lifting off-chain and simply anchoring the integrity and ownership proofs back to Bitcoin. This approach allows the network to scale without burdening its base layer, enables complex logic without overhauling Bitcoin’s consensus, and brings forth a universe of use cases once thought out of reach.

    How Ethereum’s Model Guides Bitcoin’s Next Steps

    Ethereum’s success demonstrates that a healthy developer ecosystem requires flexible tools. Smart contracts, robust developer libraries, and clear frameworks for building decentralized applications turned Ethereum into a kind of “world computer” for the crypto industry. From this vantage point, Ethereum’s architecture taught the broader crypto community that bringing computation closer to the settlement layer can rapidly accelerate innovation—though often at the cost of greater complexity on-chain. Now, Bitcoin-focused projects are turning those insights into a unique blueprint for Bitcoin’s evolution. Instead of copying Ethereum wholesale, they are crafting methods that preserve Bitcoin’s minimalist approach. The idea: Off-chain computation and client-side validation ensure that complex logic happens where it won’t compromise Bitcoin’s streamlined ledger. Meanwhile, a proof or hash of that activity is anchored in Bitcoin, creating a trust-minimized linkage.

    OroBit: Extending Bitcoin’s Capabilities Without Compromise

    Enter chains like OroBit. These emerging Layer 2 solutions are building frameworks that enable advanced smart contracts, tokenization, DeFi, and NFTs directly anchored to Bitcoin’s security. By using Bitcoin as the root of trust and combining it with off-chain execution frameworks, OroBit opens the door for developers to leverage Bitcoin’s robust base layer while enjoying the creative freedom that previously existed mainly in Ethereum’s realm. For instance, OroBit can deploy a “Simple Contract Language” (SCL) to manage data off-chain via decentralized nodes, verifying contract logic without overloading Bitcoin’s main blockchain. This approach parallels Ethereum’s Layer 2 scaling solutions, but instead of making Bitcoin more complex or riskier, it keeps the core blockchain lean. Off-chain computation, Lightning Network integration, and careful cryptographic proofs ensure that even the most intricate financial logic can be executed while Bitcoin’s main layer remains secure and relatively unchanged.

    DeFi, Private Equity, and More on Bitcoin

    Just as Ethereum’s flexible framework led to an explosion of DeFi protocols, liquidity pools, lending platforms, and robust NFT ecosystems, OroBit and similar chains aim to spark a comparable wave of innovation anchored to Bitcoin. Developers could build Automated Market Makers (AMMs), lending protocols, stablecoins, or advanced NFTs that derive their fundamental trust and security from the Bitcoin network. Adding to this momentum, OroBit is collaborating with entities like Deal Box to revolutionize private equity markets through tokenization. This partnership is set to bring real-world assets, such as private securities, onto Bitcoin’s robust blockchain. By leveraging OroBit’s Bitcoin Layer 2 (BTC L2) solution, tokenized private markets can achieve unprecedented levels of accessibility, efficiency, and transparency. Investors will benefit from features like streamlined onboarding and fast, low-cost transactions enabled by the Lightning Network.

    Major institutions have taken notice of Bitcoin’s Layer 2 advancements as well. Fidelity, which manages $5.9 trillion in assets, recently asserted that “The Lightning Network appears to be successfully delivering on its goal of being the most efficient way to transact in the digital asset ecosystem.” Such endorsements underscore the growing confidence in Bitcoin’s ability to power fast, cost-effective applications—ultimately bridging the gap between ‘digital gold’ and a fully programmable blockchain. 

    Bitcoin stands ready to leverage its immense liquidity and unparalleled security to empower developers, investors, and users seeking innovative solutions. In short, Bitcoin is evolving beyond its identity as “digital gold,” stepping into a future where it serves as a foundation for groundbreaking applications, proving that what began as the world’s most secure store of value can now drive the next generation of blockchain-powered advancements.

    About Deal Box

    Deal Box is venture capital that fits your life. By merging institutional-grade diligence with flexible investment options, Deal Box empowers accredited investors to craft portfolios that align with their financial ambitions. For more information, visit https://dealbox.vc/

    About OroBit

    OroBit is at the forefront of decentralizing finance with its Bitcoin-native smart contracts and tokenized assets. Anchored by real gold, OroBit blends blockchain innovation with palpable security. Discover more at https://orobit.ai

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DMG Blockchain Solutions Reports First Quarter 2025 Results and February Operations Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc. (TSX-V: DMGI) (OTCQB: DMGGF) (FRANKFURT: 6AX) (“DMG” or the “Company”), a vertically integrated blockchain and data center technology company, today announces its fiscal first quarter 2025 financial results. All financial references are in Canadian Dollars unless specified otherwise. Readers are encouraged to review the Company’s December 31, 2024 quarterly unaudited financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis thereof for a fulsome assessment of the Company’s performance and applicable risk factors, available at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Q1 2025 Financial Results Highlights

    • Revenue: $11.6 million in Q1 2025, up 97% from $5.9 million in Q4 2024 and up 20% from $9.7 million in Q1 2024.
    • Bitcoin Mined: 97 bitcoin mined in Q1 2025, up 49% from Q4 2024.
    • Cash Flow from Operations: -$2.7 million in Q1 2025, versus +$1.3 million in Q4 2024, as the Company sold $4 million less bitcoin than it earned.
    • Hashrate: 1.62 EH/s for Q1 2025, up 65% sequentially and 68% year-over-year; now operating at 1.8 EH/s with the goal to reach 2.1 EH/s in March 2025.
    • Fleet Efficiency: 22.9 J/TH in Q1 2025, an improvement of 7% from Q4 2024; targeting 21 J/TH when hydro miners are fully energized.
    • Cash and Digital Assets: $58.2 million as of quarter-end Q1 2025, up 62% from Q4 2024 and up 110% from Q1 2024.
    • Net Loss: -$0.02 per share in Q1 2025, versus -$0.05 per share in Q4 2024 and $0.04 in Q1 2024.

    Preliminary February Operational Results

    • Bitcoin Mined: 27 BTC (vs 31 BTC in Jan 2025, in line with 28 days and curtailment)
    • Hashrate: 1.71 EH/s (vs 1.75 EH/s in Jan 2025)
    • Bitcoin Holdings: 443 BTC (vs 431 BTC in Jan 2025)
    • Days non-firm power curtailed: 3 (vs 0 in Jan 2025); average hashrate was 1.81 EH/s for period excluding curtailment

    DMG’s CEO, Sheldon Bennett, commented: “In addition to growing our hashrate, the first part of our financial year 2025 marks a major step forward in our Core+ strategy and Generative Artificial Intelligence ambitions. With Systemic Trust now a Qualified Digital Asset Custodian, we are focused on onboarding new customers and ramping revenue. Our near-term roadmap to offer Systemic Trust custodial wallets that support DMG’s Petra technology along with the integration of both Helm Data Center Infrastructure Management and Reactor into Terra Pool, position us to fully enable our carbon neutral Bitcoin ecosystem. Furthermore, we have expanded our AI initiatives, with a memorandum of understanding for a 10 MW prefabricated data center in addition to our MOU to establish a joint venture with the Malahat Nation for 30 MW of AI compute capacity. We remain committed to growth in areas that can deliver the most long-term value for our shareholders.”

    Financial First Quarter 2025 Financial Results Review

    Revenue increased by $1,942,061 in Q1 2025 from $9,690,764 Q1 2024. The increase in revenue is attributable to increases in digital currency mining revenues of $1,489,833 due to increases in the average bitcoin price in the period of $116,580 versus $49,006 during the same period in the prior year. These increases were offset by increases in network difficulty from the same period last year.

    Operating and maintenance expenses for Q1 2025 was $6,679,843, up from $5,147,651 in Q1 2024. This increase is primarily attributed to a $1,368,217 rise in utilities expenses, driven by expanded digital currency mining operations related to additional operating miners.

    Research costs for Q1 2025 were $553,964, having increased by $115,785 compared to Q1 2024. Research in fiscal 2025 continues to focus on software and relates to work on Systemic Trust, Helm, Reactor and Blockseer Explorer.

    General and administrative costs for Q1 2025 was $1,836,680 in comparison to $886,061 for Q1 2024. General and administrative costs consist mostly of wages, professional fees, consulting fees and interest expense. The overall increase of $950,619 is attributable mainly to an increase of $178,958 in consulting fees, $171,595 in wages and $422,645 in interest expense related to the Company’s credit facility with Sygnum Bank.

    Depreciation for Q1 2025 was $4,349,470 compared to $4,341,782 in Q1 2024.

    Net income decreased by $10,075,491 to a net loss of $3,103,001 for Q1 2025 versus net income of $6,972,490 in Q1 2024. The decrease in net loss is mainly a result of a large unrealized gain on revaluation of digital currencies in the prior year of $8,162,860 in the statement of profit and loss. A gain of $15,319,443 was recorded through other comprehensive income in the current period related to an unrealized gain on the revaluation of the balance held of digital currency. Gains related to the increase in digital currency in the prior year were offset against historical losses incurred in prior periods. Gains are recognized to the extent of any historical losses, after which gains are recognized through other comprehensive income under the accounting policies of IAS 38. Resulting in a large difference in net income between the two periods.

    Total assets as of December 31, 2024 were $137,128,716, an increase of $33,259,735 versus September 30, 2024. The increase is mostly attributable to a net increase in digital currency of $19,615,571, due to the revaluation of digital currency balances at an increased price of bitcoin, $132,949 as of December 31, 2024 as compared to $88,673 as of September 30, 2024.

    In Q1 2025, DMG sold 78 bitcoin, generating $7,305,976 cash, thus selling 81% of the bitcoin mined versus 143% in the prior quarter.

    Future changes in the Bitcoin network-wide mining difficulty or Bitcoin hashrate may materially affect the future performance of DMG’s production of bitcoin, and future operating results could also be materially affected by the price of bitcoin and an increase in hashrate and mining difficulty.

    First Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call Details

    The Company will host a conference call to review its results and provide a corporate update on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 4:30 PM ET. Participants should register for the call via the registration link.

    In addition to a live Q&A session via chat, management will also address pre-submitted questions. Those wishing to submit a question may do so via email at investors@dmgblockchain.com, using the subject line ‘Conference Call Question Submission,’ through 2:00 PM ET on March 4, 2025.

    About DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.

    DMG is a publicly traded, sustainably-focused and vertically integrated blockchain and data center technology company that develops, manages and operates end–to-end digital solutions to monetize the blockchain and generative artificial intelligence compute ecosystems. DMG’s businesses are segmented into two business lines under the Core (data center infrastructure) and Core+ (software and services) strategies and unified through DMG’s vertical integration.

    For more information on DMG Blockchain Solutions visit: www.dmgblockchain.com
    Follow @dmgblockchain on X and subscribe to DMG’s YouTube channel.

    For further information, please contact:

    On behalf of the Board of Directors,

    Sheldon Bennett, CEO & Director
    Tel: +1 (778) 300-5406
    Email: investors@dmgblockchain.com
    Web: www.dmgblockchain.com

    For Investor Relations:
    investors@dmgblockchain.com

    For Media Inquiries:
    Chantelle Borrelli
    Head of Communications
    chantelle@dmgblockchain.com

    DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position
    (Expressed in Canadian Dollars)
     

    Notes

    		 As at
    December 31, 2024
    (unaudited)    		   As at
    September 30, 2024
    (audited)    		  
    ASSETS   $   $  
    Current      
    Cash and cash equivalents   4,273,533   1,679,060  
    Amounts receivable 6 4,802,944   4,910,251  
    Digital currency 5 53,943,274   34,327,703  
    Prepaid expense and other current assets   402,787   337,042  
    Marketable securities 8 359,833   316,803  
    Short-term investment 9 5,516,500   –  
    Total current assets   69,298,871   41,570,859  
           
    Long-term deposits 10 10,743,511   2,047,682  
    Property and equipment 12 50,194,530   53,798,978  
    Intangible asset   276,040   –  
    Long-term investments 13 45,000   45,000  
    Amount recoverable 7 6,570,764   6,406,462  
    Total assets   137,128,716   103,868,981  
           
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Current      
    Trade and other payables 14 3,748,608   5,183,107  
    Deferred revenue 19 7,355   –  
    Current portion of lease liability 15 40,071   43,483  
    Current portion of loans payable 16 20,020,520   13,928,462  
    Total current liabilities   23,816,554   19,155,052  
           
    Long-term lease liability 15 41,534   51,842  
    Total liabilities   23,858,088   19,206,894  
           
    Shareholders’ Equity      
    Share capital 17(a) 120,326,738   113,086,455  
    Reserves 17(b)(c) 55,036,328   45,853,100  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income   25,736,645   10,448,614  
    Accumulated deficit   (87,829,083)   (84,726,082)  
    Total shareholders’ equity   113,270,628   84,662,087  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   137,128,716   103,868,981  
           
    DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.  
    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Income (Loss) and Comprehensive Income (Loss)  
    (Expressed in Canadian Dollars, except for number of shares)  
    (Unaudited)  
        For the three months ended December 31,
    		  
      Notes 2024   2023  
        $
    		   $
    		  
    Revenue 19 11,632,825   9,690,764  
           
    Expenses      
    Operating and maintenance costs 20(a) 6,679,843   5,147,651  
    General and administrative 20(b) 1,836,680   886,061  
    Stock-based compensation 17(b) 678,528   368,494  
    Research 20(c) 553,964   438,179  
    Bad debt (recovery) expense 6 (4,743)   3,764  
    Depreciation 12 4,349,470   4,341,782  
    Total expenses   14,093,742   11,185,931  
           
    Operating loss before other items   (2,460,917)   (1,495,167 )
           
    Other income (expense)      
    Interest and other income 7 164,302   165,781  
    Impairment of non-current assets   37,819   –  
    Foreign exchange loss   (909,388)   (94,585)  
    Loss on fair value of investments 10 –   (609,120)  
    Provision of sales tax receivable 6 (307,739)   (253,900)  
    Unrealized revaluation gain on digital currency 5 28,083   8,162,860  
    Realized gain on sale of digital currency   301,809   851,870  
    Gain on change in fair value of marketable securities 8 43,030   244,751  
    Net income (loss)   (3,103,001 ) 6,972,490  
           
    Other comprehensive income      
    Items that may be reclassified subsequently to income or loss:      
    Revaluation gain on digital assets 5 15,319,443   –  
    Cumulative translation adjustment   (31,412)   10,082  
    Net income and comprehensive income   12,185,030   6,982,572  
           
    Basic earnings (loss) per share 17(d) $(0.02)   $0.04  
    Diluted earnings (loss) per share 17(d) $(0.02)   $0.04  
    Weighted average number of shares outstanding 17(d)    
    – basic   185,799,634   168,147,570  
    – diluted   185,799,634   170,175,939  

                                                                                                                         

    DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.    
    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows    
    (Expressed in Canadian Dollars)    
    (Unaudited)    
    For the three months ended December 31, 2024   2023  
      $   $  
    OPERATING ACTIVITIES    
    Net income (loss) for the period (3,103,001)   6,972,490  
    Non-cash items:    
    Accretion 1,867   11,460  
    Depreciation 4,349,472   4,338,369  
    Share-based payments 678,528   368,494  
    Unrealized gain on revaluation of digital currency (28,083)   (8,162,861)  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss 926,984   (16,272)  
    Impairment of non-current assets (37,819)   –  
    Unrealized gain on marketable securities (43,030)   (244,751)  
    Impairment of investment –   609,120  
    Provision for sales tax receivable 307,739   253,900  
    Bad debt (recovery) expense (4,743)   3,764  
    Digital currency related revenue (11,266,187)   (8,744,492)  
    Digital currency sold 7,305,976   9,445,176  
    Realized gain on sale of digital currency (301,809)   (851,870)  
    Non-cash interest income (164,302)   (164,632)  
    Accrued interest 329,604   –  
         
    Changes in non-cash operating working capital:    
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets (65,745)   30,629  
    Amounts receivable (101,051)   (781,682)  
    Deferred revenue 7,355   14,302  
    Trade and other payables (1,523,145)   668,276  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (2,731,390)   3,749,420  
         
    INVESTING ACTIVITIES    
    Purchase of property and equipment (343,976)   (381,773)  
    Purchase of intangible assets (276,040)   –  
    Deposits on mining equipment (9,554,087)   (2,570,515)  
    Purchase of short-term investment (5,516,500)   (609,120)  
    Refund of security deposit 457,325   –  
    Net cash used in investing activities (15,233,278)   (3,561,408)  
         
    FINANCING ACTIVITIES    
    Proceeds from issuance of units 17,254,945   –  
    Share issuance costs (1,570,875)   –  
    Proceeds from option exercises 60,913   269,776  
    Principal lease payments (15,356)   (45,276)  
    Repayment of loan payable (1,000,000)   –  
    Proceeds from secure loan 5,829,013   –  
    Net cash provided by financing activities 20,558,640   224,500  
         
    Impact of currency translation on cash and cash equivalents 501   (206)  
    Cash and cash equivalents, change 2,594,473   412,306  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning 1,679,060   1,789,913  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end 4,273,533   2,202,219  
             

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains forward-looking information or statements based on current expectations. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements regarding the planned conference call, DMG’s strategies and plans, increasing hashrate and the anticipated timelines, the expected arrival and operation of the hydro miners and containers, growing the Company’s hashrate to 2.1 EH/s by March 2025, the development of Systemic Trust including generating revenues, the potential for a 10-megawatt prefabricated data center in addition to the MOU to establish a potential joint venture with the Malahat Nation for 30 megawatts of AI compute capacity, improving fleet efficiency and continuing to execute on Core+ software initiatives, onboarding of new clients to Terra Pool, the opportunity and plans to monetize bitcoin transactions, the continued investment in Bitcoin network software infrastructure and applications, developing and executing on the Company’s products and services, increasing self-mining, efforts to improve the operation of its mining fleet, the launch of products and services, events, courses of action, and the potential of the Company’s technology and operations, among others, are all forward-looking information.

    Future changes in the Bitcoin network-wide mining difficulty or Bitcoin hashrate may materially affect the future performance of DMG’s production of bitcoin, and future operating results could also be materially affected by the price of bitcoin and an increase in hashrate and mining difficulty.

    Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as “may”, “expect”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “believe” and “continue” or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, market and other conditions, volatility in the trading price of the common shares of the Company, business, economic and capital market conditions; the ability to manage operating expenses, which may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition; the ability to remain competitive as other better financed competitors develop and release competitive products; regulatory uncertainties; access to equipment; market conditions and the demand and pricing for products; the demand and pricing of bitcoin; security threats, including a loss/theft of DMG’s bitcoin; DMG’s relationships with its customers, distributors and business partners; the inability to add more power to DMG’s facilities; DMG’s ability to successfully define, design and release new products in a timely manner that meet customers’ needs; the ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel; competition in the industry; the impact of technology changes on the products and industry; failure to develop new and innovative products; the ability to successfully maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights and defend third-party claims of infringement of their intellectual property rights; the impact of intellectual property litigation that could materially and adversely affect the business; the ability to manage working capital; and the dependence on key personnel. DMG may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, the ability to successfully develop software, that there will be no regulation or law that will prevent the Company from operating its business, anticipated costs, the ability to secure sufficient capital to complete its business plans, the ability to achieve goals and the price of bitcoin. Given these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The securities of DMG are considered highly speculative due to the nature of DMG’s business. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to the Company’s filings on www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, DMG’s past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, failure to obtain regulatory approval, the continued availability of capital and financing, equipment failures, lack of supply of equipment, power and infrastructure, failure to obtain any permits required to operate the business, the impact of technology changes on the industry, the impact of viruses and diseases on the Company’s ability to operate, secure equipment, and hire personnel, competition, security threats including stolen bitcoin from DMG or its customers, consumer sentiment towards DMG’s products, services and blockchain technology generally, failure to develop new and innovative products, litigation, adverse weather or climate events, increase in operating costs, increase in equipment and labor costs, equipment failures, decrease in the price of Bitcoin, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of or statements made by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Tech and VPPs – Flexibility is crucial to maintain grid stability, says GridBeyond latest white paper

    Source: GridBeyond

    In a market with high renewable penetration and unique geographical challenges, flexibility is crucial to maintaining grid stability in Australia. In recent years, the concept of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) has emerged as a transformative solution. By integrating numerous Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) into one network, VPPs are changing the way electricity is generated, managed, and utilised says GridBeyond’s report Virtual power plants in Australia – A bright future ahead.

    Australia is a leader in renewable energy adoption, with solar and wind constituting a significant share of its energy mix. Renewables are becoming an increasingly critical part of the global energy system, but their intermittent nature means there is a need for a significant increase in flexible resources to manage an increased volatility. In addition, adoption of flexible devices such as heat pumps, Electric Vehicles (EVs), and battery storage is accelerating, while regulators and utilities are looking for solutions to reliability and affordability challenges.

    The energy sector is facing major challenges to meet the demands of global warming mitigation and adaptation, which require the decarbonisation of multiple sectors of the economy.  VPPS have emerged as a transformative solution offering a flexible and decentralised approach. By integrating numerous Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) into one network, VPPs are changing the way electricity is generated, managed, and utilised and can offer a wide array of benefits across energy system that can be managed by AI-powered technologies supporting businesses in managing their energy consumption and support grid stability.

    About GridBeyond

    GridBeyond began commercially trading in 2010 and is home to the world’s first hybrid battery and demand network. Now a global player in the energy transition, GridBeyond provides a powerful combination of technological excellence, consultative approach and unrivalled AI expertise that enables its clients to maximize energy services, while supporting the wider electricity grid’s leap to a greener future through renewable generation expansion.

    GridBeyond delivers energy services, new revenues, enhanced savings, strengthened operations and sustainability to over 900 I&C customer sites worldwide, including some of the planet’s most recognized brands in just about every commercial sector.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Extends Al-Shabaab Sanctions Regime, Renews Panel of Experts in Resolution 2776 (2025)

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The Security Council today extended its authorization for Member States to intercept vessels transporting banned items to and from Somalia, including illegal arms imports and charcoal exports, until 13 December 2025, also renewing the mandate of the Panel of Experts assisting the Al-Shabaab sanctions regime until 13 January 2026.

    Unanimously adopting resolution 2776 (2025) (to be issued as document S/RES/2776(2025)), the 15-member Council — acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations — decided that “all States shall, for the purposes of preventing Al-Shabaab and other actors intent on undermining peace and security in Somalia and the region from obtaining weapons and ammunition, take the necessary measures to prevent all deliveries of weapons, ammunition and military equipment to Somalia.” 

    It further decided that these measures shall not apply to deliveries or supplies to the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Somali National Army, the National Intelligence and Security Agency, the Somali National Police Force and the Somali Custodial Corps.

    Several Council members spoke after the vote.  The representative of Guyana, also speaking for Algeria, Sierra Leone and Somalia, said they supported the Council’s decision “because we continue to ascribe importance to these elements in the fight against Al-Shabaab”.  However, such regime should be assessed to determine its fitness to support the Government’s efforts to combat the group.

    In that regard, she welcomed the mandate given to the Secretary-General to assess the relevant arms embargo and report to the Council on this by 1 November 2025.  She also welcomed the Council’s intention to review the propriety of the sanctions regime once that report is received.  She added: “We urge the Council’s continued support and attention to the priorities identified by the [Government] during that review.”

    “This resolution retains a powerful package of sanctions designed to further degrade Al-Shabaab, disrupt its finances, strengthen international collaboration, and support Somalia in building its own capabilities,” observed the United Kingdom’s delegate.  The adopted resolution also recognizes the particular concern posed by flows of weapons from Yemen to Somalia. Al-Shabaab’s links to the Houthis are part of a wider pattern of Houthi destabilising activity beyond Yemen’s borders, she said, adding that the 2713 and 2140 sanctions committees “should coordinate closely to monitor and counter this trend”. 

    Other speakers also expressed concern for the flow of arms from Yemen to Somalia, with France’s saying the movement violates the relevant arms embargo.  “It is vital to prevent Al-Shabaab from establishing and exploiting ties with groups under sanctions in the region — including the Houthis,” he stressed.

    Echoing a similar sentiment, the representative from the United States expressed concern about growing ties between Al-Shabaab and the Houthis.  He encouraged dialogue between the Yemen and Al-Shabaab sanctions panels and countries in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula “to shed light on and ultimately sever the ties between the Houthis and Al-Shabaab”.  If fully implemented by Member States, the measures in this resolution will curb Al-Shabaab’s and other non-State actors’ access to funds and weapons needed to carry out attacks.  “We urge our fellow Council members to support additional designations, including those of Al-Shabaab operatives,” he added.

    However, the representative of the Russian Federation countered that “the Yemen issue needs to be considered separately”.  The draft contains elements that meet the aspirations of the Somalian side regarding the upcoming review of the sanctions regime, which has been in effect since 1992, she said, welcoming the restriction on access to weapons acquisition by non-State bodies.  She further stated:  “The Council should pay greater attention to the positions expressed by African States, especially when parameters are being determined for the sanctions regime used against the terrorists which are active on their territories.”

    “Al-Shabaab’s ability to radicalize, recruit, raise funds via extortion and piracy and procure weapons must be disrupted,” stressed Pakistan’s delegate.  Continued humanitarian assistance and support for economic development of Somalia is vital to addressing the root causes of terrorism.  “Fighting the scourge of terrorism would require a united regional and global effort,” he emphasized.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: China Unicom Launches AI Unites All Plan to Bridge Digital Divide Via Industry Intelligence Supported by Huawei

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: China Unicom Launches AI Unites All Plan to Bridge Digital Divide Via Industry Intelligence Supported by Huawei

    [Barcelona, Spain, March 3, 2025] During MWC 2025 in Barcelona, China Unicom held a development workshop with the theme of 5G-A Empowering, AI Transforming, Digital Living. Jian Qin, General Manager (GM) of China Unicom and Yang Chaobin, Huawei Board Member and CEO of the ICT Business Group attended the press conference and delivered speeches. Several representatives from the industry, including GSMA, shared their ideas. The AI Unites All plan and its surrounding achievements were officially released at the conference, angled heavily on the integration of networks, services, and AI.
    Jian Qin delivering a speech

    According to Jian Qin in his speech, “China Unicom remains committed to technological innovation as our guiding principle, actively embracing the Al revolution, and contributing ‘Unicom Intelligence’ and ‘Unicom Solutions’ to global smart transformation. With forward-looking planning and sustained investment in Al, we prioritize integrated innovation across five pillars: computing infrastructure, network connectivity, data resources, model development, and application scenarios. Our goal is to lead and drive the convergence of Al technologies and industrial applications.”
    Yang Chaobin making a speech

    Yang Chaobin mentioned in his speech that Huawei looks forward to working with China Unicom to support their AI Unites All strategy. “We will do this by facilitating a wide range of intelligent user applications with the latest AI technologies. This will allow China Unicom to create new AI service portals with a global impact and make intelligence more inclusive for all,” he said.
    As a strategic partner of China Unicom, Huawei and China Unicom maintain close cooperation and work together on converged AI innovation to seize new business opportunities in the AI era. Both parties have built a cloud-based AI service platform for individual and home users, combining cloud, computing, networks, and devices for a unified AI service portal. For example, during the Asian Winter Games, China Unicom launched personalized and cloud-based AI phones with the AI assistant named Tone. The product uses mainstream foundation models and 5G-A networks to provide users with a consistent experience in all scenarios and secure and reliable AI services. Huawei and China Unicom have also been using AI to empower sectors like government, healthcare, and manufacturing, as well as cultural and creative industries, making network experience more secure, reliable, flexible, scalable, efficient, and collaborative. China Unicom has also been actively engaged in advancing synergy between AI and networks. For smart home services, China Unicom has been a leading player in whole-house fiber broadband. The carrier launched the industry’s first HI-CON (Home Intelligent Collaborative Optical Network) communications system that features optical and Wi-Fi collaboration. This system is powered by an intelligent scheduling algorithm that greatly improves overall network experience for home users.
    Group photo taken at the AI Unites All launch ceremony

    At the conference, China Unicom launched its AI Unites All plan. Under the guidance of its Strategy for Convergence and Innovation, China Unicom will comprehensively advance the synergy of networks and AI to bring intelligent connection to all. It also looks to make AI accessible for use in a much wider range of technologies. By facilitating the integration of services and AI, China Unicom aims to enable various industries to go intelligent and benefit thousands of households.
    MWC Barcelona 2025 is held from March 3 to March 6 in Barcelona, Spain. During the event, Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions at stand 1H50 in Fira Gran Via Hall 1.
    In 2025, commercial 5G-Advanced deployment will accelerate, and AI will help carriers reshape business, infrastructure, and O&M. Huawei is actively working with carriers and partners around the world to accelerate the transition towards an intelligent world. For more information, please visit: http://carrier-back.huawei.com/en/events/mwc2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed, SASC Colleagues Demand Answers on Abrupt Firings of JAG Officers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, and ten of their SASC colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, demanding answers regarding the recent abrupt dismissals of several Judge Advocate Generals (JAG).

    In addition to demanding legal justification for these dismissals, the lawmakers requested documentation of the decision-making process, and a response to several oversight questions. The letter also expressed serious concerns about statements made by Secretary Hegseth regarding these actions.

    “By arbitrarily and baselessly removing duly selected and highly qualified JAG officers, the Administration undermines the military justice system and has interfered with the independent legal counsel that uniformed attorneys provide to commanders and the Department itself,” the 12 Senators wrote. “Such removals create an unmistakable chilling effect, signaling to all judge advocates that their positions are contingent not upon their legal expertise and adherence to the law, but rather upon political or personal loyalty. Further, this move undermines the rigorous selection and confirmation process established by Congress.”

    The JAG Corps provides critical independent legal advice to servicemembers and serves as a key component in our military’s operational readiness. JAG officers provide guidance on military justice, international law, operational law, administrative compliance, and ethics, helping to ensure that the U.S. military operates within the bounds of national and international legal frameworks. In their letter, the senators emphasized that in addition to violating federal law, these dismissals also undermine the integrity of the military justice system and effectively politicize military legal advice.

    “Such actions by the Administration amount to a betrayal of public trust and an erosion of the apolitical foundation of our military legal system,” the lawmakers continued. “These arbitrary dismissals are a direct violation of their statutory protections. It sends a dangerous message that military legal professionals who provide objective, legally sound advice may be removed at will, thereby making it impossible for the JAG Corps to function as prescribed by law.”

    The lawmakers also expressed their serious concerns over Secretary Hegseth’s statements following the dismissals, which undermined the JAG officers’ qualifications and the critical, apolitical role they play in ensuring adherence to the Constitution, the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and international law. The letter emphasized that Secretary Hegseth’s plan to demote JAG leadership would reduce oversight and eliminate guardrails meant to ensure military operations comply with international law, potentially exposing U.S. forces to war crimes allegations, damaging alliances, and undermining our country’s global leadership.

    “The independence of military legal professionals must be preserved, and any actions that erode this independence must be rectified without delay,” the Senators concluded. “Failing to integrate JAGs into military planning who are free to give independent legal advice to the commander threatens not only compliance with the law but also the safety and effectiveness of U.S. forces.”

    In addition to Senators Reed and Hirono, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).

    The full text of the letter follows:

    March 3, 2025

    Secretary Hegseth:

    The Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps is an essential pillar of our military, ensuring adherence to the rule of law, upholding the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), and providing critical independent legal advice to commanders at all levels. The JAG Corps is not only a vital element in maintaining good order and discipline within our armed forces, but it is also a key component of operational readiness. By law, JAG officers provide guidance on military justice, international law, operational law, administrative compliance, and ethics, ensuring that our warfighters operate within the bounds of national and international legal frameworks. The stability and impartiality of the JAG Corps are paramount, and any undue interference in its functioning directly impacts the effectiveness and credibility of our military.

    We write to you with deep concern regarding the recent relief of Judge Advocate Generals. This action not only undermines the integrity of the military justice system but also appears to be in direct violation of federal law, specifically 10 U.S.C. §§ 7037(e) (Army) and 9037(f) (Air Force). The Army statute explicitly states: “No officer or employee of the Department of Defense may interfere with— (1) the ability of the Judge Advocate General to give independent legal advice to the Secretary of the Army or the Chief of Staff of the Army; or (2) the ability of judge advocates of the Army assigned or attached to, or performing duty with, military units to give independent legal advice to commanders.” The Air Force and Navy statutes contain substantively identical language.

    By arbitrarily and baselessly removing duly selected and highly qualified JAG officers, the Administration undermines the military justice system and has interfered with the independent legal counsel that uniformed attorneys provide to commanders and the Department itself. Such removals create an unmistakable chilling effect, signaling to all judge advocates that their positions are contingent not upon their legal expertise and adherence to the law, but rather upon political or personal loyalty. Further, this move undermines the rigorous selection and confirmation process established by Congress.

    We are also deeply troubled by your follow-up statement after the firings where you said, “We want lawyers who give sound constitutional advice and don’t exist to attempt to be roadblocks.” This characterization of legal advisors within the military undermines the critical apolitical role they play in ensuring adherence to the Constitution, the UCMJ, and international law. Military lawyers are not “roadblocks” as you describe; they are guardrails, ensuring that orders issued by commanders are lawful and the armed forces uphold the principles that distinguish our military from those that serve autocrats around the world. Furthermore, your assertion that the selection process for senior legal officers is an “insulated” system that perpetuates the status quo disregards the legal framework established by 10 U.S.C. Chapter 36, which specifically governs the appointment, promotion, and selection of military officers, including those of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. This is not a self-perpetuating bureaucracy; it is a system codified by law to ensure that those entrusted with legal oversight are experienced, competent, and independent enough to provide candid legal counsel, even under difficult circumstances. Undermining this structure risks politicizing the military and eroding the very professionalism that has long been its foundation.

    We are also troubled that you plan to reduce the rank of JAG leadership from a three-star to a two-star general or flag officer. This position was elevated to three-stars to signal the United States’ commitment to the rule of law as the foundation of good decisions and to ensure they could advise policymakers on our most critical national security decisions, following the abuses at Abu Ghraib. Demoting the military’s champions for lawfulness sends a clear and troubling message across the force. JAGs play a crucial role in ensuring the U.S. military complies with international law, including the DoD Law of War Manual, DoD Directive 3000.09, and the Army Field Manual on Interrogation, which govern the conduct of armed conflict, the use of autonomous weapon systems, and authorized military interrogation techniques. Without independent legal counsel, military operations risk violating international law, exposing U.S. forces to war crimes allegations, damaging alliances, and undermining global legitimacy. The absence of sound legal advice can lead to unlawful targeting decisions, excessive use of force, or misuse of emerging technologies, increasing operational and strategic risks. It endangers uniformed service members by ceding moral high ground to our adversaries in their own conduct and prosecution of armed conflict.

    Such actions by the Administration amount to a betrayal of public trust and an erosion of the apolitical foundation of our military legal system. These arbitrary dismissals are a direct violation of their statutory protections. It sends a dangerous message that military legal professionals who provide objective, legally sound advice may be removed at will, thereby making it impossible for the JAG Corps to function as prescribed by law.

    Given these grave concerns, we demand immediate clarification on the legal justification for these reliefs and an explanation as to how these actions comply with Title 10 statutes governing the selection and tenure of JAG officers. Additionally, we request a detailed account of the individuals involved in the decision-making process and any documentation that led to these dismissals.

    To facilitate proper congressional oversight, we request responses to the following questions by March 13, 2025:

    1. What is the legal basis for the removal of these JAG officers?
    2. Were any communications or directives issued to justify these removals? If so, please provide them for review.
    3. Do you plan to appoint two- or three-star officers to replace these JAG officers?
    4. What analysis has the Department conducted to determine that the replacements for these JAG officers should be two-stars?
    5. How does the Department plan to ensure the continued independence of the JAG Corps in light of these dismissals?
    6. Were any external political or administrative pressures exerted on the decision to remove these officers?
    7. How will the Department mitigate the chilling effect this decision has had on the ability of JAG officers to provide independent legal counsel?
    8. What measures will be put in place to restore trust in the military justice system and prevent similar actions in the future?
    9. Will you follow the legally-prescribed process in selecting the next Judge Advocates General of the Army, Navy, and Air Force?

    The rule of law is a foundational pillar of our nation, and the DoD must uphold it without exception. The independence of military legal professionals must be preserved, and any actions that erode this independence must be rectified without delay. Failing to integrate JAGs into military planning who are free to give independent legal advice to the commander threatens not only compliance with the law but also the safety and effectiveness of U.S. forces. As you committed at your confirmation hearing to respond promptly to the committee, we expect a response to these straightforward questions, along with full transparency in addressing the damage these firings have inflicted upon the military justice system.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Over $200 million boost to South Tassie roads

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    The Albanese Government is building Tasmania’s future, investing nearly $213 million to upgrade critical highways and build active transport routes across the south east of the state.  

    This includes $204 million to improve the Arthur Highway and widen the Sorell Rivulet Bridge. 

    The Arthur Highway and Sorell Rivulet Bridge form the main access route between Port Arthur, Sorell and Hobart, providing a critical corridor for residents and tourists between some of the state’s most popular and populous destinations. 

    This investment will ease congestion for a growing community, as well as benefit agricultural and water supply businesses, tourists and local residents. 

    Funding will go towards safety upgrades including overtaking lanes, intersection improvements, and road modifications to enhance traffic flow such as shoulder widening and changes to lane configuration. It is expected to also include works to enable active and public transport as well as better signage and tourism pullover areas. 

    The Brooker Highway will also receive a $4 million investment to enable planning for critical safety and efficiency improvements. This will focus on identifying works that are most needed to improve safety, capacity, and resilience, and support active travel on one of Hobart’s major arterial roads.

    An additional $2 million has also been committed to undertake further public transport planning on the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor. This is part of the Albanese Government’s now $40.5 million investment in enhancing public transport infrastructure across Hobart.

    Along with roads and public transport, the Albanese Government is better connecting communities by delivering walking and cycling paths. 

    Almost $3 million will be invested under the Active Transport Fund in two new projects across the south east of the state to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths:

    • More than $2.2 million for the Tasman Council for a four-kilometre multi-use walking track connecting the towns of Nubeena and White Beach, south-east of Hobart; 
    • Almost $500,000 for Brighton Council to design and build a new shared path connecting to the existing path along the East Derwent Highway and to the new Bridgewater Bridge. This project also includes an extension of the path along Glenstone Road in Brighton, linking it to the pathway network within the Brighton township.

    We have brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project, which has a total Australian Government commitment of $81.6 million. This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers.

    The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns. 

    The new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that mean more people have the chance to walk, cycle or push a pram to work, school and anywhere else. 

    More information on the Active Transport Fund is available at Active Transport Fund | Infrastructure Investment Program.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “The Albanese Government is investing in the transport projects that matter most to Tasmanians, upgrading the state’s critical highways including the Bass, Tasman, Arthur, Esk and Brooker Highways. 

    “We’re making Tasmania’s roads safer, stronger and more efficient which means convenient commutes and faster freight.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell: 

    “These projects add to the Albanese Labor Government’s infrastructure investments throughout regional Tasmania.  

    “In Lyons for example, the Albanese Government is also investing $10 million towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass.

    “It is projects like these that are making our roads safer and improving driver experiences.”

    MIL OSI News –